HVAC Round Pipe Fittings with Pre-Applied Sealant Latches
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current HVAC fittings require time-consuming and messy duct sealant application to create a leak-free seal, which is ineffective and aesthetically unpleasing, especially when applied to the interior of fittings, and can introduce fumes into conditioned air.
Innovation Solution
A method for creating a sealed latched sheet metal HVAC fitting by applying sealant to a subcomponent, using a guide like a bead, and joining the components with a COLATCH machine to form a permanent mechanical connection that includes the sealant within the latch, ensuring a leak-free joint without additional sealant application post-installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If duct sealant is applied to HVAC fittings after installation, then the system becomes leak-free, but the process is time-consuming and messy
Solution Approach 1:
The sealant is applied to the fitting during manufacturing before installation, rather than requiring post-installation application. This preliminary action ensures the seal is already in place when the fitting is installed, eliminating the time-consuming post-installation sealing process while maintaining the leak-free system requirement
2Reliability
If duct sealant is applied to HVAC fittings, then air leaks are sealed, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to brush marks and excess sealant
Solution Approach 1:
A guide structure is introduced as an intermediary element between the sealant application and the fitting surface. This guide ensures precise sealant placement within the latch connection, preventing excess sealant from creating unsightly brush marks while maintaining effective air leak sealing
Solution Approach 2:
The sealant application is localized to specific areas where it is needed for sealing, rather than being applied broadly. The guide directs sealant precisely to the latch connection area, ensuring air leak sealing while preventing aesthetic deterioration from misplaced or excessive sealant application
3Reliability
If duct sealant is applied to the interior of fittings, then internal leaks are sealed, but fumes and odors contaminate the conditioned air
Solution Approach 1:
The sealant application process is extracted and separated from the interior of the fitting. Instead of applying sealant inside the fitting where it could contaminate conditioned air, the sealant is applied externally to the latch connection area, eliminating the source of fumes and odors in the conditioned air while still achieving internal leak sealing
4Reliability
If duct sealant is applied prior to installation, then sealing is achieved, but the process is messy and requires extended drying time
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional mechanical brush application method is replaced with a controlled dispensing system that uses the guide structure to precisely place the sealant. This substitution eliminates the messiness associated with brush application and reduces drying time by ensuring precise, controlled placement without excess material
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 leak-free, aesthetically pleasing, and efficient installation process for HVAC fittings by integrating the sealant into the manufacturing process, eliminating the need for post-installation sealing and reducing potential air contamination from fumes.
Implementation Method 1
applying sealant to the first subcomponent or the second subcomponent; and joining the first subcomponent to the second subcomponent by creating a first subcomponent coupling on the first subcomponent, creating a second subcomponent coupling on the second subcomponent, and using the first subcomponent coupling, the second subcomponent coupling and the sealant to join the first subcomponent to the second subcomponent
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to providing a virtually air tight seal of the joints of fittings used in HVAC air distribution systems. The invention relates to the manufacturing process, equipment used in the manufacturing process, and the sealed fitting itself.