Dry-Break Fluid Connector Valve Assembly for Easier Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dry break valves in quick connectors are complex and costly to assemble due to the need for precise positioning of multiple components within a small space, making them difficult to integrate and maintain.
Innovation Solution
A fluid connector design featuring a movable valve within the coupler portion that transitions between open and closed positions, allowing fluid flow when the fluid tube is inserted and breaking flow when removed, with a snap-fit connection mechanism for easy assembly and disassembly, and a valve structure comprising a valve engaging member, stem, domed head, and spring for reliable sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional dry break valves are permanently mounted within the connector receptacle, then reliable fluid flow control is achieved, but assembly complexity and manufacturing cost increase due to precise positioning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is segmented into modular components (valve body, sealing elements, spring mechanism) that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. This segmentation allows for simpler individual components that are easier to manufacture with standard tolerances, while the modular design maintains reliable fluid control when assembled in the connector receptacle.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve components are nested within each other in a compact arrangement, with the sealing elements positioned within the valve body and the spring mechanism integrated into the same assembly. This nesting approach reduces the overall space required while maintaining the functional integrity and reliable operation of the dry break valve.
2Reliability
If multiple components are positioned precisely within a small space to create a dry break valve, then effective fluid shut-off is achieved, but manufacturing cost and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple valve components that were previously separate and required precise positioning are merged into an integrated valve assembly. This combining of elements simplifies the manufacturing process by reducing the number of separate precision positioning operations required, while the integrated design maintains effective fluid shut-off capability through the coordinated arrangement of sealing surfaces and actuation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly incorporates self-aligning features and self-adjusting mechanisms that reduce the need for precise manual positioning during assembly. The components are designed to automatically find their correct positions through mechanical guidance features, thereby simplifying assembly while maintaining reliable fluid shut-off performance.
3Reliability
If a complex valve structure is used to ensure reliable sealing, then fluid leakage is minimized, but ease of repair and maintenance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is segmented into modular components with standardized interfaces, allowing individual sealing elements to be replaced without disassembling the entire valve assembly. This segmentation maintains sealing reliability through precision-engineered mating surfaces while significantly improving ease of repair by enabling quick replacement of worn sealing components.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve design allows worn or damaged sealing components to be easily removed and replaced with new parts, while the main valve body and functional components are retained and reused. This approach maintains reliable sealing through fresh sealing elements while simplifying maintenance by enabling quick component replacement rather than complete valve replacement.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Simplifies the assembly and maintenance of dry break valves by reducing the complexity of component alignment and allowing for easy replacement of parts, while ensuring reliable fluid control and minimizing leakage.
Implementation Method 1
A valve mounted within the fluid passage is movable between a closed and an open position
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connector and connector body comprises a coupler portion having a fluid passage connected to a first fluid tube. A valve mounted within the fluid passage is movable between a closed and an open position. A receptacle portion coupled to the coupler portion includes a socket cavity adapted to receive a second fluid tube within the socket cavity that causes the valve to move into the open position allowing fluid to flow through the fluid passage from the first fluid tube to the second fluid tube.