Multi-Coupling Fastening Block With Automatic Protective Cover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening devices for hydraulic and pneumatic applications require manual operation to open and close covers, leading to inefficiencies and accidental switching, which can result in water infiltration, dirt contamination, and operational disturbances during connection and disconnection processes.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device with a cover that automatically switches from a closed to an open position using a lever and cam mechanism, eliminating the need for manual operation and ensuring secure closure to prevent accidental opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual operation is used to open and close covers, then operator control is maintained, but operational efficiency decreases and accidental switching occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is designed to open and close automatically through a cam mechanism that converts the rotational motion of the connection lever into linear motion of the cover. The system serves itself by using the lever operation to simultaneously drive both the connection mechanism and the cover positioning, eliminating the need for separate manual cover operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the cover positioning function with the connection lever operation. A single lever simultaneously controls both the mechanical connection of the fastening device and the opening/closing of the cover, merging two previously separate operations into one unified action that improves efficiency
2Ease of operation
If cover remains closed during connection, then protection is maintained, but connection access is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The cover transitions from a static closed position to a dynamic open position automatically during the connection process. The cam mechanism enables the cover to move dynamically in response to lever rotation, opening to allow coupling engagement and then closing automatically when connection is complete, thus providing both access and protection at different operational stages
3Ease of operation
If automatic cam mechanism is used, then operational simplicity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic cover mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the cam element that converts rotational motion to linear motion, the follower that translates cam motion to cover movement, and the connection lever that drives the entire sequence. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function simply, while the overall system achieves automatic operation without excessive complexity
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 solution enables automatic cover opening for connection and secure closure to prevent water and dirt ingress, reducing operator effort and ensuring reliable protection of hydraulic lines during operation.
Implementation Method 1
a lever (401) adapted to be switched by rotation in the two opposite rotation directions indicated by the double-headed arrow in figures 1 to 4, wherein the rotation of lever 401 translates into the rotation in the same rotation direction of a pair of plates or cams P1 and P2
Data Source
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AI summary
A pneumatic and/or hydraulic fastening device (100), said fastening device (100) comprising a fixed part (200) adapted to constitute the end part of a first hydraulic circuit of a main operating machine and to be fixed to said main operating machine, said fixed part (200) comprising at least a first male or female hydraulic coupling (201), said fastening device (100) comprising a mobile part (300) intended to constitute the end part of a second hydraulic circuit of a piece of equipment, said mobile part (300) comprising at least a second female or male hydraulic coupling (301), wherein said at least one first hydraulic coupling (201) of said fixed part (200) and at least one second hydraulic coupling (301) of said mobile part (300) are adapted to be hydraulically coupled in order to achieve the hydraulic connection between said first and second hydraulic circuits of said main operating machine and said equipment, respectively, said fastening device (100) comprising mechanical coupling means (400) adapted to be switched between a first position and a second position, wherein the switching of said mechanical coupling (400) into said second position translates into the mechanical coupling of said fixed (200) and mobile (300) parts.