Compact Fluid Coupling Valve Assembly for Spill-Free Disconnects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fluid coupling devices in existing systems often experience fluid spillage and air inclusion during connection and disconnection, which can damage electronics and contaminate environments in applications like liquid cooling systems.
Innovation Solution
The development of non-spill fluid coupling devices with modular construction, featuring a valve assembly and multiple seals that block fluid discharge paths and prevent air inclusion, along with a compact design and robust latching system to ensure secure connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fluid coupling devices are used, then connection and disconnection can be achieved, but fluid spillage and air inclusion occur during the process
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is configured to automatically close before the male and female couplings are fully disconnected, preventing fluid spillage and air inclusion during the coupling process. This preliminary action of closing the valve eliminates the harmful effects that would otherwise occur during the disconnection phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the male and female couplings, controlling fluid flow during connection and disconnection. By introducing this intermediate control element, the patent prevents direct fluid exposure during coupling operations, thereby eliminating spillage and air inclusion issues.
2Volume of moving object
If compact design is implemented, then space is reduced, but device complexity increases due to multiple housing portions and valve assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional elements into a single integrated coupling device. The housing includes three portions that are coupled together to form a unified structure containing the valve assembly, seals, and fluid flow path. This merging of components achieves compactness while managing the inherent complexity through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly and seals are nested within the housing structure. The third housing portion contains the valve assembly, which in turn contains the valve stem and valve sleeve. This nested arrangement optimizes space utilization and achieves a compact form factor while accommodating the necessary complex internal components.
Data Source
AI summary
Some fluid coupling devices described herein are configured as non-spill fluid couplings. In addition, some embodiments described in this document relate to fluid coupling devices and fluid coupling systems that are constructed in a compact configuration.