Magnetic Coupling Assembly for Gas Delivery Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gas flow delivery systems are difficult to assemble and disassemble, particularly for users with impaired physical or mental abilities, due to the reliance on mechanical connections such as friction fittings and clips.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic coupling assembly is introduced, featuring alternating magnetic elements on two members that attract and repel to securely join and easily separate the components, allowing for intuitive coupling and decoupling by rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical connections (friction fittings, clips) are used to join components, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes difficult especially for users with impaired physical or mental ability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical connection systems (friction fittings, clips, snaps) with a magnetic connection system. Magnets embedded in the coupling members create magnetic attraction forces that securely join components while allowing easy separation through simple pulling or rotational motions. This substitution maintains connection reliability through magnetic force while dramatically improving ease of operation for users with physical or mental impairments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of connection force from mechanical (friction, elastic deformation) to magnetic (magnetic attraction). By using magnets with appropriate strength and configuration, the system achieves secure connection through magnetic field interaction rather than mechanical interlocking, enabling both reliability and ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If magnetic elements are used for coupling, then assembly and disassembly become easier, but the connection strength may be reduced compared to mechanical connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the magnetic coupling system into multiple discrete magnetic elements embedded in each coupling member. By distributing the connection force across multiple magnets rather than relying on a single strong magnet, the system achieves both adequate connection strength and ease of operation. The segmented magnetic elements also provide more uniform force distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple magnetic elements into a unified coupling system where the collective magnetic attraction of all magnets works together to maintain secure connection. The merging of multiple magnetic fields creates a robust connection that distributes stress across the entire coupling interface rather than concentrating it at a single point.
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 magnetic coupling assembly facilitates easier assembly and disassembly of gas flow delivery system components, enhancing user accessibility and reducing the risk of gas leaks while maintaining a secure connection.
Implementation Method 1
A first plurality of magnetic elements are disposed on the first member such that each magnet element has a first pole proximate to the first portion. The first pole of a magnetic element is opposite that of an adjacent magnetic element so that the polarity of the first plurality of magnet elements alternates from one magnetic element to the next along the first portion of the first member.
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic coupling assembly for use in coupling portions of a gas deliver system. The magnetic coupling assembly includes a first member and a second member to be coupled together. The attractive forces between the first plurality of magnetic elements on the first member and a second plurality of magnetic elements on the second member join these member. The poles of magnetic elements in the first and second plurality of magnetic elements is opposite that of an adjacent magnetic element. The first and second members are easily detached from one another simply by rotating the first member relative to the second member such that the magnetic poles of the magnetic elements in each plurality of magnetic elements become unaligned, causing an weakening of the attractive forces.