Swaged Valve Coupling Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connect fluid couplings face challenges in assembly efficiency, leakage prevention, and valve part loosening, necessitating improved techniques for securely attaching male and female valve pieces.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a swaged mechanical interface between male and female valve pieces, where a mandrel deforms the male valve piece radially outward to create a locking configuration, preventing axial movement and ensuring a secure, leak-resistant connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional threaded connections are used to attach valve pieces, then assembly is simple and parts can be disassembled for maintenance, but the connection may loosen under high pressure and assembly time is longer
Solution Approach 1:
The valve pieces are pre-assembled with threads engaged before the swaging operation. The swaging process then permanently locks the connection, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms and ensuring the connection cannot loosen under pressure while maintaining quick assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection method transitions from reversible threaded engagement to permanent swaged deformation. The swaging process changes the physical state of the valve piece material, creating an irreversible mechanical lock that prevents loosening while reducing assembly time.
2Reliability
If traditional threaded connections are used to attach valve pieces, then disassembly for maintenance is easy, but the connection may loosen with vibration and pressure cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The valve pieces are pre-assembled with threads engaged before the swaging operation. The swaging process then permanently locks the connection, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms and ensuring the connection cannot loosen under pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection method transitions from reversible threaded engagement to permanent swaged deformation. The swaging process changes the physical state of the valve piece material, creating an irreversible mechanical lock that prevents loosening under vibration and pressure cycles.
3Reliability
If multiple sealing elements are added to prevent leakage, then leakage prevention improves, but assembly complexity increases and assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is merged with the structural connection function. The swaged deformation simultaneously creates the mechanical lock and compresses the seal against the mating surface, eliminating the need for separate sealing components and reducing assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The swaging operation serves multiple functions: it creates the permanent mechanical connection, compresses the seal to prevent leakage, and locks the valve pieces in the correct axial position. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components and simplifies the overall structure.
4Reliability
If multiple sealing elements are added to prevent leakage, then leakage prevention improves, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is merged with the structural connection function. The swaged deformation simultaneously creates the mechanical lock and compresses the seal against the mating surface, eliminating the need for separate sealing components and reducing assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The swaging operation serves multiple functions: it creates the permanent mechanical connection, compresses the seal to prevent leakage, and locks the valve pieces in the correct axial position. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components and simplifies the overall structure.
5Reliability
If valve pieces are designed with complex retention mechanisms to prevent loosening, then connection stability improves, but manufacturing complexity increases and assembly efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve pieces are pre-assembled with threads engaged before the swaging operation. The swaging process then permanently locks the connection, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms and ensuring the connection cannot loosen under pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection method transitions from reversible threaded engagement to permanent swaged deformation. The swaging process changes the physical state of the valve piece material, creating an irreversible mechanical lock that prevents loosening while reducing assembly time.
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 solution enhances assembly efficiency, reduces leakage risks, and securely locks valve pieces together, maintaining a fluid-tight seal even under high pressures, such as in breathing air systems.
Implementation Method 1
using a swaging tool to inelastically deform at least one of the male and female valve pieces from an insertion configuration to a locking configuration in which relative axial movement between the male and female valve pieces is prevented
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relate to coupling components including valve structures and methods for forming the valve structures. The method includes attaching together a male valve piece (52) and a female valve piece (54) to form a valve structure that extends along a longitudinal axis. The method includes inserting the male (52) and female (54) valve pieces axially together. The method also includes using a swaging tool (200) to inelastically deform at least one of the male and female valve pieces from an insertion configuration to a locking configuration in which relative axial movement between the male and female valve pieces is prevented.