Universal Adapter Flexible Cutout Cylinder Head

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing suction adapters for granulate blasting units are not universally compatible with different cylinder head openings, requiring multiple adapters for varying constructions, which increases costs and safety risks due to abrasive leakage.

Innovation Solution

A universal adapter with a flexible second connecting section featuring a cutout that compresses to fit various opening diameters, combined with a flexible first connecting section for secure suction line attachment, and an adjustable sealing collar for enhanced safety and compatibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple specialized suction adapters are kept for different cylinder head openings, then compatibility with various openings is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with various openingsVSAvoidnumber of adapters needed
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The suction adapter is designed with a universally adaptable second connecting section that can fit multiple different opening geometries through elastic deformation, eliminating the need for multiple specialized adapters. The flexible material allows the same adapter to serve multiple functions across different cylinder head types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The second connecting section is made from elastic or flexible material that can dynamically change its shape and diameter to match different opening geometries. This dynamic adaptability allows the adapter to transform from a fixed design to a variable one that conforms to various opening sizes and shapes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If rigid connecting sections are used for precise fit, then connection precision is improved, but adaptability to different opening geometries deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection precisionVSAvoidfit to different opening geometries
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The second connecting section is constructed from flexible material that can elastically deform to conform to different opening geometries while maintaining a secure, precise fit. This flexible shell approach replaces rigid precision-machined parts with an elastomeric solution that achieves both precision and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter utilizes changes in material properties through elastic deformation to adapt to different opening parameters. The flexible material allows dynamic adjustment of diameter and shape parameters to match various opening geometries while maintaining connection precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If the adapter diameter is reduced to fit smaller openings, then adaptability to small openings is improved, but structural strength deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefit to small openingsVSAvoidstructural strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible material allows the adapter to reduce its effective diameter for fitting into smaller openings without compromising structural integrity. The elastomeric properties enable the wall to thin and flex locally while maintaining overall strength through material elasticity and reinforcement structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter incorporates composite construction with fabric reinforcement embedded in the flexible material. This composite structure provides the necessary strength to withstand pressure differential forces even when the adapter diameter is reduced for fitting smaller openings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

4Reliability

If abrasive-tight sealing is ensured with rigid adapters, then safety is improved, but compatibility with varying opening shapes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveabrasive-tight sealingVSAvoidcompatibility with opening shapes
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible second connecting section conforms to the opening geometry and creates an abrasive-tight seal through elastic contact. The flexible material deforms to match the opening shape, ensuring comprehensive contact and sealing without gaps that could allow abrasive leakage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter utilizes elastic deformation to change its shape parameters, enabling it to adapt to various opening geometries while maintaining continuous contact for abrasive-tight sealing. The material's ability to deform and recover ensures consistent sealing pressure across different opening shapes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enables a single adapter to fit multiple cylinder heads with different geometries, reducing the need for multiple adapters and preventing abrasive leakage, thus enhancing safety and efficiency in cleaning operations.

Implementation Method 1

the flexible, normally elastic deformation of the connecting section by the cutout

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

after the periphery of the second connecting section is pressed against the inside of the opening by an elastic recovery

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic recovery: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10814456B2Universal adapter
Publication Date: 2020.10.27 TKR SPEZIALWERKZEUGE GMBH
  • US10814456B2 patent drawing
  • US10814456B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A universal adapter includes a main tube for a combined suction unit and blasting unit. The main tube has a first connecting section for connection to a suction line of the suction unit and a second connecting section for connection to a working chamber. In order to reduce the number of suction adapters needed to connect to different openings in working chambers, the second connecting section is made of a flexible material and has a cutout in its periphery that extends from a free end of the second connecting section in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the main pipe.