Segmental Elastic Sealing Plug for Annular Space Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sealing systems for annular spaces between tubular openings and tubes, cables, or ducts lack optimal ease of insertion and effective sealing, particularly under varying pressure conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising segmental parts made of elastic material with sawtooth-shaped outer ribs and inner ribs, where the geometry of the ribs allows for easy insertion and generates elastic forces that radially press the inner ribs, enhancing the sealing effectiveness by forming circumferential contact surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional sealing systems are used, then sealing function is provided, but ease of insertion is poor and labor costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing plug is divided into multiple segmental parts that can flex independently. Each segment contains ribs with specific geometries that allow controlled deformation during insertion. This segmentation enables the plug to adapt to the annular space geometry while maintaining sealing effectiveness, significantly improving ease of insertion compared to rigid conventional seals.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing system transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible structure. The segmental parts with elastic material allow the seal to deform dynamically during insertion and then maintain contact under varying pressure conditions. This dynamic behavior reduces insertion force requirements and labor costs while ensuring reliable sealing.
2Strength
If rigid sealing structures are used, then structural strength is maintained, but ease of insertion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing plug uses flexible elastic material in segmental parts rather than rigid structures. The material flexibility allows the seal to conform to the annular space during insertion while maintaining sufficient structural strength to provide effective sealing under pressure. This approach resolves the contradiction between strength and ease of insertion.
3Ease of manufacture
If simple rib geometry is used, then manufacturing is easier, but sealing effectiveness under pressure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ribs are designed with specific local geometries including angled surfaces and bend configurations tailored for different functions. Outer ribs have geometries optimized for engagement with the inner wall, while inner ribs have geometries optimized for contact with the tube/cable/duct. This localized optimization of rib geometry ensures effective sealing under pressure while maintaining manufacturability through standardized segmental part designs.
4Adaptability or versatility
If elastic material is used, then adaptability to annular space is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The use of segmental parts made of elastic material provides adaptability to different annular space geometries while maintaining structural stability through the segmented architecture. Each segment can deform independently to accommodate variations in the annular space, yet the overall plug structure remains stable and maintains sealing integrity under pressure conditions.
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 system facilitates easy insertion and tightening of the sealing plug, ensuring a secure and water-tight seal with reduced labor costs and improved performance under high pressure conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Each segmental part is made of an elastic material. When the plug is inserted into the annular space, the outer rib bends toward the large-diameter-end and adopt as such the diameter of the inner wall of the tubular opening. Elastic forces are introduced into the sealing plug.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for sealing an annular space between an inner wall of a tubular opening and one tube, cable or duct which extends through the tubular opening in the axial direction thereof, wherein the system comprises at least two segmental parts for forming a sealing plug in the annular space, each segmental part is made of an elastic material, each segmental part being provided with a small-diameter-end for facilitating insertion of the plug in the annular space and a large-diameter-end for positioning at the end of the tubular opening from which the segmental parts are inserted into the annular space, each segmental part further having a number of outer ribs spaced apart in a longitudinal direction for realizing, in use, circumferentially extending outer contact surfaces between the sealing plug and the inner wall of the opening, each segmental part further being provided with a number of inner ribs spaced apart in the longitudinal direction for realizing, in use, circumferentially extending inner contact surfaces which between the sealing plug and the tube, cable or duct.