Quick Coupling Radial Locking Mechanism for Pressurized Fluid Pipelines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick couplings for pressurized fluid pipelines, such as those in hydraulic cooling systems, face issues like localized plastic deformation, manual locking requirements, and radial bulkiness due to the use of beads or ring segments for locking mechanisms, which limit their lifetime and compactness.
Innovation Solution
A quick coupling design featuring a plug and socket element with a translatable locking member and an elastic arm that automatically returns to its locking position upon engagement, eliminating the need for manual operation and reducing radial bulk by using a non-bead locking mechanism that minimizes contact with the peripheral groove, thus reducing plastic deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If locking beads are used in the coupling mechanism, then the coupling can be locked automatically, but localized plastic deformation and burring occur on the plug element body over time, reducing lifetime
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed as a replaceable component that can be easily replaced when worn. The plug element body with its peripheral groove is maintained as a durable, long-life component. This differentiation allows the system to achieve automatic locking while managing wear on the locking member separately from the main coupling body.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the locking member, specifically giving it a rounded end profile that matches the peripheral groove geometry. This parameter optimization reduces stress concentration and minimizes plastic deformation during repeated coupling operations, thereby extending the lifetime of the plug element body.
2Reliability
If a locking ring is used to maintain locking beads, then the coupling can be locked securely, but manual operation is required to withdraw the locking ring, reducing ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed to be self-servicing during the locking operation. When the plug element is inserted into the socket element, the locking member automatically engages with the peripheral groove and secures the connection without requiring any manual intervention to operate a locking ring or other manual locking mechanism.
3Reliability
If a locking ring is mounted around the socket body, then the coupling can be locked securely, but the radial dimensions increase, reducing compactness
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is merged directly into the plug element body through the integration of the locking member and peripheral groove. This eliminates the need for a separate locking ring mounted around the socket body, thereby maintaining secure locking while reducing the radial dimensions of the coupling assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is nested within the plug element body structure, with the peripheral groove formed as part of the plug element's outer peripheral surface. This nested arrangement allows the locking mechanism to function within the existing radial envelope of the plug element, avoiding additional radial bulk.
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 provides automatic locking, increased lifetime, and a more compact radial design by eliminating manual operation and reducing plastic deformation, enhancing the robustness and efficiency of the coupling mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
the locking element includes at least one elastic arm able to return the member toward its first position
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a quick coupling for the disconnectable connection of pipelines for a pressurized fluid, this coupling comprising a plug element and a socket element (100) intended to be coupled with one another, the socket element including a hollow cylindrical body (102) centered on a central axis (X100) and including an inner radial surface and an outer radial surface and defining a radial opening (104), and a locking element (118), comprising a translatable member (118a), along a radial translation axis relative to the central axis, inside the radial opening (104), which is able to guide the member (118a) between a first position, in which the member protrudes inward relative to the inner radial surface, and a second position, in which the member protrudes outward relative to the outer radial surface and in which the member (118a) does not protrude inward relative to the inner radial surface, the plug element comprises a locking ring that is axially movable between a locking position, in which it surrounds the peripheral groove, and an unlocked position, in which it does not surround the peripheral groove. The locking element (118) being able to drive the locking ring from its locking position toward its unlocked position when its member (118a) is in its second position.