Sanitary clamp for diaphragm pump cover

Abstract

A clamp for a sanitary pump includes a tensioning assembly mounted on a ring. The tensioning assembly includes an adjustment assembly that engages with first and second brackets disposed at first and second ends of the ring. The adjustment assembly includes a nut that engages with a rod at a threaded interface. A head is disposed at an end of the rod opposite the nut and engages with the second bracket. The nut and the rod are coaxial, and the orientation of a common adjustment axis can be changed by pivoting the adjustment assembly relative to the first bracket, thereby maintaining concentricity between the nut and the rod.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 119479, filed November 30, 2020, entitled “Sanitary clamp for diaphragm pump cover,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to clamps. More specifically, this disclosure relates to sanitary clamps for pumps. Background Technology

[0004] Sanitary pumps require frequent disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly. A sanitary pump may include one or more diaphragms that reciprocate to pump material through the pump. The edges of the diaphragms can be secured between the pump's cap and body. Clamps can be used to hold the cap to the body. Using clamps in sanitary pump applications facilitates disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to an aspect of this disclosure, a clamp for sealing a fluid assembly includes: a ring having a circumferential gap separating a first end of the ring from a second end of the ring; a support assembly mounted to the first end of the ring, the support assembly including a first support mounted to the first end and including a first hole through the support assembly, wherein the outer periphery of the first hole is closed; a second support mounted on the second end of the ring, the second support having an opening slot and forming a bracket; and an adjustment assembly configured to pull the first end and the second end together to reduce the width of the circumferential gap. The adjusting assembly includes: a rod extending along an adjusting axis, the rod having an external thread and extending through the first hole; a nut having a threaded hole having an internal thread complementary to the external thread of the rod, such that the rod can be at least partially moved through the nut by relative rotation between the rod and the nut; and a head attached to the rod, the head being wider than the slot of the second bracket, such that the head can be secured in a bracket of the second bracket, wherein the head is disposed on the side of the first hole opposite to the nut. With the head disposed in the bracket of the second bracket, relative rotation between the nut and the rod tightens and loosens the ring by decreasing and increasing the width of the circumferential clearance, respectively. The head can be released from the second bracket by completely removing the head from the bracket and pivoting the tensioning assembly to change the orientation of the adjusting axis, causing the rod to exit the slot.

[0006] According to additional or alternative aspects of the present disclosure, a method of clamping a fluid assembly, the method comprising: positioning a ring of a clamp about a flange formed by a drive cover of the fluid assembly and a fluid cover of the fluid assembly such that the flange is disposed in an annular groove of the ring; pivoting a rocker supported by a first bracket disposed at a first end of the ring on a pivot axis to reorient an adjustment axis of an adjustment assembly of the clamp such that a rod of the adjustment assembly passes through a slot of a second bracket disposed at a second end of the ring, wherein the rod extends through a first aperture that extends through the rocker, and wherein the adjustment assembly includes the rod having external threads, a nut having internal threads, and a head mounted to a portion of the rod disposed on an opposite side of the first aperture from the nut; and tightening the clamp by rotating the nut relative to the rod to draw the rod into the nut such that the nut engages the rocker and the head is disposed in a cradle of the second bracket, wherein the head engages the second bracket to prevent the rod from fully rotating about the adjustment axis. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1A is an isometric view of a pump system.

[0008] Figure 1B is an enlarged isometric view showing Figure 1A a portion of the pump system shown in

[0009] Figure 1C is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view showing a clamped engagement of the pump system.

[0010] Figure 2A is a first isometric exploded view of a clamp.

[0011] Figure 2B is a second isometric exploded view of the clamp of Figure 2A

[0012] Figure 3A is an isometric view of the clamp of Figure 2A in an unclamped state.

[0013] Figure 3B is an isometric view of the clamp of Figure 3A in a clamped state.

[0014] Figure 3C is a side view of the clamp of Figure 3A in a clamped state.

[0015] Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 in Figure 3B

[0016] ​​Figure 4B yes Figure 3B An isometric view of the fixture shown, with a quarter-section view of a portion of the fixture's tensioning assembly.

[0017] Figure 5A This is an isometric exploded view of a second embodiment of the fixture.

[0018] Figure 5B This indicates that the object is in an unclamped state and is aligned for clamping. Figure 5A An isometric view of the fixture. Detailed Implementation

[0019] This disclosure relates to a clamp for a sanitary pump. The clamp secures a fluid cap to the pump to capture a diaphragm therebetween. The clamp holds components together to define a pumping chamber through which various materials can be pumped. The clamp includes a ring and a tensioning assembly that actuates the clamp from a non-clamped state to a clamped state to secure the pump components together. The tensioning assembly is self-aligning to prevent wear, bending, and other damage to the clamp. Throughout operation, regardless of the clamped state, the tensioning assembly maintains engagement with the clamping ring, thereby reducing the number of loose parts and facilitating faster and more efficient assembly and disassembly. If the retainer wears or is otherwise damaged, a portion of the tensioning assembly can be removed from the clamping ring and replaced. The clamp facilitates quick and efficient assembly and disassembly of the pump for cleaning and / or component replacement. The clamp further minimizes engagements (such as hinges) that provide points of contaminant accumulation.

[0020] Figure 1A This is an isometric view of pump 10. Figure 1B This is an enlarged isometric view showing a portion of pump 10. Figure 1C This is a cross-sectional view showing the clamping engagement of pump 10. It will be discussed together. Figures 1A-1C The pump 10, inlet manifold 12, outlet manifold 14, clamp 16, fluid cover 18, drive cover 20, and diaphragm 22 (only one is shown). Each clamp 16 includes a ring 24 and a tensioning assembly 26. The ring 24 includes a first end 28, a second end 30, an outer belt 32, and an inner belt member 34. The tensioning assembly 26 includes a support assembly 36 with a first bracket 38 and a rocker arm 40, a second bracket 42, an adjustment assembly 44, and a rocker arm 40. The adjustment assembly 44 includes a nut 46, a rod 48, and a head 50.

[0021] Pump 10 is configured to drive material from upstream to downstream. Pump 10 draws material from upstream inlet manifold 12 and drives the material downstream through downstream outlet manifold 14. Fluid covers 18 are disposed on opposite axial ends of pump 10. More specifically, a pair of fluid covers 18 are disposed on opposite ends of drive cover 20. Drive cover 20, which can also be referred to as a pump body, at least partially houses a drive system for moving diaphragms 22. Such a drive system can be pneumatic, electric, and / or mechanical. For example, an electric machine, such as an electric motor, can be at least partially disposed within drive cover 20. The electric machine can interact with a portion of the drive system to drive the reciprocating motion of diaphragms 22. For example, the electric machine can be connected to a driver that is configured to convert the rotation output from the electric machine into linear reciprocating motion of one or more diaphragms 22.

[0022] In the example shown, pump 10 includes a pair of diaphragms 22, such that pump 10 is a dual diaphragm pump. Diaphragms 22 are pinched between drive cover 20 and respective fluid covers 18 on opposite ends of drive cover 20. The circular outer periphery of diaphragms 22 is held between fluid covers 18 and drive cover 20 to form a sealed joint 52, facilitating pumping through the pump chamber defined by fluid covers 18 and diaphragms 22.

