AC Block Fitting Seal Structure for Low-Torque Leak Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air conditioning system fittings require larger flanges due to high torque needs for sealing, leading to increased weight and package size, and are prone to refrigerant leaks and seal degradation.
Innovation Solution
A block fitting and seal structure with an annular seal and tapered portions that provide both axial and radial sealing, allowing for smaller flanges and reduced torque requirements, minimizing refrigerant leaks and package size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional seal structures with multiple seals are used, then refrigerant leakage is reduced, but the fitting flange size increases and weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seal structure is divided into multiple independent sealing elements: an O-ring seal for radial sealing and a lip seal for axial sealing. This segmentation allows each seal to perform its specific function independently, preventing refrigerant leakage without requiring an oversized flange structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from conventional single-plane sealing to multi-dimensional sealing by combining radial sealing (O-ring) and axial sealing (lip seal) at different orientations. This multi-dimensional approach enhances sealing effectiveness while maintaining compact flange dimensions.
2Reliability
If conventional seal structures with multiple seals are used, then refrigerant leakage is reduced, but the package size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The O-ring seal is positioned within a groove in the male fitting, while the lip seal is integrated into the female fitting's sealing surface. This nested arrangement allows both seals to occupy minimal space within the fitting structure, preventing refrigerant leakage without increasing overall package size.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing surfaces are designed with specific local geometries: a grooved region for the O-ring and a tapered sealing surface for the lip seal. These localized structural modifications provide effective sealing without requiring uniform increases in flange size across the entire fitting.
3Strength
If larger flanges are used, then fitting distortion is prevented, but the torque requirement increases and package size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting employs composite sealing structures combining elastomeric O-rings with metal-to-metal tapered sealing surfaces. This composite approach provides robust sealing and structural stability through the metal-to-metal contact, eliminating the need for oversized flanges to prevent distortion during tightening.
Solution Approach 2:
The tapered sealing surface features a curved geometric profile that distributes tightening forces more evenly across the joint. This curved geometry provides structural stability and prevents fitting distortion during assembly, reducing the torque required compared to conventional flat-flange designs.
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 achieves a smaller package size and reduced refrigerant leakage by using a tapered seal configuration that requires less torque for assembly, maintaining effective sealing and minimizing material usage.
Implementation Method 1
a seal structure including an elastomeric seal portion surrounded by a metal to metal taper saddle
Implementation Method 2
a seal structure including an elastomeric seal portion surrounded by a metal to metal taper saddle
Data Source
AI summary
A block fitting and seal structure for an air conditioning system includes a male block fitting and a female block fitting. The male block fitting includes an axially extending protuberant portion. A distal end of the protuberant portion has a tapered portion formed thereon. A female block fitting includes a recessed portion with a tapered portion formed therein. The tapered portion of the female block fitting is configured to engage the tapered portion of the male block fitting. An annular seal is disposed between the male block fitting and the female block fitting. The seal provides an axial seal and a radial seal between the male block fitting and the female block fitting.