SUPPORT DEVICE FOR MANUFACTURING A PARTS CLEANER AND METHODS THEREOF

Abstract

A bracketing device configured to secure a connector, the bracketing device including: a first side section comprising: a first subsection comprising a first supporting bracket; a second subsection connected to the first subsection, wherein the second subsection comprises a first securing bracket pair; and a third subsection connected to the second subsection; a second side section comprising: a fourth subsection comprising a second supporting bracket; a fifth subsection connected to the fourth subsection, wherein the fifth subsection comprises a second securing bracket pair; and a sixth subsection connected to the fifth subsection; and an end connecting section positioned between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connecting section comprises an end bracket.

Description

1 / 19 “SUPPORT DEVICE FOR MANUFACTURING A PARTS CLEANER AND METHODS THEREOF” CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED REQUESTS

[0001] This application claims priority over U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 492,127, filed March 24, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. FIELD OF TECHNIQUE

[0002] Aspects of this disclosure generally relate to support devices and, more particularly, to support devices capable of securing laboratory parts during a washing / disinfection process and associated methods. INTRODUCTION

[0003] Washer-disinfectors (washers) are used for the automated cleaning of laboratory and / or surgical equipment. More specifically, washers conventionally work by combining pressurized spray, water temperature, and detergent to clean the equipment that is loaded inside, which may be heat-resistant and / or heat-sensitive. The advantages of using a washer for an automated cleaning process are consistency, productivity, and control of essential parameters such as temperature, chemicals, and time. Problems can arise, however, if the loaded equipment is dislodged during the disinfection process.

[0004] This disclosure is therefore directed to the use of a support device during the washing and disinfection of equipment that addresses the aforementioned problems. The description of the background provided in this document is intended to present the context of the disclosure in a general manner. Unless otherwise indicated in this document, the materials described in this section are not prior art for the claims in this application and are not admitted as prior art, or suggestions of prior art, by inclusion in this section. SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] According to certain aspects of disclosure, a device is disclosed Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 55 / 75 2 / 19 support that holds a connector device during an equipment disinfection process.

[0006] In one aspect, a support device is provided configured to secure a connector. The support device includes: a first side section comprising: a first subsection comprising a first support bracket; a second subsection connected to the first subsection, wherein the second subsection comprises a first pair of securing brackets; and a third subsection connected to the second subsection; a second side section comprising: a fourth subsection comprising a second support bracket; a fifth subsection connected to the fourth subsection, wherein the fifth subsection comprises a second pair of securing brackets; and a sixth subsection connected to the fifth subsection; and an end connection section positioned between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connection section comprises an end support.

[0007] In another aspect, an equipment fastening device is provided. The equipment fastening device includes: a connector configured to fasten a piece of equipment, wherein the connector comprises a first gripping component and a second gripping component; a support device that is fastened to and at least partially encloses the connector, wherein the support device comprises: a first side section comprising: a first subsection comprising a first support bracket; a second subsection connected to the first subsection, wherein the second subsection comprises a first pair of fastening brackets; and a third subsection connected to the second subsection; a second side section comprising: a fourth subsection comprising a second support bracket; a fifth subsection connected to the fourth subsection, wherein the fifth subsection comprises a second pair of fastening brackets; and a sixth subsection connected to the fifth subsection;and an end connection section positioned between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connection section comprises an end support; wherein the first pair of supports; Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 56 / 75 The 3 / 19 fastener is secured around the first gripping component, wherein the second pair of fastening supports is secured around the second gripping component, and wherein the end support is secured to the first end of the connector.

[0008] In yet another aspect, a method of attaching a connector to a support device is provided, the method includes: attaching a first connector gripping component between a first pair of support brackets of the support device; attaching a second connector gripping component between a second pair of support brackets of the support device; and attaching a first end of the connector between an end bracket and the first support bracket and a second support bracket of the support device.

