Tool-Free Fluid Sensor Connector with Actuated Closure
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing channel module systems require tools and interrupt the fluid flow to replace fluid sensors, making it inconvenient and risky for uncontrolled fluid escape during sensor exchange.
Innovation Solution
A connecting device with a locking mechanism and closure system actuated by an adjustable actuating means, allowing tool-free attachment and detachment of fluid sensors without interrupting the fluid flow, ensuring secure locking and controlled fluid flow management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tools are used to detach and mount fluid sensors on channel modules, then the fluid sensor can be securely connected, but the operation becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device incorporates a locking device with actuating means that enables the fluid sensor to be securely locked onto the channel module without requiring external tools. The actuating means directly manipulates the locking device to secure the connection, making the system self-servicing and eliminating the need for separate tooling operations.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the fluid stream is interrupted to replace the fluid sensor, then uncontrolled fluid escape is prevented, but the channel system operation is stopped
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device divides the fluid control function into separate segments: a closure device that controls fluid flow to the fluid sensor, and a locking device that secures the sensor connection. This segmentation allows the closure device to be actuated independently to stop fluid flow to the sensor being replaced, while the bypass channel maintains fluid flow through the rest of the channel system, enabling sensor replacement without interrupting overall system operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure device acts as an intermediary between the fluid stream and the fluid sensor, providing controlled interruption of fluid flow only to the sensor being replaced. The bypass channel serves as an alternative pathway that mediates fluid flow around the sensor replacement area, allowing the fluid stream to continue flowing through the channel system while the sensor is being exchanged.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the closure device is actuated before the locking device, then fluid escape is prevented, but the actuation sequence becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating means is designed with an adjustable actuating path that dynamically adapts to different actuation sequences. The actuating means can be positioned and configured to actuate either the locking device or the closure device first, depending on the operational requirements. This dynamic flexibility allows the system to optimize the actuation sequence for each specific replacement scenario, simplifying control while maintaining safety.
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting device for connecting a fluid sensor to a channel module has a locking device that can secure the fluid sensor on the channel module, a closure device that can allow the flow of a fluid conducted in the channel module from the channel module to the fluid sensor, and an actuating means, the actuating means actuating the locking device.