Interchangeable Fitting System with Dual Sealing Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing high-pressure fittings lack flexibility in interchangeability, are not hand-tightenable at high pressures, and do not perform well under vacuum conditions, leading to leaks and inconvenience in field applications.
Innovation Solution
An interchangeable fitting system with male and female connectors featuring primary and secondary sealing structures, allowing hand-tightening up to 10,000 psi and wrench-tightening up to 150,000 psi, and operation under extended vacuum conditions, with adaptable threading systems for various connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional high-pressure fittings are used, then sealing capability is achieved, but interchangeability and ease of operation are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting system employs universal male and female connectors that can interface with multiple non-system connectors through standardized threading features. The male connector with its forward threading feature and the female connector with corresponding threading allow interchangeability across different connector types while maintaining sealing capability through the primary and secondary sealing structures.
2Ease of operation
If traditional high-pressure fittings are used, then sealing is achieved, but hand-tightening capability at high pressures is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is segmented into two independent structures: a primary sealing structure for initial sealing and a secondary sealing structure for enhanced sealing under high pressure. This segmentation allows the fitting to be hand-tightened to achieve primary sealing, while the secondary sealing structure provides additional reliability at high pressures without requiring tool-generated torques.
3Reliability
If traditional fittings are used, then connection is achieved, but performance under vacuum conditions is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting incorporates a secondary sealing structure that acts as a backup sealing mechanism before vacuum conditions are applied. This preemptive dual-sealing design ensures that if the primary seal is compromised under vacuum, the secondary seal maintains the integrity of the connection, preventing leakage and ensuring reliable vacuum operation.
4Reliability
If complex sealing mechanisms are used, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The male and female connectors are merged into a single integrated connection system where the threading features of both connectors work together to achieve both mechanical connection and sealing. The primary and secondary sealing structures are combined within the same connector assembly, allowing dual sealing functionality without requiring separate sealing mechanisms or additional components.
Data Source
AI summary
An interchangeable fitting system generally involving a fitting, the fitting including a male connector and a female connector, the male and female connectors each having a forward portion and an aft portion, the male connector having a primary sealing structure and a secondary sealing structure, the female connector having a primary sealing structure and a secondary sealing structure, and the male primary sealing structure being interfaceable with the female primary sealing structure, and the male secondary sealing structure being interfaceable with the female secondary sealing structure.