HVAC round pipe sealed fittings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC fittings in ductwork systems require time-consuming and often ineffective sealing processes, which can lead to air leaks and are aesthetically unpleasing.
Innovation Solution
A method for creating a sealed latched sheet metal HVAC fitting by applying sealant to one of the subcomponents and using a COLATCH machine to form a permanent mechanical joint, ensuring a sealed latch connection without the need for additional sealing after installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If duct sealant is applied to fittings after installation, then air leaks are sealed, but the process is time-consuming and ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The sealant is applied to the fitting subcomponents during the manufacturing process before the fittings are shipped to the installation site. This preliminary action ensures that the sealing is already in place before installation, eliminating the need for time-consuming post-installation sealing operations and ensuring reliable air leak prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting is designed with integral sealant application features where the sealant is self-contained within the fitting structure during manufacturing. The fitting essentially seals itself through the pre-applied sealant that is integrated into the joint design, eliminating the need for separate sealing operations by installers.
2Reliability
If duct sealant is painted on fittings, then joints are sealed, but the appearance becomes unpleasing with visible brush marks
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is extracted from the installation process and integrated into the manufacturing process. By applying sealant during manufacturing when the fitting is assembled, the sealing action occurs before the fitting is installed in the duct system, making the sealant application invisible and eliminating aesthetic concerns about brush marks on visible surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealant is applied in advance during manufacturing rather than during installation. This timing difference allows the sealant to be applied in a controlled manufacturing environment where appearance is not a concern, and the fitting is then shipped with the seal already in place, preserving aesthetic appearance while ensuring reliable sealing.
3Reliability
If duct sealant is applied inside the fitting, then internal seals are created, but the process is time-consuming and introduces fumes to conditioned air
Solution Approach 1:
The sealant is applied during the manufacturing process in a controlled factory environment where ventilation and safety protocols are in place. This preliminary action completes the sealing before the fitting enters the HVAC system, preventing any fumes from being introduced to conditioned air during installation and eliminating the need for time-consuming internal sealing operations.
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 HVAC fitting that reduces installation time and eliminates the need for post-installation sealing, ensuring efficient and effective air sealing within HVAC systems.
Implementation Method 1
The sealant can be applied to the bead evenly and may not leak out after the first subcomponent is joined to the second subcomponent
Implementation Method 2
The sealant can be a hot-melt sealant
Data Source
AI summary
A manufactured sealed latched sheet metal circular HVAC fitting including a first subcomponent having a HVAC end and a first subcomponent coupling, a second subcomponent having a HVAC end and a second subcomponent coupling, sealant on the first subcomponent or the second subcomponent, and a sealed latched joint created by the connection of the second subcomponent coupling with the first subcomponent coupling, the sealed latched joint using the sealant on the first subcomponent or the second subcomponent as part of the sealed latch joint.