Low-Spill Coupling Assembly With Multi-Seal Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling assemblies often suffer from leaks and inefficiencies in fluid flow due to inadequate sealing mechanisms, particularly during coupling and decoupling processes.
Innovation Solution
A low-spill coupling assembly featuring a female and male coupling device with multiple seals and springs that ensure fluid-tight configurations and controlled fluid flow through displacement of seals upon coupling, utilizing a clip member for quick connection and disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple seals are used to improve sealing performance, then leakage is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is divided into multiple independent seal elements (first seal, second seal, third seal, and major seal) positioned at different locations. Each seal addresses specific sealing requirements at different interfaces, allowing the system to achieve comprehensive sealing performance while maintaining modularity and ease of maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The seals are arranged in a nested configuration where the first seal is positioned between the main body and sleeve, the second seal is positioned between the sleeve and stem head, and the third seal and major seal are positioned at the opening interface. This nested arrangement maximizes sealing effectiveness within the constrained space of the coupling assembly.
2Reliability
If springs are used to bias seals into closed position, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The springs are pre-installed in the assembly to automatically bias the seals into their closed, sealing positions before any fluid pressure is applied. This preliminary action ensures that the seals are already in the correct position and exerting sealing force before fluid flow begins, improving reliability without requiring complex control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The springs provide self-actuating sealing force that automatically adjusts to maintain seal contact. The first spring biases the first seal, and the second spring biases the second seal, creating a self-regulating system that maintains sealing reliability throughout operation without external control.
3Productivity
If seals are displaced upon coupling to enable fluid flow, then fluid flow control is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The seal positions are designed to be dynamic rather than fixed. The seals can displace from their initial biased positions in response to coupling forces and fluid pressure, allowing the system to adapt to manufacturing tolerances and operational conditions. This dynamic behavior enables reliable fluid flow control without requiring extremely tight manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal displacement mechanism allows the sealing interface parameters to change during operation. As the coupling is assembled and fluid pressure is applied, the seals naturally adjust their position and contact pressure, enabling the system to accommodate reasonable manufacturing variations while maintaining controlled fluid flow.
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 assembly provides a reliable, low-spill solution with controlled fluid flow, ensuring minimal leakage during coupling and decoupling operations.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring positioned about the stem that biases the sleeve into a closed position
Implementation Method 2
a first seal that seals between the main body and the sleeve
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a low-spill coupling assembly including a female coupling device and a male coupling device.