Pressure-Balanced Quick Disconnect Coupling for Blow-Off Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rockets face challenges in transferring high-pressure fluids without leaks at connections, which can lead to fluid leaks and pressure blow-off during coupling and decoupling of connectors.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of pressure-balanced quick disconnect systems with isolated components that operate without force imbalance, using features like piston and poppet structures with venting mechanisms to balance pressure forces in axial, radial, and circumferential directions, preventing fluid ingress or egress during connection and disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional quick disconnect systems are used for high-pressure fluid transfer, then connection and disconnection operations can be performed, but fluid leaks and pressure blow-off occur during coupling and decoupling
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by closing the poppet valve before complete disconnection occurs, and by pre-positioning the piston to control pressure release. This prevents pressure blow-off by preparing the sealing and pressure control mechanisms in advance of the actual disconnect event.
Solution Approach 2:
The piston acts as an intermediary element between the high-pressure fluid and the external environment. It controls and mediates the pressure release during disconnect, preventing uncontrolled pressure blow-off. The poppet valve serves as an intermediary sealing mechanism that prevents fluid leaks during the transition state.
2Productivity
If connectors are coupled and decoupled under high pressure, then fluid transfer efficiency is maintained, but force imbalance causes instability
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses counterbalancing pressure forces applied to opposite surfaces of the piston to neutralize the net force imbalance. By introducing equal and opposite pressure forces, the system maintains connector stability during high-pressure operation without compromising fluid transfer efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes pressure parameters by introducing counterbalancing pressures that offset the unbalanced forces. By adjusting and balancing the pressure distribution across the piston surfaces, the system maintains stability while allowing high-pressure fluid transfer to continue.
3Quantity of substance
If quick disconnect systems operate at high pressure, then fluid transfer capability is sufficient, but leaks occur at connections
Solution Approach 1:
The poppet valve serves as an intermediary sealing element that prevents fluid leaks during connection and disconnection. It provides a controlled interface that maintains sealing integrity while allowing the high-pressure fluid transfer capability to function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses self-actuating mechanisms where the pressure differential automatically drives the poppet valve to seal or open positions. The high-pressure fluid itself provides the force to activate the sealing action, making the system self-regulating and preventing leaks without external intervention.
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 reduces or eliminates leaks and pressure blow-off, ensuring efficient fluid transfer and maintaining pressure at operating levels during connection and disconnection, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of fluid systems in rocket applications.
Implementation Method 1
balance pressure forces in axial, radial, and circumferential directions
Implementation Method 2
using features like piston and poppet structures with venting mechanisms to balance pressure forces
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.