Single-Handle CAM Coupling for Secure One-Handed Conduit Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current coupling systems for conduits in the aerospace industry require multiple hands to operate, additional hardware that can cause foreign object damage (FOD), and often result in wear and tear on aircraft components due to inadequate clearance and maintenance difficulties, especially with plunger-type locking mechanisms that are prone to failure from debris accumulation.
Innovation Solution
A single-handle coupling system using CAM levers and a collar with a circular gasket, allowing for single-handed locking and unlocking through rotational or axial movement, designed to prevent FOD and reduce wear by using durable, lightweight materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and incorporating an auditory click mechanism for confirmation of the locked position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple hands are used to operate diametrically opposite cam arms, then the coupling can be securely locked, but the operation complexity increases and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate cam arms into a single integrated cam arm structure with a T-shaped configuration. The vertical portion engages with the groove in the male coupling member, while the horizontal portion provides a single handle for operation. This merging eliminates the need to operate two separate arms simultaneously, reducing operational complexity while maintaining secure locking through the integrated cam mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The single handle serves multiple functions: it acts as the operating lever for the cam arm, provides structural support for the T-shaped configuration, and enables both locking and unlocking operations through rotational movement. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate operating mechanisms for each cam arm.
2Reliability
If additional hardware such as fasteners is used to keep the coupling locked, then the coupling remains secure, but the risk of foreign object damage (FOD) increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes all additional fastening hardware such as separate fasteners, hooks, or locking pins from the coupling system. The design relies solely on the cam arm mechanism integrated into the coupling body to maintain the locked position. By extracting unnecessary external hardware, the system eliminates potential sources of foreign object damage while maintaining secure coupling through the cam-locking action.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system is designed to be self-contained, where the cam arm itself provides both the locking action and the maintaining force through its geometric configuration. The T-shaped cam arm utilizes its own structural geometry to engage with the groove and maintain the locked position without requiring external fasteners or additional hardware components.
3Extent of automation
If plunger-type locking mechanisms are used, then the coupling can be automatically locked, but debris accumulation causes mechanism failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the plunger-type locking mechanism entirely from the design. Instead of using a plunger that moves axially to engage or disengage locking elements, the system employs a cam arm that rotates to provide locking action. This extraction of the vulnerable plunger mechanism eliminates the problem of debris accumulation in tight tolerances and automatic engagement surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
Rather than using an automatic plunger-driven locking mechanism that is sensitive to debris, the patent inverts the approach by using a manual cam-based system where the locking action is derived from rotational movement of a T-shaped arm. This inversion from automatic plunger operation to manual cam operation provides inherent resistance to debris-related failures.
4Reliability
If multiple handles and locking members are used, then the coupling can be securely locked, but damage to aircraft structure occurs when brushing against aircraft parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple handles and locking members into a single integrated T-shaped cam arm structure. The vertical portion of the T provides the locking engagement, while the horizontal portion serves as the single handle for operation. This consolidation reduces the number of protruding elements that could brush against aircraft structures, eliminating damage risks associated with multiple separate handles and locking members.
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
Enables convenient, single-handed operation of conduit connections without damaging aircraft structures, reduces the risk of FOD, and maintains a streamlined design with easy maintenance, as the system is resistant to debris and wear, ensuring reliable and efficient coupling operations.
Implementation Method 1
A pair of CAM levers connects a handle to the collar. Rotating or moving the handle causes the CAM levers to engage the collar in an axial movement
Implementation Method 2
The plunger is spring biased to an extended position
Implementation Method 3
the cam surfaces extend fully into and are pressed against the annular groove of the male coupling member, thereby securing the male and female coupling members in interlocking relationship
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling system having an inner tube, a collar, a circular gasket concentrically disposed between the inner tube and the collar; a pair of CAM levers structurally engageable with the collar, and a handle connecting the pair of CAM levers such that a user can single-handedly move the handle between the locked position and the unlocked position.