[0023] Clamps 16 secure fluid covers 18 to drive cover 20. Specifically, clamps 16 exert a circumferential pressure to facilitate sealing diaphragms 22 between respective fluid covers 18 and drive cover 20. Clamps 16 are identical, so a single clamp 16 will be discussed in greater detail, but it should be understood that the discussion applies equally to both clamps 16.

[0024] Clamps 16 include a ring 24 that extends around fluid covers 18 and drive cover 20. Ring 24 does not include a hinge. Fluid covers 18 include a fluid cover flange 54 and drive cover 20 includes a drive cover flange 56. Fluid cover flange 54 and drive cover flange 56 together form a pump flange that engages with clamps 16, and clamps 16 mesh around the pump flange to pinch fluid covers 18 and drive cover 20 together to capture the circular outer periphery of diaphragms 22. A tensioning assembly 26 engages with ring 24 to create tension within ring 24, thereby reducing the diameter of ring 24 and pinching fluid covers 18 and drive cover 20 together. It should be understood that all components of clamps 16 referenced and / or illustrated herein can be formed from metal. The entire clamp 16 can be formed from metal. For example, stainless steel is one possible type of metal from which some or all components of clamp 16 can be formed.

[0025] The ring 24 includes an outer band 32 on an outer side of the ring 24 relative to the pump 10 and an inner band member 34 on an inner side of the ring 24 relative to the pump 10. The plurality of inner band members 34 can be considered to form an inner band of the ring 24. Each inner band member 34 can have an inner groove 58 that receives a mating fluid cover flange 54 and drive cover flange 56. The groove 58 can be U-shaped. Each inner band member 34 extends partially around the pump 10. The inner band members 34 can be arcuate and extend any desired amount circumferentially around the pump 10. For example, each inner band member 34 can extend 45 degrees, 90 degrees, 120 degrees, among other options, around the pump 10. The inner band members 34 can be secured to the outer band 32. For example, the inner band members 34 can be welded to the outer band 32, among other securing types.

[0026] The ring 24 is an open ring extending between the first end 28 and the second end 30. The ring 24 does not extend completely 360 degrees around the pump 10, and thus includes a gap 60. The gap 60 is circumferentially between the first end 28 of the ring 24 and the second end 30 of the ring 24. The tensioning assembly 26 bridges the gap 60 and is configured to pull the first end 28 and the second end 30 together to narrow the gap 60 and create tension across the gap 60.

[0027] The tensioning assembly 26 spans the gap 60 and creates a clamping force on the ring 24 to secure the fluid cover 18 and the drive cover 20 together while clamping the septum 22. The bracket assembly 36 is disposed at the first end 28 of the ring 24. More specifically, a first bracket 38 is mounted to the first end 28 of the ring 24. A second bracket 42 is mounted to the second end 30 of the ring 24. In the illustrated example, the first bracket 38 and the second bracket 42 are mounted to the outer band 32. The first bracket 38 and the second bracket 42 can be secured to the outer band 32 in any desired manner, such as by welding.

[0028] The rocker 40 is mounted to the first bracket 38 to form the bracket assembly 36. The rocker 40 is mounted to the first bracket 38 such that the rocker 40 can pivot on a pivot axis PA. In some examples, the rocker 40 can freely rotate about the pivot axis PA when the adjustment assembly 44 is detached from the rocker 40. In some examples, the rocker 40 is limited to prevent full rotation and such that a first side of the rocker 40 is oriented away from the second bracket 42 and a second side of the rocker 40 is oriented toward the second bracket 42. For example, the rocker 40 can be limited to rotate less than 180 degrees, less than 120 degrees, less than 90 degrees, etc.

[0029] The adjustment assembly 44 is retained on the ring 24 by the bracket assembly 36. In the example shown, the adjustment assembly 44 is retained on the ring 24 by the rocker 40. The adjustment assembly 44 extends through the rocker 40 and engages the second bracket 42 to secure the ring 24 on the pump 10. The adjustment assembly 44 is elongated along an adjustment axis AA. The adjustment assembly 44 can be pivoted along with the rocker 40 about a pivot axis PA to change the orientation of the adjustment axis AA.

[0030] The adjustment assembly 44 engages the first bracket 38 through the rocker 40 and the second bracket 42 through the head 50 of the rod 48 and is configured to pull the first end 28 and the second end 30 of the ring 24 toward each other to create a force that clamps the fluid cover 18 and the drive cover 20 together. Specifically, the head 50 of the rod 48 is received by the second bracket 42. The head 50 is disposed at a distal end of the rod 48. The rod 48 is engaged with the nut 46. In the example shown, the rod 48 extends through the rocker 40 and to the nut 46. A threaded engagement is formed between an internal thread of the nut 46 and an external thread of the rod 48.

[0031] The nut 46 is engaged with the rocker 40. The nut 46 can be rotated about the adjustment axis AA in a first rotational direction to displace the rod 48 in a first axial direction along the adjustment axis AA, thereby pulling the rod 48 into the nut 46 and pulling the head 50 toward the first bracket 38 and the rocker 40. The nut 46 can be rotated about the adjustment axis AA in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction to displace the rod 48 in a second axial direction along the adjustment axis AA, thereby driving the rod 48 out of the nut 46 and driving the head 50 away from the rocker 40 and the first bracket 38.

[0032] To disassemble the pump 10, the nut 46 is rotated in the second rotational direction until the head 50 passes out of the cradle of the second bracket 42. When the tension assembly 26 is loosened, the spring force of the outer band 32 widens the gap 60. The nut 46 is rotated until the head 50 passes through the end of the finger of the second bracket 42. As the head 50 is pushed past the retaining finger of the second bracket 42, the adjustment assembly 44 is pivoted about the pivot axis PA to move the head 50 away from the pump 10 and outward away from the ring 24. The first end 28 and the second end 30 of the ring 24 are thus broken across the gap 60 and the ring 24 can be manipulated to allow removal of the fluid cover 18 and access to the diaphragm 22.

[0033] The adjustment assembly 44 remains connected to the ring 24 in both the clamped and unclamped states of the clamp 16. The nuts 46 and the heads 50 are disposed on opposite sides of the rocker 40 and are sized to engage the rocker 40 and prevent the adjustment assembly 44 from disconnecting from the ring 24. The nuts 46 can engage the rocker 40 to prevent the adjustment assembly 44 from moving in a first direction along the adjustment axis AA and through the rocker 40. The heads 50 can engage the rocker 40 to prevent the adjustment assembly 44 from moving in a second direction along the adjustment axis AA and through the rocker 40.

[0034] To assemble the pump 10, the ring 24 is installed on the fluid cover flange 54 and the drive cover flange 56. The rocker 40 and the adjustment assembly 44 are pivoted on the pivot axis PA to align the heads 50 with the receiving cradles of the second bracket 42. Pivoting the adjustment assembly 44 repositions the adjustment axis AA. The nuts 46 are rotated in a first rotational direction, thereby drawing the heads 50 into the second bracket 42. The nuts 46 continue to rotate and the heads 50 are seated in the second bracket 42 and the nuts 46 engage the rocker 40. The heads 50 engage the second bracket 42 to prevent the rods 48 from fully rotating on the adjustment axis AA as the nuts 46 are rotated. Further rotation of the nuts 46 draws the first end 28 and the second end 30 of the ring 24 together, thereby tensioning the ring 24 and clamping the fluid cover 18 and the drive cover 20 together. When the clamp 16 is in the Figures 1A-1C The heads 50 of the rods 48 are received by the second bracket 42 and the nuts 46 engage the bracket assembly 36 when the clamp 16 is in the illustrated clamped state.

