RFID Fluid Connection Contacts for Secure Coupling Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a connection verifier that ensures fluid connections, including those for liquids, gases, and plasmas, are securely connected to prevent leaks and other serious consequences, as existing methods lack a reliable way to confirm proper connection status.
Innovation Solution
A radio-frequency identification (RFID) fluid connection system that includes a tube with an RFID assembly and contacts, where the RFID tag changes its state from open to closed based on the connection status, indicated by the retaining ring engaging the contacts when the tube is properly secured to a fluid connector, allowing for wireless verification of the connection status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fluid connectors are used without verification mechanisms, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of connection status confirmation is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical verification methods with RFID electromagnetic field-based verification. The RFID tag and reader system provides wireless, contactless connection status verification, eliminating the need for complex mechanical sensors or switches while improving reliability through electronic detection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag serves as an intermediary element that communicates connection status information between the fluid connector components. This intermediary enables reliable verification by translating physical connection states into detectable electromagnetic signals that can be read remotely.
2Productivity
If manual inspection methods are used to verify fluid connections, then the device complexity remains low, but the loss of time for verification and the potential for human error reduce productivity and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with automated RFID electromagnetic detection. The system uses radio frequency signals to automatically detect and verify connection status, dramatically reducing verification time and eliminating human error while maintaining relatively simple system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag automatically provides connection status information without requiring external intervention or manual reading. The system performs self-verification by encoding connection states into the RFID tag's data field, which can be read remotely by any compatible RFID reader.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If no connection verification mechanism is implemented, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the safety risks from undetected leaks and improper connections increase harmful factors
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID verification system provides immediate feedback on connection status. When a fluid connector is properly assembled, the RFID tag's state changes to indicate successful connection, providing real-time confirmation that prevents leaks and ensures safe operation before fluid flow begins.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID verification occurs before fluid flow is initiated, ensuring connections are properly established in advance. This preliminary verification prevents harmful effects by confirming secure connections prior to exposing the system to operating pressures and fluid flow.
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 RFID fluid connection system provides a reliable and wireless method to verify the secure connection of fluid connectors, preventing leaks and ensuring proper fluid transfer by indicating the connection status through the RFID tag's state change, enhancing safety and efficiency in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
RFID uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects
Data Source
AI summary
A radio-frequency identification (RFID) fluid connection, including a tube or hose, the tube or hose including a radially outward facing surface, a RFID assembly or label connected the radially outward facing surface, including a RFID tag, and at least one contact electrically connected to the RFID tag.