Multi-Projection Seal for HVAC Ribs
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing sealing structures for HVAC air handling systems in vehicles suffer from decreased sealing effectiveness due to deformation and indentation when compressed between a planar surface and a plurality of spaced apart ribs, leading to gaps and compromised sealing performance.
Innovation Solution
A sealing structure with a first projection and a second projection, where the second projection is spaced further apart than the first, is used to distribute forces evenly and prevent indentation, ensuring a continuous sealing surface when compressed between a planar surface and spaced apart ribs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sealing structure is compressed between a planar surface and spaced apart ribs, then the sealing structure provides fluid containment, but the spaced apart ribs cause deformation and indentation of the sealing structure
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing structure is segmented into multiple projections (first projection and second projection) that correspond to the spaced apart ribs. Each projection independently contacts a rib, distributing the compression forces across multiple discrete contact points rather than a continuous surface, thereby preventing deformation and maintaining sealing effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the sealing structure are given different properties through the multi-projection design. The first projection has a first sealing surface at a first distance from the second face, while the second projection has a second sealing surface at a second distance from the second face. This local differentiation allows each projection to independently manage the sealing function at its specific location, preventing mutual interference and deformation.
2Force
If the sealing structure is compressed between planar surface and spaced apart ribs, then force distribution is required, but the spaced apart configuration causes unbalanced forces and indentation
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing structure divides the force distribution function across multiple discrete projections. Each projection independently absorbs and distributes compression forces from the spaced apart ribs, converting the unbalanced force distribution problem into multiple balanced local force interactions, thereby maintaining sealing surface flatness and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the sealing structure by creating projections at different distances from the second face (first distance vs. second distance). This parameter differentiation allows each projection to optimize its force distribution characteristics independently, ensuring balanced force distribution across the entire sealing structure while maintaining manufacturing precision.
3Device complexity
If a single sealing surface is used with spaced apart ribs, then the sealing structure is simple, but gaps form between the sealing surface and planar surface
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing structure uses multiple discrete projections instead of a single continuous sealing surface. This segmentation creates multiple independent sealing paths that prevent gap formation, as each projection maintains contact with the planar surface independently. The segmented design achieves reliable sealing without significantly increasing overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a two-dimensional sealing surface to a three-dimensional multi-level projection structure. By adding the dimension of height variation (different distances from the second face), the sealing structure achieves superior seal integrity while managing the complexity through vertical differentiation rather than horizontal expansion.
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 provides improved sealing capabilities by maintaining a continuous sealing surface without depressions, enhancing the integrity of the seal and preventing buckling or folding, thus maintaining effective fluid containment.
Implementation Method 1
the second projection is spaced further apart than the first, is used to distribute forces evenly and prevent indentation
Implementation Method 2
The sealing structure 110 is formed of an elastomeric material and is configured to be compressed between the outer wall 104 of the housing 105 and a panel 106
Data Source
AI summary
A seal assembly for an air handling system of a motor vehicle comprises a panel having a surface disposed on a first plane, a plurality of spaced apart ribs with an end of each of the ribs disposed on a second plane, and a sealing structure having a first face in facing relationship with the surface of the panel and an opposing second face in facing relationship with the plurality of the spaced apart ribs. The first face includes a first projection projecting therefrom including a first sealing surface spaced apart from the second face of the main body by a first distance and second projection projecting away from the first sealing surface of the first projection and including a second sealing surface spaced apart from the second face of the main body by a second distance greater than the first distance.