Flexible Section-Joint Seal Structure to Resist Wear and Compression Set
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flexible seals for movable barriers, such as garage doors, have a short lifespan due to wear and tear, and are prone to permanent compression set and crushing, failing to effectively seal against environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A flexible seal design with a scalable surface and a retaining surface, and a central region with a neck, comprising a first end and a second end, the central region comprising a neck, a first leg, and a second leg, where the neck is narrower than the ends, and a cavity between them, allowing for compressible legs to distribute flexing stresses and a solid mass for retaining strength, enhancing durability and sealing efficacy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard flexible seals are used for section joints, then the seal can be configured to seal the gap, but the seal has a short lifespan due to wear and tear from repeated movement
Solution Approach 1:
The seal is divided into multiple structural segments including a head, body, and tail portion, with the body further containing internal cavities and reinforcing ribs. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function - the head provides sealing contact, the body distributes stress through cavities and ribs, and the tail anchors the seal - thereby improving overall durability while maintaining sealing effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The seal incorporates a composite structure combining flexible sealing material with internal reinforcing elements such as ribs and cavities. This composite design provides both the flexibility needed for sealing and the structural strength to resist wear and crushing forces, extending the seal's operational lifespan
2Reliability
If standard flexible seals are used for section joints, then the seal can compress to form a tight seal, but the seal is prone to permanent compression set and crushing
Solution Approach 1:
The seal features localized structural enhancements including reinforcing ribs positioned at critical stress points within the body, and a specifically designed head portion with enhanced material properties. This local quality approach provides additional strength where compression forces are greatest while maintaining the overall flexibility needed for sealing contact
Solution Approach 2:
The seal incorporates internal cavities and a compliant body structure that act as cushioning elements, allowing the seal to deform and absorb compression forces before they reach critical levels. This beforehand cushioning prevents permanent compression set by dissipating stress energy during the sealing cycle
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 seal effectively distributes flexing stresses and maintains structural strength, providing a durable and long-lasting seal against environmental conditions, preventing wear and crushing, and ensuring proper closure of movable barriers.
Implementation Method 1
the first leg and the second leg being compressible into the cavity in a manner that a distance between the inwardly facing surfaces changes when the two adjacent frames are brought together
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible seal for sealing a gap between adjacent frames of a movable barrier may include a first end, a second end, and a central region extending between the first end and the second end. The first end may include a sealable surface and the second end may include a retaining surface. The central region may include a neck, legs, and a cavity. The neck may be narrower than the ends. The legs may each include an inwardly facing surface and an outwardly facing surface. The cavity may be positioned between the first end and the second end. When the flexible seal is compressed, the sealable surface may press against an adjacent frame. Further, the retaining surface and the outwardly facing surfaces may press against another adjacent frame. Further, the inwardly facing surfaces may compress the cavity such that a distance between the inwardly facing surfaces decreases.