[0035] The clamp 16 provides certain advantages and is intended for use in sanitary applications that require frequent disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly. The clamp 16 allows for easy replacement of the adjustment assembly 44 and does not require the complete removal of the adjustment assembly 44 from the ring 24 to remove and install the clamp 16. The clamp 16 does not require the nuts 46 and the rods 48 to be removed from each other or from the first bracket 38 to remove and install the clamp 16. As such, the clamp 16 remains assembled whether in the clamped or unclamped state and throughout the installation process. Such an arrangement reduces the number of components and simplifies the installation and disassembly process.

[0036] Figure 2A is a first isometric exploded view of the clamp 16. Figure 2B is a second isometric exploded view of the clamp 16. The Figure 2A and Figure 2BThe clamp 16 includes a ring 24 and a tensioning assembly 26. The ring 24 includes a first end 28, a second end 30, an outer band 30, and an inner band member 34. The tensioning assembly 26 includes a bracket assembly 36 having a first bracket 38 and a rocker 40, a second bracket 42, and an adjustment assembly 44. The adjustment assembly 44 includes a nut 46, a rod 48, and a head 50. The nut 46 includes a barrel 62, a handle 64, a tool interface 66, a rod opening 68, and an internal thread 70. The barrel 62 includes a first barrel end 72 and a second barrel end 74. The rod 48 includes a shaft 78 and an external thread 80. The first bracket 38 includes a first bracket base 96 and first bracket arms 98. Each first bracket arm 98 includes a pivot 100. The rocker 40 includes a gap side 82, a nut side 84, a rocker body 86, a rocker end 88, a bore 90, a recess 92, and a rocker face 94. The second bracket 42 includes a second bracket base 102 and second bracket arms 104. Each second bracket arm 104 includes a first finger 106, a second finger 108, and a shoulder 110.

[0037] The tensioning assembly 26 is mounted on the ring 24 and is configured to create tension in the ring 24 to facilitate clamping components of the pump 10 together. The rocker 40 is mounted to the first bracket 38. The adjustment assembly 44 extends through the rocker 40 and is retained on the ring 24 by the rocker 40 when the clamp 16 is in an unclamped state. The adjustment assembly 44 is engaged with the second bracket 42 to create tension in the ring 24 and actuate the clamp 16 to retain the clamp 16 in a clamped state.

[0038] The first bracket 38 and the second bracket 42 are mounted at the first end 28 and the second end 30, respectively, of the ring 24. The first bracket 38 is fixed to the outer band 30 at the first end 28. The first bracket base 96 is connected to the outer band 30, such as by welding, among other fixation options. The first bracket arms 98 are disposed on opposite ends of the first bracket base 96. The first bracket arms 98 define a gap therebetween that is oriented circumferentially with respect to the ring 24. The first bracket arms 98 extend outwardly from the first bracket base 96 and away from the ring 24. In the example shown, the first bracket 38 can be considered to be U-shaped. The pivot 100 is formed through the first bracket arms 98. The pivot 100 is an opening configured to receive a portion of the rocker 40. A pivot axis PA extends through the pivot 100. The first bracket arms 98 can be considered to be disposed at opposite axial ends of the first bracket base 96 with respect to the pivot axis PA.

[0039] The rocker 40 is mounted to the ring 24 by the first bracket 38. Specifically, the rocker 40 is mounted to the first bracket 38 by the rocker end 88 extending into the pivot 100. The rocker 40 includes a rocker body 86, which can be generally cylindrical, and includes the rocker end 88. In the example shown, the nut side 84 of the rocker 40 is formed as a flat side, while the rocker body 86 is curved about a pivot axis PA. The rocker end 88 is disposed at an opposite axial end of the rocker body 86 relative to the pivot axis PA. The rocker end 88 extends into the pivot 100 and engages the first bracket 38 within a bore forming the pivot 100 to prevent the rocker 40 from falling out of the first bracket 38.

[0040] The rocker 40 is disposed such that the gap side 82 is oriented toward the second bracket 42 and across the gap 60, with the nut side 84 oriented away from the second bracket 42. The bore 90 extends completely through the rocker 40. The bore 90 is open on the gap side 82 of the rocker 40 and on the nut side 84 of the rocker 40. The outer periphery of the bore 90 is closed. It can be appreciated that the outer periphery of the bore 90 can be considered closed so long as the shaft 78 cannot pass out of the bore 90 in a radial direction relative to the adjustment axis AA. In the example shown, the outer periphery of the through bore is completely closed. In some examples, the bore 90 is cylindrical. In the example shown, the bore 90 can be considered to form a drilled hole through the rocker body 86. With the adjustment assembly 44 mounted to the ring 24, the adjustment axis AA is disposed through the bore 90. The adjustment axis AA can intersect and be orthogonal to the pivot axis PA.

[0041] The recess 92 extends into the rocker body 86. The recess 92 extends only partially into the rocker body 86, rather than completely through the rocker body 86. The recess 92 is disposed about the bore 90. The opening of the bore 90 on the nut side 84 of the rocker 40 opens into the recess 92. The recess 92 can be a cylindrical, flat-bottomed drilled hole that enlarges the width of the bore 90. The bore 90 can be coaxial with the recess 92. The recess 92 can be considered to form a counterbore of the bore 90. As shown, the recess 92 is formed such that a wall is disposed on the sides of the recess 92. The recess 92 is open on the inner and outer sides of the recess 92 relative to the ring 24. It can be appreciated that in some examples, the recess 92 is sized such that the recess 92 has a completely closed outer periphery, similar to the bore 90. A rocker face 94 is formed at the bottom of the recess 92. The rocker face 94 is disposed about the opening of the bore 90 on the nut side 84. The rocker face 94 can be planar. The rocker face 94 can be a flat ring disposed about the opening of the bore 90. The rocker face 94 can extend completely, i.e., 360 degrees, about the opening of the bore 90. The rocker face 94 is configured to form a flat ring in a plane that is orthogonal to the adjustment axis AA.

[0042] The second bracket 42 is secured to the outer band 30 at the second end 30. The second bracket base 102 is connected to the outer band 30, such as by welding, and other securing options. The second bracket arms 104 are disposed on opposite sides of the second bracket base 102. The second bracket arms 104 extend outwardly from the second bracket base 102, away from the ring 24. A slot 112 is disposed between the second bracket arms 104. The slot 112 is open such that components, such as the rod 48, can pass freely between the second bracket arms 104 within the slot 112. The second bracket arms 104 are each curved away from the first bracket 38. A cradle 114 is formed by the curved arms 104 and is configured to receive the head 50 of the tensioning assembly 26. It can be appreciated that while the cradle 114 is shown as being formed by the second bracket arms 104, the cradle 114 can be formed in other ways such that not all embodiments can include the second bracket arms 104. For example, the cradle 114 can be formed by a pocket in the second bracket 42. In the example shown, the second bracket 42 can be considered J-shaped or hook-shaped. Each of the second bracket arms 104 can be considered J-shaped or hook-shaped. However, it can be appreciated that the second bracket 42 can be any desired shape suitable for receiving the head 50, thereby preventing the head 50 from rotating completely on the adjustment axis AA and limiting movement of the head 50 away from the ring 24. For example, the second bracket 42 can be U-shaped. In some examples, one or both of the second bracket arms 104 can be U-shaped.

