Low-Spill Coupling Assembly With Dynamic Multi-Seal Disconnect
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling assemblies often suffer from leaks and inefficiencies in fluid transfer due to inadequate sealing mechanisms, particularly during coupling and decoupling processes.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a female and male coupling device with multiple seals and springs that ensure a fluid-tight configuration during coupling and allow for seamless fluid flow by disengaging seals when fully coupled, along with a quick-disconnect mechanism using a clip member for enhanced usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple seals are used to prevent leaks during coupling, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is divided into multiple independent seals (first seal, second seal, third seal, and major seal) positioned at different locations. Each seal addresses specific sealing needs at different interfaces, allowing the system to achieve comprehensive sealing reliability while maintaining modular complexity that can be manufactured and maintained independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The seals are designed to dynamically engage and disengage based on coupling state. During coupling, the seals automatically engage to prevent leaks. During decoupling, the seals disengage to allow clean separation. This dynamic behavior is achieved through spring-loaded mechanisms that activate seals only when needed, reducing complexity by eliminating the need for permanent engagement structures.
2Reliability
If seals remain engaged during decoupling, then sealing reliability is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in separation
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing mechanism transitions from a static engaged state to a dynamic state where seals can automatically disengage. Spring-loaded seals are designed to maintain engagement during normal operation for reliability, but automatically retract when decoupling force is applied, enabling easy separation without compromising sealing integrity during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded seals are pre-biased to engage automatically when coupling begins, preventing leaks before they can occur. During decoupling, the same spring mechanism provides the force to automatically disengage seals, preventing them from remaining engaged and causing operational difficulty. This preliminary positioning of the sealing elements resolves the contradiction between maintaining seal engagement and enabling easy decoupling.
3Ease of operation
If a quick-disconnect mechanism is added for ease of operation, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-disconnect functionality is merged with the existing spring-loaded seal mechanism. The same springs that provide sealing force also provide the decoupling force. The clip member integrates with the main body structure, sharing structural elements rather than adding completely separate components. This merging reduces the net increase in complexity while maintaining improved ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded seal mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides sealing during coupling, enables automatic disengagement during decoupling, and works in conjunction with the clip member to provide quick-connect functionality. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving ease of operation.
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 low-spill, efficient fluid transfer system that minimizes leaks and simplifies the connection and disconnection process, ensuring reliable fluid flow and easy handling in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring positioned about the stem that biases the sleeve into a closed position
Implementation Method 2
a valve member and a second spring positioned within the second fluid passageway
Implementation Method 3
a first seal that seals between the main body and the sleeve; a second seal that seals between the sleeve and the stem head
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a low-spill coupling assembly including a female coupling device and a male coupling device.