Gear-Locked Coupling Mechanism for Leak-Safe Fluid Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for securing devices fail to provide an apparatus for controlling the engagement and disengagement of male-female connections, particularly in liquid transfer systems, leading to potential leakage of hazardous fluids.
Innovation Solution
A securing apparatus with a securing actuator and gear mechanism that ensures precise control over the engagement and disengagement of male-female connectors, using rotatable gears and ledges to lock and unlock the connection, preventing unintended separation and ensuring safe fluid transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a male-female connection is secured using traditional securing means (latches, screws, bayonet catches), then the connection is held together to prevent unwanted separation, but the control over engagement and disengagement is insufficient and unintended separation may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic gear mechanism with movable ledges that transition between engaged and disengaged states. The gears rotate to move the ledges along the male connector, providing controlled engagement during insertion and controlled disengagement when the gear is rotated in reverse. This dynamic mechanism replaces static securing means with an actively controllable system.
Solution Approach 2:
The gear mechanism provides mechanical feedback through the interaction between the ledges and the gear teeth. When the male connector is inserted, the ledges engage with the gear teeth, providing tactile and mechanical feedback that confirms proper engagement. The system requires deliberate rotational action to disengage, providing feedback that prevents accidental separation.
2Productivity
If the male and female connectors are allowed to separate freely, then the operation is simple and quick, but leakage of hazardous fluids may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates membranes that are pre-positioned to seal the connection interface before the male and female connectors are fully engaged. During the insertion process, the membranes are compressed between the connectors, establishing a seal prior to full connection. This preliminary sealing action prevents fluid leakage during the transition from separated to connected states.
Solution Approach 2:
The gear mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user's manual insertion action and the final secured connection. The gear and ledges provide a controlled interface that ensures proper alignment and engagement of the connectors, preventing misalignment that could lead to leakage while maintaining simple operation.
3Ease of operation
If the connection components are designed with complex securing mechanisms, then control over engagement and disengagement is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gear mechanism serves multiple functions: it controls engagement of the male connector, secures the connection during use, and enables controlled disengagement. The same basic gear structure performs all these functions without requiring separate mechanisms for each action, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining operational control.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing mechanism is segmented into discrete functional elements: the gear, the ledges, and the membrane sealing system. Each element performs a specific function, and they work together in a modular fashion. This segmentation allows for simpler individual components that are easier to manufacture and assemble while providing comprehensive control functionality.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
An apparatus for securing a male-female connection comprises: (a) a female connector comprising a securing actuator section; (b) a male connector; (c) one or more anchoring ledges; and (d) at least one rotatable gear.