Quick Coupling Purging Ring Steering Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current quick coupling systems for pneumatic jacks in motorsports require multiple operations to depressurize and uncouple, limiting efficiency and operator workflow during tire changes.
Innovation Solution
A quick coupling system with a male and female element configuration that allows automatic purging during uncoupling, utilizing a purging ring and steering means to drive the purging ring to its forward position during uncoupling, enabling a single maneuver for both uncoupling and purging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the existing coupling system is used, then the coupling sequence is secure and reliable, but the purging operation requires separate manual intervention after uncoupling, increasing the number of operations and time required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the purging function with the uncoupling operation by integrating a purging ring that is automatically actuated during the uncoupling sequence. The steering means (control fingers and control balls) automatically drive the purging ring to its forward position as the female element is withdrawn, merging two previously separate operations (uncoupling and purging) into a single automated sequence, thereby improving productivity without requiring additional manual steps
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically executing the purging operation during uncoupling without requiring separate manual intervention. The control fingers and control balls form a self-actuating mechanism that uses the motion of uncoupling itself to drive the purging ring, allowing the system to service itself (purge the downstream circuit) as part of the normal uncoupling procedure
2Ease of operation
If manual purging is performed after uncoupling, then the downstream circuit is depressurized, but the operator's work sequence is restricted and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by automatically performing the purging operation during the uncoupling process itself, rather than requiring a separate subsequent step. The steering mechanism is designed so that as the female element is withdrawn from the male element, the control fingers automatically engage and drive the purging ring forward before the coupling elements fully separate, thus completing the purging action as a preliminary part of the uncoupling sequence rather than as an additional step
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the purging maneuver with the uncoupling operation into a single integrated sequence. The control balls and control fingers create a mechanical linkage that converts the withdrawal motion into automatic purging ring actuation, combining two previously distinct operations (uncoupling and purging) into one seamless action that reduces both time and operational complexity
Data Source
AI summary
This coupling (R) includes a male element (A) including a male body (2) provided with a locking relief (22), a purging ring (4) movable between a rear position, in which the purging ring closes off a purging passage of the male body, and a forward position, and a female element (B) including a female body (12, 14), a ball-retainer (23) carrying locking balls (18) of the male body, in a housing between a first position, in which they are able to oppose the removal of the locking relief, and a second position, in which the locking balls allow the removal of the locking relief, a valve body (25) secured to the ball-retainer, including coupling balls (27) suitable for securing the valve body and the female body in translation, an inner ring (29) suitable, in a retaining position, for keeping the valve body and the female body coupled by the coupling balls when the female element is uncoupled from the male element. In a first coupling configuration, the locking balls have crossed the locking relief of the male element; in a second coupling configuration, the inner ring has reached a position in which it no longer keeps the valve body and the female body coupled by the coupling balls; in a third coupling configuration, the female body keeps the locking balls in their first position; and in a fourth coupling configuration, the valve body has reached a position that allows fluid to pass between the two conduits. The female element includes steering means (32) able to drive the purging ring toward its forward position during the uncoupling.