Flow path structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pipe joints experience leakage of medium due to differing thermal expansion coefficients between the tube and pipe, leading to inefficiencies in medium circulation devices.
Innovation Solution
A flow path structure with a clamp portion that includes a band portion surrounding the outer peripheral surface of the flow path tube, where the thermal expansion coefficient of the tube differs from that of the connection portion, and an acting portion that adjusts the inner diameter of the band portion to accommodate changes in size, thereby preventing leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional pipe joint is used to connect a tube and pipe, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but medium leakage occurs due to thermal expansion coefficient differences between materials
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp portion is designed with a flexible band that can dynamically adjust its inner diameter to accommodate thermal expansion differences between the tube and connection portion. The band elastically deforms to maintain continuous contact and sealing pressure, transforming from a static rigid structure to a dynamic adaptive structure that responds to dimensional changes during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp portion utilizes elastic deformation of the band material to change its dimensional parameters (inner diameter) in response to thermal expansion. The elastic modulus and Poisson's ratio of the band material enable it to stretch and compress, allowing the clamp to adapt its geometry to maintain sealing contact despite differential thermal expansion between connected components.
2Reliability
If a rigid clamp is used to secure the joint, then the sealing force is strong, but thermal expansion differences cause medium leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The band of the clamp portion is constructed as a flexible thin-walled structure that can elastically deform. This flexible band maintains sealing pressure through continuous contact while adapting its shape and size to accommodate thermal expansion differences. The thin-walled design provides sufficient flexibility to stretch and compress without permanent deformation, enabling the clamp to maintain sealing effectiveness across varying thermal conditions.
3Reliability
If the clamp portion is designed to accommodate thermal expansion, then leakage is prevented, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The band acts as an intermediary element between the rigid tube and rigid connection portion. It mediates the thermal expansion mismatch by absorbing dimensional changes through elastic deformation, transferring sealing force while accommodating relative movement. This intermediary flexible component allows the rigid elements to remain simple while achieving adaptive sealing through the band's elastic properties.
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 effectively prevents medium leakage by dynamically adjusting to thermal expansion differences, ensuring reliable medium circulation.
Implementation Method 1
The thermal expansion coefficient of the flow path tube is different from the thermal expansion coefficient of the connection portion
Implementation Method 2
The clamp portion includes a band portion surrounding the outer peripheral surface of the flow path tube
Data Source
AI summary
A flow path structure includes a flow path tube, a connection portion, and a clamp portion. The flow path tube includes a flow path tube space. The connection portion internally includes a connection portion space, and at least a portion of the connection portion is located in the flow path tube space. The clamp portion is located on an outer peripheral surface of the flow path tube. The thermal expansion coefficient of the flow path tube is different from that of the connection portion. The clamp portion includes a band portion surrounding the outer peripheral surface of the flow path tube at a position where the flow path tube and the connection portion overlap each other, and an acting portion that changes the size of an inner diameter of the band portion.