Processing Head Connector With Oblique O-Ring Slot Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing processing heads for thermal material processing, such as plasma torches and laser heads, require high forces for fitting and positioning of wearing parts, and often lack clear rotational and axial alignment, leading to inefficiencies and potential damage during operation.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates connecting parts with obliquely extending slots and O-rings that initially contact at partial circumferences, allowing for reduced force requirements and precise axial, radial, and rotational positioning, ensuring a sealed connection with minimal deformation of the O-ring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional fitting methods with O-rings in slots are used for connecting parts, then sealing is achieved, but high fitting forces are required and clear rotational/axial alignment is not ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The slot is designed to extend obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis of the connecting part, introducing an angular dimension to the traditional axial slot. This oblique orientation allows the O-ring to be compressed at an angle during fitting, distributing the deformation more effectively and reducing the peak fitting force required while maintaining sealing integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The slot exhibits asymmetric positioning where lateral boundaries are at different distances from the rear end along the longitudinal axis. This asymmetric design creates a tapered compression path for the O-ring, allowing gradual deformation that reduces fitting force requirements compared to symmetric slots
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional fitting methods with O-rings in slots are used for connecting parts, then sealing is achieved, but clear rotational and axial alignment is not ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric slot configuration with lateral boundaries at different axial positions creates a unique geometric signature that enables clear rotational and axial alignment during fitting. The first connecting part can only be inserted in one specific orientation into the second connecting part, ensuring precise positioning without requiring complex alignment procedures
Solution Approach 2:
By extending the slot obliquely rather than purely axially, the design adds angular information to the alignment process. The oblique slot orientation acts as a mechanical key that guides the connecting parts into the correct rotational and axial positions relative to each other during insertion
3Reliability
If O-rings are compressed in conventional slots, then sealing is achieved, but significant O-ring deformation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The oblique slot orientation changes the direction and distribution of compressive forces acting on the O-ring. Instead of pure axial compression, the O-ring experiences angled compression that distributes stress more evenly across its cross-section, reducing localized deformation while maintaining sealing contact
Solution Approach 2:
The slot geometry parameters are optimized with specific width and depth dimensions that control the compression characteristics of the O-ring. The oblique angle and asymmetric positioning create a controlled deformation path that achieves sealing while preserving O-ring structural integrity
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
This solution enables easier fitting and secure sealing of wearing parts with reduced force, ensuring accurate alignment and extended part life, particularly in high-stress applications like plasma cutting and laser processing.
Implementation Method 1
an O-ring (132, 232), extending around the entire circumference, with a cord size Sa, wherein, when the first connecting part (100) is fitted or plugged into the second connecting part (200), the O-ring (132, 232) is initially in contact with the opposite inner face (240, 242, 244) or opposite outer face (110, 112, 142) only around a partial circumference
Data Source
AI summary
Connecting parts for a processing head for thermal material processing, comprises a body that extends along a longitudinal axis having an outer face, an inner face, a front end, and a rear end; and the inner face or the outer face has a slot, extending in the circumferential direction, with each slot having a slot depth and a slot bottom, wherein the slot bottom exhibits, around the circumference, different distances extending through the longitudinal axis and perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis between the opposite portions of the slot bottom, and one inner face or outer face exhibits, around the circumference, different distances, extending through the longitudinal axis and perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis, between the opposite portions of the inner face or outer face.