Multi-Coupling Handle and Cam Lock for One-Handed Fluid Line Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-coupling systems for connecting multiple fluid lines in high-pressure systems, such as hydraulic systems, face challenges with size, weight, and operational complexity, particularly in compact equipment, where they require two-handed operation and are not compatible with loose couplers.
Innovation Solution
A multi-coupling system that uses a single cam locking mechanism, guided by guide pins, with a handle assembly and a locking pin assembly that allows one-handed operation and automatic resetting, enabling secure connections and disconnections while accommodating both integrated and loose couplers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional multi-coupling systems use multiple cam locking mechanisms to secure multiple fluid lines, then connection reliability is improved, but size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cam locking mechanisms into a single integrated cam structure that simultaneously secures multiple fluid lines. The cam features are arranged to engage with multiple coupling ports in a unified locking action, reducing the total number of separate mechanisms while maintaining connection reliability for all fluid lines.
Solution Approach 2:
The single cam structure is designed to perform multiple locking functions simultaneously, engaging with different coupling ports for multiple fluid lines in one operation. This multi-functional design allows one cam mechanism to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate locking mechanisms.
2Reliability
If conventional multi-coupling systems use multiple cam locking mechanisms to secure multiple fluid lines, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate cam locking mechanisms into a single integrated cam structure. This consolidation reduces the number of discrete components and simplifies the overall locking mechanism while maintaining the ability to secure multiple fluid lines reliably through coordinated engagement of the cam features.
3Reliability
If conventional multi-coupling systems are designed to accommodate multiple integrated couplings, then connection security is improved, but adaptability to loose couplers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cam locking mechanism is designed with universal engagement features that can accommodate both integrated couplings and loose couplers. The cam features are configured to work with standard coupling geometries, allowing the same mechanism to securely lock different types of couplers without requiring specialized designs for each type.
4Reliability
If conventional multi-coupling systems require two-handed operation to operate the locking mechanism, then connection security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of securing multiple fluid lines into a single handle operation. The cam structure is designed so that one rotational motion of a single handle simultaneously engages all cam features with their corresponding coupling ports, achieving secure connection of multiple lines with one-handed operation.
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 system reduces size and weight, simplifies operation to one-handed use, and allows connection of loose couplers, enhancing usability and flexibility in compact equipment applications.
Implementation Method 1
a cam locking mechanism, guided by guide pins, with a handle assembly
Implementation Method 2
a locking pin assembly that allows one-handed operation and automatic resetting
Data Source
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AI summary
A multi-coupling system includes first and second multi-coupling components that can be connected and disconnected. When connected, opposing fluid couplers on the components are connected. The second multi-coupling component has a handle assembly including a hook retainer, and the first coupling component has a roller, and the handle assembly is rotatable to connect and disconnect the components. As the handle assembly rotates for connection, the hook retainer interacts as a single cam with the roller to pull the components together. A locking pin assembly has a locking pin that is moveable between extended and retracted positions, and when extended locks in a housing of the second component to prevent rotation of the handle assembly. A user manipulates the locking pin assembly to retract the locking pin, which is automatically retained in the retracted position. The locking pin automatically resets when the handle assembly is rotated to disconnect the multi-coupling components.