Fluid Line Coupling with Helical-Groove Lock Pin Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling elements for fluid lines suffer from a high risk of accidental disconnection due to insufficient locking mechanism and complex industrial production processes.
Innovation Solution
A coupling element with a tubular body, a locking pin, and an unlocking ring mechanically coupled via a ball and helical groove, enhancing the locking pin's return mechanism and reducing friction, thus improving locking reliability and simplifying production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring is used to restore the locking pin to its first position, then the locking mechanism can return to locked state, but the restoring force is insufficient and space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
A cam surface is introduced as an intermediary mechanical element between the locking pin and the ring. The cam surface converts the ring's rotational movement into linear displacement of the locking pin, providing mechanical advantage and amplifying the restoring force without requiring additional spring force or space.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution changes the mechanical parameter configuration by using a cam mechanism with specific geometric parameters (cam profile, lever arm lengths) to transform the input force from ring rotation into a magnified output force on the locking pin, thereby increasing the effective restoring force.
2Reliability
If multiple small parts are used in the coupling element, then the locking function can be achieved, but industrial production becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple separate components (locking pin, cam surface, return spring, and ring) into an integrated assembly where the cam surface is formed as part of the ring structure. This reduces the number of discrete parts that need to be manufactured and assembled, simplifying industrial production while maintaining the locking function.
3Ease of operation
If the locking pin is mechanically coupled to a circular ring, then rotation can unlock the locking pin, but friction reduces energy efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
A cam surface with curved geometry is used to replace sliding contact with rolling contact. The curved cam profile allows the locking pin to follow a smooth path during unlocking, reducing friction and energy loss compared to linear sliding mechanisms.
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 solution effectively reduces the risk of accidental disconnection and simplifies industrial production by ensuring better reversibility and energy efficiency of the locking mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a return member to restore the locking pin to its first position
Implementation Method 2
mechanically coupled via a ball and helical groove, enhancing the locking pin's return mechanism and reducing friction
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling element for connecting a fluid line includes a locking pin movable in translation between a first position in which it emerges from a support surface and a second position in which it is retracted relative to the support surface. The coupling element further includes a return member for returning the pin to its first position, and an unlocking ring rotatable about a longitudinal axis and surrounding the tubular body of the coupling element. The unlocking ring is mechanically coupled to the pin by means of a ball and a helical groove for guiding the ball in order to transform the rotation of the unlocking ring into a translational movement of the pin from its first position towards its second position.