Underwater Connector Segmented Handle Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underwater connectors face reliability issues due to accidental disengagement, which can lead to blackouts in subsea installations, and there is a need for improved safety against unintentional de-mating, especially at great depths where manual operations are challenging.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a separate release element and handle portion, with a locking mechanism that requires two distinct operations for disengagement, ensuring the connector remains locked until intentionally released, and a latching mechanism for secure engagement and easy disengagement using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV).
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single handle portion is used for both mating and de-mating operations, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to risk of accidental disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The handle portion is divided into two separate components: a first handle portion for mating operations and a second handle portion for de-mating operations. This segmentation ensures that the connector can only be deliberately disconnected by operating the specific second handle portion, preventing accidental disengagement while maintaining operational simplicity through dedicated controls for each function.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent accidental disengagement, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated with the handle portion structure itself. The first and second handle portions are coupled to the body in a way that their relative movements directly engage or disengage the locking mechanism. This merging of the locking function into the existing handle structure provides reliable locking without adding separate complex locking components.
3Reliability
If a separate release element is added for the locking mechanism, then the reliability is improved by preventing unintentional de-mating, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second handle portion serves dual functions: it acts as both the de-mating handle (for pulling the connector apart) and as the release element for the locking mechanism. When the second handle portion is moved relative to the body, it simultaneously disengages the locking mechanism and enables de-mating operations. This multi-functionality provides reliable locking control without adding a separate dedicated release element.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
A connector for use underwater or in a wet or severe environment is provided. A first connector part and a second connector part of the connector are adapted to have a mated position in which the first connector part and the second connector part are engaged with each other for establishing a connection. A locking mechanism of the connector is adapted to lock the first connector part to the second connector part in a mated position. The first connector part has a handle portion. The first connector part is configured such that by manipulating the handle portion of the first connector part, the first connector part can be disengaged from the second connector part when the locking mechanism is in a released state. The locking mechanism has a release element which is separate from the handle portion.