Seal Applicator Module With Quick-Change O-Ring Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seal applicator apparatuses struggle to efficiently and precisely apply different types and sizes of seals to parts, often requiring extensive manual manipulation and limiting the ability to apply multiple seals to multiple parts simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
The automatic seal applicator apparatus features a seal applicator module with a conical element and jaws that separate and apply seals from a dispensing sleeve to a part, along with a quick-release module and turntable for efficient operation. This system allows for the automatic application of seals to multiple parts and the quick changeover of seal types and sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual manipulation is used to apply seals to parts, then the applicator can handle different seal types and sizes, but the process is slow and requires extensive worker manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The seal applicator is divided into modular components including a seal dispensing sleeve, a conical applicator element, and interchangeable jaw assemblies. Each module can be independently adjusted or replaced to accommodate different seal types and sizes, enabling versatile automated operation without requiring complete system reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus employs adjustable and interchangeable components rather than fixed structures. The jaw assembly can be replaced with different sized jaws, the conical element can be adjusted, and the dispensing sleeve can be changed to match different seal dimensions, allowing the automated system to adapt dynamically to various seal types while maintaining high-speed operation
2Device complexity
If a single seal applicator apparatus is used, then the structure is simple, but multiple parts cannot have seals applied simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple seal applicator units are combined into a single integrated apparatus sharing common support structures, control systems, and seal dispensing mechanisms. This merging allows simultaneous application of seals to multiple parts while avoiding the complexity of completely separate independent systems, achieving productivity enhancement with controlled structural complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If seals are stretched manually over the part, then precise positioning can be achieved, but the process is difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The conical applicator element automatically performs the stretching and positioning function that previously required manual manipulation. As the conical element is lowered onto the seal, it automatically stretches the seal material and guides it onto the part's circumferential groove, eliminating the need for worker manipulation while maintaining precise positioning through the geometric constraints of the conical shape
Data Source
AI summary
Automatic seal applicator apparatuses comprise a seal applicator module comprising a conical element and a pair of jaws or fingers that separates a seal, such as an O-ring, a D-ring, or other like seal, from a dispensing sleeve, and automatically applies the same to a part. Moreover, the apparatus comprises a quick-release module for quickly and easily removing one or both the dispensing sleeve and the conical element. In addition, the apparatus comprises a turntable allowing multiple parts to have seals applied thereto automatically. Finally, a system of a plurality of seal applicator apparatuses may be utilized for applying a plurality of seals to parts automatically.