Snap-Together Fluid Couplings With Collar-Collet Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fluid handling systems require compact and secure fluid couplings that can easily connect and disconnect without risking premature or inadvertent disconnection, especially in applications like liquid cooling for heat-generating devices.
Innovation Solution
The development of fluid coupling devices that utilize a collar and collet mechanism for secure and releasable connections, featuring a male coupling with a circumferential recess and annular groove, and a female coupling with radially inward-extending projections, allowing for a simple two-step snap-together and secure connection with audible and tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple snap-together mechanism is used for fluid couplings, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to risk of premature or inadvertent disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: a snap-together component for quick connection, and a separate collar component with collet structure for secure locking. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while working together as an integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar component is designed to be pre-positioned on the coupling assembly before final connection. The collet structure within the collar is pre-configured to engage with the coupling body, creating a preliminary locking mechanism that prevents premature disconnection while allowing easy operation.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is added to prevent inadvertent disconnection, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the collar component that already exists in the coupling assembly. The collet structure is integrated within the collar rather than being a separate mechanism, combining the locking function with an existing structural element to minimize overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar component serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the coupling assembly, houses the collet locking mechanism, and enables both secure locking and easy release operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components.
3Reliability
If a collar and collet mechanism is implemented for secure connection, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collet structure is nested within the collar component, with the collet projections fitting into grooves on the coupling body. This nested arrangement allows for compact integration and simplifies the manufacturing process by reducing the number of separate parts that need to be assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex external locking mechanism, the design inverts the approach by using internal collet projections that engage with grooves on the coupling body. This inversion simplifies the manufacturing process by using standard machining operations for creating grooves and projections rather than complex external fastening mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
This document describes fluid coupling devices for fluid handling systems. For example, some embodiments described in this document relate to fluid coupling devices that snap together, and are then secured to each other using a collar and collet mechanism. Some fluid coupling devices described herein are well suited for use in systems that provide fluid cooling for heat generating devices such as computer hardware. The fluid coupling devices described herein are also suitable for many other uses.