Bracket device and method for manufacturing component cleaners

Abstract

A bracket device configured to fix a connector, the bracket device comprising: a first side section, the first side section including: a first sub-section including a first support bracket; a second sub-section connected to the first sub-section, wherein the second sub-section includes a first fixing bracket pair; and a third sub-section connected to the second sub-section; a second side section, the second side section including: a fourth sub-section including a second support bracket; a fifth sub-section connected to the fourth sub-section, wherein the fifth sub-section includes a second fixing bracket pair; and a sixth sub-section connected to the fifth sub-section; and an end connection section located between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connection section includes an end bracket.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 492,127, filed March 24, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The various aspects of this disclosure generally relate to bracket devices, and more specifically, to bracket devices and related methods for securing laboratory components during cleaning / sterilization processes. Background Technology

[0004] Cleaning and sterilizing machines (“cleaners”) are used for the automated cleaning of laboratory and / or surgical equipment. More specifically, cleaners typically work by combining pressurized jets, water temperature, and cleaning agents to clean internally mounted equipment, which may be heat-resistant and / or heat-sensitive. The advantages of using cleaners for automated cleaning processes include consistency, productivity, and control over essential parameters such as temperature, chemicals, and time. However, problems can arise if the mounted equipment moves during the sterilization process.

[0005] Therefore, this disclosure addresses the aforementioned problems by using a bracket device during the cleaning and disinfection of equipment. The background description provided herein is for the purpose of generally presenting the background of this disclosure. Unless otherwise stated herein, the materials described in this section are not prior art to the claims of this application, nor are their inclusion in this section an admission that they are prior art or suggestions for prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to certain aspects of this disclosure, a bracket device for securing connector devices during equipment sterilization treatment is disclosed.

[0007] In one aspect, a bracket device configured to fix a connector is provided. The bracket device includes: a first side section comprising: a first sub-section including a first support bracket; a second sub-section connected to the first sub-section, wherein the second sub-section includes a first fixing bracket pair; and a third sub-section connected to the second sub-section; a second side section comprising: a fourth sub-section including a second support bracket; a fifth sub-section connected to the fourth sub-section, wherein the fifth sub-section includes a second fixing bracket pair; and a sixth sub-section connected to the fifth sub-section; and an end connection section located between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connection section includes an end bracket.

[0008] In another aspect, an equipment securing device is provided. The equipment securing device includes: a connector configured to secure equipment components, wherein the connector includes a first clamping assembly and a second clamping assembly; a bracket device attached to and at least partially surrounding the connector, wherein the bracket device includes: a first side section, the first side section including: a first sub-section, the first sub-section including a first support bracket; a second sub-section connected to the first sub-section, wherein the second sub-section includes a first fixing bracket pair; and a third sub-section connected to the second sub-section; a second side section, the second side section including The connector comprises: a fourth sub-section, the fourth sub-section including a second support bracket; a fifth sub-section connected to the fourth sub-section, wherein the fifth sub-section includes a second fixing bracket pair; a sixth sub-section connected to the fifth sub-section; and an end connection section located between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connection section includes an end bracket; wherein the first fixing bracket pair is clamped around the first clamping assembly, wherein the second fixing bracket pair is clamped around the second clamping assembly, and wherein the end bracket is clamped on the first end of the connector.

[0009] In another aspect, a method for securing a connector to a bracket assembly is provided, the method comprising: clamping a first clamping assembly of the connector between a first pair of fixed brackets of the bracket assembly; clamping a second clamping assembly of the connector between a second pair of fixed brackets of the bracket assembly; and clamping a first end of the connector between an end bracket of the bracket assembly and a first support bracket and a second support bracket.

[0010] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit the implementation of this disclosure as requested. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate the disclosed embodiments and, together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments. Numerous aspects and embodiments are described herein. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that features of a particular aspect or embodiment can be used in conjunction with features of any or all other aspects or embodiments described in this disclosure. In the drawings:

[0012] Figure 1 A perspective view depicting various aspects of the bracket assembly according to this disclosure.

[0013] Figure 2A perspective view depicting a connecting device configured as a fixed piece of equipment according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0014] Figure 3 Exemplary processes for attaching a connecting device to a bracket device according to various aspects of this disclosure are described.

[0015] Figure 4 A perspective view depicting a connecting device secured by a bracket assembly according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0016] Figure 5 A perspective view depicting an apparatus attached to a connecting device secured by a bracket device according to various aspects of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The terminology used below may be interpreted in its broadest and most reasonable manner, although it is used in conjunction with the detailed description of certain specific examples of this disclosure. Indeed, some terms may even be emphasized below; however, any term intended to be interpreted in any limiting manner will be specifically defined in this detailed description section. The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and explanatory, and not intended to limit the features as requested.

[0018] In this disclosure, the term “based on” means “at least partially based on”. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include a plural of the referred objects unless the context otherwise requires. The term “exemplary” means “example” rather than “ideal.” The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” or other variations are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, or product that includes a list of elements does not necessarily include only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Relative terms, such as “substantially” and “generally,” are used to indicate possible variations of ±10% in the specified or understood values.