[0043] The shoulder 110 extends from the second bracket base 102 and away from the ring 24. In the example shown, the first finger 106 and the second finger 108 of the second bracket arm 104 form a curved portion of the second bracket arm 104 and define the cradle 114. The first finger 106 extends from the second bracket base 102 and away from the ring 24. The second finger 108 is disposed at an end of the first finger 106 opposite the second bracket base 102. The second finger 108 is oriented to extend in a different direction than the first finger 106. In the example shown, the second finger 108 can be considered to extend circumferentially relative to the ring 24. The second finger 108 extends away from the bracket assembly 36. An end of the second finger 108 is oriented away from the first bracket 38.

[0044] The adjustment assembly 44 is retained on the loop 24 by the bracket assembly 36. More specifically, the adjustment assembly 44 is retained on the loop 24 by the rocker 40 extending through and being engaged by the first bracket 38. The adjustment assembly 44 is configured to engage the bracket assembly 36 and the second bracket 42 to draw the first end 28 and the second end 30 together to create tension in the loop 24. The nut 46 and the stem 48 are coaxially aligned on the adjustment axis AA. The adjustment assembly 44 engages the bracket assembly 36 such that the adjustment axis AA can pivot to maintain coaxial alignment between the nut 46 and the stem 48. More specifically, the threaded bore of the nut 46 is disposed on a nut axis NA and the threaded shaft 78 of the stem 48 is elongated on a shaft axis SA. The pivotable engagement between the adjustment assembly 44 and the bracket assembly 36 maintains the nut axis NA and the shaft axis SA coaxial on the adjustment axis AA. Maintaining the concentricity of the nut 46 and the stem 48 prevents benign, abrasive, and other damage that can occur due to misalignment between the nut axis NA and the shaft axis SA.

[0045] The nut 46 is disposed on the nut side 84 of the rocker 40 such that the rocker 40 is disposed between the nut 46 and the second bracket 42. The barrel 62 of the nut 46 is elongated along the nut axis NA. The barrel 62 is tubular with a central chamber to allow the stem 48 to move axially within the barrel 62 along the adjustment axis AA. The internal threads 70 are formed within the nut 46. The stem opening 68 is disposed at the first barrel end 72 of the barrel 62. The stem 48 can enter and exit the barrel 62 through the stem opening 68. The barrel face 76 is disposed at the first barrel end 72. The barrel face 76 is disposed about the stem opening 68. The barrel face 76 can be planar. The barrel face 76 can be a flat ring disposed about the stem opening 68. The barrel face 76 can extend completely (i.e., 360 degrees) about the stem opening 68. The barrel face 76 is configured as a flat ring oriented in a plane that is orthogonal to the nut axis NA. The barrel face 76 is configured to engage the rocker face 94 with the clamp 16 in the clamped state.

[0046] The handle 64 is disposed at the second barrel end 74. In the illustrated example, the handle 64 is formed by one or more stems that extend radially outward from the barrel 62 relative to the adjustment axis AA. For example, a crossbar can extend through a cross hole in the nut 46 to form the handle 64 and provide a torsional lever action. The handle 64 facilitates a user handling and manipulating the nut 46 to adjust the tension in the loop 24 caused by the tensioning assembly 26. In some examples, the nut 46 itself can be considered to form the handle as a user can grasp the barrel 62 to rotate the nut 46 on the adjustment axis AA. The tool interface 66 is formed at the second barrel end 74. The tool interface 66 provides a feature for a tool, such as a wrench, to engage and rotate the nut 46 to adjust the tension in the loop 24.

[0047] Rod 48 extends along axis SA. Rod 48 is a threaded rod with external threads 80 along its length. It can be understood that in some examples, rod 48 is threaded only along a portion of its length. Rod 48 extends through bore 90 of rocker arm 40. Rod 48 engages with nut 46 via a threaded engagement between internal threads 70 of nut 46 and external threads 80 of rod 48. In the example shown, only the threaded portion of adjusting assembly 44 is disposed within bore 90 of rocker arm 40. More specifically, only the portion of adjusting assembly 44 disposed within the closed periphery of bore 90 is shaft 78.

[0048] The head 50 is mounted to the end of the rod 48 opposite to the nut 46. The head 50 can be secured to the rod 48, such as by welding or other securing options. In some examples, the head 50 is permanently attached to the end of the rod 48. The head 50 is secured to the rod 48 such that it cannot rotate relative to the rod 48. In various embodiments, the head 50 is part of the rod 48 and is oriented orthogonally to the rod 48. In this way, the head 50 and the rod 48 are T-shaped to engage in the bracket 114 of the second support 42. The head 50 can be cylindrical. The head 50 can have a diameter larger than the diameter of the rod 48. The width W1 of the head 50 is greater than the width W2 of the slot 112, which is located between the inner opposite sides of the second support arm 104.

[0049] exist Figure 2A and Figure 2B In the view shown, tensioning assembly 26 is disassembled. Specifically, rod 48 has been completely unscrewed from the drilled hole of nut 46, and rod 48 has slid out of hole 90 of rocker arm 40. Rocker arm 40 has been disconnected from first bracket 38. However, it is understood that during typical operation, rocker arm 40 is held on ring 24 via first bracket 38, and adjusting assembly 44 is held on ring 24 via bracket assembly 36. Adjusting assembly 44 can be unscrewed from ring 24 and removed to replace any part as needed.

[0050] Tensioning assembly 26 facilitates quick and efficient tightening and release of loop 24. Rod 48 is disposed through rocker 40 and is connected to nut 46 by a threaded engagement between inner threads 70 and outer threads 80. Adjustment assembly 44 and rocker 40 together pivot on pivot axis PA. During installation, pivot adjustment assembly 44 so that rod 48 is disposed through slot 112 and between second bracket arms 104 of second bracket 42. Head 50 is passed through the end of second finger 108 so that head 50 is disposed between second finger 108 and loop 24. Nut 46 can be grasped and pulled along adjustment axis AA to cause head 50 to enter cradle 114 of second bracket 42 so that head 50 is directly between second finger 108 and loop 24. Nut 46 is rotated on adjustment axis AA, such as by a user grasping handle 64 or barrel 62 or by a tool engaged with tool interface 66, to cause the threaded engagement to pull rod 48 into barrel 62, thereby reducing the length of rod 48 exposed outside of barrel 62 and reducing the distance between barrel face 76 and head 50 along adjustment axis AA. With head 50 disposed in cradle 114, second bracket 42 prevents rotation of rod 48 and head 50 on adjustment axis AA as nut 46 is rotated. With head 50 disposed in cradle 114, first finger 106 prevents head 50 from moving further along adjustment axis AA toward rocker 40, and second finger 108 prevents head 50 from moving outward away from outer band 30 of loop 24 and out of cradle 114.

[0051] Nut 46 is engaged with bracket assembly 36 and head 50 is engaged with second bracket 42 to apply force to loop 24 through first bracket 38 and second bracket 42 to pull first end 28 and second end 30 of the loop toward each other and create tension in loop 24. Specifically, first end 28 of nut 46 extends into recess 92. Barrel face 76 is engaged with rocker face 94. The flat contact surface of barrel face 76 is placed on and engaged with the flat contact surface of rocker face 94. The engaged barrel face and rocker face 94 align adjustment assembly 44 with aperture 90 of rocker 40. The flat engagement faces of barrel face 76 and rocker face 94 prevent nut 46 from twisting, pivoting, or otherwise moving out of coaxial alignment with rod 48. The sidewall of recess 92 is engaged with the outer surface of barrel 62 and helps maintain the concentricity of nut 46 and rod 48 on alignment axis AA. While barrel 62 is described as extending into recess 92, it can be appreciated that some examples of rocker 40 do not include recess 92 such that rocker face 94 is formed by nut side 84.

