Segmented Bead Annular Seal for Leak Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leak-before-press (LBP) systems for water supply fittings face issues such as reduced durability and robustness after crimping due to local section reductions or uncontrolled leaks around barbs, and rotation-related problems with flange-based seals, leading to potential leaks and damage.
Innovation Solution
An annular gasket with elastically deformable material featuring a bead with segments and discontinuities on either the inside or outside diameter, forming lunula-shaped sections to create individualized leakage channels before crimping, which are robust and durable after crimping, and can be mounted universally on both diameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a localized reduction in cross-section of the seal is used to create leak channels before crimping, then leak detection is enabled, but the seal becomes less robust and durable after crimping
Solution Approach 1:
The seal is segmented into multiple discrete beads arranged around the circumference, with gaps between them. This segmentation allows the seal to maintain overall structural integrity while creating controlled leak paths through the gaps, resolving the contradiction between enabling leak detection and maintaining post-crimping robustness.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal features localized beads with specific cross-sectional dimensions at predetermined positions, while the rest of the seal maintains uniform properties. This local quality variation enables controlled leakage through the bead gaps while preserving the overall strength and durability of the seal structure after crimping.
2Reliability
If protrusions are added to the seal to create leak paths, then leak detection is possible, but the seal surface contact is insufficient and leaks become uncontrolled
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous protrusions, the seal uses discrete segmented beads with controlled gaps between them. This segmentation provides well-defined, precise leak channels while maintaining sufficient contact area for controlled leakage, eliminating the uncontrolled leak problem.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rim is added to the seal to prevent rotation, then rotational stability is improved, but the seal may not retract properly during crimping and may leak after crimping
Solution Approach 1:
The seal design allows dynamic adjustment during the crimping process. The beads can rotate or shift position during crimping to achieve proper retraction and sealing, while still providing rotational stability during installation. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between preventing rotation and allowing proper crimping retraction.
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 ensures reliable leak detection before crimping, maintains robustness post-crimping, and prevents rotation-related issues, providing a universal and effective LBP system for water supply fittings.
Implementation Method 1
an annular seal (100) made of elastically deformable material
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 2A~3
Figure 4~5B
AI summary
annular joint (100) made of elastically deformable material, intended to ensure a leak-proof assembly between a first and a second pipe after crimping, the second pipe having an annular groove intended to receive the joint, said joint having a joint plane (P) at mid-thickness and an axis of revolution (X-X') perpendicular to said joint plane, characterized in that it has, at an intersection of the surface (S) of the joint and said joint plane, a bead (110) which extends radially and is formed of segments, said segments being separated by discontinuities forming leakage channels before crimping.