Ringless Zero-Clearance Closure for Lower-Cost Pressure Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional C-Ring and zero clearance closures for pressurized cavities are expensive and time-consuming to produce due to the need for precise machining.
Innovation Solution
A new closure assembly featuring a retaining cover, first and second catch plates, and a closure that presses against these catch plates, with a locking feature like a locknut for retention, which allows for simpler manufacturing and reduced costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional C-Ring and zero clearance closures are used, then high load capability and small packaging are achieved, but manufacturing cost and production time increase due to tight tolerance machining requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The closure assembly is divided into multiple components: a closure body, a retention plate with first and second catch plates, and a locking feature. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately with more relaxed tolerances, avoiding the need for tight tolerance machining of a single integrated C-Ring while maintaining the zero clearance sealing capability through the coordinated interaction of the segmented parts.
2Reliability
If conventional C-Ring closures are used, then zero clearance retention is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and expense increase
Solution Approach 1:
The catch plates are designed with self-centering features where the outwardly facing curved surfaces contact the valve bore, automatically positioning the closure assembly centered in the valve without requiring precision machining. The load distribution features on the catch plates automatically engage with the valve bore to maintain zero clearance retention, eliminating the need for complex secondary retention methods while simplifying manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
A closure assembly including a retaining cover, a first catch plate sitting partially within the retaining cover, a second catch plate sitting partially within the retaining cover opposite the first catch plate and spaced apart from the first catch plate, and a closure pressing against the first catch plate and pressing against the second catch plate.