Fluid Transfer Coupler

The Fluid Transfer Coupler has a compensatory mechanism for alignment. All alignment is achieved within the coupler and alignment features are removed from the actuator. The coupler has a launch lock, which engages features on the coupler body and requires a hard connection to the actuator body or the bracket. The gimbal has a clamshell spherical bearing between the lock collar and the radial bearing collar. It has larger clearances than a typical bearing of this type. This joint can potentially be eliminated if a lock is implemented. The thrust bearing allows and limits free movement. Marcel expander springs keep retainers centered, keeps the coupling centered, and prevents chatter. A hard stop limits ball loads under pressure. Wavy washer keeps ball bearings under enough pressure to prevent chatter. The alignment bell has a passive coupler which engages to align. The materials and coatings can be chosen to preclude galling and particle generation. An active poppet seal provides debris seal at the nose and pressure seal further back. A passive poppet seal is provided by the seal cover to provide double duty. Various types of seals can be used, such as O-rings, spring-energized seals, and solid seals. A fluid coupling is a hydrodynamic or hydrokinetic device used to transmit rotating mechanical power. It has been used in automobile transmissions as an alternative to a mechanical clutch. It also has widespread application in marine and industrial machine drives, where variable speed operation and controlled start-up without shock loading of the power transmission system is essential. A fluid coupling consists of a housing and two turbines, plus the hydraulic fluid. The housing contains the fluid and turbines. The hydraulic fluid is directed by a pump whose shape forces the flow in the direction of the output turbine. The motion of the fluid is effectively toroidal. The Fluid Transfer Coupler addresses trades between ball-in-grove type couplers and pivoting pawls, along with various types of seals.