Annular Frame Sealing Member for Multi-Direction Changeover Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing sealing members in multi-direction changeover valves degrade over time due to heat and pressure, leading to fluid leakage and compromised air-tightness.
Innovation Solution
A sealing member comprising an annular seal part and an annular frame that supports the seal part for close contact with the port's inner surface, enhancing sealing performance and simplifying the structure, while the frame prevents deformation and maintains air-tightness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a seal part made of elastic material is used to improve air-tightness, then sealing performance is improved, but the seal part deforms or damages due to heat or pressure over time
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing member is divided into two functional parts: a frame (providing structural stability) and a seal part (providing sealing function). This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing member combines different materials with complementary properties: a rigid or semi-rigid frame material for structural support and an elastic seal part material for sealing. This composite structure leverages the advantages of both material types.
2Reliability
If a complex sealing member structure is used to maintain air-tightness, then sealing reliability is improved, but manufacturing and mounting become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the sealing member into a frame and a seal part, each component can be manufactured separately using optimized processes, then assembled together. This reduces manufacturing complexity compared to creating a single complex component.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame serves multiple functions: providing structural support, maintaining geometric stability, and facilitating mounting. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, simplifying both manufacturing and assembly.
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 effectively maintains air-tightness over long periods, simplifies manufacturing and mounting, and improves sealing performance by preventing deformation and enhancing the coupling force between the seal part and the port.
Implementation Method 1
the seal part may be deformed or damaged due to heat or pressure
Implementation Method 2
the seal part may be deformed or damaged due to heat or pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A sealing member of a multi-direction changeover valve for maintaining air-tightness between an orifice formed in a valve body rotatably installed in a valve housing and a port through which fluid flows into or out of the valve housing. The sealing member includes an annular seal part and an annular frame inserted into the seal part to support the seal part such that the seal part is brought into close contact with an inner circumferential surface of the port.