Quick Connect Fluid Connector Eccentric Roller Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connect fluid connectors require threading and un-threading, leading to operator fatigue and risk of accidental disconnection under pressure during fluid transfer, particularly in high-pressure applications like industrial fill plants.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates an eccentric mounted roller mechanism for smooth actuation of connection collets and an independent inner sleeve that allows piston biasing for improved sealing, along with a mechanism to limit piston travel and prevent disconnection, eliminating the need for threading and ensuring secure connections under pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If threading and un-threading mechanism is used for connection, then connection strength is improved, but operator fatigue increases and operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional threading mechanical system with a collet-based gripping mechanism. The collets are actuated by a piston that moves axially within the main body, gripping the processing port through radial compression rather than rotational threading. This substitution eliminates the need for rotational motion and significantly reduces operator fatigue while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the threading mechanism from the connector design. By removing the threaded engagement system entirely and replacing it with a quick-actuating collet mechanism, the patent reduces operational complexity and physical effort required for connection and disconnection operations.
2Reliability
If threading mechanism is used for connection, then connection reliability is improved, but processing speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the time-consuming rotational threading mechanism with an axial piston-driven collet actuation system. The collets can be quickly opened and closed by moving the piston axially, enabling rapid connection and disconnection while maintaining secure gripping force. This mechanical substitution dramatically increases processing speed without compromising connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The collets are pre-positioned in the main body and spring-loaded to automatically engage with the processing port when the piston is actuated. This preliminary positioning and spring-loaded design ensures that the connection is established quickly and reliably without requiring precise manual alignment or multiple adjustment steps.
3Productivity
If quick connect mechanism is used without threading, then processing speed is improved, but risk of accidental disconnection under pressure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a pressure-actuated locking mechanism where the fluid pressure itself is used to maintain the connection. When fluid flows through the connector, pressure builds in a chamber that acts on a lock mechanism, automatically securing the connector to the processing port. This self-locking feature prevents accidental disconnection under pressure while maintaining the quick-connect capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector includes a feedback mechanism where fluid pressure is sensed and automatically translates into a locking action. The pressure feedback loop ensures that whenever fluid is flowing, the connector is automatically secured, providing inherent protection against accidental disconnection during pressurized operation.
4Reliability
If independent inner sleeve is used for piston biasing, then sealing efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sleeve system into two independent components: an outer sleeve that provides structural support and an inner sleeve that independently biases the piston. This segmentation allows the inner sleeve to float and adjust the piston position for optimal sealing contact with the processing port, while the outer sleeve maintains overall structural integrity. The independent inner sleeve mechanism improves sealing efficiency without requiring complex integrated designs.
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
This solution reduces operator fatigue, enhances sealing efficiency, and prevents accidental disconnection during fluid transfer, allowing for faster processing and safer operation in industrial settings.
Implementation Method 1
the pistons of the connectors to be biased by a spring to seal against the gas cylinder for improved sealing
Implementation Method 2
an eccentric mounted roller mechanism disposed within a slot in a main body and that is in continuous engagement with front and back walls of the slot. The eccentric mounted roller mechanism is used to actuate connection collets when the eccentric mounted roller mechanism is rotated
Data Source
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AI summary
Quick connect fluid connectors are described that can be used to connect a first fluid system to a second fluid system for transferring fluids between the first and second fluid systems. The connectors include an eccentric mounted roller mechanism disposed within a slot in a main body and that is in continuous engagement with front and back walls of the slot. The eccentric mounted roller mechanism is used to actuate connection collets when the eccentric mounted roller mechanism is rotated. Since the eccentric mounted roller mechanism is in substantially continuous contact with the front and back walls, this ensures a smooth actuation of the main body and the connection collets without any lost motion.