Resilient Boot for Fluid Connector Debris Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Quick disconnect connectors in fluid systems, such as hydraulic and pneumatic equipment, are prone to contamination by dirt and debris when disconnected, which can damage sensitive components due to their highly machined surfaces and tight tolerances, especially in dirty environments like agricultural and construction industries.
Innovation Solution
A boot with a closed cavity and resilient slit panel that flexes to cover the access opening, allowing the unconnected end of the connector to enter while preventing foreign matter from entering the cavity, and includes a tethering strap for easy access and retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the quick disconnect connector is left open for connection and disconnection operations, then the ease of operation is improved, but dirt and debris can enter the fluid system contaminating the components
Solution Approach 1:
The boot is pre-installed on the quick disconnect connector in a retracted position that allows connection and disconnection operations. Before actual use in dirty environments, the boot is ready to be deployed to protect the connector, performing the protective action in advance before contamination can occur
Solution Approach 2:
The boot acts as an intermediary protective element between the external dirty environment and the internal fluid system components. It provides a physical barrier that prevents direct contact between debris and the sensitive connector surfaces while still allowing the connector to function
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a cover is added to protect the connector from debris, then the protection against contamination is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The boot is designed with resilient material that allows it to dynamically change position between a retracted state (allowing connector access) and an extended state (providing protection). This dynamic behavior eliminates the need for complex mechanical switching mechanisms, seals, or actuators that would otherwise be required
Solution Approach 2:
The boot is constructed from a flexible resilient material that forms a simple shell structure. This thin-film approach provides effective debris protection without requiring complex rigid structures, multiple components, or intricate assembly procedures, thereby minimizing device complexity
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the boot material is made highly resilient to ensure sealing, then the protection effectiveness is improved, but the ease of operation for connector insertion may be worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient boot dynamically adapts its position based on external forces. During normal conditions, it maintains a sealed position for protection. During connector insertion, it dynamically transitions to an open position, allowing easy operation while maintaining sealing effectiveness when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The boot is designed to be self-actuating through its resilient properties. It automatically opens when force is applied during connector insertion and automatically returns to its sealed protective position when the force is removed, without requiring external control mechanisms or additional operational steps
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
Effectively prevents dirt and debris from entering the fluid system, ensuring the connector remains clean even in dirty environments and reducing the risk of damage to system components.
Implementation Method 1
flexing the resilient material to a cavity-closed position when unstressed; and flexing the resilient material to a cavity-access-allowing position permitting entry of an unconnected end of a quick disconnect fluid connector into the cavity
Data Source
AI summary
An anti-debris device releasably engages and covers an unconnected end of a fluid-conveying quick disconnect connector to prevent debris intrusion. The device comprises a boot defining a cavity shaped to receive the connector, a connector-receiving access opening to the cavity, and a closure member such as flexible sheet slit to form resilient fingers movable between an opening-covering position preventing intrusion of foreign matter when the boot is not being used, but that flex to a connector-receiving position when an unconnected portion of a connector is biased against the closure member. The fingers assist in retaining the device on the connector. Various embodiments allow retaining the anti-debris device to a particular connector when the device is not in use, and/or for storing/protecting multiple connectors. Related methods are also disclosed and discussed.