Hydraulic Tool for Multipin Connector Decoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for uncoupling multi-contact connectors require significant manual effort, can lead to operator injury or connector breakage, and incorporate bulky aid devices that increase weight, cost, and space requirements, particularly in aeronautical applications.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic tool with hooks and a master cylinder system that applies pressure to secondary pistons to disengage connectors from a panel, reducing manual force needed and eliminating the need for built-in aid devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual uncoupling is performed by operator, then no additional devices are needed, but significant effort is required and operator injury or connector breakage may occur
Solution Approach 1:
A hydraulic uncoupling tool is introduced as an intermediary device between the operator and the connector. The tool includes a body with a cavity that receives the connector, a piston that applies force to the connector, and a hydraulic circuit that actuates the piston. This intermediary tool performs the uncoupling action safely and efficiently without requiring the operator to directly apply force to the connector, thereby eliminating operator injury risk and connector breakage while maintaining operational simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If built-in aid devices are integrated within connectors, then uncoupling is easier, but weight, dimensions, cost, and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The uncoupling aid function is extracted from the connector itself and placed in a separate, dedicated uncoupling tool. The connector design remains simple and lightweight without integrated aid devices, while the external hydraulic tool provides the necessary uncoupling assistance. This separation allows the connector to meet strict weight and dimension requirements while still enabling easy and safe uncoupling operations through the external tool.
3Ease of operation
If built-in aid devices are integrated within connectors, then uncoupling is easier, but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex uncoupling aid mechanism is extracted from the connector and implemented as a separate hydraulic tool. The connector can be manufactured with simple, standard components without expensive integrated aid devices, reducing production costs. The uncoupling function is provided by the external tool that is manufactured separately, allowing each component to be optimized for its specific function and manufactured cost-effectively.
4Ease of operation
If built-in aid devices are integrated within connectors, then uncoupling is easier, but space behind connector is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The uncoupling aid mechanism is extracted from the connector and placed in an external tool. The connector maintains a compact design without additional space requirements for built-in aid devices. The external hydraulic tool contains all the necessary components (body, piston, hydraulic circuit) and operates in the space available during maintenance, leaving the connector itself small and space-efficient for installation in confined locations.
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 hydraulic tool facilitates safe and efficient uncoupling of multi-contact connectors with reduced manual effort, minimizing the risk of injury and connector damage, while reducing the weight and cost of connectors and improving accessibility in confined spaces.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic circuit comprising at least one cylinder, at least one piston called the main piston forming with the cylinder, a master cylinder, at least one duct connecting the main piston to at least one secondary piston, the hydraulic circuit being able to be actuated once the attachment of at least one relief of the first box by the attachment relief of the hook made, thus causing the movement of the main piston which transmits the pressure of the hydraulic fluid to the at least one secondary piston
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~9
AI summary
The present invention relates to a hydraulic tool for uncoupling (1) of complementary connectors (8, 9) in their connected configuration, the effectiveness of which is guaranteed because the placement of its head (3) around one of the connectors (8) guarantees the hooking of the latter and the release of at least one thrust piston (44, 45) against the panel (P) to which the other connector (9) is fixed.