Refrigeration Pipeline Adapter With Fastened Annular Seal Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of refrigeration system pipelines is cumbersome due to the need for welding, which complicates the connection process and may lead to inefficiencies and potential leaks.
Innovation Solution
A pipeline adapter with a first connection block, a second connection block, and a seal ring, featuring annular positioning grooves and platforms, and a fastener, which facilitates secure and leak-proof connection of pipelines by reducing the required pre-tightening force through a non-planar sealing surface design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If welding is used to connect pipelines in a refrigeration system, then the connection strength is improved, but the operation complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the welding process (thermal/mechanical system) with a mechanical fastening system using a fastener that threads into threaded holes in both connection blocks. This substitution eliminates the need for welding equipment and skilled welding operations while maintaining strong connections through mechanical interlocking and sealing.
2Reliability
If welding is used to connect pipelines, then the connection reliability is improved, but the time consumption and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The connection blocks are pre-equipped with threaded holes during manufacturing, allowing the fastener to be directly screwed in without requiring on-site welding preparation. This preliminary preparation of threading eliminates time-consuming welding operations during assembly while ensuring reliable connections through pre-designed threaded interfaces.
3Reliability
If a seal ring with a non-planar sealing surface is used, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seal ring incorporates a protruding portion with a curved or non-planar sealing surface that mates with a corresponding groove in the connection blocks. This curved surface design distributes sealing pressure more evenly and creates a more reliable seal compared to flat surfaces, while the protruding portion geometry allows for straightforward molding or machining during manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application provides a pipeline adapter including a first connection block, a second connection block, a fastener and a seal ring. The first connection block is provided with a first channel and a first annular positioning groove disposed around the first channel. The second connection block is provided with a second channel communicating with the first channel and a second annular positioning platform fitting inside the first annular positioning groove. The second annular positioning platform is disposed around the second channel. The fastener connects the first connection block to the second connection block. The seal ring fits between the first annular positioning groove and the second annular positioning platform. The pipeline adapter is convenient to use, has a favorable sealing effect, and facilitates pipeline connection of a refrigeration system.