scope:

Abstract:

Large quick disconnects (QDs) in ground support equipment (GSE) can be very difficult to successfully mate to air half couplings (AHCs) because they have bulky, heavy hoses that must be rotated along with the ground half couplings (GHCs) in order to be attached to the AHCs. It frequently takes several attempts to successfully mate the QDs. Often it appears that the GHC is successfully mated to the AHC, only to find out later that the mate was not successful. The weight, orientation, and degree of twist of the hose relative to the QD make it difficult to lock the connection in place, even by pulling on the hose. It would be easier to mate the GSE to the vehicle if the design of the flexhose interposed a swivel mechanism between the hose and QD. The GHC could then be moved and rotated much more easily, thereby reducing the risk of having a failed mate.