Quick Coupling Collar for One-Handed Push-Pull Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick couplings often require two-handed operations for connection and disconnection, complicating design and increasing the number of parts, which affects simplicity, reliability, and cost, while also not facilitating a single-piece male plug for multiple connections.
Innovation Solution
A quick coupling design that allows one-handed push-to-connect and pull-to-disconnect operations using a minimum number of parts, featuring a slidable collar and a single spring to maintain the open and locked positions, with a single dynamic seal and a one-piece male plug for easy installation on multiple devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional quick coupling designs are used, then connection and disconnection can be achieved, but two-handed operations are required which complicates the operation process and reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The collar is designed to automatically return to the disconnected position using spring force after the plug is removed, eliminating the need for manual resetting. This self-service mechanism allows operators to quickly disconnect and reconnect plugs with one hand, significantly improving operational simplicity and efficiency
2Ease of operation
If multiple springs and dynamic seals are used to achieve push-to-connect and pull-to-disconnect, then functionality is improved, but the number of parts increases which complicates the design and reduces reliability
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional elements are merged into the collar component, which integrates the locking mechanism, sealing surface, and spring housing. This consolidation achieves push-to-connect and pull-to-disconnect functionality while minimizing the total number of parts, thereby reducing design complexity and improving reliability
3Ease of operation
If multiple springs and dynamic seals are used, then push-to-connect and pull-to-disconnect functionality is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collar integrates multiple functions including locking, sealing, and spring housing into a single component. This merging reduces the number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled, lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining the desired push-to-connect and pull-to-disconnect functionality
4Ease of operation
If a slidable collar with spring mechanism is used, then one-handed operation is enabled, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded collar automatically returns to its initial position after plug insertion or removal, providing self-resetting functionality. This self-service mechanism enables true one-handed operation without requiring additional complex control systems or multiple manual steps
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
Enables simple, reliable, and cost-effective one-handed operation with audible and tactile feedback, maintaining a secure connection and facilitating easy disconnection, suitable for various applications including vacuum and high-pressure fluid systems.
Implementation Method 1
a single spring alternatively maintains the open position and locked position of the collar
Implementation Method 2
only one dynamic seal
Data Source
AI summary
A quick coupling for connecting fluid lines with one-handed push-to-connect and pull-to-disconnect operation is described. The quick coupling achieves this preferred functionality with a minimum number parts, the quick coupling having only one spring and one dynamic seal. In addition to fluid carrying applications the quick coupling can be used for tool holding and power transmission.