Swivel Quick Disconnect Coupling for Tool-Free Leak-Safe Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing couplings are difficult to connect, prone to leakage, require special tools, and are challenging to disconnect due to debris, corrosion, and mechanical interference, making them inefficient in fluid power applications.
Innovation Solution
A quick disconnect coupling design featuring a swivel rotatably disposed on a tube with an adapter that includes engagement features for secure attachment, sealing elements to prevent leakage, and a locking mechanism to resist inadvertent disconnection, allowing for easy connection and disconnection by hand without specialized tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing couplings are used, then connection is achieved, but connection process is slow and requires special tools
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing. The first coupling member engages with the second coupling member through a straightforward insertion and rotation motion that automatically positions the components correctly and secures them together without requiring external tools or complex alignment procedures.
2Ease of operation
If existing couplings are used, then connection is achieved, but disconnection is difficult due to debris, corrosion, and mechanical interference
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism incorporates a dynamic locking system where the lock member can be easily actuated to release the engagement between coupling members. The design allows for controlled mechanical movement that overcomes static friction and interference from debris or corrosion, enabling straightforward disconnection while maintaining secure connection during operation.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If existing couplings are used, then connection is achieved, but it is difficult to determine whether they are properly connected
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism includes visual indicators that change appearance or position based on the engagement state. When the coupling members are properly connected and locked, the indicator provides a clear visual signal (such as alignment of markings, color change, or visible positioning) that allows operators to quickly verify proper connection without complex inspection procedures.
Data Source
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AI summary
This disclosure relates generally to a quick disconnect coupling (100) for connecting a tube (102) to another structure (116), such as a structure defining a port (114). The quick disconnect coupling may include a tube including a retention shoulder (108), a swivel (104) rotatably disposed on the tube, and an adapter (106) defining a bore for receiving a portion of the tube. The swivel may be engageable with the adapter to trap the retention shoulder between the swivel and the adapter. The adapter may be engageable with a receiving structure defining a port and the port may be in fluid communication with a lumen of the tube when the swivel is engaged with the adapter.