Fluid Connector Assembly With Split-Ring Locking and Uncoupled Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid couplings are bulky, prone to premature damage, and lack effective sealing mechanisms, especially in uncoupled configurations, which is critical for applications like computer server cooling.
Innovation Solution
A compact fluidic fitting design featuring a monobloc body with a split ring connection, a locking mechanism, and a sealing system that includes a piston and valve to ensure leak-proof uncoupled configurations, using a locking ring and spring for secure engagement and a deformable barrier to prevent separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a traditional fluid coupling design with separate components is used, then the coupling can be assembled, but the overall structure becomes bulky and extends forward requiring additional space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the proximal part and distal part of the fluid coupling body into a monobloc structure, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing overall complexity. This merging approach directly addresses the contradiction by simplifying the structure while maintaining functional integrity, thereby reducing the volume and eliminating the need for additional forward extension.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: locking balls, locking ring, and locking spring. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while being integrated into the monobloc body, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and functional complexity.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism with exposed components is used, then the coupling can be locked, but the components are susceptible to premature damage from impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The locking balls are received within recesses in the body that protect them from external impacts. This beforehand protection ensures that the locking mechanism components are shielded from harmful external factors, increasing their durability and reliability without compromising the locking function.
3Reliability
If no sealing device is provided, then the coupling structure remains simple, but the uncoupled configuration is not sealed which is critical for applications like server cooling
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing device is pre-configured within the body structure, with the piston and valve arranged to automatically seal the internal conduit when the coupling is in the uncoupled state. This preliminary arrangement ensures sealing effectiveness without requiring additional complex mechanisms or manual intervention.
4Ease of operation
If multiple separate components are used in the coupling element, then the locking function can be achieved, but the number of components increases and assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The body is formed as a monobloc structure combining the proximal and distal parts, reducing the number of components that need to be assembled. This merging simplifies the assembly process while maintaining all necessary locking and sealing functions through the integrated design.
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 design provides a compact, durable, and leak-proof fluid connection that protects internal components from external shocks, ensuring reliable sealing in both coupled and uncoupled states.
Implementation Method 1
a locking spring, which pushes the locking ring back towards the forward retaining position
Implementation Method 2
a barrier, which is elastically deformable, and which is, when the body is in the assembled configuration, partially received in the external groove of the distal part and in the internal groove of the proximal part
Data Source
Figure 1a~1e
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
This fluidic connection element (100) includes a body (102) that defines an internal conduit (V100) configured to receive a complementary fitting (10). The body includes a proximal portion (110), which is one piece and defines a proximal portion of the internal conduit (V100), and a distal portion (140), which is one piece, defines a proximal portion of the internal conduit (V100), and is fitted into the proximal portion in an assembled configuration of the body. The proximal portion includes an internal groove (130), while the distal portion includes an external groove (150) that at least partially faces radially to the internal groove when the body is in its assembled configuration.The fluidic connecting element also includes an obstacle (190), which is elastically deformable and which, in the assembled configuration of the body, is partially received in the external groove (150) and in the internal groove (130), so as to prevent the separation of the distal and proximal parts.