[0052] With the nut 46 engaged with the rocker 40, the barrel face 76 engages with the rocker face 94. The stem 48 extends through the hole 90 and the head 50 is disposed within the cradle 114. As the adjustment assembly 44 is tightened by rotation of the nut 46, the orientation of the adjustment axis AA changes. As the first end 28 and the second end 30 of the ring 24 are pulled toward one another, the shortened distance causes the adjustment axis AA to shift. The engagement of the nut 46 with the rocker 40 facilitates pivoting of the adjustment assembly 44 to maintain concentricity between the stem 48 and the nut 46 and to maintain coaxial alignment of the stem 48 with the barrel 62.

[0053] The tensioning assembly 26 accounts for the change in orientation of the adjustment axis AA during the tensioning and release of the clamp 16. The engagement of the nut 46 formed by the rocker 40 with the pivoting member of the bracket assembly 36 maintains concentricity between the nut 46 and the stem 48, thereby preventing wear, bending, and / or other damage to these components. The rocker 40 can pivot on the pivot axis PA throughout the operation, i.e., both during tightening and loosening of the adjustment assembly 44. The engagement between the nut 46 and the rocker 40 fixes the threaded hole of the nut 46 on the axis of the adjustment axis AA, thereby ensuring that the nut 46 remains aligned with the stem 48 as the rocker 40 pivots in response to the change in orientation along the axis of the adjustment axis AA.

[0054] The tensioning assembly 26 is configured such that the tensioning force generated by the adjustment assembly 44 is transmitted from the adjustment assembly 44 along the adjustment axis AA to other components of the tensioning assembly 26 on opposite axial sides of the pivoting member. In the illustrated example, the pivoting member is the rocker 40 that pivots on the pivot axis PA. The nut 46 engages with the rocker 40 at a first location along the adjustment axis AA. The head 50 engages with the second bracket 42 at a second location along the adjustment axis AA. The first engagement location between the nut 46 and the rocker 40 is disposed on an opposite side of the rocker 40 from the second engagement location between the head 50 and the second bracket 42. In the illustrated example, the first and second engagement locations are disposed on opposite sides of the pivot axis PA. More specifically, the first engagement location is formed between the barrel face 76 and the rocker face 94 and the second engagement location is formed between the head 50 within the cradle 114 and the second bracket arm 104. Positioning the pivot point between the force application locations facilitates coaxial alignment of the components of the adjustment assembly 44 on the adjustment axis AA during installation and removal, thereby providing a more robust clamp arrangement, increasing the life of the components, and reducing costs. The force application points on opposite sides of the pivot point balance the adjustment assembly 44 to maintain alignment of the nut 46 and the stem 48 along the adjustment axis AA.

[0055] The engagement of the steerable component of the adjustment assembly 44 (i.e., the nut 46) with the pivoting component of the tensioning assembly 26 (i.e., the rocker 40) provides significant advantages. The engagement at the pivot maintains the alignment of the steerable component along the adjustment axis AA. The cylindrical face 76 of the nut 46 engages the rocker 40, and the stem 48 enters the nut 46 through the stem opening 68 that the cylindrical face 76 extends around. The pivoting engagement and the threaded engagement are located in the same place, which eliminates the unsupported span between them that can cause the creation of a moment arm that can cause bending and / or wear. Minimizing the unsupported length between the pivoting engagement and the threaded engagement prevents relative movement of the components of the adjustment assembly 44 and maintains the concentricity between them, providing a stronger clamp 16.

[0056] Figure 3A is an isometric view of the clamp 16 in an unclamped state. Figure 3B is an isometric view of the clamp 16 in a clamped state. Figure 3C is a side view of the clamp 16 in a clamped state. The following will be discussed together Figures 3A-3C The ring 24 includes a first end 28, a second end 30, an outer band 30, and an inner band member 34. The tensioning assembly 26 includes a bracket assembly 36 having a first bracket 38 and a rocker 40, a second bracket 42, and an adjustment assembly 44. The adjustment assembly 44 includes a nut 46, a stem 48, and a head 50. The nut 46 includes a barrel 62, a handle 64, a tool interface 66, a stem opening 68, and an internal thread 70. The barrel 62 includes a first barrel end 72 and a second barrel end 74. The stem 48 includes a shaft 78 and an external thread 80. The rocker 40 is shown with a rocker body 86 and a rocker end 88. The first bracket 38 includes a first bracket base 96 and a first bracket arm 98. Each first bracket arm 98 includes a pivot 100. The second bracket 42 includes a second bracket base 102 and a second bracket arm 104. Each second bracket arm 104 includes a first finger 106, a second finger 108, and a shoulder 110.

[0057] The adjustment assembly 44 is retained on the ring 24 by the bracket assembly 36. The nut 46 and the rod 48 are retained by the rocker 40 and are released only when the rod 48 is fully unscrewed from the nut 46. The rod 48 extends through the hole 90 of the rocker 40. The head 50 and the nut 46 are sized to be larger than the hole 90, such that neither the head 50 nor the nut 46 can pass through the hole 90. Thus, the bracket assembly 36 can retain the connection between the adjustment assembly 44 and the ring 24 even when the clamp 16 is in the unclamped state and the head 50 is removed from the cradle 114. Because the nut 46 is wide, the head 50 is wide, and the hole 90 is narrow, the nut 46 and the rod 48 can only be uncaptured from the rocker 40 by fully unscrewing the rod 48 from the nut 46 and then separating the rod 48 from the nut 46, such that the rod 48 can slide axially out of the hole 90 along the adjustment axis AA. The adjustment assembly 44 is retained to the ring 24 by the bracket assembly 36 regardless of whether the clamp 16 is clamped or unclamped, thereby reducing the number of components that the user must keep track of and facilitating quick and efficient operation of the clamp 16.

[0058] The clamp 16 can be actuated between Figure 3A the unclamped state shown in FIG. 1 and Figure 3B the clamped state shown in FIG. 2. The adjustment assembly 44 and the rocker 40 are pivoted about the pivot axis PA such that the shaft 78 passes through the slot 112 between the second bracket arms 104 and the head 50 passes through the end of the second finger 108. The nut 46 and the rod 48 are displaced to bring the head 50 into the cradle 114. For example, the nut 46 can be grasped and pulled axially away from the rocker 40 along the alignment axis AA, thereby pulling the rod 48 due to the threaded engagement and moving the head 50 into the cradle 114. The engagement of the head 50 against the second bracket arms 104 prevents rotation of the rod 48 such that the rod 48 is pulled further into the nut 46 as the nut 46 is rotated to shorten the distance between the end of the nut 46 and the head 50. More specifically, the head 50 engages the underside (e.g., the side facing the ring 24) of the second finger 108 and / or the shoulder 110 to prevent rotation of the rod 48 about the adjustment axis AA.

