Quick Disconnect Coupling With Internal Valves for Fast LRU Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of replacing line replaceable units (LRUs) in fluid conveyance systems, such as hydraulic and coolant systems, is labor and time intensive due to the need to drain and refill systems, and bleed air, which is inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A quick disconnect coupling system with movable valves that allows for fluid communication between primary and secondary passageways, enabling rapid connection and disconnection without the need for extensive draining and refilling, utilizing relief and check valves to manage fluid flow and pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional LRU replacement process is used, then system reliability is maintained, but labor time and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is divided into two separate parts (first part and second part) that can be independently connected or disconnected. Each part has its own valve system, allowing independent control of fluid flow paths. This segmentation enables one LRU to be replaced without affecting the other, eliminating the need to drain and refill the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
Valves are pre-positioned in closed positions before connection, and automatically open upon connection to establish fluid communication. The secondary passageways are pre-configured with valves that can be opened in advance to prepare for quick connection without requiring system draining or refilling operations.
2Loss of time
If quick disconnect coupling is implemented, then LRU replacement time is reduced, but fluid leakage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system automatically responds to connection and disconnection events without external intervention. When the coupling parts are connected, fluid pressure automatically opens the valves to establish flow. When disconnected, spring bias automatically closes the valves to seal the passages, preventing leakage without requiring manual valve operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Spring-biased valves are pre-positioned in a closed state ready to seal immediately upon disconnection. The spring force provides a cushioning sealing force that ensures valves remain closed and sealed during disconnection, preventing fluid leakage before any external action occurs.
3Speed
If secondary passageways are added for quick connection, then connection speed improves, but device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary passageway and its valve system are nested within the coupling body structure. The first valve is positioned within the first coupling part, and the second valve is positioned within the second coupling part, with both valves and passageways integrated into the overall coupling geometry rather than added as separate external components.
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
Facilitates rapid and efficient replacement of LRUs by allowing fluid communication and pressure management, reducing labor and time required for maintenance operations.
Implementation Method 1
the relief valve is moved from the closed position towards the open position by fluid pressure
Implementation Method 2
one or both of the first and second valves is a check valve
Data Source
AI summary
A quick disconnect coupling can include a first part and a second part. The first part can define a primary fluid passageway and a secondary fluid passageway and can include a first valve movable between open and closed positions to control flow through the first part secondary fluid passageway. The second part can define a second part defining a primary fluid passageway and a secondary fluid passageway and can include a second valve movable between open and closed positions to control flow through the second part secondary fluid passageway. In one aspect, the second part is removably connectable to the first part such that, when connected the first and second part primary passageways are placed in fluid communication with each other and the first and second valves are operable between the open and closed positions to selectively place the secondary fluid passageways of the first and second parts in fluid communication with each other.