Multistage Ejector Nozzle String with Positively Locking Sleeve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multistage ejectors face challenges in handling and maintenance due to complex assembly, high part count, and premature separation of nozzle components during removal from housing, leading to increased effort and cost.
Innovation Solution
A multistage ejector design featuring a nozzle arrangement with at least two nozzles interconnected as a monolithic nozzle string, axially and rotationally secured to a sleeve via a positively locking fastening mechanism, such as a plug-in and twist connection or latching connection, to simplify handling and reduce part count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the nozzle string and sleeve are fastened by frictional engagement using seals, then the assembly is simple and easy to manufacture, but the nozzle string separates prematurely from the sleeve during ejector removal from housing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from frictional engagement (dependent on seal friction parameters) to positively locking engagement (dependent on geometric interlocking parameters). The bayonet connection changes the connection mechanism from friction-based to geometry-based locking, where radial tongues engage with circumferential grooves to provide reliable mechanical interlocking that prevents premature separation during removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The bayonet connection utilizes curved or angled surfaces in the form of radial tongues and circumferential grooves that engage at specific angles. This geometric curvature enables the positive locking mechanism where the tongues fit into the grooves, providing both axial and rotational securing between the nozzle string and sleeve.
2Reliability
If the frictional engagement between nozzle string and sleeve is increased to prevent premature separation, then the connection stability improves, but the handling and maintenance complexity increases due to difficulty in separation
Solution Approach 1:
The bayonet connection provides a dynamic fastening system that can be easily engaged and disengaged. The positively locking mechanism allows for quick connection by inserting the nozzle string into the sleeve and rotating it to lock the radial tongues into the circumferential grooves, and equally easy separation by reversing the rotation to release the locks, enabling rapid maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is segmented into distinct engagement elements (radial tongues on nozzle string, circumferential grooves on sleeve) that can independently engage and disengage. This segmentation allows the nozzle string to be quickly separated from the sleeve by releasing the locking tongues, facilitating easy maintenance without requiring excessive force or complex procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple individual nozzles are used with connecting means at ends, then the adaptability and maintenance flexibility improve, but the part count and assembly complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual nozzles into a single monolithic nozzle string component. This merging reduces the total part count by eliminating the need for separate connecting means between individual nozzles, while the entire nozzle string can still be replaced as a single unit for maintenance, preserving adaptability and maintenance flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The monolithic nozzle string serves multiple functions: it provides the nozzle structure, the fluid passage system, and the connection interface with the sleeve (via radial tongues). This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate connecting components between nozzles, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the ability to replace the entire assembly for maintenance.
4Ease of repair
If the ejector is designed with detachable nozzle string and sleeve, then the maintenance accessibility improves, but the risk of premature separation and handling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bayonet connection is designed with preliminary locking action that secures the nozzle string to the sleeve before removal operations begin. The radial tongues are pre-positioned to engage with the circumferential grooves, providing positive locking that prevents premature separation during the removal process, while still allowing easy disengagement when needed for maintenance.
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 design enhances handling friendliness by ensuring the nozzle string and sleeve can be withdrawn together without premature separation, reducing assembly and maintenance complexity while minimizing the number of individual parts and associated costs.
Implementation Method 1
the functioning principle of an ejector is based on Bernoulli's law, according to which the static pressure in a flow drops as flow velocity increases. The ejector is operated with a fluid, especially compressed air, as the driving medium which flows at high velocity through the nozzle arrangement. A static negative pressure is thereby created at the fluid gaps between the individual nozzles.
Data Source
AI summary
A multistage ejector has a nozzle arrangement, which has at least three nozzles which are arranged in series in the direction of a longitudinal axis, wherein the nozzles are designed for passage of a throughflow of a fluid, wherein a fluid gap is provided between adjacent nozzles in each case, wherein at least two of the at least three nozzles are interconnected monolithically to form a nozzle string, and wherein the nozzle string is arranged at least partially in a sleeve and the nozzle string and the sleeve are detachably fastened to each other. The nozzle string and the sleeve are axially fastened to each other by fastening mechanism which acts in a positively locking manner.