Dielectric Regulator Segmented Inlet for Electrical Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing regulators that intake variable pressure fluid from utility lines, such as natural gas, often transmit electrical energy, which can ignite the fluid, posing a safety risk due to the potential for electrical ignition.
Innovation Solution
A dielectric regulator with a dielectric interface system that includes ring-shaped dielectric interfaces and sealing rings to prevent electrical communication between the inlet fitting, nut, and nozzle, ensuring the fluid is delivered at a constant pressure while preventing electrical ignition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the regulator is made metallic to ensure structural strength and pressure regulation capability, then the structural strength is improved, but electrical energy transmission occurs which can ignite fluid creating safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The regulator is divided into separate metallic and non-conductive components. The inlet fitting, nut, and nozzle are segmented such that dielectric interfaces (non-conductive material) are positioned between metallic parts (inlet fitting-nut, nut-nozzle), breaking the continuous electrical pathway while maintaining structural integrity for pressure regulation.
Solution Approach 2:
A dielectric interface material is introduced as an intermediary between metallic components. This non-conductive material prevents electrical energy transmission from the inlet fitting to the nozzle while allowing the structural components to maintain their strength and functional relationships for pressure regulation.
2Reliability
If dielectric interfaces are added to prevent electrical ignition, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The dielectric interface is merged with existing structural components such as the nozzle and inlet fitting. The non-conductive material is integrated into the design of these components rather than being a separate additive element, thereby preventing electrical transmission while minimizing increases in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The dielectric interface serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical insulation to prevent ignition and maintains the structural integrity of the pressure regulation system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
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 dielectric regulator effectively maintains a constant fluid pressure independent of utility line pressure variations, ensuring safe and consistent delivery to appliances while preventing electrical ignition risks.
Implementation Method 1
The first dielectric interface is disposed between the inlet fitting and the nut. The second dielectric interface is disposed between the nut and the nozzle.
Implementation Method 2
The bushing compresses the first sealing ring between the first outer perimeter of the nozzle and the bushing. The second sealing ring surrounds a second outer perimeter of the nozzle and is in compressive contact with the second outer perimeter of the nozzle and the bushing.
Data Source
AI summary
A dielectric regulator comprises a regulator and an inlet group. The inlet group comprises: an inlet nozzle assembly and an inlet fitting. The inlet nozzle assembly comprises: a nozzle, a bushing, a first sealing ring, a second sealing ring, a nut, a first dielectric interface, and a second dielectric interface. The nozzle defines a sealing block void, a funnel void, a first cylindrical void, and a polygonal void. The bushing surrounds the nozzle and compresses the first sealing ring between the nozzle and the bushing. The second sealing ring surrounds the nozzle and compressed via the nozzle and the bushing. The first dielectric interface is ring-shaped and is compressed via the nut and the nozzle. The second dielectric interface is ring shaped and is compressed via the nozzle and the inlet fitting. The inlet fitting defines a central void and is threadably engaged with the nozzle assembly via the nut.