Hose Coupling Molded Seal Insert for A/C Systems

The patent introduces a seal insert as an intermediary component that carries the sealing element (O-ring or elastomeric seal). Instead of placing the seal directly on the nipple where it can dislodge, the seal insert serves as a mediator that holds the sealing element in a protected groove and guides it into proper position during assembly. The seal insert is telescoped over the nipple and positioned using a locating flange, ensuring the sealing element remains secure throughout the assembly process while maintaining effective sealing.

The patent extracts the groove-forming operation from the nipple manufacturing process. Instead of machining grooves directly into the nipple (which requires precision machining and thorough cleaning to remove debris), the groove is formed in a separate seal insert component. This allows the nipple to be manufactured by simpler processes (such as extrusion or forming) without requiring post-manufacturing cleaning operations. The seal insert with its groove is then assembled to the nipple, separating the sealing function from the nipple manufacturing complexity.

The patent segments the seal insert into functional zones: a body portion with the groove for holding the sealing element, locating features (flange or rim) for positioning, and through holes for mechanical interlocking. The sealing element itself is segmented into portions that extend through the holes, creating multiple attachment points. This segmentation allows each feature to perform its specific function independently while contributing to overall retention, achieving reliable sealing element fixation without requiring an overly complex integrated structure.