[0009] It should be understood that both the preceding general description and the following detailed description are merely illustrative and explanatory and are not restrictive of the modalities, as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The accompanying figures, which are incorporated into and form a part of this specification, illustrate the disclosed embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments. There are many aspects and embodiments described in this document. Those ordinarily skilled in the art will readily recognize that the features of a particular aspect or embodiment can be used in conjunction with the features of any or all of the other aspects or embodiments described in this disclosure. In the figures:

[0011] FIG. 1 represents a perspective view of a support device, according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 2 represents a perspective view of a connection device configured to secure a piece of equipment, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 3 represents an exemplary process for fixing a device. Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, p. 57 / 75 4 / 19 connection to a supporting device, according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 4 represents a perspective view of a connection device fixed by a support device, according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 5 represents a perspective view of a piece of equipment attached to a connecting device that is secured by a support device, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE MODALITIES

[0016] The terminology used below may be interpreted in its broadest reasonable manner, despite being used in combination with a detailed description of certain specific examples of the present disclosure. In fact, certain terms may even be emphasized below; however, any terminology intended to be interpreted in any restricted manner will be openly and specifically defined as such in this Detailed Description section. Both the preceding general description and the following detailed description are illustrative and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the features as claimed.

[0017] In this disclosure, the term "based on" means "based at least in part on." The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context dictates otherwise. The term "exemplary" is used in the sense of "example" rather than "ideal." The terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," or other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, so that a process, method, or product comprising a list of elements does not necessarily include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Relative terms, such as "substantially," and "generally," are used to indicate a possible variation of ±10% from a stated or understood value.

[0018] A common problem that occurs during a disinfection cycle in Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 58 / 75 5 / 19 A problem with a washer (e.g., a single-chamber or multi-chamber STERIS washer / disinfector) is that equipment can fall from a support on which it is placed. Once a part is dislodged, it is considered unclean and needs to be washed again. In these situations, another run of the disinfection cycle needs to be started, which often contains very few parts (e.g., only the parts that were dislodged). A single run of the disinfection cycle can take a minimum of 2 operators to start and can have a run time of approximately three to four hours. Furthermore, each run is extremely expensive due to the variety of solutions used, as well as the labor and energy required to run the cycle. Consequently, the need to rerun the washer to account for dislodged equipment is costly, time-consuming, and onerous.

[0019] To minimize equipment displacement, small parts are conventionally secured to a support on the washer using a Tri-Clamp (TC) type plastic connector. The TC connector can securely hold a piece of equipment and keep it upright during the disinfection cycle. However, due to the caustic and acidic solutions used by the washer, as well as the warm environment inside the washer, the TC connectors eventually expand and lose their ability to properly hold the equipment, causing the equipment to become dislodged. In view of the above, there is a need for a better securing solution for small equipment undergoing a disinfection cycle in a washer.

[0020] Therefore, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a support device that is capable of attaching to a TC connector. More particularly, the support device can ensure that the TC connector maintains its gripping properties so that any equipment connected to the TC connector is properly secured throughout the duration of the disinfection cycle. Furthermore, the support device can be designed to attach to the TC connector without interrupting the flow path of any cleaning solutions. Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, p. 59 / 75 6 / 19

[0021] Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure described below and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to identical or similar parts. Additional objects and advantages of the embodiments will be set forth in part in the description that follows and in part will be obvious from the description or may be learned by practicing the embodiments. It should be understood that both the preceding general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the claims.

[0022] With reference to FIG. 1, a perspective view of an exemplary support device is provided. In one embodiment, the support device 100 may contain an end connection section 105, a first side section 110 and a second side section 115.

[0023] In one embodiment, the end connection section 105 may have a first surface 105a and a second surface 105b. In one embodiment, the first surface 105a may have substantially the same shape and / or dimensions as the second surface 105b. For example, each of the first surface 105a and the second surface 105b may be rectangular in shape and may be substantially the same length and width. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the first surface 105a may have a different shape and / or dimensions from the second surface 105b. For example, both the first surface 105a and the second surface 105b may have the same shape (e.g., rectangular shape), but the first surface 105a may have a shorter length than the second surface 105b. In one embodiment, the end connection section 105 may further have a first edge 105c and a second edge 105d.In one embodiment, the first 105c edge may be parallel to and positioned opposite the second 105d edge. In another embodiment, each of the first 105c edge and the second 105d edge may have a thickness that is equivalent to or different from the other edge.

