Flexible Conduit Outer Ring Fixation via Dual Welding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing flexible conduit elements in exhaust gas systems of combustion engines face challenges in achieving secure and gas-tight welds, particularly in limited spaces, and controlling welding quality, which can lead to component damage and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A method involving multiple welds with strategic placement and different welding techniques for the outer and inner rings of the flexible conduit element, allowing for controlled and inspected gas-tight connections without the need for additional components like connecting tubes, and using various welding methods such as shielded metal arc welding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single weld is used to connect the flexible conduit element to the engine or exhaust pipe system, then the connection is simpler and requires fewer components, but it is difficult to control welding quality and ensure gas tightness
Solution Approach 1:
The single weld connection is divided into two separate welds: a first weld connecting the outer ring to the inner fixing member, and a second weld connecting the outer ring to the exhaust gas component. This segmentation allows each weld to be independently controlled and inspected, ensuring gas tightness while maintaining structural integrity.
2Reliability
If a connecting tube is used to secure the flexible conduit element, then the connection is more secure and easier to control, but it requires additional space that may not be available
Solution Approach 1:
The outer ring serves multiple functions simultaneously: it connects the inner fixing member to the exhaust gas component via welding, provides structural support, and ensures gas tightness. By merging these functions into a single component rather than using a separate connecting tube, the space requirement is reduced while maintaining connection security.
3Manufacturing precision
If the first weld is performed before mounting the flexible conduit element, then the welding quality can be better controlled and inspected, but the component cannot be properly positioned until after welding
Solution Approach 1:
The first weld between the outer ring and inner fixing member is performed in advance during assembly, allowing for controlled welding conditions and quality inspection. The outer ring acts as a preliminary fixture that holds components in the correct position for welding, and after the first weld is completed and inspected, the entire assembly is then mounted to the exhaust gas component via the second weld.
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
Enables secure, gas-tight connections that can be efficiently controlled and inspected, reducing component stress and the need for additional components, while optimizing welding quality and space utilization.
Implementation Method 1
The first weld connects the outer ring to the inner fixing member. The second weld connects the outer ring to an exhaust gas component
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method of fixation of an outer ring of a conduit element, said outer ring used in the method, and a flexible conduit element having said outer ring, wherein the method refers to a fixation of an outer ring for a flexible conduit element for an exhaust gas system of a combustion engine vehicle, comprising at least an inner tube and a bellows member to be fixed by an outer ring and an inner ring coaxially positioned within the outer ring , wherein the end portions of the bellows member being interposed between the outer ring and the inner ring, wherein the inner ring and the outer ring being welded together by a first weld and being secured to an exhaust gas component of an combustion engine or an inlet opening of an exhaust gas system by a second weld being welded on an outer surface of the outer ring when the inner ring and the outer ring are mounted on at least one of the exhaust gas component of a combustion engine, or an inlet opening component of an exhaust gas system.