Bowed Duct Flange Corner Connector for Leak-Resistant Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing corner flange connection methods for duct assemblies in HVAC systems do not provide a secure, efficient, and easy-to-install solution, often leading to leaks and requiring extensive corrective measures due to loose connections and misalignment issues.
Innovation Solution
The development of a high-speed corner flange connection member with a bowed configuration that applies increased clamping force through integrally formed leg portions and aligned openings, allowing for secure sealing without conventional bolts and washers, and accommodating misalignment with high-speed fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional corner flange connectors with single bolts and washers are used, then the connection can be installed, but the connection becomes loose and allows duct sections to move independently leading to leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The corner flange connection member incorporates a bowed configuration with spring-type biasing action that applies continuous clamping force to the duct flanges, preventing movement and leaks while maintaining secure connection without requiring multiple fasteners
Solution Approach 2:
The connection member uses a bowed shape that transforms from a flat configuration to a curved one, creating elastic deformation that generates continuous clamping pressure on the duct flanges, changing the mechanical parameter of connection force from static to dynamic and continuous
2Reliability
If multiple fasteners and clips are used to secure duct flanges, then the connection becomes more secure, but the installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The corner flange connection member integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural support, applies clamping force through its bowed configuration, and secures the duct flanges together, eliminating the need for separate clips and multiple fasteners
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-type biasing action of the bowed connection member automatically applies and maintains clamping force on the duct flanges during installation and operation, providing self-adjusting securement without requiring additional fastening operations
3Reliability
If corner flange connectors are designed for secure connection, then they prevent leaks, but they become difficult to install and require extensive corrective measures when misaligned
Solution Approach 1:
The bowed configuration allows the connection member to flex and adapt to minor misalignments in the duct flanges, maintaining sealing performance while accommodating variations in installation tolerance without requiring precise alignment
Solution Approach 2:
The curved, bowed shape of the connection member provides spring-type biasing that allows it to deform elastically during installation, accommodating misalignment between duct flanges while still achieving secure connection and sealing
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 a robust, efficient, and easy-to-install connection that enhances sealing and rigidity, reduces installation time, and eliminates cross-threading and misalignment issues, while being adaptable to various duct sizes and shapes.
Implementation Method 1
a bowed configuration that applies increased clamping force
Data Source
AI summary
A corner flange connection member for joining flanges of duct sections, includes two leg portions joined together in an angular relationship by a corner portion, the connection member being substantially flat and including at least one opening for receiving a fastening member having a threaded portion, the threaded portion having a root diameter, the opening being defined by two joined and offset partially rounded openings, at least one of the offset partially rounded openings having a sectional extent between opposite sides thereof about equal to the root diameter of the threaded portion of the fastening member, the offset being about equal to a thread height of threads of the threaded portion of the fastening member, and the sides of the offset openings being joined generally tangentially. The opening or openings can be located in the corner portion or one or both of the leg portions.