[0024] In one embodiment, extending from a first extremity 120a Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pages 60 / 75 7 / 19 of the end connection section 105 is a first side section 110, and extending from a second end 120b of the end connection section 105 is a second side section 115. In one embodiment, each of the first side section 110 and the second side section 115 may extend away from the end connection section 105 at an obtuse angle 125a, 125b, respectively, wherein the obtuse angle 125a formed between the connection of the end connection section 105 and the first side section 110 may be the same or different angle as the obtuse angle 125b formed between the connection of the end connection section 105 and the second side section 115. Therefore, in one embodiment, the first side section 110 may not be parallel to the second side section 115.

[0025] In one embodiment, the first side section 110 may contain a first subsection 130 directly connected to the first end 120a of the end connection section 105, and the second side section 115 may contain a first subsection 135 directly connected to the second end 120b of the end connection section 105. Each of the first subsections 130, 135 may contain a first surface 130a, 135a and a second surface 130b, 135b, respectively. In one embodiment, for each of the first subsections 130, 135, the first surface 130a, 135a may have substantially the same shape and / or dimensions as the second surface 130b, 135b. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the first surface 130a, 135a may have a different shape and / or different dimensions from the second surface 130b, 135b.In one embodiment, the shape and / or dimensions of the first surface 130a or the second surface 130b of the first subsection 130 may be the same as or different from the shape and / or dimensions of the first surface 135a or the second surface 135b of the first subsection 135. In one embodiment, each of the first subsection 130, 135 may have a first edge 130c, 135c and a second edge 130d, 135d. In one embodiment, the first edge 130c, 135c may be parallel to and positioned opposite the second edge 130d, 135d. In one embodiment, each of the first edge 130c, 135c and the second edge 130d, 135d may have a thickness that is... Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 61 / 75 8 / 19 equivalent or different from the other edge.

[0026] In one embodiment, the first lateral section 110 may contain a second subsection 140 directly connected to a distal end 145a of the first subsection 130 and the second lateral section 115 may contain a second subsection 150 directly connected to a distal end 145b of the first subsection 135. In one embodiment, each of the second subsections 140, 150 may extend away from the first subsections 130, 135 at an acute, 90-degree, or obtuse angle. In one embodiment, the angle formed between the second subsection 140 and the first subsection 130 may be the same as or different from the angle formed between the second subsection 150 and the first subsection 135. In one embodiment, the shape and / or dimensions of the second subsections 140, 150 may be the same as or different from the shape and / or dimensions of the first subsections 130, 135.

[0027] Each of the second subsections 140, 150 may contain a first surface 140a, 150a and a second surface 140b, 150b. In one embodiment, for each of the second subsections 140, 150, the first surface 140a, 150a may have substantially the same shape and / or dimensions as the second surface 140b, 150b. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the first surface 140a, 150a may have a different shape and / or different dimensions from the second surface 140b, 150b. In one embodiment, the shape and / or dimensions of the first surface 140a or the second surface 140b of the second subsection 140 may be the same as or different from the shape and / or dimensions of the first surface 150a or the second surface 150b of the second subsection 150. In one embodiment, each of the second subsections 140, 150 may have a first edge 140c, 150c and a second edge 140d, 150d. In one embodiment, the first edge 140c, 150c may be parallel to and positioned opposite the second edge 140d, 150d.In one configuration, each of the first 140c, 150c edges and the second 140d, 150d edges can have a thickness that is equivalent to or different from the other edge.

[0028] In one embodiment, the first lateral section 110 may contain a third subsection 155 directly connected to a distal end 160a of Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 62 / 75 9 / 19 second subsection 140 and the second lateral section 115 may contain a third subsection 165 directly connected to a distal end 160b of the second subsection 150. In one embodiment, each of the third subsections 155, 165 may extend away from the second subsections 140, 150 at an acute, 90-degree, or obtuse angle. In one embodiment, the angle formed between the third subsection 155 and the second subsection 140 may be the same as or different from the angle formed between the third subsection 165 and the second subsection 150. In one embodiment, the shape and / or dimensions of the third subsections 155, 165 may be the same as or different from the shape and / or dimensions of the second subsections 140, 150 and / or the first subsections 130, 135.

