Protected Quick-Separating Multi-Coupling for Military Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick disconnect couplings used in military vehicles are large, unprotected against ballistic threats and contamination, and do not integrate well with the vehicle's design, particularly when used for mine clearance equipment, which requires compact and protected energy supply solutions.
Innovation Solution
A protected multiple quick disconnect coupling is designed with an outer plate made of ballistic protection material, integrated into the vehicle contour, allowing for hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical energy supply, and featuring sealing elements and protective covers to prevent damage and contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard quick disconnect couplings are used for supplying energy to attachments, then the coupling functionality is achieved, but the couplings are large in size and cannot be adequately protected against ballistic threats and contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple coupling connections (hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical) into a single integrated coupling unit. The housing integrates multiple coupling elements that can be actuated simultaneously or individually, reducing the overall space required compared to separate couplings for each utility line.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling elements are nested within a common housing structure. The actuating mechanism is integrated inside the housing, with the coupling elements arranged concentrically or in a compact configuration that allows one component to be placed within or alongside another, minimizing the external dimensions.
2Ease of operation
If multiple quick disconnect couplings are installed on the vehicle, then energy supply to attachments is enabled, but the couplings are exposed to damage and dirt without adequate protection
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling elements are pre-positioned within the housing and protected by a cover that can be quickly opened or removed. The sealing elements are pre-installed and automatically engage when the coupling is connected, providing immediate protection against contamination upon connection without requiring separate protective actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a protective cover or housing that encloses the coupling elements. This shell structure provides physical protection against damage and contamination while allowing quick access when needed. Sealing membranes or flexible seals are integrated to prevent ingress of dirt and water while maintaining the quick-connect functionality.
3Shape
If the outer plate of the multiple quick-disconnect coupling is made of ballistic protection material and integrated into the vehicle contour, then protection and compact design are achieved, but the coupling requires precise integration with vehicle supply systems
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling housing is designed as a multi-functional unit that integrates hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical connections in a single assembly. This universal design allows the same housing structure to accommodate different types of utility lines, simplifying the integration process with vehicle supply systems while maintaining the ballistic protection and contour integration requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
The multiple rapid decoupler (2) has an outer plate (2.1) and base plate (2.2) provided in a vehicle (1). The outer plate contains a ballistic protection and is made of steel casing or comparable material and is allotted over suitable coupling elements and over other attaching condition at the base plate. The base plate is allotted over suitable coupling elements with the outer plate.