Composite Seal Interlocking Geometry for Assembly Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Composite seals used in mechanical applications often face difficulties in assembly and separation due to complex geometric configurations, leading to incomplete seating and potential leakage, especially when trying to maintain effective sealing under varying pressure conditions.
Innovation Solution
A composite seal design featuring a first annular seal element with an upper body, neck, and axial protrusion, along with a second annular seal element having a mouth, neck, and recess, where the axial protrusion and recess are configured with similar inclined angles to facilitate easy interlocking and assembly, ensuring a stable and effective seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If composite seals use complex geometric configurations for interlocking seal elements, then sealing reliability under varying pressure conditions is improved, but assembly and installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The composite seal is divided into multiple seal elements (first seal element and second seal element) that can be assembled separately and then interlocked together, allowing each element to be manufactured and inspected independently while maintaining reliable sealing function
Solution Approach 2:
The first seal element is inserted into a cavity of the second seal element, creating a nested configuration where one seal element resides within another, enabling compact design while maintaining effective sealing between multiple zones
2Reliability
If composite seals use complex geometric configurations for interlocking seal elements, then sealing effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seal is segmented into separate elements that can be manufactured using standard molding processes for each component, avoiding the need for complex multi-material molding while achieving effective sealing through the combination of elements
Solution Approach 2:
Each seal element is made from materials optimized for its specific function and location, allowing different elements to be manufactured from different materials suited to their particular sealing requirements rather than using a single complex composite material
3Reliability
If composite seals use complex geometric configurations, then sealing performance under high pressure is improved, but separation during installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first seal element nests within the second seal element's cavity, creating a stable integrated structure that resists separation during installation and operation while maintaining effective sealing performance under varying pressure conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The seal elements are pre-configured with complementary geometries and interlocking features that ensure proper alignment and prevent separation during installation, eliminating the need for complex assembly procedures
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a composite seal may include a first, substantially annular seal element having an upper body portion, a neck portion, and an axial protrusion. The upper body portion includes opposing inclined surfaces extending toward the neck portion defining a first angle. The axial protrusion includes opposing inclined surfaces extending toward an axial end of the axial protrusion defining a second angle, wherein the first angle and the second angle are substantially similar. The composite seal may further include a second, substantially annular seal element having a mouth portion, a neck portion and a recess portion, wherein the axial protrusion is configured to be complementarily engaged with the recess portion in an interlocking manner.