[0029] Each of the third subsections 155, 165 may contain a first surface 155a, 165a and a second surface 155b, 165b. In one embodiment, for each of the third subsections 155, 165, the first surface 155a, 165a may have substantially the same shape and / or dimensions as the second surface 155b, 165b. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the first surface 155a, 165a may have a different shape and / or different dimensions from the second surface 155, 165a. In one embodiment, the shape and / or dimensions of the first surface 155a or the second surface 155b of the third subsection 155 may be the same as or different from the shape and / or dimensions of the first surface 165a or the second surface 165b of the third subsection 165. In one embodiment, each of the third subsections 155, 165 may have a first edge 155c, 165c and a second edge 155d, 165d. In one embodiment, the first edge 155c, 165c may be parallel to and positioned opposite the second edge 155d, 165d.In one configuration, each of the first 155c, 165c edge and the second 155d, 165d edge can have a thickness that is equivalent to or different from the other edge.

[0030] In one embodiment, some or all of the surfaces of any of the above-mentioned sections of the support device may be substantially solid (for example, as currently illustrated in FIG. 1). Alternatively, in another embodiment, some or all of the surfaces of any of the sections may be partially hollow. For example, some or Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 63 / 75 10 / 19 All surfaces of any of the sections may contain one or more holes (e.g., circular holes, oval holes, rectangular holes, etc.) contained therein. In one embodiment, each of the edges of the support device may have a particular type of finish (e.g., an edge may be a sharp edge, chamfered edge, fillet edge, angled edge, etc.). The type of finish may be the same for each of the edges, the same for a subset of the edges, or different for each edge.

[0031] In one embodiment, the end connection section 105 may contain an end support 170. In one embodiment, the end support 170 may be integrated into the first edge 105c at virtually any position along a length of the end connection section 105. For example, the end support 170 illustrated in FIG. 1 is positioned substantially in the middle of the end connection section 105. In one embodiment, the end support 170 may have virtually any shape (e.g., square shape, rectangular shape, trapezoidal shape, etc.). In one embodiment, the end support 170 may extend away from the first edge 105c toward an open central area of ​​the support device 100. More particularly, in one embodiment, the end support 170 may extend away from the first edge 105c at an angle (e.g., an acute angle, etc.).

[0032] In one embodiment, each of the first subsections 130, 135 may contain a support bracket 175, 180. In one embodiment, the bracket 175 may be integrated into the second edge 130d of the first subsection 130 and the bracket 180 may be integrated into the second edge 135d of the first subsection 135. In one embodiment, each of the support brackets 175, 180 may be positioned in virtually any position along a length of the first subsections 130, 135. For example, the support brackets 175, 180 illustrated in FIG. 1 are positioned substantially in the middle of the first subsections 130, 135. In one embodiment, the support brackets 175, 180 may have virtually any shape (e.g., square shape, rectangular shape, trapezoidal shape, Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 64 / 75 11 / 19 etc.). In one embodiment, each of the support brackets 175, 180 may extend away from the second edges 130d, 135d towards a central opening area of ​​the support device 100. More particularly, in one embodiment, each of the support brackets 175, 180 may extend away from the second edges 130d, 135d at an angle (e.g., a substantially 90-degree angle). In one embodiment, the support device 100 may include two support brackets (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 1) or, alternatively, it may include more or fewer support brackets. For example, the support device 100 may contain only a single support bracket (e.g., only one of the support brackets 175, 180).

[0033] In one embodiment, each of the second subsections 140, 150 may contain a pair of fastening supports 185, 190. In one embodiment, each of the pairs of fastening supports 185, 190 may contain a first fastening support 185a, 190a integrated into the first edges 140c, 150c of the second subsections 140, 150 and a second fastening support 185b, 190b integrated into the second edges 140d, 150d of the second subsections 140, 150. In one embodiment, the first fastening supports 185a, 190a and / or the second fastening supports 185b, 190b may be positioned in virtually any position along a length of the second subsections 140, 150. In one embodiment, the first and second fastening supports 185a, 185b, 190a, 190b can have virtually any shape (for example, square shape, rectangular shape, trapezoidal shape, etc.).) and can extend away from the first edges 140c, 150c and the second edges 140d, 150d towards an open central area of ​​the support device 100. More particularly, in one embodiment, each of the first and second fixing supports 185a, 185b, 190a, 190b can extend away from the first edges 140c, 150c and the second edges 140d, 150d at an angle (e.g., a substantially 90-degree angle, an acute angle, etc.). In another embodiment, the first fixing supports 185a, 190a can extend away from the first edges 140c, 150c at an angle that is substantially the same as or different from the angle of the second supports. Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pages 65 / 75 12 / 19 fixing 185b, 190b extend away from the second edge 140d, 150d.

