Self-Retaining Elastomeric Seal Friction Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Elastomeric seals and gaskets in various industries face challenges in maintaining 'open' and 'closed' conditions, requiring complex adhesive or mechanical retention methods, which complicate manufacturing and increase costs.
Innovation Solution
A self-retaining elastomeric seal design for external drive enclosures that does not require fasteners or glue, providing effective sealing against moisture and contaminants while allowing easy replacement, and offering sufficient latching force and tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If adhesive or mechanical seal retention methods are used, then seal retention is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric seal is designed to be self-retaining through its own elastic properties and geometric configuration. The seal's body is compressed between the first and second surfaces, and its elasticity provides continuous retention force without requiring external fasteners, adhesives, or mechanical retention structures. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional retention components and simplifies the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal utilizes changes in elastic parameters under compression to achieve retention. When the seal is compressed between the two surfaces, its elastic modulus and compressive force change, creating a friction force that retains the seal in place. The elastic properties allow the seal to deform under compression and generate sufficient friction force to prevent displacement, providing reliable retention through parameter changes rather than additional mechanical structures.
2Reliability
If adhesive or mechanical seal retention methods are used, then seal retention is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seal's self-retaining capability eliminates the need for costly adhesives, fasteners, or complex mechanical retention systems. The elastomeric material's inherent elasticity and the friction force generated during compression provide sufficient retention, reducing bill of materials costs and simplifying assembly operations. This approach lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining reliable seal retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric seal is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily replaced if needed. The seal's geometric configuration and material properties provide sufficient retention life for the application without requiring expensive retention mechanisms. The simplicity of the seal design allows for cost-effective manufacturing and potential replacement cycles.
3Reliability
If the seal provides sufficient latching force, then sealing effectiveness is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric seal provides dynamic retention that adapts to operational forces. Under normal sealing conditions, the seal's elasticity generates sufficient friction force to maintain retention and provide effective sealing. When opening forces are applied, the seal can deform and release from the compressed state, allowing easy opening and closing operations. This dynamic behavior balances sealing effectiveness with operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal's elastic parameters change under different operational conditions. During closing, compression increases the elastic force and friction, providing strong retention and sealing. During opening, the compression force decreases, reducing the retention force and allowing easy removal. This parameter change with operational state enables both effective sealing and ease of operation.
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 enables a cost-effective, efficient, and reliable sealing mechanism that maintains enclosure integrity under shock, vibration, and exposure to contaminants, with the ability to withstand drops and water submersion, while simplifying manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
the seal is made of an elastomeric material and configured with a retention feature, a sealing feature, and a cushioning feature
Implementation Method 2
The seal is compressed between a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface of the enclosure and retains itself in the enclosure based on a friction force generated during compression
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an improved seal that allows for a fastener-less/adhesive-less assembly retention method. In particular, the seal may comprise a plurality of integral retention prongs that allows permanent assembly with a plastic housing via friction. The seal is self-retaining, and thus, does not require a fastener or glue. The seal protects the interior of the enclosure from moisture and contaminants when exposed to a mobile environment. In addition, the seal provides sufficient resistance to deliver a proper sealing force and tactile feel to a user when closing the rugged enclosure, while maintaining its shape.