[0059] Rotation of the nut 46 in the first rotational direction causes the threaded engagement between the nut 46 and the rod 48 to pull the shaft 78 into the bore of the nut 46, thereby shortening the distance between the head 50 and the nut 46. Sufficient rotation of the nut 46 in the first rotational direction pulls enough of the shaft 78 into the nut 46 to cause the nut 46 to engage the rocker 40. With the nut 46 engaged to the rocker 40 and the head 50 engaged to the second bracket 42, further rotation of the nut 46 in the first rotational direction pulls the first end 28 of the ring 24 toward the second end 30 of the ring 24 to create tension in the ring 24. Continued rotation of the nut 46 in the first rotational direction places the clamp 16 in the clamped state. Figure 3Band Figure 3C The tensioning assembly 26 shortens the circumferential gap 60 between the first end 28 and the second end 30 to reduce the overall circumference of the ring 24 and create tension.

[0060] In the clamped state, the head 50 is received within a cradle 114 defined by the second bracket 42. The head 50 is engaged with the second bracket 42 and exerts a force on the second bracket 42 within the cradle 114. In the example shown, the cradle 114 is sized to prevent movement of the head 50 toward and away from the ring 24. Specifically, the second finger 108 is engaged with the head 50 to prevent the head 50 from moving away from the ring 24, and the shoulder 110 is engaged with the head 50 to prevent the head 50 from moving toward the ring 24. The portion of the second bracket 42 that defines the bottom of the cradle 114 has a profile similar to the cylindrical exterior of the head 50. This complementary profile allows the head 50 to freely pivot within the cradle 114 while the head 50 is prevented from moving in the first axial direction along the adjustment axis AA by the second bracket 42 and is prevented from radial movement toward and away from the ring relative to the adjustment axis AA by the second bracket 42. The nut 46 is engaged with and exerts a force on the rocker 40. The engagement of the external threading on the stem 48 with the internal threading of the bore of the nut 46 creates tension in the shaft 78 and on the gap 60 to create tension in the ring 24.

[0061] To loosen the clamp 16, the nut 46 is rotated in the second rotational direction on the adjustment axis AA. Rotating the nut 46 in the second rotational direction causes the threaded engagement between the nut 46 and the stem 48 to displace the stem 48 along the adjustment axis AA, thereby exposing additional length of the shaft 78 outside of the nut 46, increasing the distance between the head 50 and the nut 46. The increase in distance between the head 50 and the nut 46 allows the first bracket 38 to move away from the second bracket 42. The tension in the outer band 30 causes the outer band 30 to flex and expand the distance between the first end 28 and the second end 30, thereby allowing the first end 28 to move away from the second end 30 to increase the circumference of the ring 24.

[0062] The nut 46 can continue to be rotated such that sufficient play is created to allow the head 50 to move away from the first bracket 38 and clear the distal end of the second finger 108 to disengage from the cradle 114. With the head 50 disposed outside of the cradle 114, the adjustment assembly 44 is no longer pivotably constrained. Pivoting of the adjustment assembly 44 and the rocker 40 on the pivot axis PA causes the stem 48 to pass through the slot 112 and the adjustment assembly 44 to be in Figure 3AThe illustrated position. With the clamp 16 in an unclamped state, the adjustment assembly 44 is captured on the ring 24 by the bracket assembly 36 due to the rod 48 extending through the hole 90 and the nut 46 and head 50 being wider than the hole 90. This connection allows the loose clamp 16 to be a single piece, thereby minimizing the risk of dropped parts and contaminated parts in sanitary applications.

[0063] The orientation of the adjustment axis AA relative to the ring 24 and the pivot axis PA changes when tension is applied to and removed from the ring 24. The rocker 40 can freely pivot on the pivot axis PA during the tightening and loosening of the rocker 40. The pivoting of the rocker 40 also pivots the force application interface at the first end 28 formed by the interface between the cylinder face 76 and the rocker face 94 about the pivot axis PA. The head 50 is disposed within the cradle 114 of the second bracket 42 such that the head 50 is limited in movement toward or away from the ring 24, but the head 50 can pivot on an axis parallel to the pivot axis PA. The dual pivoting of the adjustment assembly 44 at two force application points (the first between the head 50 and the second bracket 42 and the second between the nut 46 and the rocker 40) helps maintain the concentricity between the nut 46 and the rod 48 even when the orientation of the adjustment axis AA changes due to the size of the circumferential gap 60 changing. The dual pivoting maintains the coaxial alignment between the nut axis NA and the shaft axis SA, thereby preventing unwanted bending of the shaft 78 and damage to the threaded interface between the nut 46 and the rod 48.

[0064] The threaded interface between the nut 46 and the rod 48 is located at the pivot bracket assembly 36. The threaded interface is disposed on a first side of the pivoting rocker 40 along the adjustment axis AA, while the interface between the head 50 and the second bracket 42 is disposed on a second side of the pivoting rocker 40 along the adjustment axis AA. The relative positioning helps maintain the concentricity between the nut 46 and the rod 48, thereby preventing wear and bending. The tensioning assembly 26 is configured such that the adjustment axis AA pivots relative to the first bracket 38 at a location intermediate the nut 46 and the head 50. Positioning the nut 46 in engagement with a pivoting component, such as the rocker 40, prevents the formation of a moment arm between these locations that can cause the shaft 78 to bend. The pivot axis PA is disposed along the adjustment axis AA between the two force application interfaces of the tensioning assembly 26, between the nut 46 and the rocker 40 and between the head 50 and the second bracket 42. The relative positioning of the force application interfaces facilitates the pivoting of both the shaft axis SA and the nut axis NA, thereby maintaining the concentricity between them.

[0065] Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 in Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 in Figure 4B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 in Figure 3BThe clamp 16 is shown in an isometric view with a quarter cross-sectional view of a portion of the tension assembly 26 of the clamp 16. The tension assembly 26 includes a bracket assembly 36 having a first bracket 38 and a rocker 40, a second bracket 42, and an adjustment assembly 44. The adjustment assembly 44 includes a nut 46, a stem 48, and a head 50. The nut 46 includes a barrel 62, a handle 64, a tool interface 66, a stem opening 68, an internal thread 70, a cavity 116, and a neck 118. The barrel 62 includes a first barrel end 72, a second barrel end 74, a barrel face 76. The stem 48 includes a shaft 78, the head 50, and an external thread 80. The rocker 40 includes a gap side 82, a nut side 84, a rocker end 88, a bore 90, a recess 92, and a rocker face 94. The first bracket 38 includes a first bracket base 96 and first bracket arms 98. Each first bracket arm 98 includes a pivot 100. The second bracket 42 includes a second bracket base 102 and second bracket arms 104. Each second bracket arm 104 includes a first finger 106, a second finger 108, and a shoulder 110.

[0066] The adjustment assembly 44 is connected to the ring 24 by the bracket assembly 36. The stem 48 extends through the bore 90 of the rocker 40 and into the nut 46 to form the adjustment assembly 44. The shaft 78 is elongated along an axis SA. The external thread 80 is formed on the shaft 78. In the example shown, the external thread 80 extends the entire length of the shaft 78 between a distal end of the shaft 78 disposed within the nut 46 and an end of the shaft 78 where the head 50 is joined to the shaft 78. However, it will be appreciated that some examples of the stem 48 include an external thread 80 along only a portion of the length of the shaft 78. For example, the external thread 80 can extend from a distal end of the shaft 78 that first enters the nut 46 and only partially along the shaft 78 toward the head 50, such as along one-half of the length of the shaft 78, among other options. The head 50 is mounted to a reduced diameter portion of the shaft 78. The reduced diameter portion of the shaft 78 is fixed to the head such that the head cannot rotate relative to the shaft 78.

