Anti-Rotation Fluid Coupling Lock for Vibration-Stable Conduits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid conduit assemblies face issues with fluid leaks and decoupling due to vibrations and thermal expansion, particularly at threaded interfaces, which can lead to incomplete connections and leaks.
Innovation Solution
A fluid conduit assembly with a monolithic clamp and flange configuration, featuring an arcuate flange with strategically positioned apertures and a multi-point lock mechanism that includes a clip and latch system to prevent relative rotation and axial movement between conduit couplers, ensuring secure fluid coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If threaded interfaces are used to connect conduit couplers, then assembly is simplified and disassembly is enabled, but fluid leaks and decoupling occur due to vibrations and thermal expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into two functional segments: a threaded interface for assembly/disassembly operations and a separate lock mechanism with lock elements that engage with the conduit coupler to prevent rotation and maintain connection stability during operation. This segmentation allows each component to fulfill its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism is engaged after threading to pre-establish a secure anti-rotation constraint before operational conditions (vibrations, thermal expansion) can affect the connection. The lock elements are positioned to engage with features on the conduit coupler, creating a preliminary protective action that prevents subsequent loosening or decoupling.
2Reliability
If a lock mechanism is added to prevent rotation and decoupling, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is integrated with the conduit assembly structure rather than being a completely separate system. Lock elements are positioned to engage with features on the conduit coupler, and the lock mechanism shares structural elements with the overall assembly, reducing the number of independent components needed while maintaining the anti-rotation and decoupling prevention functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: preventing rotation of the conduit coupler, preventing axial decoupling, and maintaining the threaded connection integrity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for each protective function, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
3Productivity
If conventional fluid couplings are used, then basic fluid transfer is achieved, but fluid leaks occur at threaded interfaces under vibration and thermal stress
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism provides beforehand protection against the harmful effects of vibration and thermal expansion that would otherwise cause the threaded interface to loosen and leak. By establishing the anti-rotation constraint in advance, the system cushions against these environmental stresses before they can compromise the seal and cause fluid leakage.
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluid conduit assembly is provided that includes a first conduit coupler, a second conduit coupler and a lock. The second conduit coupler is mated with the first conduit coupler at a threaded interface. The lock is configured to rotationally fix the first conduit coupler with the second conduit coupler. The lock includes a flange, a clip and a fastener. The flange is arranged with the first conduit coupler. The flange is configured with a plurality of flange apertures arranged circumferentially about an axis of the first conduit coupler. The clip is arranged with the second conduit coupler. The clip is configured with a clip aperture. The fastener is mated with the clip aperture and any one of the plurality of flange apertures.