Reconfigurable Duct Collar for Leak-Proof Foam Ventilation Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ventilation ducting sections made from compressible materials like expanded foam face challenges in joining due to their flexible and compressible nature, leading to potential leakage and detachment issues with traditional fixed configuration connectors, which are not suitable for these materials.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable collar connector that transitions between open and clamped configurations, featuring inwardly extending projections and ribs to securely hold and seal compressible ducting sections, eliminating the need for separate sealing members and additional fixing means like ducting tape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional fixed configuration connectors are used with compressible ducting sections, then the connector structure is simple, but the ducting sections may compress or change shape causing detachment and leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The collar connector is designed to be reconfigurable between an open configuration for easy insertion and a clamped configuration for secure retention. The collar can be moved along the ducting section and adjusted to different positions, transforming from a static fixed-configuration connector into a dynamic adaptable connector that can accommodate the compressible nature of foam ducting while maintaining reliable connections
Solution Approach 2:
The connector allows for adjustment of clamping force and position parameters. By moving the collar to different locations and applying varying degrees of compressive force, the connector adapts to different ducting sections and installation requirements, maintaining reliable sealing without requiring complex pre-configured structures
2Reliability
If separate sealing members and additional fixing means are used, then the connection reliability is improved, but the installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function and the clamping/retention function are merged into a single integrated collar connector. The collar itself provides both the sealing interface against the ducting section and the clamping mechanism for retention, eliminating the need for separate sealing members (such as gaskets or tapes) and additional fixing means, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining sealing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The collar connector serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides sealing against the ducting section, applies clamping force for retention, and allows for positional adjustment. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate components (sealing member, clamp, and positioning mechanism), simplifying installation while ensuring reliable, leak-proof connections
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 connector provides a reliable and leak-proof connection for compressible ducting sections, reducing installation complexity and cost while maintaining thermal insulation and lightweight properties, suitable for overhead installations.
Implementation Method 1
The collar is reconfigurable between an open configuration in which the ducting sections may be freely inserted into the collar and a clamped configuration in which it surrounds part of each ducting section and provides a compressive force to hold the ducting sections in a relative position
Data Source
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AI summary
Flexible ventilation ducts require an alternative means of connection to traditional rigid ducts. A ventilation ducting connector (6) is therefore provided for connecting ventilation ducting sections (2,4) formed from a compressible material. The connector (6) is arranged to receive the free ends of two contiguous ducting sections (2,4) such that the ducting sections define a continuous air conduit. The collar (6) is reconfigurable between an open configuration in which the ducting sections (2,4) may be freely inserted into the collar (6), and a clamped configuration in which it surrounds part of each ducting section (2,4) and provides a compressive force to hold the ducting sections in a relative position. The collar comprises at least one inwardly extending projection (24,28) arranged on its inner surface to penetrate the outer surface of at least one of the ducting sections (2,4) when the collar (6) is in the clamped configuration.