Flow Connector for Lug-Type Sump to Screw Head
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Solution Overview
Problem
Legacy filtration systems with screw-type connections face challenges in providing a watertight and leak-proof connection for lug-type filtration sumps, leading to issues with thread damage, leakage, and difficulty in service due to pressurization and thermal expansion mismatches.
Innovation Solution
A flow connector that connects a lug-type filtration sump to a screw-type filtration head using a cylindrical design with circumferentially spaced openings for lug retention and a threaded portion for secure engagement, along with a fluid flow conduit for leak-proof fluid communication, allowing for easy replacement and reduced stress on components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a threaded connection is used to connect the sump to the filtration head assembly, then the connection can be made with legacy screw-type filtration head assemblies, but thread damage and leakage occur due to pressurization, thermal expansion mismatches, and water hammer effects
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into two distinct parts: a threaded portion that engages with the legacy screw-type filtration head assembly, and a lug-type portion that receives the sump. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally - the threaded portion provides secure attachment to legacy equipment while the lug-type portion enables tool-free sump replacement and eliminates thread damage issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow connector acts as an intermediary component between the legacy screw-type filtration head assembly and the lug-type sump. It translates the threaded connection interface into a lug-type retention interface, allowing compatibility with legacy equipment while eliminating the harmful effects of threaded connections on the sump itself.
2Ease of operation
If a lug-type filtration sump is used, then ease of replacement and disposability are improved, but compatibility with legacy screw-type filtration head assemblies is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The flow connector provides multi-functionality by simultaneously enabling compatibility with legacy screw-type filtration head assemblies through its threaded portion and facilitating easy lug-type sump replacement through its lug reception openings. This universal design allows the system to achieve both goals that would otherwise be mutually exclusive.
3Strength
If a threaded connection is used, then connection security can be achieved, but service difficulty increases due to required use of wrenches or tools for separation
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system separates the secure attachment function (performed by the threaded portion engaging with the legacy filtration head) from the sump retention function (performed by the lug-type openings). This allows the sump to be easily removed from the flow connector by simply pulling it straight out, while the threaded portion remains securely engaged with the legacy equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
A flow connector adapted to connect a lug-type filtration sump to a screw-type filtration head, having a first portion for receiving a lug-type filtration sump, and a second portion receivable by a screw-type filtration head.