Dual Piston Fluid Release Device for Compact Multi-Fluid Transport

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fluid release devices for secure transport containers are cumbersome, difficult to manufacture, and require multiple components for reuse or recharging, making them inefficient and expensive for rapid release of multiple fluids.

Innovation Solution

A compact, refillable, and reusable fluid release device with a tubular reservoir and two pistons that separate the reservoir into multiple chambers, using a gas generator for propulsion and rupture seals or valves to control fluid release, allowing simultaneous or sequential release of multiple fluids.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple fluid release devices are arranged in parallel to release two fluids, then the fluid release function is achieved, but the device becomes cumbersome and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefluid release capabilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple fluid release functions into a single integrated device. A first reservoir contains a first fluid and a second reservoir contains a second fluid, both connected to a common outlet. A single piston system with multiple rod ends can simultaneously control both fluid releases, eliminating the need for separate parallel devices and reducing overall complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The piston assembly serves multiple functions: it can selectively release the first fluid through the first outlet, selectively release the second fluid through the second outlet, or release both fluids simultaneously through the common outlet. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate single-function devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Volume of moving object

If compressed gas generators of chemical or pyrotechnic type are used for compact fluid release, then the device size is reduced, but reuse and recharging require replacing large numbers of components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidreuse and recharging
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The device segments consumable and non-consumable components. The reservoirs containing fluids and the piston assembly are designed as replaceable cartridges, while the housing, outlets, and control mechanisms remain as permanent structures. This allows users to simply replace the fluid-containing cartridge rather than replacing entire sub-assemblies, significantly easing the recharging process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a system where the fluid reservoir and piston assembly are designed as disposable or rechargeable cartridges that can be easily removed and replaced. The permanent housing retains valuable structural and control components. This approach allows for economical reuse of the device body while enabling straightforward replacement of consumable fluid containers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Device complexity

If manual, hydraulic, or mechanical methods are used to slide the piston, then the device structure is simple, but the device size increases and implementation becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepiston actuation mechanismVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a pneumatic actuation system where compressed gas is introduced into the reservoir to generate pressure that moves the piston. This eliminates the need for complex mechanical linkages, springs, or manual operation mechanisms. The gas pressure system is compact and can be integrated directly into the reservoir structure, achieving rapid piston movement without increasing overall device size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

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

The device enables efficient, simultaneous or sequential release of multiple fluids in a compact form, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs, while allowing for easy recharging and reuse with minimal consumables.

Implementation Method 1

The propulsion means are advantageously a gas generator chosen from the chemical, pyrotechnic, hybrid or cold gas type group.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGas generator: Chemical Bonding

Implementation Method 2

the means for closing the outlet orifice are a rupture seal capable of tearing in order to release the first and/or second fluids when the pressure inside the reservoir reaches a determined value.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure: Pressure Increase

Data Source

PatentEP3411862B1Device for quick release of at least two fluids
Publication Date: 2019.11.13 OBERTHUR CASH PROTECTION
  • EP3411862B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3411862B1 patent drawingFigure 3~5

AI summary

The present invention relates to a quick-release device (1) comprising a tubular vessel (2) containing a first fluid (7) and at least one second fluid (8) to be released, closed at the ends thereof by a first flange (3) and a second flange (4) provided with an outlet opening (41) and means for sealing said outlet opening (41) conditioning the release of the fluids (7, 8), a first piston (5) sliding tightly inside and along the longitudinal axis of said vessel (2), and propulsion means capable of moving said first piston (5) in order to release the first and second fluids (7, 8) via said outlet opening (41), said device (1) being characterised in that it comprises at least one second piston (6) arranged downstream of said first piston (5), sliding tightly inside and along the longitudinal axis of said vessel (2) and provided with a transfer opening (61) and means for sealing said transfer opening (61) allowing the conditioned passage of the first fluid (7), the first and second pistons (5, 6) separating the vessel (2) at least into an upstream chamber (21) between the first flange (3) and the first piston (5), a first storage chamber (22) containing the first fluid (7) between the first piston (5) and the second piston (6), and a second storage chamber (23) containing the second fluid (8) between the second piston (6) and the second flange (4).