Pressure Activated Wedging Ring Locking Coupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Quick connect couplings face issues with inadvertent disconnection under pressure, especially in industrial settings, due to worn-out biasing means and external influences like vibration, which can lead to safety hazards and system failures.
Innovation Solution
A pressure-activated wedging ring that deforms into a groove upon internal pressure, locking the male and female portions together, and a secondary locking device to prevent disengagement, ensuring the coupling remains locked until pressure is released, without the need for tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional quick connect coupling is used, then easy connection and disconnection is achieved, but the risk of inadvertent disconnection under pressure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static spring-biased position to a dynamic pressure-activated state. Internal system pressure causes the locking element to deflect and engage the locking groove, automatically enhancing security when needed most during pressurized operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system uses its own internal pressure to activate the locking mechanism, eliminating the need for external actuators or additional energy sources. The pressurized fluid itself becomes the actuating force that secures the connection.
2Reliability
If a pressure-activated locking mechanism is added, then connection reliability under pressure improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted as a separate, dedicated element within the coupling assembly. This modular approach allows the locking mechanism to be independently optimized and simplified, reducing overall complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal fluid pressure, already present in the system for its operational purpose, is utilized to actuate the locking mechanism. This eliminates the need for separate pneumatic or hydraulic actuating systems, reducing complexity while achieving reliable pressure-activated locking.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional locking mechanisms are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but safety under vibrational loads deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to proactively counteract vibrational forces by using internal pressure to firmly engage the locking element in the groove before vibration can cause disconnection. The design anticipates and prevents vibration-induced failure modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal pressure, which could potentially contribute to coupling separation under certain conditions, is converted into a beneficial force that actively secures the connection through the pressure-activated locking mechanism, turning a potential hazard into a safety feature.
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 solution provides a safe and reliable connection that prevents disengagement under pressure, reducing the risk of accidents and system failures, while maintaining the economic and functional benefits of quick connect couplings.
Implementation Method 1
A pressure-activated wedging ring that deforms into a groove upon internal pressure, locking the male and female portions together
Implementation Method 2
The locking element is biased in the engaged position by a spring
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling assembly includes a female coupler selectively interconnected to a male coupler to provide sealing engagement. In one embodiment, the female coupler and the male coupler are secured together by a pressure activated locking assembly which prevents disengagement of the male and female coupling until the internal pressure in the coupling is reduced to a predetermined level.