Flexible Sleeve Coupling for Pressure-Tight Component Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for coupling components to industrial equipment often damage the components or the coupling mechanisms, especially in harsh environments with temperature and pressure differentials, leading to ineffective processing and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system comprising a first and second chamber in fluid communication, with pneumatic systems that use flexible pads and sleeves to securely hold components with internal passages, allowing for quick connection and disconnection without damaging the components or equipment, and capable of maintaining pressure and temperature differentials during processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current coupling methods are used to secure components in harsh industrial environments, then components can be held in place during processing, but the components or coupling mechanisms may be damaged due to temperature and pressure differentials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible coupling mechanisms including bellows and flexible membranes that can accommodate thermal expansion and pressure differentials without rigid contact, preventing damage to both components and coupling mechanisms while maintaining secure retention in harsh industrial environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate coupling elements such as flexible bellows and sealing membranes that mediate between the component and the rigid industrial equipment, absorbing thermal and pressure stresses while maintaining the seal and connection integrity
2Stress or pressure
If rigid coupling mechanisms are used to maintain pressure and temperature differentials, then processing can be performed under controlled conditions, but the coupling mechanisms may be damaged or components may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible bellows and membrane seals that can withstand and accommodate pressure differentials while maintaining coupling integrity, allowing controlled processing conditions without compromising the strength or durability of the coupling mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic coupling mechanisms including flexible bellows that can expand and contract, and movable sealing elements that adapt to pressure changes, maintaining seal integrity under varying pressure conditions without rigid stress concentration points
3Productivity
If traditional coupling systems are used, then components can be secured for processing, but quick connection and disconnection without damage is difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the coupling system into separable modules including quick-connect interfaces and detachable bellows sections, enabling rapid assembly and disconnection of components without damage while maintaining secure retention during processing operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates pre-positioned sealing elements and alignment features in the coupling mechanisms that automatically engage when components are connected, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures and enabling quick connection without compromising seal integrity
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 system effectively secures components in industrial systems, enabling efficient processing across varying conditions without damaging the components or the coupling systems, while allowing for rapid and secure attachment and detachment, accommodating components of different diameters and geometries.
Implementation Method 1
pneumatic systems that use flexible pads and sleeves to securely hold components
Implementation Method 2
flexible pads and sleeves to securely hold components
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
The present disclosure provides coupling systems for use in industrial systems to removably couple one or more components to the industrial system. The coupling systems discussed herein employ a flexible sleeve in addition to one or more components. The flexible sleeve can have a component disposed therein. When pressure is applied to the flexible sleeve, the flexible sleeve constricts around the component, securing the component in the coupling system and thus to the industrial system. Once the component is secured, the industrial system executes one or more processes on the component. The coupling systems discussed herein can accommodate components of varying internal and external geometries as well as internal and/or external coatings and surface finishes.