Low-Spill Coupling Assembly With Multi-Seal Fluid-Tight Engagement
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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 in applications requiring precise control and minimal spillage.
Innovation Solution
A low-spill coupling assembly featuring a female and male coupling device with multiple seals and spring-biased components that ensure fluid-tight connections and controlled fluid flow, allowing for seamless engagement and disengagement through spring compression and displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple coupling design is used, then device complexity is reduced, but sealing reliability deteriorates leading to leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly is divided into multiple sealing zones with distinct seals (first seal on piston rod, second seal on piston, third seal at opening, major seal on valve member) each addressing specific leakage paths. This segmentation of sealing functions resolves the contradiction by providing comprehensive leak prevention without requiring a single complex sealing mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling features nested components including the piston rod within the piston, and the valve member within the second fluid passageway. Multiple seals are nested at different levels (first seal around piston rod, second seal around piston, third seal at opening) creating a layered sealing approach that enhances reliability while maintaining a compact structure.
2Reliability
If multiple seals are added to prevent leaks, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sealing functions are merged into a single integrated coupling structure. The first seal, second seal, third seal, and major seal are all incorporated into one coupling assembly rather than separate components, achieving fluid-tight connections while avoiding the complexity of multiple independent sealing systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling assembly serves multiple sealing functions simultaneously: the first seal prevents leakage around the piston rod, the second seal prevents leakage around the piston, the third seal seals the opening, and the major seal seals the valve member. This multi-functionality within a single assembly improves reliability without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Ease of operation
If spring-biased components are used for controlled engagement, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring automatically biases the piston and valve member to control engagement and disengagement without requiring external actuation mechanisms. The spring-driven operation provides ease of use while maintaining a relatively simple structure compared to motorized or hydraulically actuated systems.
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 by ensuring fluid-tight configurations and controlled fluid flow, minimizing leaks and enhancing operational efficiency in applications such as biomedical, beverage dispensing, and liquid cooling systems.
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
Implementation Method 4
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.