[0034] In one embodiment, the support device 100 may be composed of a material that is flexible enough to enclose a TC connector (as further described in this document) and that is also capable of withstanding the hot temperature environment of the washer and the acidic solutions used during the disinfection process. For example, the support device 100 may be composed of stainless steel of a predetermined gauge. In one embodiment, the entirety of the support device 100 may be composed of the same material or, alternatively, portions of the support device 100 may be composed of different materials. In one embodiment, the entirety of the support device 100 may contain the same flexibility throughout. Alternatively, in another embodiment, some portions of the support device 100 may contain greater flexibility than others.For example, end support 170, support brackets 175, 180 and / or fastening support pairs 185, 190 may be more or less flexible than other portions of the support device 100. In one embodiment, each of the side sections 110, 115 may have substantially the same dimensions (e.g., length, width, etc.) and the same number of supports. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the dimensions and / or supports in one of the side sections 110, 115 may be different from the dimensions and / or protrusions of another of the opposite sections, for example, to accommodate TC connectors of varying shapes and sizes.

[0035] In one embodiment, the support device 100 can be configured to secure a conventional TC connector 200, as illustrated in FIG. 2. The TC connector 200 can be configured to secure and fasten a variety of different types of equipment (e.g., tubes, bottles, connector components, etc.). In one embodiment, the TC connector 200 can be made of a plastic or other similar polymer and can come in varying sizes (e.g., 1 %”, %”, etc.). In one embodiment, the TC connector 200 can be substantially solid or, alternatively, can contain one or more perforated portions therein.

[0036] In one embodiment, the TC 200 connector may be substantially in Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pages 66 / 75 13 / 19 bowl shape and may contain a surface 205 that intersects a concave portion 210 of the TC connector 200 at a first edge 215. In one embodiment, the surface 205 may be substantially circular in shape, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, and may contain a consistent width that is defined by the first edge 215 and the second edge 220.

[0037] In one embodiment, the TC 200 connector may contain a first and a second gripping component 225, 230, respectively. In one embodiment, the first gripping component 225 may be positioned virtually anywhere along the surface relative to the second gripping component 230 (e.g., two gripping components 225, 230 may be positioned substantially side-by-side, substantially opposite each other, close to each other, etc.). In one embodiment, each of the first and second gripping components 225, 230 may contain a vertical segment 225a, 230a and a protruding segment 225b, 230b. In one embodiment, the vertical segments 225a, 230a may be directly connected to a portion of the surface 205 and may extend away from the surface 205 at a substantially 90-degree angle.In one embodiment, each of the protruding segments 225b, 230b can be connected to the vertical segments 225a, 230a at an edge 235a, 235b. In another embodiment, each of the protruding segments 225b, 230b can extend towards a center of the connector TC 200, thereby protruding a portion of the surface 205 and, in some embodiments, an area of ​​the concave portion 210.

[0038] Returning now to FIG. 3, an illustrative example is provided showing how the TC 200 connector can be fixed to the support device 100. More particularly, the support device 100 can be configured to enclose the TC 200 connector by manually moving a rear end 240 of the TC 200 connector through an opening 195 (i.e., a space between the side sections 110, 115) of the support device 100 and towards the end connection section 105. Fixation can be achieved when the rear end 240 of the TC 200 connector is fixed by the end support 170 and each of the Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pages 67 / 75 14 / 19 gripping components 225, 230 are secured by one of two sets of fastening support pairs 185, 190, as illustrated in FIG. 4. In this respect, the end support 170 may enclose a portion of the surface 205 corresponding to the rear end 220 of the TC connector 200 and, correspondingly, provide a downward compressive force to the base portion 210, thus securing the TC connector 200 between the support brackets 175, 180 and the end support 170. Furthermore, each of the first fastening supports 185a, 190a may contact the protruding segments 225b, 230b and extend over at least a portion of the surface above them. Each of the second mounting brackets 185b, 190b can contact an external surface (not shown) of the TC 200 connector, thereby further securing the TC connector between the first mounting brackets 185a, 190a and the second mounting brackets 185b, 190b.

