Temperature-Locked Quick Coupling for Hot Coolant Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Quick coupling devices for fluid lines used in temperature control systems for injection molding can lead to scalding of operating personnel if the cooling medium is released before it has cooled sufficiently, as existing designs do not prevent accidental disengagement when the medium is still hot.
Innovation Solution
A temperature-controlled locking member, such as a bimetallic strip or expansion element, is integrated into the quick coupling device, which engages an undercut on the locking sleeve or coupling socket when a temperature threshold is exceeded, preventing axial displacement and thus preventing the release of the coupling device while the cooling medium is hot.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the quick coupling device allows free release mechanism, then the ease of operation is improved, but the safety risk increases due to potential scalding from hot coolant release
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member changes its geometric configuration based on temperature parameter. When the coolant temperature exceeds a threshold, the locking member expands or deforms to engage the undercut, automatically preventing release. This resolves the contradiction by making the release mechanism temperature-dependent rather than purely mechanically controlled.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces part of the mechanical release system with a temperature-responsive locking member. Instead of relying solely on mechanical locking balls and springs, the system incorporates a temperature-dependent component that automatically engages or disengages based on coolant temperature, eliminating the need for manual temperature checking.
2Reliability
If a temperature-controlled locking member is added, then the safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to automatically respond to temperature changes without external control. It self-activates when the coolant temperature rises, engaging the undercut to prevent release, and self-deactivates when the temperature drops, allowing normal operation. This eliminates the need for additional sensors, actuators, or control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member utilizes thermal expansion or deformation of materials with different thermal expansion coefficients (such as bimetallic strips) to change its geometric configuration. This passive thermal response mechanism provides temperature-dependent locking without requiring complex active control systems.
3Temperature
If the locking member engages the undercut, then the temperature control is improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently manufactured and then assembled into the coupling device. This segmentation allows for specialized manufacturing processes for the temperature-responsive component while keeping the rest of the coupling device straightforward to produce.
Solution Approach 2:
The undercut on the locking sleeve or coupling socket is designed with an asymmetric geometry that naturally engages with the locking member only in the temperature-dependent direction. This asymmetric design provides inherent mechanical guidance and reduces the precision requirements for manufacturing the interacting surfaces.
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 effectively prevents scalding by ensuring the quick coupling device cannot be released until the cooling medium has cooled below a certain temperature, ensuring operator safety by maintaining a secure connection until the medium is safe to handle.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one locking member (4) comprises at least one bimetallic strip (4)
Implementation Method 2
the locking member comprises at least one expansion element and/or a bimetal part which deforms when exposed to heat in the direction of the undercut
Data Source
AI summary
A quick coupling device for fluid lines comprises a coupling socket for receiving a coupling plug and a locking mechanism. It includes a locking sleeve axially displaceable on the coupling socket and at least one radially movable locking ball arranged in a bore of the coupling socket. The at least one locking ball is radially movable and lockable by the locking sleeve. The device includes a temperature-controlled locking element which is arranged on the coupling socket or on the locking sleeve and engages an undercut arranged in the locking sleeve or the coupling socket when a temperature threshold is exceeded.