Hydraulic Plug with Elastic Stop Ring for Vibration-Resistant Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic system closure devices in the aeronautical field are costly, time-consuming to install, and difficult to properly position, especially in environments with strong vibrations, due to their complex machining requirements and reliance on tight assembly techniques.
Innovation Solution
A closure device using a plug with a central portion and a peripheral portion, incorporating an open elastic stop ring that can be easily inserted and visually inspected for correct positioning, with a return mechanism to ensure axial blocking and radial retention, allowing for simple and inexpensive mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional closure devices with screws, lock wires, or tight assembly techniques are used, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the installation time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the complex fastening elements (screws, lock wires, tightening devices) from the closure device assembly. The plug is designed to be inserted directly into the orifice without requiring any additional fastening components, thereby reducing installation time and complexity while maintaining sealing reliability through the elastic stop ring retention mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug is segmented into a central portion and a peripheral portion with distinct functions. The central portion provides structural support and positioning, while the peripheral portion integrates the elastic stop ring retention groove. This segmentation allows for simplified assembly where each portion contributes to the overall function without requiring complex fastening mechanisms.
2Reliability
If complex fastening mechanisms like screws and lock wires are used, then the retention of the closure device is improved, but the device complexity and machining cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device is designed to be self-retaining through the elastic stop ring that engages with the groove in the peripheral portion of the plug. The elastic deformation of the stop ring provides automatic retention without requiring external fastening mechanisms. The system serves itself by using the elastic property of the stop ring to maintain the plug in position, eliminating the need for screws, lock wires, or other complex fastening elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the retention mechanism from mechanical fastening (screws, lock wires) to elastic retention. By utilizing the elastic properties of the stop ring, the system transforms the retention approach from rigid mechanical connection to flexible elastic engagement, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable retention through material property utilization.
3Ease of operation
If elastic stop rings are used for retention, then the installation simplicity is improved, but the positioning precision and reliability under vibration are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The invention adds a radial dimension to the retention mechanism by incorporating a groove in the peripheral portion of the plug that engages with the elastic stop ring. This radial engagement complements the axial retention provided by the elastic stop ring, creating a two-dimensional retention system. The groove provides radial positioning while the elastic stop ring provides axial retention, ensuring stable positioning under vibration conditions while maintaining installation simplicity.
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
Facilitates easy and reliable installation of the closure device, ensuring proper sealing and resistance to vibrations, while breaking preconceived notions about the use of elastic stop rings in the aeronautical field by providing a simple and cost-effective solution.
Implementation Method 1
an open elastic stop ring (40) capable of being inserted into a bore (13) of the hydraulic system (5)
Implementation Method 2
the peripheral portion abutting axially against the elastic ring
Implementation Method 3
the central portion blocking radially the elastic ring when the closure device is correctly positioned
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
The device has a plug (30) comprising a central portion (31) co-operating with a peripheral portion (32) surrounding the central portion. An elastic stop ring (40) is inserted into a hole (13) of a hydraulic system. The central portion projects from the peripheral portion toward outside the system to place a groove (25) visible from outside. The stop ring is housed in the groove and the hole. The peripheral portion axially abuts against the ring, and the central portion radially blocks the ring when the plug device is correctly positioned. An independent claim is also included for a hydraulic system.