Conduit Penetration Seal for Thermal Isolation and Ground Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conduits extending between environments of different temperatures or conditions face issues with thermal conductivity, leading to heat leaks, condensation, and potential mold or bacterial growth, while existing solutions fail to provide effective sealing and electrical continuity.
Innovation Solution
A conduit seal comprising a through-hole connector, compliant members, and an electrical conducting insert that maintains electrical continuity and reduces thermal conductivity, using materials like copper, aluminum, or stainless steel, with elastomeric compliant members and a locking mechanism for secure sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conduit extends between two different environments, then electrical continuity is maintained, but thermal conductivity increases causing heat leaks and condensation
Solution Approach 1:
The conduit system is segmented into multiple sections with insulation layers between them, breaking the continuous thermal path while maintaining electrical connectivity through conductive elements that pass through the insulation barriers
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary insulating material is introduced between conduit sections to block thermal transfer, while conductive inserts serve as mediators to maintain electrical continuity across the thermal barrier
2Loss of energy
If insulation is added to reduce thermal conductivity, then heat leaks are minimized, but sealing effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A flexible compliant member in the form of a gasket or seal is used to create an effective seal between the conduit and the barrier, accommodating thermal expansion and contraction while maintaining sealing integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The conduit assembly uses composite construction combining insulating materials with conductive elements and sealing components, integrating multiple functions (thermal isolation, electrical continuity, and sealing) into a unified structure
3Object-affected harmful factors
If thermal insulation is implemented, then condensation is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions (insulation, electrical continuity, and sealing) are merged into a single integrated conduit assembly, eliminating the need for separate components and simplifying installation while maintaining condensation prevention
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 conduit seal effectively reduces thermal conductivity to 0.2-5 W/m-K, minimizing HVAC demands and preventing condensation, while ensuring electrical continuity and hygienic conditions by blocking moisture and contaminants.
Implementation Method 1
a compliant member, wherein the compliant member is disposed circumferentially around the exterior surface of the through-hole connector... and a locking member, wherein the compliant member is connected to the locking member and is configured to seal the locking member to a barrier
Implementation Method 2
at least one electrical conducting insert, wherein the at least one electrical conducting insert extends longitudinally within the internal cavity along the through-hole connector to electrically connect the first end of the through-hole connector to the second end of the through-hole connector
Implementation Method 3
a thermal conductivity of the through-hole connector ranges from about 0.2 Watt per meter-Kelvin to about 5 Watt per meter-Kelvin
Data Source
AI summary
A conduit seal that serves to connect conduits between different environments while providing sufficient insulation to mitigate condensation and molding issues. The conduit seal can also provide grounding continuity with an electrical conducting insert, thereby providing electrical continuity across a thermal barrier between the environments. The conduit seal includes a through-hole connector including a body, a first end, and a second end, a compliant member, and a locking member. The body has an exterior surface, and the body defines an internal cavity. The compliant member is disposed circumferentially around the exterior surface of the through-hole connector. The compliant member is connected to the locking member and is configured to seal the locking member to a barrier.