Modular Multi-Coupling Assembly for Tool-Free Fitting Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-coupling devices require extensive redesign and manufacturing for different combinations of fittings, are costly, and necessitate specialized tooling for service or replacement, leading to environmental contamination and unintended releases.
Innovation Solution
A quick-coupling, multi-coupling device with modular halves and interchangeable module blocks, featuring retaining plates and latch blocks for rapid installation and removal of fittings without specialized tooling, allowing for various configurations without new component design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a different combination of quantities and sizes of fittings is required, then a new framework must be designed and manufactured, but this process is lengthy and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate device halves and module blocks that can be independently configured. Each device half contains multiple module blocks that can be arranged in different combinations to accommodate various fitting configurations, eliminating the need to redesign the entire framework for each new configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized device halves and module blocks are designed to be universally compatible across different configurations. The same basic components can be recombined in multiple ways to create different fitting arrangements, allowing one set of components to serve multiple configuration needs.
2Ease of repair
If fittings are removed for service or replacement, then specialized tooling is required or lines must be disconnected, but this causes environmental contamination and air inclusion
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fittings are merged into a single integrated coupling device where all fittings are connected simultaneously through a common coupling mechanism. This allows all fittings to be serviced together as one unit rather than individually, reducing the risk of contamination during maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is designed with preliminary sealing arrangements where seals and sealing surfaces are pre-positioned and protected until the coupling is actively being connected or disconnected. This preliminary protection prevents contamination during storage and transport, and the quick-coupling mechanism enables rapid connection/disconnection before contamination can occur.
3Manufacturing precision
If a new framework is designed for each configuration, then precise fitting arrangements are achieved, but manufacturing costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses homogeneous, standardized module blocks and device halves with consistent dimensions, mounting patterns, and interface features. This uniformity allows the same components to be manufactured in volume using identical processes, reducing per-unit costs while maintaining precise fitting arrangements through standardized interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-coupling device is provided that includes separate modular first and second device halves that each carry a plurality of fittings or connectors and that are configured to be locked together or separated for purposes of simultaneously connecting or disconnecting the plurality of fittings or connectors of the first device half to or from the plurality of fittings or connectors of the second device half. Each of the device halves is constructed of a plurality of separate module blocks secured together in side-by-side relation. Each module block has at least one retaining plate for securing at least one fitting or connecter thereto, and each of the device halves includes at least one latch block to which the plurality of module blocks of the device half is secured.