Compact Cold Spray Nozzle Using Compression Tube Fittings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cold spray nozzle assemblies are complex, expensive, and difficult to fit into small spaces, limiting their use in applying powdered materials to hard-to-reach locations.
Innovation Solution
A compact cold spray nozzle assembly using compression tube fittings with a stepped or notched outer diameter for secure alignment and a compression ring, allowing for a tight seal with standard temperature and pressure-rated fittings, enabling the use of off-the-shelf materials and simplified assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional cold spray nozzle assemblies are used, then reliable powder deposition is achieved, but the assembly becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the nozzle body and connection fitting into a single integrated component. The nozzle body itself incorporates the connection interface for the powder feed tube, eliminating the need for separate connection fittings and reducing the number of assembly steps while maintaining reliable powder deposition
2Reliability
If conventional cold spray nozzle assemblies are used, then reliable powder deposition is achieved, but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated nozzle design reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. By combining functions into fewer components, manufacturing steps are reduced, inventory requirements are lowered, and assembly time is decreased, all of which contribute to lower production costs while maintaining deposition reliability
3Strength
If conventional cold spray nozzle assemblies are used, then adequate connection strength is achieved, but the assembly size becomes too large for small spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated design eliminates intermediate connection components and reduces the overall length of the powder feed path. The nozzle body directly receives the powder feed tube connection, removing the need for separate connection fittings and reducing the axial dimension of the assembly, enabling use in confined spaces while maintaining connection strength
Data Source
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AI summary
A cold spray nozzle assembly includes a conduit for carrying at least one of a heated gas and a powder; a nozzle; and a compression tube fitting connecting the nozzle to the conduit.