[0039] Returning now to FIG. 5, a piece of equipment is provided that is attached to a TC connector which is secured by a support device. In the illustration, the piece of equipment 300 is an elbow connector; however, such designation is illustrative and not intended to be limiting. In one embodiment, a flange portion 305 of the piece of equipment 300 can be attached to the TC connector 200 by inserting the flange portion 305 between the space provided by the protruding segments 225b, 230b of the gripping components 225, 230 and the corresponding surface portions 205. In such a secured configuration, the support device 100 can prevent expansion of the TC connector 200 and / or loosening of the gripping components 225, 230 from occurring due to the rigid structure of the support device 100 and the compressive forces provided by it. Therefore, equipment part 300 can be securely held in place during the operation of a washer.

[0040] In one embodiment, the support device 100 may be a single dedicated object that is configured to secure a single TC 200 connector. Once secured, the support device may be positioned in a rack within the washer. Additionally or alternatively, in another embodiment, the support device 100 may be a component of a larger unit (not shown) that Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 68 / 75 15 / 19 can contain two or more integrated support devices. In this configuration, the larger unit can be configured to hold two or more TC connectors, each associated with a support device and therefore configured to hold a multitude of pieces of equipment.

[0041] The modalities of this disclosure may include the following characteristics:

[0042] Item 1. Support device configured to secure a connector, the support device characterized in that it comprises:

[0043] a first side section comprising:

[0044] a first subsection comprising a first support bracket;

[0045] a second subsection connected to the first subsection, wherein the second subsection comprises a first pair of fastening supports; and

[0046] a third subsection connected to the second subsection;

[0047] a second side section comprising:

[0048] a fourth subsection comprising a second support bracket;

[0049] a fifth subsection connected to the fourth subsection, wherein the fifth subsection comprises a second pair of fastening supports; and

[0050] a sixth subsection connected to the fifth subsection; and

[0051] an end connection section positioned between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connection section comprises an end support.

[0052] Item 2. Support device, according to item 1, characterized in that the support device is made of stainless steel.

[0053] Item 3. Support device, according to item 2, characterized in that the stainless steel is of a predetermined gauge.

[0054] Item 4. Support device, according to item 1, characterized in that the first pair of fixing supports comprises a first fixing support and a second fixing support and in that the second pair of fixing supports comprises a third fixing support and a fourth fixing support.

[0055] Item 5. Support device, according to item 4, characterized by Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 69 / 75 16 / 19 fact that the first and third mounting brackets are integrated into a first side edge of the support device and that the second and fourth mounting brackets are integrated into a second side edge of the unsupport device.

[0056] Item 6. Support device, according to item 1, characterized in that the first pair of fastening supports is positioned along an intermediate point of the second subsection and in that the second pair of fastening supports is positioned along an intermediate point of the fifth subsection.

[0057] Item 7. Support device, according to item 1, characterized in that each of the first support and the second support are integrated into a second lateral edge of the support device.

[0058] Item 8. Support device, according to item 7, characterized in that the first support bracket is positioned at a first intermediate point along the second lateral edge of the first subsection and in that the second support bracket is positioned at a second intermediate point along the second lateral edge of the fourth subsection.

[0059] Item 9. Support device, according to item 1, characterized in that the end support is integrated into a first lateral edge of the end connection section of the support device.

[0060] Item 10. Support device, according to item 9, characterized in that the end support is positioned at an intermediate point along the first lateral edge of the end connection section.

