Quick-Disconnect Fitting With Integrated Flow Limiting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressured fluid systems in industrial environments face challenges with excessive fluid pressure and flow rates, which can damage end-use devices and pose risks to operators. Current inline fixed and adjustable flow control devices are often discrete and increase system connections, potentially leading to failures and reducing operability.
Innovation Solution
A fitting with a flow-limiting device that incorporates a quick disconnect coupling, featuring a pin with bypass passages and an adjustable member to vary the minimum cross-sectional area of the passage, thereby controlling fluid flow rates and pressures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If inline fixed and adjustable flow control devices are used, then fluid flow rates and pressures can be controlled, but the number of system connections increases and potential failures increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the flow control function and quick disconnect coupling function into a single integrated fitting. The flow control device is built into the quick disconnect coupling body, eliminating the need for separate flow control valves and reducing the number of connections in the fluid system.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick disconnect coupling is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides quick connection and disconnection of fluid lines while simultaneously controlling fluid flow rates and pressures through its integrated flow control device. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If flow control devices are collocated with the operator, then fluid flow can be controlled at the point of use, but weight increases and flexibility of the line is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control device is integrated into the lightweight quick disconnect coupling that is already positioned at the operator's location. This combination allows flow control without adding separate heavy components, maintaining the flexibility and portability of the system.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If discrete flow control devices are used, then fluid flow can be regulated, but operability of the end-use device is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the flow control device into the quick disconnect coupling, the system eliminates additional discrete components that would interfere with the operator's ability to quickly connect and disconnect the end-use device. The flow control function is provided seamlessly as part of the coupling mechanism.
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 fitting effectively limits fluid flow rates and pressures, protecting end-use devices from damage and operators from injury while reducing system weight and improving operability by integrating flow control and quick disconnect functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a minimum cross-sectional area of the passage coincides with the first portion of the pin, wherein an axial position of the adjustment member is variable to vary the minimum cross-sectional area of the passage defined between the first portion of the pin and the third bore
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A fitting with a body bound by an exterior surface and an interior surface. The exterior surface includes a quick disconnect profile extending from a first end of the body and an external thread extending from a second end of the body. The interior surface includes a first bore extending from the first end of the body and a second bore extending from the second end of the body. The fitting includes an orifice formed by the first bore, between a pin and the first bore, or between the pin and a third bore of an adjustment member installed within the first bore.