Sealing Device with Chicanes for Flush Human-Machine Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing human-machine dialogue elements in industrial settings face issues with dust accumulation due to a clearance under the flange when an identification device is not present, which compromises sealing and aesthetics, especially in flush architecture designs.
Innovation Solution
A sealing device with a ring-shaped seal featuring annular edges and chicanes to form bearing and disengagement zones, allowing for secure sealing between the human-machine dialogue element and the wall without a clearance under the flange, and accommodating identification devices with tongues that attach to the seal's bearing zones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a clearance is provided between the seal and the flange to accommodate an identification device, then the identification device can be positioned on the human-machine dialogue element, but dust and particles can deposit in the clearance compromising the seal
Solution Approach 1:
The seal is divided into two distinct annular parts: a first annular part that provides the sealing function against the wall, and a second annular part that provides the bearing surface for the identification device. This segmentation allows both functions to be performed without requiring a clearance that would compromise sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-plane seal design to a multi-dimensional design where the second annular part extends axially to create a bearing surface. This dimensional change allows the identification device to be positioned on the seal itself rather than in a clearance space, eliminating dust accumulation issues.
2Shape
If the flange is made very low height for flush architecture, then a sleek appearance is achieved, but there is insufficient space to accommodate identification devices
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing the radial height of the flange, the invention utilizes the axial dimension by extending the second annular part of the seal to create a bearing surface. This allows identification devices to be accommodated on the seal structure itself, preserving the low-profile flush architecture of the flange.
Solution Approach 2:
The second annular part of the seal serves multiple functions: it provides sealing against the wall opening and simultaneously creates a bearing surface for positioning identification devices. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional structural elements.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single seal design is used for both elements with and without identification devices, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but the seal must accommodate variable conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The seal is designed as a universal component with two annular parts that can accommodate both elements with and without identification devices. The first annular part provides sealing in all cases, while the second annular part provides bearing surfaces when identification devices are present, making the same seal design suitable for variable applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal incorporates different local qualities in its two annular parts: the first part is optimized for sealing contact with the wall, while the second part is optimized for bearing contact with identification devices. This local differentiation allows a single seal design to handle variable conditions effectively.
Data Source
AI summary
A sealing device for a human-machine dialogue element intended to be fixed through a wall, the device including a seal formed in a ring around an axis, the seal including a first annular edge and a second annular edge. The second edge follows a path including a plurality of chicanes so as to form at least one concave part delimiting a bearing zone on one face of the seal and at least one convex part delimiting a disengagement zone on the face of the seal to circumvent a positioning element of the seal.