Quick-Action Fluid Coupler With Snap-Ring Sleeve Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid couplers require additional actions such as applying torque or using separate tools for connection and disconnection, and often lack secure, quick-action mechanisms for fluid tight sealing across varying pressures and temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A quick-action fluid coupler design featuring a snap ring within a socket that transitions between constricted and expanded states, facilitated by a moveable release sleeve, allowing for secure plug retention and easy linear disconnection without rotational keying or tools, suitable for high-pressure and temperature applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a threaded coupling element is used to connect the socket and plug, then the connection is secure and reliable, but additional actions such as applying torque are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the threaded mechanical coupling system with a snap-fit retention system using a snap ring that engages with the plug body through elastic deformation. The snap ring transitions between constricted and expanded states to secure or release the plug, eliminating the need for torque application and threaded fastening while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap ring is designed as a dynamic component that can transition between different states (constricted and expanded) based on the position of the release sleeve. This dynamic behavior allows the connection to be secured by simple linear insertion and released by actuating the release sleeve, providing both reliability and ease of operation.
2Reliability
If a separate tool is used to connect and disconnect the coupler, then the connection is secure, but the operation requires additional tools and steps
Solution Approach 1:
The release sleeve is integrated directly into the coupler assembly, allowing the user to disconnect the plug using only the built-in mechanism without requiring external tools. The release sleeve actuates the snap ring internally, enabling tool-free operation while maintaining secure connection during normal use.
Solution Approach 2:
The release mechanism is merged with the coupler body by mounting the release sleeve over the socket body, integrating the disconnection function into the existing structure. This eliminates the need for separate tools and reduces operational steps while maintaining connection security.
3Ease of operation
If a snap ring mechanism is used for quick action coupling, then connection and disconnection are simplified to single linear motion, but additional components are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The release sleeve serves multiple functions: it acts as a protective cover for the socket, a release actuator for the snap ring, and a structural component of the coupler assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components while enabling simplified single-motion operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap ring is mounted within the receptacle of the socket body, and the release sleeve is mounted over the socket body, creating a nested arrangement where components are housed within each other. This nesting minimizes the overall component footprint and reduces apparent complexity while maintaining the quick-action functionality.
4Ease of operation
If the snap ring is always in the expanded state to allow easy removal, then disconnection is easy, but the plug cannot be retained securely
Solution Approach 1:
The snap ring is designed as a dynamic component that transitions between constricted and expanded states based on the position of the release sleeve. When the release sleeve is in the non-actuated position, the snap ring is constricted and retains the plug securely. When the release sleeve is actuated, the snap ring expands to allow easy plug removal, thus achieving both secure retention and easy disconnection through state changes.
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
Enables secure, fluid-tight connections and disconnections with a single linear motion, maintaining sealing integrity across a wide range of fluid pressures and temperatures, and reducing weight and tool dependency, suitable for applications like aircraft coolant conveyance.
Implementation Method 1
A snap ring is mounted within the receptacle for retaining the plug within the receptacle. The snap ring is moveable between a constricted state in which the snap ring is adapted to retain the plug within the receptacle and an expanded state in which the plug is removeable from the receptacle.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid coupler includes a socket including a socket body defining a receptacle for receiving a plug. A snap ring is mounted within the receptacle for retaining the plug within the receptacle. The snap ring is moveable between a constricted state in which the snap ring is adapted to retain the plug within the receptacle and an expanded state in which the plug is removeable from the receptacle. A release sleeve is mounted over the socket body. The release sleeve is moveable between a non-actuated position and an actuated position. The release sleeve is configured to move the snap ring from the constricted state to the expanded state when moved from the non-actuated position to the actuated position.