Quick Coupling Relief Ring for Compact Pressure Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick coupling elements for pressurized fluid pipes face challenges in managing high pressure, particularly in smaller diameters, where space constraints limit the implementation of traditional relief valves, and existing solutions have limited operating ranges and are not effective at low pressure thresholds.
Innovation Solution
A quick coupling element featuring a relief ring that moves between sealed positions, utilizing a larger sealing circumference to effectively manage pressure, allowing for reliable relief of overpressure without increasing the coupling element's diameter, and an elastic return member to reset the ring, optimizing the operating range and sensitivity to pressure changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional bead relief valve is used in a coupling element, then the pressure relief function is provided, but the coupling element requires larger dimensions which is not suitable for small diameter applications
Solution Approach 1:
The relief member is configured to move axially (along the longitudinal axis) rather than radially, utilizing the longitudinal dimension of the coupling element. This axial movement allows the relief member to seal against the front face in a compact configuration while providing effective pressure relief without increasing the coupling element's outer diameter
Solution Approach 2:
The relief member includes a flexible seal element that can deform to create an effective seal against the front face. This flexible sealing mechanism provides reliable pressure containment in a compact geometry, enabling pressure relief functionality in small-diameter coupling elements without requiring large rigid bead structures
2Reliability
If a bead relief valve is used, then pressure relief is achieved, but the operating range is limited and high pressure is required to trigger discharge
Solution Approach 1:
The relief member is elastically deformable and can be biased by a spring or elastic element, allowing the sealing force to be adjusted. This enables the relief valve to operate across a range of pressure conditions by modifying the pre-compression force on the relief member, thereby expanding the operating range from high-pressure-only applications to include lower pressure thresholds
Solution Approach 2:
The relief member transitions from a static bead configuration to a dynamic, movable element that can be positioned in different states (sealed, partially opened, fully discharged). This dynamic configuration allows the relief valve to respond to varying pressure conditions and provide controlled discharge across different operating ranges
3Device complexity
If no relief member is used, then the coupling element structure is simpler, but pressure increase in the inner channel cannot be detected or managed
Solution Approach 1:
The relief member is automatically actuated by the pressure differential across it. When pressure in the inner channel exceeds the sealing force, the relief member is pushed forward by the pressure itself, opening the relief passage without requiring external control systems or complex actuation mechanisms
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 reliable pressure relief in smaller diameter coupling elements, improving the operating range and sensitivity to overpressure, ensuring safe and efficient fluid management without the need for large beads or complex mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic return member for returning the sealing ring toward its first position. This elastic member pushes the relief ring back toward the inside of the tubular body and/or toward the rear of the coupling element
Implementation Method 2
a sealing section area sufficient for the pressure of the fluid present in this inner channel to act effectively against the elastic return member to cause the relief ring to go from its first axial position toward its second axial position
Data Source
AI summary
A quick coupling element with discharge member and coupling member comprising such an element are disclosed. The coupling element comprises a tubular body defining an inner channel for the passage of a pressurized fluid and a longitudinal axis, and a relief member of the inner channel, movable between a first position, closing off a relief passage connecting the inner channel to the outside of the body, and a second forward position where it does not close off this relief passage. The relief member is a ring that is that is movable between two positions around a central member. The relief ring defines, at least in part, the relief passage. In the first position, the relief ring seals the central member over a first sealing circumference, and against the peripheral part over a second sealing circumference. The coupling element further comprises an elastic return member for returning the relief ring toward its first position.