Angled Seal Structures for Fluid Connector Leaks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fluid leaks and slow drips occur in traditional fluid systems due to the deformation and dislodgment of seal members when connectors are tightened, as flat seal faces and improper contact points cause the seal members to be squeezed into fluid channels, obstructing flow and leading to leaks.
Innovation Solution
A seal system with angled seal structures that position the seal member between the first and second connector members, ensuring the seal member is seated within a gland structure and not displaced into fluid channels during tightening, maintaining a fluid-tight seal by using angled seal structures that roll or push the seal member radially outward, preventing leaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the connection between connectors is tightened to prevent fluid leaks, then the seal force increases, but the seal member is deformed and dislodged into the fluid channel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional flat seal faces with angled seal structures that have sloped surfaces. This angular geometry allows the seal member to be compressed against the angled surface rather than being squeezed flat, preventing dislodgment into the fluid channel while maintaining effective sealing under tightened connections
Solution Approach 2:
The seal structures are positioned at specific angles and locations within the connector members to create localized sealing zones. The angled seal structures concentrate the sealing action at predetermined contact points, ensuring the seal member remains stable in its intended position while achieving reliable sealing
2Reliability
If a softer or differently sized seal member is used to improve sealing, then the seal compliance increases, but the seal member is still deformed and moved into the fluid channel
Solution Approach 1:
The angled seal structures provide a geometric constraint that guides the seal member into and maintains it within the proper sealing position. The sloped surfaces redirect compression forces away from the fluid channel, preventing seal member dislodgment regardless of seal material softness or size variations
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
Prevents fluid leaks and ensures a complete seal between connectors, allowing uninterrupted fluid flow by maintaining the seal member within the gland structure during increased tightness, unlike traditional systems where seals are displaced into fluid channels.
Implementation Method 1
The seal structures are configured to deform the seal member therebetween and into the gland structure in response to connection of the first connector member and the second connector member
Data Source
AI summary
A seal system includes a first connector member, a second connector member, a gland structure, and a seal member. The first and second connector members include respective seal structures. The second connector member is configured for connection to the first connector member. The gland structure is defined by the first connector member and the second connector member, and is located between the first and the second seal structures. The seal member is at least partially positioned in the gland structure. The first and second seal structures are configured to deform the seal member into the gland structure in response to connection of the first connector member and the second connector member.