Perpendicular Clamp Interface for Face Seal Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current connector designs for conduits and housings in electric vehicle cooling systems lack efficient sealing, leading to potential leaks and complicate seal replacement due to parallel compressive and clamping forces.
Innovation Solution
A clamping mechanism utilizing bolt tension and a wedge interface, with perpendicular movement of the wedge interface to create compression, and multiple angled surfaces for progressive clamping force distribution, allowing for easy seal compression and component replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current connector designs with parallel compressive and clamping forces are used, then sealing is achieved, but seal replacement becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a perpendicular dimension between the clamping force direction and compressive force direction. The clamping force is applied horizontally through the connector body, while the compressive force on the seal is applied vertically through the wedge-shaped interface. This dimensional separation allows the seal to be compressed independently of the clamping mechanism, enabling easy seal replacement without disturbing the clamping structure.
2Ease of operation
If perpendicular wedge interface is used to create compression, then seal compression is facilitated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into distinct functional components: a connector body for clamping, a wedge-shaped interface for compression, and a seal. The wedge interface is further divided into first and second angled surfaces that work together to convert horizontal clamping motion into vertical compressive force on the seal. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge-shaped interface acts as an intermediary mechanism between the clamping force and the seal compression. It converts the horizontal clamping force into vertical compressive force through its angled surfaces, mediating the force transmission in a controlled manner. This intermediary structure simplifies the overall design by providing a clear mechanical advantage relationship rather than requiring direct vertical compression.
3Reliability
If multiple angled clamping surfaces are used for progressive clamping force, then sealing reliability improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple angled clamping surfaces into a single integrated wedge-shaped interface structure. Instead of separate adjustable surfaces, the wedge combines the first and second angled surfaces into one monolithic component that provides progressive clamping force distribution. This merging simplifies manufacturing while maintaining the reliability benefits of progressive force distribution across the seal interface.
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 mechanism effectively prevents leaks by ensuring parallel clamping and compressive forces, facilitating easy maintenance and secure conduit-housing connections.
Implementation Method 1
the perpendicular movement of the wedge interface reduces the interface distance and creates compression in the desired direction
Implementation Method 2
The interface of the clamp, tube flange, and housing create a progressive clamping force based on several wedge-shaped features
Implementation Method 3
the connection between the conduit and the housing compresses a seal
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping mechanism used for connecting one or more conduits or hoses to a housing. The clamping mechanism uses bolt tension and a wedge interface, where the perpendicular movement of the wedge interface reduces the interface distance and creates compression in the desired direction. At least one clamping component is assembled from one axis perpendicular from the clamping to achieve desired sealing. The interface of the clamp, a tube flange, and a housing create a progressive clamping force based on several wedge-shaped features. A portion of the interface may be molded into a separate part such that there are multiple connections using a single clamping mechanism.