Multi-Coupler Connector Rocker Arm for Compact Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multi-coupler connectors require large dimensions and complex assembly procedures due to rigid rocker arms, making them unsuitable for applications needing compact designs and simplified assembly.

Innovation Solution

A multi-coupler connector with a rocker arm featuring rotatable end portions that can be inserted through coupler seats, allowing for reduced space requirements and simplified assembly by being fixed to a rotation shaft within the housing body, eliminating the need for assembly windows and enabling automatic positioning during assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a rigid rocker arm is used in multi-coupler connectors, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the overall dimension becomes large and assembly becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural reliabilityVSAvoidoverall dimension

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The rocker arm is divided into multiple segments that can rotate relative to each other. Each segment connects to coupling seats independently, allowing the structure to achieve the necessary rocking motion within a compact space. This segmentation enables the connector to maintain reliability while reducing overall dimensions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Device complexity

If a rigid rocker arm is used in multi-coupler connectors, then the structure is simple, but the assembly procedure becomes complex requiring assembly windows

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural complexityVSAvoidassembly procedure

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The segmented rocker arm can be assembled by inserting individual segments through the coupling seats from the outside. This eliminates the need for assembly windows or complex disassembly procedures, as each segment can be independently positioned and connected within the housing body.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If the chamber is made big enough to allow rotation of the rocker arm, then the rocker arm can rotate freely, but the connector overall dimension increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverocker arm rotationVSAvoidchamber volume

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The segmented rocker arm performs the necessary rotation through a series of small, sequential movements of its segments rather than requiring a large single rotation space. This allows free rotation functionality within a compact chamber volume.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rotation motion is achieved by translating rotational movement into a combination of rotational and axial movements of the segments. This dimensional transformation allows the rocker arm to achieve full rotation capability within a reduced chamber volume by utilizing multiple degrees of freedom.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS11499661B2Hydraulic and/or pneumatic multi-coupling connector with lever actuated mechanism

Publication Date: 2022.11.15 FASTER SPA

AI summary

The present invention relates to a hydraulic and/or pneumatic multi-coupler connector of the type comprising at least one pair of couplers inserted into a containment body and equipped with a lever actuated mechanism comprising an actuation lever maneuverable by the user for the relief of the residual pressure of the couplers and the connection thereof to corresponding male couplers.