Quick Connect Faucet Coupling With Magnetic Locking and Leak Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connect coupling devices for hoses and faucets are often difficult for individuals with limited manual dexterity to use, require multiple pieces that can be lost or broken, and rely on resilient washers that wear out, leading to leakage issues.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with a housing, plunger, gasket ring, clamp assembly, and locking assembly that provides a simple, compact, and easy-to-use mechanism for securing hoses to faucets, utilizing a magnetically biased system for securement and sealing, and a gear assembly to reduce the force required for operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional threaded connectors are used, then the connection can be secured to the faucet, but it becomes difficult for persons with limited manual dexterity to connect
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate components: a faucet-mounted quick connect coupler and a hose-end quick connect coupler. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, with the faucet coupler providing a receiving structure and the hose coupler providing a push-to-connect mechanism, thereby simplifying the connection process for users with limited dexterity
Solution Approach 2:
A quick connect plunger acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user and the threaded connection. The plunger translates a simple pushing motion into the complex threading and sealing actions required for a secure connection, eliminating the need for users to manually screw connectors together
2Reliability
If multiple piece connectors are used, then the connection can be formed, but the pieces can get separated, lost or broken rendering the connector useless
Solution Approach 1:
The quick connect coupler integrates multiple functions into a single unified structure. The faucet-mounted coupler combines the threaded adapter, sealing mechanism, and locking feature into one piece that permanently attaches to the faucet, eliminating the risk of individual components being lost or broken
Solution Approach 2:
The hose quick connect coupler is designed to receive and nest within the faucet quick connect coupler. The plunger of the hose coupler nests within the body of the faucet coupler, creating a compact, integrated assembly that prevents component separation and loss while maintaining ease of connection and disconnection
3Reliability
If resilient washers are used, then a water-tight interface can be formed, but the washers wear out or are lost leading to leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the disposable resilient washer with a permanent, non-wearing sealing mechanism. The faucet quick connect coupler incorporates a built-in seal that is integrated into the rigid body structure, eliminating the need for replaceable washers that deteriorate over time
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing mechanism utilizes composite construction combining rigid structural elements with integrated sealing features. The faucet coupler body incorporates molded-in seals or gaskets that are permanently bonded to the rigid housing, creating a durable sealing system that does not rely on separate resilient washers
4Ease of operation
If a simple coupling mechanism is used, then the device is easy to operate, but it may not provide sufficient securing force
Solution Approach 1:
The quick connect mechanism employs dynamic elements including a movable plunger that translates linear motion into locking action. The plunger can be easily pushed for connection but automatically engages locking features that provide strong securing force, allowing the system to switch between easy operation and strong attachment
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 ensures a fluid-tight seal, is easy to connect and disconnect, and is durable, reducing the risk of leakage and piece loss, while being accessible to users with varying dexterity levels.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet assembly configured for holding the plunger in the retracted position
Implementation Method 2
a spring configured for applying a force to the plunger for moving the plunger from the retracted position to the extended position
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling device is provided for mounting on a bib of a faucet to releasably secure a hose or some other component to the bib. The coupling device includes an engagement surface, a gasket ring, a clamp assembly and a locking assembly. The coupling device is configured so that the clamp assembly can be actuated to mount the coupling device on the bib. The gasket ring is configured to be compressed between the engagement surface and the bib to enable liquid to flow from the bib into the coupling device and out of it into the hose or other component without leakage. The locking assembly is configured to lock the coupling device on the bib, but is releasable when desired to dismount the coupling device from the bib.