Quick Connect Disconnector Spring-Loaded Plunger Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional quick connect and quick disconnect systems for fluid systems are often difficult to disengage, prone to leaking, and expensive to manufacture, while also requiring significant force to overcome line pressure and involving inconvenient connection processes that stop fluid supply during connection.
Innovation Solution
A quick connect/disconnect system featuring a first connecting member with a ring assembly and a second connecting member, where the ring assembly converts rotational motion to linear motion to facilitate easy connection and disconnection without stopping the fluid supply, using seals and a biasing element for leak-free operation and reduced manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional quick connect systems use a locking feature to maintain connection under pressure, then connection reliability is improved, but disengagement becomes difficult requiring significant force to overcome line pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a dynamic spring-loaded plunger mechanism that automatically adjusts its locking force based on fluid pressure. The spring bias allows the plunger to maintain reliable connection under pressure while enabling easy disengagement when pressure is released or reduced, as the spring returns the plunger to its unengaged position
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the locking mechanism by using a spring-loaded plunger whose engagement force varies with fluid pressure. At high pressure, the plunger maintains strong engagement for reliability; at low or zero pressure, the spring returns the plunger to allow easy disengagement, thus resolving the contradiction between reliable connection and easy disengagement
2Strength
If threaded connection methods are used to securely connect fluid devices, then connection strength is improved, but the connection process becomes inconvenient requiring stopping fluid supply and manual rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the manual threading mechanism with an automated spring-loaded plunger system. When the connector approaches the coupling, the plunger is pushed forward by the spring to engage and lock the connection automatically, eliminating the need for manual rotation and fluid shutdown while maintaining strong connection
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded plunger mechanism performs the connection function automatically without user intervention. The spring stores energy that is released to push the plunger into the engaged position, creating a self-actuating connection system that maintains strength while improving convenience
3Productivity
If conventional connectors are designed for quick connection and disconnection, then operation speed is improved, but manufacturing cost increases and leakage problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into simple, separable components: a body, a spring-loaded plunger, and sealing elements. This segmentation allows for easy manufacturing of individual parts using standard processes while enabling quick connection and disconnection through the simple plunger engagement mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses simple, easily replaceable sealing elements and a straightforward plunger mechanism that can be manufactured at low cost. The design prioritizes functional simplicity over durability of individual components, allowing inexpensive replacement parts while maintaining overall system reliability and quick 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 enables easy, leak-free, and efficient connection and disconnection of fluid devices without stopping the fluid supply, reducing manufacturing costs and overcoming line pressure challenges, while providing a user-friendly and cost-effective solution.
Implementation Method 1
a spring positioned within the body and biased in a forward direction toward the groove
Implementation Method 2
a seal configured to prevent fluid leakage between the plunger and the groove when the plunger is engaged with the groove
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connect/disconnect system includes a male connector and a female connector. The male connector includes a first body having a fixed male protrusion and a first rotating ring assembly rotatably connected to the first body. The female connector includes a first coupling channel including a mouth configured to receive the fixed male protrusion and extending from the mouth toward a seat portion, a shuttle movable within the first coupling channel and including a flange configured to form a seal with the seat portion, and an extending portion extending within the first coupling channel and a biasing member configured to bias the flange into sealing contact with the seat portion such that rotation of the first rotating ring assembly in a first direction forces the fixed male protrusion to move axially into contact with the extending portion thereby moving the shuttle to force the flange away from the seat portion.