Modular Fluid Couplings With Valve Sleeve Spill Containment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fluid coupling devices in existing systems often result in fluid spillage during connection and disconnection, which can damage electronics and introduce air into fluid systems, limiting their application in sensitive applications like liquid cooling.
Innovation Solution
The development of modular fluid coupling devices with a core module including a valve and fluid seals, designed to prevent spillage by blocking discharge paths and using a latch mechanism with audible and tactile feedback for secure connections, along with a thermochromic material for temperature indication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional fluid coupling devices are used for connection and disconnection, then ease of operation is improved, but fluid spillage occurs during connection and disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The valve member is positioned to block the fluid passage before the actual connection or disconnection occurs. During the connection process, the valve closes first to prevent fluid leakage, and during disconnection, it closes before separation to contain the fluid within the coupling body, eliminating spillage while maintaining operational ease
Solution Approach 2:
The valve member acts as an intermediary mechanism between the fluid passage and the external environment. By introducing this controllable barrier, the system can manage fluid flow during transition states (connection/disconnection), preventing direct spillage while allowing easy operation of the coupling
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional fluid coupling devices are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but air inclusion is introduced into the fluid system
Solution Approach 1:
The valve member is pre-positioned in the closed state during manufacturing, creating a sealed environment before the coupling is assembled or used. This preliminary sealing action prevents air from entering the fluid system during subsequent operations, while the overall device structure remains simple to manufacture
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism is extracted as a separate, modular component that can be independently manufactured and then integrated into the coupling body. This approach maintains ease of manufacture by allowing specialized valve production while achieving the benefit of air exclusion through the valve's sealing function
3Reliability
If modular construction with valve and seals is implemented, then reliability is improved by preventing spillage, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is segmented into distinct functional modules: the coupling body, the valve member, and the seal elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall reliability. The modular nature also simplifies assembly and manufacturing despite the increased functional complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functions are merged into integrated components. The valve member combines flow control, sealing, and positioning functions, while the seal elements simultaneously prevent fluid leakage and block air inclusion. This functional merging reduces the number of separate parts needed, thereby limiting device complexity while achieving high reliability
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
The solution provides non-spill connections, reduces air inclusion, enhances manufacturing and user flexibility, and offers secure locking mechanisms with feedback, making it suitable for applications like liquid cooling of electronics.
Implementation Method 1
a valve sleeve movable along the stem within the module internal space between: (i) a closed position in which the valve sleeve seals the first opening off from the second opening and (ii) an open position in which the first opening is fluidly connected to the second opening
Implementation Method 2
an elastomeric seal disposed between the module housing and the fluid coupling housing
Implementation Method 3
a spring disposed between the base and the valve sleeve that biases the valve sleeve toward the closed position
Data Source
AI summary
Some fluid coupling devices described herein are configured as non-spill fluid couplings. In addition, some embodiments described in this document relate to fluid coupling devices that are constructed modularly, and to modules that can be universally incorporated into the construction of multiple different types of fluid couplings. Further, fluid handling component coupling members are described.