Low-Spill Coupling Assembly With Multi-Seal Quick Disconnect
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling assemblies face challenges in providing a reliable and low-spill fluid flow path connection between male and female coupling devices, particularly in applications requiring precise sealing and easy connection/disconnection, such as biomedical and liquid cooling systems.
Innovation Solution
The coupling system incorporates a female coupling device with a spring-biased sleeve and multiple seals, and a male coupling device with a valve member and spring, allowing for fluid flow by displacing seals when the male device is inserted, and featuring a clip member for quick connection and disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring-biased sleeve with multiple seals is used in the female coupling device, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is segmented into multiple independent seals (first seal between main body and sleeve, second seal between sleeve and stem head, third seal at the opening) rather than relying on a single sealing mechanism. This segmentation improves sealing reliability while keeping each individual seal relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased sleeve acts as an intermediary component that provides both sealing and actuation functions. The sleeve mediates between the stem movement and the sealing surfaces, allowing reliable sealing through its spring-biased positioning while maintaining relatively simple overall device structure.
2Reliability
If a valve member with spring is positioned within the fluid passageway, then fluid flow control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve member is merged with the spring into a single integrated assembly positioned within the fluid passageway. This combination provides both fluid flow control and actuation functions in one component, improving reliability while avoiding the complexity of separate control and actuation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve member assembly serves multiple functions: it controls fluid flow, provides sealing, and acts as part of the actuation mechanism when displaced by the stem. This multi-functionality improves system reliability while reducing the number of separate components needed.
3Reliability
If multiple seals are positioned to engage the male coupling device, then sealing reliability is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple seals are pre-positioned on the female coupling device in their ready-to-seal configuration. When the male coupling device is inserted, the seals automatically engage with the male device surfaces without requiring additional user actions, thus maintaining ease of operation while ensuring reliable sealing through multiple contact points.
4Ease of operation
If a clip member is added for quick connection and disconnection, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clip member is designed to automatically engage with the male coupling device when connected and to facilitate easy disconnection through a simple release action. The clip serves itself by providing both the locking and release functions, improving ease of operation while maintaining relatively simple structure through its self-contained design.
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
This design ensures a fluid-tight connection while allowing easy fluid flow and quick disconnection, minimizing spills and enhancing usability in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
a 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
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a low-spill coupling assembly including a female coupling device and a male coupling device.