Fluid Connection Locking Ring for Vibration-Stable Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid connections in air circuits, such as those connecting a pantograph to a catenary, suffer from unexpected disconnection due to vibrations and lack ergonomic, reliable, and compact locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A fluid connection element with a body featuring internal housings for locking elements and a locking ring that moves between locking and unlocking positions, facilitated by a piston and springs, allowing a single ergonomic locking action and ensuring reliable connection under demanding conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking means are engaged by projection in grooves to prevent disconnection, then reliability under vibration is improved, but device complexity increases and ergonomic operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into multiple independent locking elements (at least two) that can be individually actuated. Each locking element can engage or disengage independently from the complementary connection element, allowing partial locking or unlocking operations and simplifying the overall locking process.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are designed to be movable between different positions (engaged and disengaged states). The movable segments can transition between locked and unlocked positions, providing dynamic control over the connection state and enabling ergonomic operation through simple linear movements.
2Reliability
If movable segments are used to lock the second fluid connection element, then connection stability is improved, but longitudinal play is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking elements feature spherical or rounded ends that engage with corresponding grooves or surfaces. This curved geometry allows the locking elements to maintain contact and prevent longitudinal play while still permitting smooth movement between locked and unlocked states.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are integrated with the body and complementary connection element structures, merging the locking function with the connection geometry. This integration ensures that the locking action naturally eliminates longitudinal play without requiring separate adjustment mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an external sleeve is added around the locking ring for emergency uncoupling, then emergency release capability is improved, but ergonomics deteriorates and dust protection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as the primary locking mechanism during normal operation, provides dust protection by covering the locking elements, and enables emergency uncoupling through its own removable nature. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate external sleeves or tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking ring can be directly removed from the body by the operator to achieve emergency uncoupling, without requiring external tools or additional mechanisms. The system uses its own components (the locking ring itself) to provide the emergency release function, maintaining ergonomic operation.
4Ease of operation
If the locking ring is made accessible for operation, then ease of operation is improved, but dust ingress into internal surfaces increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring can dynamically transition between different positional states. During normal operation, it covers the locking elements to protect them from dust. During operation or emergency uncoupling, it can be moved or removed to provide access, then returned to its protective position afterward.
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
Facilitates secure coupling with a single locking action, enhances reliability, and maintains a compact design while protecting against dust ingress, ensuring stable fluid connection under vibration.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring urging the piston in the forward direction of the fluid connection element towards a position where the piston abuts in the forward direction against the body
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a fluid connection element (50) which comprises a body (51). The body comprises an internal receiving volume (71) and a plurality of housings (79). In each housing, a locking element (55) is movable between an internal locking position in which the locking element projects into the internal receiving volume, and an external unlocking position. The fluid connection element also comprises a locking ring (53), capable of cooperating radially with the locking elements and movable relative to the body between an advanced locking position and a retracted unlocking position, a piston (57), arranged around the body and around the locking ring and movable longitudinally relative to the body and relative to the locking ring, and a first spring (59) pushing the piston towards a position where the piston is in abutment against the body.