Multi-Leg Elastomeric Seal for Single-Channel Enclosures
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elastomeric seals for enclosures with complex geometries or multiple components require multiple seals and channels, increasing manufacturing costs and space usage, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A single, unitary seal with multiple legs and angled walls, forming side sealing points, is designed to fit within a single channel, using a base, mid, and top plate configuration to seal multiple surfaces effectively, reducing the need for multiple seals and channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple seals are used to seal complex geometries and multiple components, then sealing effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing costs and space usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sealing functions into a single unitary seal structure with multiple legs that can seal multiple components and geometries simultaneously. This single seal replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate seals and channels, thereby maintaining sealing effectiveness while reducing device complexity and the number of parts required
Solution Approach 2:
The seal is designed as a multi-functional component where different legs of the seal can engage with different components (base plate, mid-plate, top plate) and sealing surfaces. This universal design allows one seal structure to perform the sealing function across multiple interfaces and geometries, eliminating the need for specialized seals for each component
2Reliability
If multiple seals and channels are used, then sealing coverage is improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple sealing functions into a single seal component, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and inventoried. This consolidation decreases manufacturing complexity and associated costs while maintaining comprehensive sealing coverage across all required interfaces
3Reliability
If multiple seal channels are created in components, then sealing capability is improved, but space consumption and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple seal channels into a single channel that accommodates the multi-legged seal structure. This reduces the space required in the enclosure components while maintaining the ability to seal multiple interfaces, as the single channel houses a seal with multiple legs that each engage different components
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 allows for effective sealing of complex geometries with reduced material and manufacturing costs, occupying less space, while maintaining high performance by utilizing a single seal channel and integrating with the enclosure's components.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric seal for an enclosure may have multiple sealing surfaces for sealing with multiple parts of the enclosure
Data Source
AI summary
A seal for sealing three adjacent structures is provided. The seal has a plurality of sealing legs designed to seal against different parts of the adjacent structures. In addition, the seal may have side sealing structures that seal against a groove in which the seal may be located.