[0067] The head 50 is engaged with the second bracket 42 within the cradle 114. The head 50 engaged with the second bracket 42 forms a force application interface of the clamp 16 at a location where the adjustment assembly 44 applies force to other components of the tension assembly 26 to apply force to the ring 24 to reduce the circumference of the ring 24 by reducing the size of the circumferential gap 60. The nut 46 is engaged with the stem 48 and is rotatable about the stem 48 on an adjustment axis AA. More particularly, a threaded engagement between the internal thread 70 of the nut 46 and the external thread 80 of the stem 48 connects the stem 48 to the nut 46. In some examples, the internal thread 70 and the external thread 80 are configured to have a trapezoidal thread form. In one example, the internal thread 70 and the external thread 80 can be formed with an Acme thread form. The trapezoidal thread form of the internal thread 70 and the external thread 80 provides a strong threaded engagement that resists deformation and wear and helps to build tension in the shaft 78 and on the circumferential gap 60.

[0068] The barrel 62 of the nut 46 is elongate along the nut axis NA. A cavity 116 is formed within the barrel 62. An internal thread 70 is formed on the inside of the barrel 62. The threaded portion of the barrel 62 can be considered to form a threaded bore. In the example shown, the internal thread 70 extends only part way along the interior of the barrel 62. For example, the length of the threaded portion extending along the nut axis NA can be less than one third of the length of the nut 46 along the nut axis NA. With the clamp 3 in the clamped condition, the distal end portion of the shaft 78 can be disposed within the cavity 116 and cantilevered from the threaded engagement. The portion of the barrel 62 along which the internal thread 70 is disposed forms a neck 118 of the nut 46. In the example shown, the barrel 62 has the same outer diameter along the neck 118 and along other portions of the barrel 62. In some examples, the neck 118 can be a reduced diameter portion of the barrel 62 having an outer diameter that is less than other portions of the barrel 62 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5). Figure 5A and 5B

[0069] The engagement between the internal thread 70 and the external thread 80 can draw the rod 48 into the nut 46 to establish tension in the shaft 78 and across the gap 60, and can drive the rod 48 out of the nut 46 to release tension in the shaft 78. The tension created by the adjustment assembly 44 is transmitted through the rocker 40 and the first bracket 38 at the first end 28 to the ring 24, and through the second bracket 42 at the second end 30 to the ring 24. The tension created by the threaded engagement is transmitted through the nut 46, the rocker 40, and the first bracket 38 at the first end 28, and the tension is transmitted through the shaft 78, the head 50, and the second bracket 42 at the second end 30. The threaded adjuster of the adjustment assembly 44 formed by the nut 46 engages the pivoting component of the tensioning assembly 26 formed by the rocker 40, preventing bending of the shaft 78 that extends across the circumferential gap 60 and transmits tension. The pivoting component is located closer to the threaded force point along the rod 48 than the force point at the head 50. Such an arrangement prevents misalignment between the shaft axis SA and the nut axis NA by minimizing any moment arm length between the pivoting rocker 40 and the interface between the internal thread 70 and the external thread 80 that creates tension.

[0070] ​Nut 46 engages with rocker 40 at a location within recess 92. More specifically, flat barrel face 76 engages with flat rocker face 94. The interface of engagement is annular and extends about adjustment axis AA. The planar interface of engagement between nut 46 and rocker 40 aligns adjustment assembly 44 with bore 90 on adjustment axis AA. The engagement of nut 46 on the pivoting member of tension assembly 26, and the alignment of adjustment assembly 44 and bore 90 on adjustment axis AA, maintains the concentricity and alignment of nut 46 and rod 48 when clamp 16 is tightened. Nut 46, which engages with and exerts a force at rocker 40, remains aligned, preventing damage to components of clamp 16.

[0071] Figure 5A is an exploded isometric view of clamp 16'. Figure 5B is an isometric view of clamp 16' in an unclamped state. Clamp 16' includes ring 24 and tension assembly 26'. Ring 24 includes outer band 32 and inner band member 34. Tension assembly 26' includes bracket assembly 36' with first bracket 38' and washer 120, second bracket 42', and adjustment assembly 44'. Adjustment assembly 44' includes nut 46', rod 48', and head 50'. Barrel 62' is shown, as are handle 64, tool interface 66, and neck 118' of nut 46'. Barrel 62' includes first barrel end 72' and second barrel end 74'. Rod 48' includes shaft 78' and external threads 80. First bracket 38' includes first bracket base 96' and first bracket arm 98'. First bracket arm 98' includes bore 90'. Second bracket 42' includes second bracket base 102' and second bracket arms 104'. Each second bracket arm 104' includes first finger 106' and second finger 108'.

[0072] Clamp 16' is substantially similar to clamp 16. First bracket 38' is mounted at first end 28 of ring 24. In the example shown, first bracket 38' is mounted to inner band member 34. Second bracket 42' is mounted at second end 30 of ring 24. In the example shown, second bracket 42' is mounted to inner band member 34.

[0073] The first bracket base 96' is secured to the first end 28, such as by welding and other options. The first bracket arm 98' extends from the first bracket base 96' and away from the ring 24. The first bracket 38' can be considered L-shaped, although it is understood that other configurations are possible. The first bracket arm 98' is oriented such that the alignment axis AA passes through the first bracket arm 98'. In particular, the aperture 90' is aligned through the aperture 90' formed in the first bracket arm 98'. The aperture 90' is vertically elongated relative to the outer band 32 of the ring 24. In the example shown, the aperture 90' can be considered to form a radially elongated slot relative to the adjustment axis AA. The aperture 90' can be formed as a slot with rounded ends. However, it is understood that other shapes are possible. The aperture 90' has a closed periphery, so the rod 48' cannot slide out of the aperture 90' from the side. Rather, the rod 48' can only slide out of the aperture 90' axially along the adjustment axis AA. In the example shown, the periphery of the aperture 90' is completely closed. The head 50' and the nut 46' have a width that is greater than the maximum dimension of the aperture 90' to maintain the adjustment assembly 44' on the clamp 16' with the clamp 16' in an unclamped state.

[0074] The washer 120 is mounted on the rod 48' between the first bracket 38' and the nut 46'. The washer 120 is disposed such that a first side of the washer 120 engages the first bracket arm 98' and a second side of the washer 120 engages the barrel 62'. For example, the washer 120 can engage a face of the barrel 62' (similar to the barrel face 76). The barrel 62' engages the washer 120 to press the washer 120 into the first bracket arm 98'. The washer 120 is configured to provide an engagement between the barrel 62' and the first bracket 38' that facilitates vertical movement of the nut 46' relative to the first bracket arm 98' and along the long axis of the aperture 90'. This vertical movement maintains concentricity between the nut 46' and the rod 48' during the tightening and loosening processes. In the example shown, the neck 118' of the barrel 62' is a reduced diameter portion of the barrel 62'. The internal threads 70 of the nut 46' can be formed only within the neck 118'. In some examples, the threads of the nut 46' extend along the entire length of the neck 118'. The internal threads of the nut 46' engage the external threads 80 of the shaft 78'. In the example shown, the shaft 78' is only partially threaded along its length.

