Helical Sound Attenuator Element for Low Flow Impedance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing in-duct sound attenuators face challenges in achieving effective sound reduction without excessively impeding gas flow, and they often require complex manual labor or advanced machinery for manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A novel sound attenuating element is proposed, formed by an assembly of curved components that create a non-planar ruled surface, such as a helicoid, which can be manufactured using automated or machine-assisted methods without the need for complex bending processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a helical sound attenuating element is used to reduce sound propagation, then sound attenuation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases due to delicate manual labor or advanced machinery requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The helical sound attenuating element is divided into multiple straight or slightly curved segments that are assembled together. Each segment can be manufactured independently using simple processes, and the segments are connected to form the overall helical structure, eliminating the need for complex single-piece bending operations
Solution Approach 2:
The design transitions from a single curved surface to a multi-segment assembly where segments are arranged in successive layers. This dimensional approach allows the helical shape to be achieved through assembly rather than forming, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining the sound attenuating function
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a non-planar ruled surface such as helicoid is formed to attenuate sound without impeding flow, then sound attenuation performance is improved, but manufacturing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The non-planar ruled surface is constructed from multiple straight or slightly curved segments arranged in successive layers. Each segment can be manufactured using simple processes, and the segments are connected to form the overall helical surface, eliminating the need for complex forming operations
Solution Approach 2:
The design uses straight or slightly curved segments rather than highly curved surfaces. The helical shape is achieved through the arrangement of segments in successive layers, allowing the curved appearance to be created through assembly rather than through complex curvature in individual components
3Productivity
If automated manufacturing is implemented to simplify production, then manufacturing cost and time are reduced, but achieving precise curved shapes becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The curved shape is achieved through assembly of straight or slightly curved segments rather than forming a single complex curve. This segmentation allows automated manufacturing of simple segments while the overall helical shape is created through precise assembly, maintaining shape precision without requiring complex forming operations
Solution Approach 2:
The design transitions from forming complex curved surfaces to assembling segments in successive layers. This approach enables automated manufacturing of individual segments with high precision, while the overall three-dimensional helical shape is achieved through controlled assembly rather than requiring complex forming operations
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 novel sound attenuating element effectively reduces sound propagation while minimizing flow impedance, and its automated manufacturing process simplifies production and reduces costs.
Implementation Method 1
the non-planar ruled surface, such as a helicoid, is very advantageous in attenuating sound without impeding flow through the sound attenuator
Data Source
AI summary
In the present disclosure is proposed a novel sound attenuating element for, at least in part, providing adequate or preferably improved sound attenuating properties without excessively impeding flow while being susceptible to automated or machine assisted manufacturing or for providing the public with a useful alternative. The novel sound attenuating element is formed at least in part by an assembly of a plurality of components which are successively connected to each other, which each exhibit a curved shape, and which form at least one non-planar ruled surface when assembled.