Axially Compressible Insulating Ring for SCR Line Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transition regions between connector assemblies in vehicle media lines, particularly in SCR systems, are prone to freezing due to inadequate insulation, leading to operational issues when exposed to ambient temperatures, as existing insulating solutions are either costly or not universally applicable.
Innovation Solution
An axially compressible, closed-ring insulating element made from a material with low heat conductivity, featuring an inner passage opening, is designed to fill the gap between connector assemblies during the overplugging process, ensuring complete insulation of the transition region by compressing between axial surfaces and expanding to fit the entire overplugging distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the outer encapsulation is extended to cover the transition region between connector assemblies, then thermal insulation is improved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The insulation solution is segmented into two parts: the existing outer encapsulation covering the connector bodies, and a separate insulating element (cold bridge cover) specifically for the transition region. This allows the transition region to be insulated without redesigning the entire connector assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediate insulating element is introduced between the connector assemblies to bridge the thermal insulation gap in the transition region. This cold bridge cover acts as a mediator that provides insulation without requiring modification of the original connector designs.
2Reliability
If a retaining element is designed for overplugging connection, then connection reliability is improved, but the transition region remains uninsulated allowing freezing
Solution Approach 1:
The connection and insulation functions are segmented into separate components. The retaining element handles the mechanical connection through overplugging, while the insulating element separately addresses the thermal insulation of the transition region, allowing both functions to be optimized independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulating element is combined with the connector assembly during the overplugging process. The cold bridge cover is inserted onto the connector body before the coupling part is engaged, merging the insulation function with the connection operation in a single assembly step.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the insulating element is made compressible, then adaptability to different line configurations is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating element's physical parameters are designed to change under compression. The material and geometry are selected so that the element compresses to a defined extent when the connector assemblies are engaged, ensuring proper fit and insulation contact without requiring high manufacturing precision.
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 provides effective and inexpensive insulation against freezing in transition regions, ensuring optimal thermal protection and secure hold, even in areas without direct heat sources, while being cost-effective and adaptable to various line configurations.
Implementation Method 1
an axially compressible, closed ring that is made out of a material that is slightly heat conducting at least in the outer region of the insulating element
Implementation Method 2
made out of a material that is slightly heat conducting at least in the outer region of the insulating element
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-part line, wherein line parts are provided, at ends of said line parts, with at least one connector assembly having at least one retaining element, wherein a connector part of the connector assembly of a line part and a coupling part of the connector assembly of the adjacent line part can be or are connected by overplugging and locking the at least one retaining element. At least one insulating element is arranged in the overplugging region of the connector part of the connector assemblies that can be or are connected to each other, which insulating element is designed as an axially compressible closed ring made of a material that has low heat conduction at least in the outer region of the insulating element, which ring has an inner passage opening in order provide insulation in the overplugging regions between the connector assemblies, in which overplugging regions no heating by, for example, the engine of a vehicle or other heat sources occurs, which insulation enables economical and also effective insulation during the operation and also during the standstill of a vehicle and is protected against unintentional or inadvertent removal.