[0075] In the example shown, the height of the cradle 114 formed by the second bracket arm 104' between the second finger 108' and the second bracket base 102' is greater than the diameter of the head 50'. The width of the head 50' being less than the cradle 114 facilitates vertical movement of the head 50' within the cradle 114 relative to the first finger 106' to allow for dual movement of the adjustment assembly 44' at the first bracket 38' and the second bracket 42' to maintain concentricity of the adjustment assembly 44' during tightening and loosening of the clamp 16'.

[0076] To engage the clamp 16', the pivot adjustment assembly 44' is pivoted so that the stem 48' passes through the slot 112 and the head 50' passes through the distal end of the second brace arm 104'. The bore 90' is radially elongated with respect to the adjustment axis AA to allow movement of the stem 48' within the bore 90'. The adjustment assembly 44' is pulled along the adjustment axis AA so that the head 50' enters the cradle 114. The nut 46' is rotated about the adjustment axis AA to draw the stem 48' into the nut 46' due to the threaded engagement between the stem 48' and the nut 46'. Enough travel causes the nut 46' to engage the washer 120 and push the washer 120 against the first brace 38' to create tension in the shaft 78' and pull the first brace 38' toward the second brace 42' and the first end 28 toward the second end 30, thereby tightening the clamp 16'. The elongated bore 90' facilitates movement of the adjustment axis AA so that the adjustment assembly 44' can be pivoted at any point along the adjustment axis AA from the head 50' to within the bore 90'. The threaded engagement that creates tension is located at the same circumferential point between the nut 46' and the brace assembly 36'. This arrangement helps maintain coaxial alignment and concentricity between the stem 48' and the nut 46' along the adjustment axis AA, thereby preventing bending and wear. In addition, the head 50' and the nut 46' are larger than the bore 90' so that the adjustment assembly 44' also remains on the clamp 16' as a single clamping assembly with the clamp 16' in an unclamped state.

[0077] While the application has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the application. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the application without departing from the central scope thereof. Therefore, the application is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but rather is to be afforded the full scope consistent with the disclosure.

Claims

1. A clamp for sealing a fluid assembly, the clamp comprising: The ring has a circumferential gap that separates a first end of the ring from a second end of the ring. The ring also includes an outer belt and a plurality of inner belt members disposed on the radial side of the outer belt, wherein each of the plurality of inner belt members is circumferentially spaced apart and each of the plurality of inner belt members includes an inner groove. A support assembly is mounted to a first end of the ring, the support assembly including a first support mounted to the first end and including a first hole through the support assembly, wherein the outer periphery of the first hole is closed; A second support, mounted on a second end of the ring, having an opening slot and forming a bracket, further comprising a first finger bent away from the first support and a second finger bent away from the second support, the first and second fingers defining the bracket, wherein the opening slot is disposed between the first and second fingers; and An adjustment assembly configured to pull the first end and the second end together to reduce the width of the circumferential gap, the adjustment assembly comprising: A rod that extends along an adjustment axis and has external threads and extends through the first hole; A nut having a threaded hole having an internal thread complementary to the external thread of the rod, such that the rod can be at least partially moved through the nut by relative rotation between the rod and the nut; and A head, which is attached to the rod, is wider than the slot of the second bracket so that the head can be fixed in the bracket of the second bracket, wherein the head is disposed on the side of the first hole opposite to the nut; The rocker arm is mounted on a first bracket and is pivotable on a pivot axis that is set orthogonal to the adjustment axis. A first hole is formed through the rocker arm so that the rod extends through the rocker arm. Wherein, when the head is set in the bracket of the second bracket, the relative rotation between the nut and the rod tightens and loosens the ring by respectively decreasing and increasing the width of the circumferential gap; Specifically, by completely removing the head from the bracket and pivoting the adjustment assembly to change the orientation of the adjustment axis, the rod passes through the opening slot, thereby allowing the head to be released from the second bracket; and The head, the first support, and the second support are configured such that the head can be moved away from the first support to detach the head from the first end of the first finger and the second end of the second finger to remove the head from the bracket.

2. The clamp according to claim 1, wherein, The nut engages with the bracket assembly.

3. The clamp according to claim 1, wherein, The nut extends along the adjustment axis.

4. The clamp according to claim 3, wherein, Only a portion of the nut's length includes the internal thread, and this portion is less than one-third of the nut's length.

5. The clamp according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein, The nut includes: The opening of the threaded hole is formed at the end of the first nut; and The first face of the nut is formed at the end of the first nut and surrounds the opening, wherein the first face is flat.

6. The clamp according to claim 5, wherein, The rocker arm includes a second surface disposed around the opening of the first hole, wherein the second surface is flat, and wherein the second surface is configured to engage with the first surface.

7. The clamp according to claim 6, wherein, The recess extends to the outside of the rocker arm, and the second surface is disposed at the base of the recess.

8. The clamp according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein: The first support includes a pair of first arms extending away from the ring, wherein each of the pair of first arms includes a pivot opening therethrough; and The rocker arm is mounted to the first bracket at the pivot opening.

9. The clamp according to claim 8, wherein, The joystick includes: Cylindrical rocker arm body; Multiple protrusions are provided at the distal end of the cylindrical rocker body, wherein each of the multiple protrusions engages with the first bracket at a pivot opening of the pivot opening.

10. The clamp according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The first support is U-shaped.

11. The clamp according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The head is cylindrical and is located at the end of the rod opposite to the nut.

12. The clamp according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, When the head is inside the bracket, the engagement between the head and the second bracket prevents the rod from rotating completely, and wherein, when the head is outside the bracket, the rod is capable of rotating completely relative to the nut.

13. The clamp according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The second bracket includes a first finger and a second finger defining the bracket, wherein the opening slot is disposed between the first finger and the second finger and separates the first finger from the second finger.

14. The clamp according to claim 1, wherein, The first finger bends away from the first support, and the second finger bends away from the first support.

15. The clamp according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The width of the head is greater than the maximum size of the hole.

16. The clamp according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The ring does not include a hinge.

17. The clamp according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The head is elongated and oriented perpendicular to the rod to form a T-shape.

18. The clamp according to claim 1, wherein, The bracket assembly includes a washer through which the rod extends, and the washer is located between the first bracket and the nut.

19. A fluid assembly, the fluid assembly comprising: Fluid cap; Drive cover; A diaphragm located between the fluid cover and the drive cover; and The clamp according to any one of the preceding claims is mounted to the fluid assembly such that the flange of the fluid cover and the flange of the drive cover are disposed in an annular groove of the ring; Tightening the adjusting assembly presses the fluid cap and the drive cap together to seal the diaphragm between them.

20. A method for clamping a fluid assembly using the clamp of claim 1, the method comprising: The ring of the clamp is positioned around a flange formed by the drive cover of the fluid assembly and the fluid cover of the fluid assembly, such that the flange is disposed in an internal groove of a plurality of internal members of the ring; A rocker arm supported by a first bracket located at the first end of the ring is pivoted on the pivot axis to reorient the adjustment axis of the adjustment assembly of the clamp, such that the rod of the adjustment assembly passes through the slot of the second bracket located at the second end of the ring, wherein the rod extends through a first hole that extends through the rocker arm; and The clamp is tightened by rotating the nut relative to the rod to pull the rod into the nut, such that the nut engages with the rocker arm, and the head is positioned in the bracket of the second bracket, wherein the head engages with the second bracket to prevent the rod from rotating completely about the adjustment axis.

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