Pressure-Balanced Quick Disconnect Coupling for Blow-Off Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick disconnect systems for high-pressure fluid connections in rocket launch vehicles face challenges such as fluid leaks and pressure blow-off during coupling and decoupling, which can lead to adverse events and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
The development of pressure-balanced quick disconnect systems with components designed to eliminate or reduce leaks and pressure blow-off, featuring isolated features that operate without pressure forces, and a venting mechanism to manage fluid pressure, allowing for secure and efficient fluid connections and disconnections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional quick disconnect systems are used for high-pressure fluid connections, then connection speed is improved, but fluid leaks and pressure blow-off occur during coupling and decoupling
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary counter-forces through pressure-balanced surfaces and spring-loaded seals that oppose fluid pressure forces before leaks can occur. The seals are pre-loaded to counteract pressure forces, and the pressure-balanced design creates opposing forces that prevent blow-off during connection operations
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces intermediary components including seal elements positioned between mating surfaces, pressure-balanced intermediate surfaces that distribute forces, and venting mechanisms that mediate pressure transitions. These intermediaries prevent direct high-pressure fluid contact with external environments during coupling
2Productivity
If conventional quick disconnect systems are used for high-pressure fluid connections, then connection speed is improved, but pressure stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates equipotential pressure distribution through pressure-balanced surfaces that equalize pressure forces across mating surfaces. The venting mechanisms establish equilibrium pressure states during transition, preventing pressure spikes and maintaining stability throughout the connection process
3Ease of operation
If conventional quick disconnect systems are used, then ease of operation is improved, but risk of damage to connectors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates cushioning elements including spring-loaded seals and pressure-balanced surfaces that absorb and distribute impact forces before they can damage connectors. The venting mechanisms provide gradual pressure equalization that cushions against sudden pressure shocks during coupling and decoupling operations
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 fluid leaks during connection and disconnection, maintains pressure stability, and reduces the risk of damage to the connectors and associated systems, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of fluid transfer operations.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded seal configured to prevent fluid from leaking past the piston
Implementation Method 2
a venting mechanism to manage fluid pressure
Data Source
AI summary
Quick disconnect devices for high pressure fluid transfer, and associated systems and methods are disclosed. A representative quick disconnect system includes a first connector and a second connector. The second connector can have an opening sized and shaped to receive a first end of the first connector. The second connector can include a poppet positioned to open the first connector when the first connector is connected to the second connector. The second connector can include an inner sleeve moveable between a first position wherein the poppet head forms a fluid-tight seal with the annular seat of the inner sleeve, and a second position wherein the second end portion is open to permit fluid flow through the end portion of the inner sleeve. In some embodiments, the inner sleeve is pressure balanced in every direction.