Magnetic Fluid Connector for Fast Remote Dual-Path Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid connectors require time-consuming threaded connections, can be physically demanding, necessitate user proximity, and involve multiple steps for dual caps, posing challenges for safe and efficient assembly, especially with hazardous materials.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic fluid connector system with dual passageways and magnets for quick assembly, allowing remote connection and simultaneous installation/removal of primary and secondary caps, utilizing magnetic forces for alignment and attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If threaded connection is used to assemble fluid connector, then connection strength is improved, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional threaded mechanical connection system with a magnetic field-based attraction system. Magnets embedded in the connector components create magnetic forces that draw the connectors together and hold them in place, eliminating the need for threading operations while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic connector system is designed to self-assemble through magnetic attraction when brought into proximity. The magnetic force automatically aligns and secures the connectors without requiring manual threading operations, making the assembly process self-service and time-efficient.
2Reliability
If threaded connection is used to assemble fluid connector, then connection reliability is improved, but physical effort required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the mechanically intensive threading operation with a magnetic field-based system. The magnetic attraction force automatically draws connectors together and maintains reliable connection without requiring users to apply torque or exert physical effort to thread components.
3Reliability
If threaded connection is used to assemble fluid connector, then connection security is improved, but user proximity requirement increases safety risk
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic connection system allows connectors to be assembled remotely by bringing the magnetic components into proximity, which then self-attract and secure. This eliminates the need for users to manually thread connectors in close proximity to hazardous materials, reducing exposure risk while maintaining connection security through magnetic holding force.
4Reliability
If separate primary and secondary caps are installed individually, then closure security is improved, but assembly time and user exposure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the primary and secondary cap functions into a single integrated cap assembly. This unified cap structure provides both primary and secondary closure security features while being installed as one component, eliminating the time and exposure associated with installing two separate caps individually.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated cap design incorporates multiple closure functions (primary and secondary sealing) within a single component structure. This multi-functional cap delivers the security benefits of dual closure systems while simplifying the installation process to a single operation.
5Reliability
If separate primary and secondary caps are installed individually, then closure reliability is improved, but user interaction time increases exposure risk
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the primary and secondary cap functions into one integrated component, the system maintains dual-closure reliability while reducing user interaction time. The user performs a single installation action rather than two separate operations, minimizing exposure to hazardous materials.
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
Facilitates rapid, user-friendly assembly and disassembly without direct contact, meeting safety and efficiency needs, particularly for hazardous materials, and reducing exposure risks.
Implementation Method 1
a first magnet and a second magnet, wherein a side of the first magnet proximal to the second connector has an opposite polarity than a side of the second magnet proximal to the first connector
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid connector includes a first connector having a first passageway and a second passageway; and a second connector having a third passageway and a fourth passageway. The first connector can be attracted to the second connector through a magnetic force, thereby forming the fluid connector. Moreover, when the first connector abuts the second connector, the first passageway together with the third passageway can form a first fluid path, and the second passageway together with the fourth passageway can form a second fluid path that is different from the first fluid path.