Ventilation duct connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors for air circulation ducts in controlled mechanical ventilation systems are prone to poor assembly in tight spaces, leading to leaks and uncoupling, and cause head losses due to rigid design and lack of sealing, affecting efficiency and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A flexible connector with a coupling head and corrugated tube that uses a clipping mechanism with flexible tabs and a sealing gasket for secure, one-handed assembly and rotation, allowing connections from any direction and preventing leaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional rigid connectors with bayonet engagement are used, then structural strength is improved, but assembly ease deteriorates in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The connector transitions from a rigid bayonet engagement requiring precise positioning and rotation to a dynamic push-fit mechanism with flexible tabs that automatically adapt to the connection port, eliminating the need for precise positioning and rotation while maintaining connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates flexible tabs made of elastomeric material that can deform during insertion and then elastic rebound to lock into the clipping ring, providing both ease of assembly in tight spaces and secure retention through elastic memory
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional rigid connectors are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates for connections from different directions
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a flexible tube section that can dynamically bend and orient itself to accommodate connections from various directions, while the coupling head maintains precise manufacturing tolerances for the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible tube section acts as a universal joint, allowing the connector to adapt to different connection directions and angles while the rigid coupling head provides precise positioning and locking capability
3Device complexity
If conventional rigid connectors without sealing are used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to leakages
Solution Approach 1:
The connector merges the sealing function with the structural locking mechanism by incorporating a sealing gasket that is integrated into the coupling head assembly, creating a unified component that provides both mechanical retention and air-tight sealing
Solution Approach 2:
A sealing gasket acts as an intermediary element between the coupling head and the connection port, filling micro-gaps and irregularities to prevent air leakage while not significantly increasing the overall device complexity
4Device complexity
If conventional rigid connectors with small coupling radius are used, then device complexity is reduced, but energy efficiency deteriorates due to head losses
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible tube section allows the connector to form smooth, gradual bends with larger effective radii, reducing turbulence and head losses in air circulation, while the overall connector structure remains relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design prioritizes smooth curved transitions over sharp angles, using the flexible tube to create gentle bends that minimize flow separation and reduce energy losses in the air circulation system
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
Facilitates quick, reliable, and leak-proof assembly of air circulation tubes to CMV units, reducing head losses and improving installation efficiency, especially in confined spaces.
Implementation Method 1
a coupling head (2) for coupling to the CMV unit (1), the coupling head (2) having a plurality of flexible tabs (4)
Implementation Method 2
incorporating a sealing gasket (8)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a ventilation duct connector, comprising a coupling head (2) for connection with a controlled mechanical ventilation (CMV) unit (1), wherein the coupling head (2) incorporates a plurality of flexible tabs (4) provided with means for establishing axial retention locking with freedom of rotation on a clipping ring (6) of the connection port (7) of the CMV unit (1), determining at the other end of the coupling head (2) a coupling for attachment with the air conduction tube to be connected with the CMV unit (1). The present invention also relates to a CMV unit (1) comprising said connector.