Rotating Vessel Wall Connector Assembly for Leak-Resistant Tube Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid-conducting connector assemblies face challenges in attaching molded plastic connectors robustly and leak-resistantly to dissimilar substrates like metal walls, as purely mechanical joints require additional parts for sealing, while purely adhesive methods lack mechanical strength and are sensitive to surface cleanliness.
Innovation Solution
A fluid connector assembly featuring a cylindrical body with radially extending locking members and a sealing flange, which rotates to create a mechanical seal against the vessel wall, utilizing a combination of mechanical and adhesive sealing for robustness and leak resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a purely mechanical joint is used to attach the connector to the vessel wall, then mechanical strength and robustness are improved, but additional parts for sealing are required which increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing flange integrates the sealing function directly into the mechanical joint structure. The flange extends circumferentially from the body and seals against the vessel wall surface, combining the mechanical attachment and sealing functions into a single integrated component, eliminating the need for separate sealing parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body is formed from molded plastic material that provides both structural strength and sealing capability. The material composition and molding process create an integrated structure that performs both mechanical attachment and fluid sealing functions.
2Device complexity
If a purely adhesive joint is used to attach the connector to the vessel wall, then device complexity is reduced, but mechanical strength becomes insufficient and surface cleanliness becomes critical
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing flange merges the sealing function with the mechanical joint, creating a structure that provides both mechanical attachment and sealing in one integrated component, eliminating the need for separate adhesive applications and surface preparation steps.
3Strength
If locking members are added to provide robust attachment, then mechanical strength is improved, but the installation process becomes more complex requiring rotation and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The locking members are designed to be rotatable relative to the body, allowing dynamic adjustment during installation. The members can rotate from an open position during insertion to a locked position when engaged with recesses in the vessel wall, providing ease of installation while maintaining strong attachment.
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 a robust, leak-resistant, and easy-to-install fluid connection that maintains mechanical strength and sealing integrity, even under conditions of high heat, vibration, or chemical exposure, while allowing for easy disassembly for maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
Rotation of the body within the aperture produces a force in a longitudinal axial direction between the first and second locking members and the vessel wall causing the sealing flange to seal against the vessel wall
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly, connector and method is disclosed for making a fluid connection between a vessel wall and a fluid tube. The assembly includes a male connector having a cylindrical body and an internal fluid passage through the male connector between a head portion located at an upper end of the male connector and a base portion on a lower end of the male connector. An aperture is formed on the vessel wall and at least first and second recesses are formed along an edge of the aperture. The base portion has at least first and second locking members located in a spaced relation to the other on opposite sides of the base portion and a sealing flange extends circumferentially about the base portion. The base portion is arranged to be installed in the aperture with each locking member accepted within a respective recess. Rotation of the male connector causes the locking members to rotate within the aperture and seal the sealing flange against the wall. A female connector connected to the fluid tube is installed on the male connector head portion.