Block Fitting Seal Structure for Vibration-Resistant Fluid Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid line systems in motor vehicles face challenges in creating durable, leak-proof connections that withstand high pressures, temperatures, and vibrations while being compact and lightweight, particularly in air conditioning systems where refrigerant leakage is a concern.
Innovation Solution
A block fitting device comprising an adapter body, primary block, mating block, and seal washer with inner and outer seal members, which are frictionally engaged to form a fluid channel and provide radial sealing, eliminating the need for torque-dependent seals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional torque-dependent seals are used in block fittings, then the connection can be made securely, but the sealing reliability deteriorates under vibrations and high pressures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional torque-dependent mechanical seal with a deformation-based seal. The seal member (made of elastomeric or deformable material) deforms under the action of a compression element to create a sealing force that is independent of torque applied during assembly. This substitution of the sealing mechanism eliminates the harmful effect of vibrations and high pressures that would otherwise compromise torque-dependent seals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the sealing parameter from torque-dependent contact pressure to deformation-based contact pressure. The seal member is designed to deform plastically or elastically under compression, creating a sealing force that adapts to the connection conditions. This parameter change ensures reliable sealing under varying conditions of vibration and pressure without relying on precise torque control during assembly.
2Reliability
If multiple sealing elements and fastening means are added to improve connection durability, then the sealing performance improves, but the device weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sealing function and the fastening function into a single integrated mechanism. The compression element serves both to secure the connection (fastening) and to deform the seal member for sealing. This merging eliminates the need for separate sealing elements and fastening means, reducing device complexity while maintaining connection durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the sealing function from the traditional torque-dependent sealing mechanism and implements it through a separate deformable seal member that is activated by the compression element. This extraction allows the sealing function to be achieved independently of the fastening torque, simplifying the overall connection mechanism while improving reliability.
3Weight of moving object
If compact and lightweight design is prioritized in fluid line systems, then the system weight and space are reduced, but the connection strength and sealing durability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the sealing mechanism from torque-dependent to deformation-based, allowing for a more compact and lightweight design. The deformable seal member requires less material and simpler structure compared to traditional torque-dependent seals, reducing system weight while maintaining or improving connection strength and sealing durability under vibration and pressure conditions.
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 device ensures a secure, leak-resistant connection that withstands mechanical stress and vibrations, maintaining a lightweight and compact design, thus preventing refrigerant leakage and enhancing system durability.
Implementation Method 1
The seal washer having an inner seal member and an outer seal member and being placed in the inward directed step for a sealing contact with the adapter body and the primary block in an assembled configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A block fitting device for making a secure connection in a fluid line system includes an adapter body having a passage with two outlets and an adapter bead radially and outwardly formed around the adapter body, a primary block formed with at least one bore along a longitudinal axis and an inward directed step around the at least one bore to receive the adapter body, a mating block having at least one mating bore and being securely coupled with the primary block and the adapter body, and a seal washer having an inner seal member and an outer seal member. In an assembled configuration, the at least one bore and the passage are aligned and communicated to define a fluid channel along the longitudinal axis. Further, the seal washer is placed in the inward directed step for a sealing contact with the adapter body and the primary block.