Fluidic Coupling Locking Structure With Sealed Uncoupled State
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluidic couplings are not compact, lack a closing mechanism in the uncoupled configuration, and are prone to damage from external shocks, especially in applications like cooling pipes for computer servers.
Innovation Solution
A fluidic coupling element with a locking device that automatically engages when mated, featuring a locking ring movable between retaining and unlocking positions, and a deformable obstacle ensuring compact assembly and protection from shocks, while incorporating a piston and valve for sealing in the uncoupled state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cap and elastic ring are used to hold locking balls, then the locking mechanism can be implemented, but the structure becomes exposed to shocks and may be damaged prematurely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a closing device as an intermediary protective element that shields the locking balls, elastic ring, and cap from external shocks. This closing device acts as a mediator between the vulnerable internal components and the external environment, absorbing or distributing impact forces before they can reach the sensitive locking mechanism components.
2Reliability
If a cap and elastic ring are added to hold locking balls, then the locking function is achieved, but the number of additional parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the closing device with the existing body structure, integrating the protective function into the main component rather than adding it as a separate attached element. The closing device is positioned to work in conjunction with the body, locking element, and locking balls as an integrated system, reducing the number of independently mounted parts.
3Reliability
If the fluidic coupling element is lengthened to accommodate a cap, then the locking mechanism can be installed, but the compactness of the device is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The closing device is nested within the existing structure of the body and locking mechanism, fitting into the available space without requiring additional external length. The closing device is positioned to work within the confines of the body's existing geometry, utilizing the internal volume rather than extending the external dimensions.
4Strength
If locking balls are made larger to improve locking reliability, then the locking strength increases, but the radial space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs materials with optimized mechanical properties for the locking balls and elastic ring, selecting composite or specially formulated materials that provide high strength-to-size ratios. This allows the locking balls to achieve sufficient locking strength while maintaining smaller dimensions, thereby reducing the radial space required for the locking mechanism.
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 provides a compact, durable fluidic coupling that remains sealed in the uncoupled configuration, enhancing durability and reducing the risk of damage, particularly suitable for applications like cooling pipes in computer servers.
Implementation Method 1
a locking spring, which pushes the locking ring back to the advanced retaining position
Implementation Method 2
an obstacle, which is elastically deformable and which, when the body is in the assembled configuration, is partially accommodated in the external groove of the distal part and in the internal groove of the proximal part, the obstacle being configured to cooperate with a distal axial wall of the internal groove and a proximal axial wall of the external groove so as to prevent the separation of the distal and proximal parts
Data Source
AI summary
The fluidic coupling member includes a body defining an internal conduit configured to accommodate a mating end-piece. The body includes a proximal part, which is in one-piece and delimits a proximal part of the internal conduit, and a distal part which is in one-piece, which defines a proximal part of the internal conduit and is fitted into the proximal part in an assembled configuration of the body. The proximal part includes an internal groove whereas the distal part includes an external groove that radially faces the internal groove at least partially when the body is in the assembled configuration. The fluidic coupling element further includes an obstacle which is elastically deformable and which, in the assembled configuration of the body, is partially accommodated in the external groove and in the internal groove so as to prevent the separation of the distal and proximal parts.