Valve insert element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve insert elements require precise matching with connecting pieces for effective sealing, leading to issues with dimensional deviations causing leaks, and are not backward compatible with connectors lacking a pipe section.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple circumferential sealing elements arranged radially and axially on the valve insert element, allowing for sealing without strict dimensional tolerances and compatibility with various connector designs, including those without a pipe section.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an axial sealing element is used on the front end face of the valve insert element, then sealing is achieved, but very precise dimensional matching between the valve insert element and connecting piece is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from axial sealing (one-dimensional contact on the end face) to radial sealing (circular contact around the periphery). The circumferential sealing element creates a sealing line around the entire circumference rather than relying on axial pressure at a single point, thereby reducing sensitivity to dimensional deviations in the axial direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the sealing mechanism from dependent on precise axial positioning to dependent on radial interference fit. The circumferential sealing element is designed to protrude radially beyond the outer surface of the connection section, creating a interference fit that compensates for variations in axial length of the valve insert element.
2Manufacturing precision
If a radial sealing element is used that projects beyond the outer surface of the connection section, then dimensional tolerance requirements are reduced, but the valve insert element cannot be used with connecting pieces that do not have a pipe section
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the circumferential sealing element to perform multiple functions: it provides radial sealing for connecting pieces with pipe sections, and simultaneously provides axial sealing for connecting pieces without pipe sections through its dual protrusion design (radially and axially beyond the connection section). This makes the valve insert element universally compatible with both types of connecting pieces.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element is designed with segmented functionality where different portions of the same sealing element serve different purposes. The portion protruding radially provides sealing for pipe-section connectors, while the portion protruding axially provides sealing for non-pipe-section connectors, allowing one sealing element to handle multiple connector types.
3Ease of manufacture
If the valve insert element is made shorter to simplify manufacturing, then production complexity is reduced, but the axial sealing element cannot sufficiently press against the sealing surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent shifts the sealing mechanism from axial compression to radial interference fit. The circumferential sealing element protrudes radially beyond the outer surface of the connection section, creating a sealing action through radial interference rather than axial compression. This allows the valve insert element to be shorter while maintaining effective sealing.
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
Ensures reliable sealing and backward compatibility by providing a flexible sealing solution that works with both new and existing connectors, maintaining effective fluid control and preventing leaks.
Implementation Method 1
two separate circumferential sealing elements are arranged in the connection section... sealing material of the sealing elements, by means of which the connection section can be sealed against the connection piece, protrudes radially over the inner lateral surface of the connection section and axially over the end face of the connection section
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The valve insert element (1) has a valve body (8) and an attachment section (11), which is connected to a connecting section (14) of a connecting piece (2) in a sealing manner by a circumferential sealing element (12). A sealing material made of an elastomeric material is provided, by which the attachment section is sealed against the connecting section and is radially projected over an inner lateral area (16) of the attachment section and axially over a front surface (17) of the attachment section facing the connecting section.