Retractable Fluid Connector for Accurate Low-Flow Load Cell Coupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic fluid flow systems face challenges in maintaining high accuracy of fluid flow monitoring, particularly in low-flow situations, due to the need for secure and repeatable interface mechanisms that accurately transfer downward forces between fluid collection systems and the measurement systems.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a load cell with a transitionable plate and a ring connector that can move between engaged and disengaged positions, featuring a biasing member, alignment pins, and a magnetic locking system to ensure precise force transfer and fluid-tight sealing, allowing for reliable and repeated coupling and decoupling of fluid collection systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a secure fit interface mechanism is used to ensure accurate force transfer, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a load cell with plate for force measurement, a ring connector for mechanical coupling, electrical contacts for signal transmission, and a biasing member for maintaining engagement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall design and manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The load cell assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it measures force (measurement function), provides structural support (mechanical function), enables electrical signal transmission through contacts (electrical function), and maintains engagement through the biasing member (retention function). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If repeated engagements and disengagements are allowed, then adaptability is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to wear on electrical contacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical sliding contacts with a magnetic locking system that uses magnetic attraction forces to secure the ring connector to the load cell. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear between mating surfaces, allowing for repeated engagements and disengagements without degrading reliability. The magnetic field provides contactless coupling that maintains electrical connectivity while preventing wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface mechanism incorporates dynamic elements including a biasing member that actively maintains engagement force, and a magnetic locking system that provides adaptive holding force. These dynamic components ensure that the connection remains reliable throughout repeated cycles of engagement and disengagement, accommodating variations in positioning and maintaining consistent electrical contact.
3Reliability
If a fluid-tight seal is maintained during repeated couplings, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to sealing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible sealing elements such as O-rings or elastomeric seals that conform to the mating surfaces of the load cell and ring connector. These flexible membranes create fluid-tight barriers while accommodating minor misalignments and variations in assembly, maintaining sealing integrity without requiring precise manual adjustment or complex alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing mechanism is designed to self-align and self-seal during the coupling process. As the ring connector approaches the load cell, the flexible seal automatically deforms to fill gaps and create a fluid-tight barrier, eliminating the need for operator intervention to ensure proper sealing. The biasing member maintains constant contact force to ensure the seal remains engaged throughout operation.
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
This configuration enables accurate and reliable fluid flow measurement by ensuring secure and repeatable connections, minimizing wear on electrical contacts, and maintaining a fluid-tight seal, thereby enhancing the system's accuracy and longevity.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic locking system configured to releasably couple the ring connector to the load cell
Implementation Method 2
the load cell includes a biasing member configured to bias the plate towards the engaged position
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to apparatus and methods for automatic fluid flow system connectors. The system generally includes a load cell interface coupled to a console and a ring connector coupled to a fluid collection system. The ring connector can be releasably engaged with the load cell using a bayonet locking mechanism. One of the ring connector or the load cell can include a plate transitionable along a transverse axis between an engaged position and a disengaged as the ring connector rotates about a transverse axis. The plate can include electrical contacts configured to engage along the transverse axis and mitigate wear and damage to the electrical contacts, extending the usable life of the system.