Quick Connector Coupling With Helical Cam Dynamic Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connector couplings for fluid lines lack a reliable mechanism for dynamic sealing and easy connection/disconnection, especially in applications requiring repeated use and high reliability, such as in rocket motors.
Innovation Solution
A coupling design featuring first and second housings with helical cam slots and linear cam tracks, respectively, along with a guide link and cam rollers that allow for rotational movement, enabling linear translation and valve element movement between open and closed positions, ensuring dynamic sealing and easy connection/disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a quick connector coupling is designed for easy connection/disconnection, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of dynamic sealing may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic sealing mechanism where the valve element moves between open and closed positions during connection and disconnection operations. The helical cam slots and linear cam tracks create a dynamic translation motion that actively engages and disengages the valve element, maintaining sealing reliability while enabling easy operation. This dynamic approach allows the coupling to transition smoothly between states without compromising seal integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes helical cam slots with curved geometries that convert rotational motion into linear translation of the valve element. The curved path of the cam slots ensures smooth, controlled movement of the sealing surfaces during engagement and disengagement, maintaining reliable sealing while facilitating easy operation. The spherical or curved cam surfaces distribute contact forces evenly, preventing sudden shocks that could compromise the seal.
2Reliability
If a coupling mechanism includes multiple valve elements and cam mechanisms for reliable sealing, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated components. The guide link simultaneously guides the valve element motion and translates the cam slot rotation into linear movement. The valve element itself integrates the sealing surface and the actuation interface. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate parts while maintaining reliable sealing through the coordinated action of the cam mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanisms serve multiple purposes: they actuate the valve element for sealing, guide the connection/disconnection motion, and provide mechanical advantage for easy operation. The helical cam slots and linear cam tracks work together to convert rotation to translation while simultaneously controlling the valve element position. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while maintaining sealing reliability.
3Productivity
If the coupling allows repeated connection/disconnection operations, then the productivity is improved, but the duration of action of moving parts increases leading to wear
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed to self-lubricate and self-regulate during repeated operations. The cam surfaces and guide link interfaces are designed to maintain optimal contact conditions throughout their operational life. The dynamic sealing mechanism automatically returns to its sealed position through the cam track geometry, reducing the need for external actuation and minimizing wear on moving parts during frequent operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates cushioning elements and designed compliance in the cam mechanisms to absorb shock and reduce impact forces during connection and disconnection. The helical cam slots provide a gradual engagement path that cushions the impact of sealing surface contact. This prior cushioning protects moving parts from excessive wear during repeated high-speed operations, extending their operational lifespan while maintaining high productivity.
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 coupling achieves reliable dynamic sealing and easy connection/disconnection, enhancing the operational efficiency and reliability of fluid line connections in applications like rocket motors, where repeated use is necessary.
Implementation Method 1
The first housing has helical cam slots and the second housing has linear cam tracks... Rotation of the first housing causes rotation of the helical slots. The rotation of the helical slots induces the cam rollers to travel along the helical slots and along the linear cam tracks such that the guide link translates linearly.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling includes first and second housings, a valve element, and a guide link. The first housing is rotatable relative to the second housing. The first housing has helical cam slots and the second housing has linear cam tracks. The guide link is in the first housing and is fixed with the valve element. The guide link carries cam rollers. The cam rollers ride in the helical slots and the linear cam tracks. Rotation of the first housing causes rotation of the helical slots. The rotation of the helical slots induces the cam rollers to travel along the helical slots and along the linear cam tracks such that the guide link translates linearly. The valve element moves with the guide link between open and closed positions.