High-Pressure Quick-Disconnect Connector with Automatic Lockout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Quick-disconnect connectors at high pressure are prone to inadvertent unmating due to operator error, shock, and vibration, posing safety risks as they can be unintentionally released, especially when carrying elevated pressure fluids.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of an automatic locking mechanism using a movable piston that transitions between locked and unlocked positions, where the piston engages with release buttons to prevent unintentional separation when fluid pressure is sufficient, ensuring the connector remains mated at high pressures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spring-loaded release actuation device is used to enable quick disconnection, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to inadvertent unmating from shock, vibration, or operator error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by introducing a locking element that proactively counteracts the harmful effect of inadvertent release. The locking element engages with the release actuation device to prevent it from moving, thereby anticipating and blocking the potential harmful action of shock, vibration, or operator error before it can cause unmating.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element serves as an intermediary between the release actuation device and the mating components. It mediates the interaction by physically blocking the release mechanism, requiring a deliberate unlocking action before disconnection can occur. This intermediary prevents direct transmission of harmful forces from shock or vibration to the release mechanism.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent inadvertent unmating, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the existing release actuation device. The locking element is integrated into the same component structure that houses the spring-loaded release mechanism, combining two functions (locking and releasing) into a unified assembly. This reduces overall device complexity compared to adding a completely separate locking system.
Solution Approach 2:
The release actuation device serves multiple functions: it enables intentional disconnection when not locked, and when locked, it serves as part of the locking mechanism itself. The locking element transforms the single-function release device into a multi-functional component that participates in both release and locking operations, reducing the need for additional dedicated parts.
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
Prevents inadvertent unmating of the quick-disconnect connector at high fluid pressures, enhancing safety by maintaining a secure connection and allowing controlled disconnection only when pressure drops or the locking mechanism is intentionally activated.
Implementation Method 1
the piston is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position in response to a pressure of the fluid
Data Source
AI summary
According to one aspect, a quick disconnect connector is provided. The quick disconnect connector includes a first component and a second component which is matable with the first component. A releasing element is engageable with at least one of the first component and the second component to unmate the first component and the second component. A locking element is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking element, in the locked position, engages the releasing element to prevent the releasing element from unmating the first component and the second component. The locking element is movable from the unlocked position to the locked position by application of a locking force to the locking element. The locking force can be applied to the locking element by fluid being carried by the quick-disconnect connector.