[0061] Item 11. Equipment fastening device, characterized in that it comprises:

[0062] a connector configured to secure a piece of equipment, wherein the connector comprises a first gripping component and a second gripping component;

[0063] a support device that is fixed to and at least partially encloses the connector, wherein the support device comprises:

[0064] a first side section comprising: Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 70 / 75 17 / 19

[0065] a first subsection comprising a first support bracket;

[0066] a second subsection connected to the first subsection, wherein the second subsection comprises a first pair of fastening supports; and

[0067] a third subsection connected to the second subsection;

[0068] a second side section comprising:

[0069] a fourth subsection comprising a second support bracket;

[0070] a fifth subsection connected to the fourth subsection, wherein the fifth subsection comprises a second pair of fastening supports; and

[0071] a sixth subsection connected to the fifth subsection; and

[0072] an end connection section positioned between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connection section comprises an end support;

[0073] wherein the first pair of fastening supports is fastened around the first gripping component, wherein the second pair of fastening supports is fastened around the second gripping component and wherein the end support is fastened to a first end of the connector.

[0074] Item 12. Equipment fastening device, according to item 11, characterized in that the connector is a tri-clamp (TC) connector.

[0075] Item 13. Equipment fastening device, according to item 11, characterized in that the connector is made of a plastic material.

[0076] Item 14. Equipment fastening device, according to item 11, characterized in that the support device is made of stainless steel.

[0077] Item 15. Equipment fastening device, according to item 11, characterized in that the first pair of fastening supports comprises a first fastening support and a second fastening support and in that the second pair of fastening supports comprises a third fastening support and a fourth fastening support.

[0078] Item 16. Equipment fastening device, according to item 11, characterized in that each of the first support bracket and the Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 71 / 75 18 / 19 second support brackets are integrated into a second lateral edge of the support device, wherein the first support bracket is positioned at a first intermediate point along the second lateral edge of the first subsection, and wherein the second support bracket is positioned at a second intermediate point along the second lateral edge of the fourth subsection.

[0079] Item 17. Equipment fastening device, according to item 11, characterized in that the end support is integrated into a first lateral edge of the end connection section of the support device and in that the end support is positioned at an intermediate point along the first lateral edge of the end connection section.

[0080] Item 18. Method of attaching a connector to a support device, the method characterized in that it comprises:

[0081] fixing of a first connector gripping component between a first pair of support fastening brackets of the support device;

[0082] securing a second connector gripping component between a second pair of support brackets of the support device; and

[0083] fixing a first end of the connector between an end support and the first support support and a second support support of the support device.

[0084] Item 19. Method, according to item 18, characterized in that the first pair of fastening supports is positioned in a second subsection of the support device, wherein the second pair of fastening supports is positioned in a fifth subsection of the support device, wherein the end support is positioned in an end connection section of the support device, wherein the first support support is positioned in a first subsection of the support device and wherein the second support support is positioned in a fourth subsection of the support device.

[0085] Item 20. Method, according to item 18, characterized in that it further comprises attaching a piece of equipment to the connector via:

[0086] insert a portion of the equipment part between a first space Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 72 / 75 19 / 19 created by a first protruding section of the first gripping component relative to a connector surface and a second space created by a second protruding section of the second gripping component relative to the surface.

[0087] The many features and advantages of the present disclosure are evident from the detailed descriptive report and, therefore, the appended claims intend to cover all those features and advantages of the present disclosure that fall within the true spirit and scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, since numerous modifications and variations will readily occur for those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the present disclosure to the exact construction and operation illustrated and described and, consequently, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be used, falling within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0088] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the concept upon which this disclosure is based can be readily used as a basis for designing other structures, methods, and systems to accomplish the various purposes of the present disclosure. Consequently, the claims should not be considered as limited by the foregoing description. Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 73 / 75

Claims

1 / 4 CLAIMS 1. A support device configured to secure a connector, the support device characterized in that it comprises: a first side section comprising: a first subsection comprising a first support bracket; a second subsection connected to the first subsection, wherein the second subsection comprises a first pair of securing brackets; and a third subsection connected to the second subsection; a second side section comprising: a fourth subsection comprising a second support bracket; a fifth subsection connected to the fourth subsection, wherein the fifth subsection comprises a second pair of securing brackets; and a sixth subsection connected to the fifth subsection; and an end connection section positioned between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connection section comprises an end support.

