Quick-Release Coupler Valve Assembly for Faster Seal Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bottom loading couplers require extensive disassembly and reassembly for maintenance, leading to significant downtime due to wear in components, particularly seals, which can result in uncontrolled product release and inefficiencies in fluid transfer systems.
Innovation Solution
A fluid coupling device with a body, poppet valve assembly, handle shaft assembly, and retention member that allows for quick disassembly and reassembly by using a through-hole and openings for the retention member to secure the handle shaft assembly, enabling easy access and replacement of worn components without requiring extensive disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the bottom loading coupler is disassembled for component replacement, then worn components can be repaired or replaced, but the disassembly and reassembly process takes up to several hours causing significant downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is divided into modular segments including the body, handle shaft assembly, poppet valve assembly, and retention member that can be independently removed and serviced. This segmentation allows specific worn components to be accessed and replaced without requiring complete disassembly of the entire coupler system.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle shaft assembly is extracted as a separate removable unit from the body through the use of retention members that secure it in place during operation. This extraction capability enables the handle shaft and associated components to be removed for servicing while the body and other components remain in place, dramatically reducing downtime.
2Productivity
If the bottom loading coupler is operated continuously, then fluid transfer efficiency is maintained, but worn components may lead to uncontrolled product release
Solution Approach 1:
The retention member is designed to secure the handle shaft assembly in place before wear becomes critical, maintaining reliable operation during continuous service. The modular design allows for scheduled maintenance where components can be inspected and replaced proactively before failure occurs, preventing uncontrolled product release while maintaining continuous operation.
3Reliability
If the handle shaft assembly is securely retained in the body, then proper valve operation is ensured, but extensive disassembly is required to access the handle shaft assembly for maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The retention member creates a distinct segmentation between the handle shaft assembly and the body, allowing the handle shaft to be securely retained during operation while enabling simple removal for maintenance. This segmentation reduces disassembly complexity by isolating the handle shaft as a separate serviceable unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle shaft assembly is designed to be extractable from the body through the use of retention members that can be quickly removed. This extraction mechanism maintains secure retention during operation while enabling straightforward access for maintenance without requiring extensive disassembly of the entire coupler.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid coupling includes a body, a poppet valve assembly, a handle shaft assembly, and a retention member. The body has a fluid conduit, a through-hole extending through a sidewall, and one or more openings that extend between an external surface of the body and an interior of the through hole. The poppet valve assembly is disposed within the fluid conduit and is selectively movable between an open position and a closed position. The handle shaft assembly extends through the through-hole and into the fluid conduit and is interconnected with the poppet valve assembly such that the handle shaft assembly can be actuated to move the poppet valve assembly between the open position and the closed position. The retention member is insertable through the one or more openings and into the through-hole to interact with the handle shaft assembly to selectively hold the handle shaft assembly in the body.