Detachable Fluid Connection With Melt-Sealed Gas-Tight Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection methods for fluid supply conduits, particularly those handling small molecule gases like hydrogen, suffer from high leak rates due to the reliance on separate sealing elements and precisely machined surfaces, which are costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A connection part for fluid supply conduits comprising a connecting element and a meltable sealing element that forms a gas leak-tight connection by maximizing contact with the connecting interface surfaces during assembly and solidifying to create a metallic bond between conduit segments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate sealing elements and precisely machined surfaces are used to connect fluid supply conduits, then connection reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is integrated directly into the connecting element, eliminating the need for separate sealing components. The connecting element includes a sealing element formed integrally with the connecting element body, combining the connection function and sealing function into a single component, thereby reducing manufacturing steps and costs while maintaining reliable sealing performance
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element undergoes a phase change from solid to liquid during assembly, allowing it to flow into and fill surface imperfections and gaps at the connection interface. After cooling and solidification, it forms a gas-tight metallic bond that compensates for machining variations, achieving reliable sealing without requiring highly precise machining
2Reliability
If separate sealing elements and precisely machined surfaces are used to connect fluid supply conduits, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is integrated directly into the connecting element, eliminating the need for separate sealing components. The connecting element includes a sealing element formed integrally with the connecting element body, combining the connection function and sealing function into a single component, thereby reducing manufacturing steps and costs while maintaining reliable sealing performance
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the structural connection between conduit segments, contains the sealing element for gas-tight sealing, and facilitates the bonding process through heating. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed in the connection assembly
3Strength
If welding is used to create a metallic bond between conduit segments, then connection strength is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases and weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional welding process is replaced with a bonding process using a meltable sealing element that is activated by localized heating. The sealing element melts, flows into the connection interface, and solidifies to form a metallic bond, substituting the complex welding system with a simpler bonding mechanism that achieves similar connection strength without requiring welding equipment or highly skilled operators
4Strength
If high temperatures are introduced to pipes during welding, then connection strength is improved, but material properties are altered
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional welding process is replaced with a bonding process using a meltable sealing element that is activated by localized heating. The sealing element melts, flows into the connection interface, and solidifies to form a metallic bond, substituting the complex welding system with a simpler bonding mechanism that achieves similar connection strength without requiring welding equipment or highly skilled operators
Solution Approach 2:
Heating is applied locally only to the sealing element and connection interface area, not to the entire pipe. This localized heating approach allows the sealing element to melt and bond while minimizing thermal exposure to the pipe material, thereby preserving the pipe's original material properties and avoiding unwanted alterations to its composition or mechanical characteristics
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 reduces leakage to a minimum, eliminates the need for highly precise surfaces or sealing rings, and allows for a metallic bond between conduit segments without the need for welding, making it easier to manufacture and lighter in weight.
Implementation Method 1
The sealing element is configured to be meltable during an assembly phase to maximize its contacts with at least one surface of the connecting interface and solidifiable to form a gas leak-tight connection
Implementation Method 2
The sealing element is configured to be meltable during an assembly phase to maximize its contacts with at least one surface of the connecting interface and solidifiable to form a gas leak-tight connection
Implementation Method 3
when heated the sealing is sucked in between the union and nut via a capillary effect closing possible gaps
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention relates to a connection part for a fluid supply conduit. In order to provide an improved way of connecting fluid supplies, a connection part (10) for a fluid supply conduit (12) is provided. The connection part (10) comprises a connecting element (14) and a sealing element (16). The connecting element is configured as a connection port for a conduit segment (18) to an adjoining conduit segment (20). The sealing element is configured to be placeable at a connecting interface (22) between the connecting element and a connecting element of the adjoining conduit segment (24). The sealing element is configured to be meltable during an assembly phase to maximize its contacts with at least one surface (26) of the connecting interface and solidifiable to form a gas leak-tight connection (28) between the connecting element and the connecting element of the adjoining conduit segment of the fluid supply conduit. The connecting interface of the connecting element and the connecting element of the adjoining conduit segment is configured to be detachable.