2. Support device, according to claim 1, characterized in that the support device is made of stainless steel.

3. Support device, according to claim 2, characterized in that the stainless steel is of a predetermined gauge.

4. Support device, according to claim 1, characterized in that the first pair of fastening supports comprises a first fastening support and a second fastening support, and in that the second pair of fastening supports comprises a third fastening support and a fourth fastening support.

5. Support device according to claim 4, characterized in that the first and third fixing supports are integrated into a first lateral edge of the support device and that the second and fourth fixing supports are integrated into a second lateral edge of the support device. Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, p. 45 / 75 2 / 4 6. Support device, according to claim 1, characterized in that the first pair of fastening supports is positioned along an intermediate point of the second subsection and the second pair of fastening supports is positioned along an intermediate point of the fifth subsection.

7. Support device, according to claim 1, characterized in that each of the first support and the second support are integrated into a second lateral edge of the support device.

8. Support device, according to claim 7, characterized in that the first support bracket is positioned at a first intermediate point along the second lateral edge of the first subsection and in that the second support bracket is positioned at a second intermediate point along the second lateral edge of the fourth subsection.

9. Support device according to claim 1, characterized in that the end support is integrated into a first lateral edge of the end connection section of the support device.

10. Support device, according to claim 9, characterized in that the end support is positioned at an intermediate point along the first lateral edge of the end connection section.

11. Equipment fastening device, characterized in that it comprises: a connector configured to fasten a piece of equipment, wherein the connector comprises a first gripping component and a second gripping component; a support device that is fixed to and at least partially encloses the connector, wherein the support device comprises: a first lateral section comprising: a first subsection comprising a first support bracket; a second subsection connected to the first subsection, wherein the second subsection comprises a first pair of fastening brackets; and a third subsection connected to the second subsection; Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, p.46 / 75 3 / 4 a second side section comprising: a fourth subsection comprising a second support bracket; a fifth subsection connected to the fourth subsection, wherein the fifth subsection comprises a second pair of fastening supports; and a sixth subsection connected to the fifth subsection; and an end connection section positioned between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connection section comprises an end support; wherein the first pair of fastening supports is fastened around the first gripping component, wherein the second pair of fastening supports is fastened around the second gripping component, and wherein the end support is fastened to a first end of the connector.

12. Equipment fastening device according to claim 11, characterized in that the connector is a tri-clamp (TC) connector.

13. Equipment fastening device, according to claim 11, characterized in that the connector is made of a plastic material.

14. Equipment fastening device, according to claim 11, characterized in that the support device is made of stainless steel.

15. Equipment fastening device, according to claim 11, characterized in that the first pair of fastening supports comprises a first fastening support and a second fastening support and in that the second pair of fastening supports comprises a third fastening support and a fourth fastening support.

16. Equipment fastening device, according to claim 11, characterized in that each of the first support bracket and the second support bracket are integrated into a second lateral edge of the support device and in that the first support bracket is positioned at a first intermediate point along the second lateral edge of the first subsection and in that the second support bracket is positioned at a second intermediate point along the second lateral edge of the fourth subsection.

17. Equipment fastening device, according to claim 11, characterized in that the end support is integrated into a first lateral edge of the end connection section of the support device and in that the end support is positioned at an intermediate point along the first lateral edge of the end connection section.

18. Method of attaching a connector to a support device, the method characterized in that it comprises: attaching a first connector gripping component between a first pair of support brackets of the support device; attaching a second connector gripping component between a second pair of support brackets of the support device; and attaching a first end of the connector between an end bracket and the first support bracket and a second support bracket of the support device.

19. Method according to claim 18, characterized in that the first pair of fastening supports is positioned in a second subsection of the support device, wherein the second pair of fastening supports is positioned in a fifth subsection of the support device, wherein the end support is positioned in an end connection section of the support device, wherein the first support support is positioned in a first subsection of the support device and wherein the second support support is positioned in a fourth subsection of the support device.

20. Method according to claim 18, characterized in that it further comprises attaching a piece of equipment to the connector by: inserting a portion of the piece of equipment between a first space created by a first protruding section of the first gripping component relative to a surface of the connector and a second space created by a second protruding section of the second gripping component relative to the surface. Petition 870250083206, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, p. 48 / 75

Images