[0019] A common problem during sterilization cycles of a cleaning machine (e.g., a STERIS single-chamber or multi-chamber cleaning / sterilizer) is that equipment may fall off its shelf. Once parts are detached, they are considered unclean and require re-cleaning. In these cases, another sterilization cycle needs to be started, which typically contains only a few parts (e.g., just those detached parts). A single sterilization cycle may require at least two operators to start, and the operation may last approximately three to four hours. Furthermore, the cost per operation is extremely high due to the variety of solutions used and the labor and energy required for the cycle. Therefore, restarting the cleaning machine to handle the detached equipment is expensive, time-consuming, and labor-intensive.

[0020] To minimize equipment movement, small parts are typically secured to racks within the cleaning machine using plastic triple clamp (TC) connectors. TC connectors firmly clamp a piece of equipment and hold it upright during disinfection cycles. However, due to the alkaline and acidic solutions used in the cleaning machine, and the high-temperature environment inside, TC connectors eventually swell and lose their ability to properly clamp the equipment, causing it to detach. Therefore, a better securing solution is needed for small pieces of equipment undergoing disinfection cycles within the cleaning machine.

[0021] Therefore, embodiments of this disclosure provide a bracket device capable of attaching to a TC connector. More specifically, the bracket device ensures that the TC connector maintains its clamping properties, so that any equipment attached to the TC connector is properly secured throughout the sterilization cycle. Furthermore, the bracket device can be designed such that attachment to the TC connector does not interrupt the flow path of any cleaning solution.

[0022] Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure as described below and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. Additional objects and advantages of the embodiments will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practice of the embodiments. It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and not limiting of the claims.

[0023] Reference Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary bracket assembly is provided. In an embodiment, the bracket assembly 100 may include an end connection section 105, a first side section 110, and a second side section 115.

[0024] In an embodiment, the end connecting segment 105 may have a first surface 105a and a second surface 105b. In an embodiment, the first surface 105a may have substantially the same shape and / or size 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 have substantially the same length and width. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the first surface 105a may have a different shape and / or size than the second surface 105b. For example, both the first surface 105a and the second surface 105b may have the same shape (e.g., a rectangular shape), but the first surface 105a may have a shorter length than the second surface 105b. In an embodiment, the end connecting segment 105 may further have a first edge 105c and a second edge 105d. In an embodiment, the first edge 105c may be parallel to and opposite to the second edge 105d. In an embodiment, each of the first edge 105c and the second edge 105d may have a thickness equal to or different from the other edges.

[0025] In an embodiment, a first side section 110 extends from the first end 120a of the end connecting section 105, and a second side section 115 extends from the second end 120b of the end connecting section 105. In an embodiment, each of the first side section 110 and the second side section 115 may extend away from the end connecting section 105 at obtuse angles 125a and 125b, respectively, wherein the obtuse angle 125a formed between the end connecting section 105 and the first side section 110 may be the same as or different from the obtuse angle 125b formed between the end connecting section 105 and the second side section 115. Therefore, in an embodiment, the first side section 110 may not be parallel to the second side section 115.

[0026] In an embodiment, the first side section 110 may include a first sub-section 130 directly connected to a first end 120a of the end connection section 105, and the second side section 115 may include a first sub-section 135 directly connected to a second end 120b of the end connection section 105. Each of the first sub-sections 130 and 135 may respectively include a first surface 130a, 135a and a second surface 130b, 135b. In an embodiment, for each of the first sub-sections 130 and 135, the first surfaces 130a and 135a may have substantially the same shape and / or size as the second surfaces 130b and 135b. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the first surfaces 130a and 135a may have a different shape and / or different size than the second surfaces 130b and 135b. In an embodiment, the shape and / or size of either the first surface 130a or the second surface 130b of the first sub-segment 130 may be the same as or different from the shape and / or size of either the first surface 135a or the second surface 135b of the first sub-segment 135. In an embodiment, each of the first sub-segments 130 and 135 may have a first edge 130c, 135c and a second edge 130d, 135d. In an embodiment, the first edges 130c and 135c may be parallel to and opposite to the second edges 130d and 135d. In an embodiment, each of the first edges 130c and 135c and the second edges 130d and 135d may have a thickness equal to or different from the other edges.

[0027] In an embodiment, the first side segment 110 may include a second sub-segment 140 directly connected to the distal end 145a of the first sub-segment 130, and the second side segment 115 may include a second sub-segment 150 directly connected to the distal end 145b of the first sub-segment 135. In an embodiment, each of the second sub-segments 140 and 150 may extend away from the first sub-segments 130 and 135 at an acute angle, a 90-degree angle, or an obtuse angle. In an embodiment, the angle formed between the second sub-segment 140 and the first sub-segment 130 may be the same as or different from the angle formed between the second sub-segment 150 and the first sub-segment 135. In an embodiment, the shape and / or size of the second sub-segments 140 and 150 may be the same as or different from the shape and / or size of the first sub-segments 130 and 135.

[0028] Each of the second sub-segments 140 and 150 may include a first surface 140a, 150a and a second surface 140b, 150b. In an embodiment, for each of the second sub-segments 140 and 150, the first surface 140a, 150a may have substantially the same shape and / or size as the second surface 140b, 150b. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the first surface 140a, 150a may have a different shape and / or different size than the second surface 140b, 150b. In an embodiment, the shape and / or size of either the first surface 140a or the second surface 140b of the second sub-segment 140 may be the same as or different from the shape and / or size of either the first surface 150a or the second surface 150b of the second sub-segment 150. In an embodiment, each of the second sub-segments 140 and 150 may have a first edge 140c, 150c and a second edge 140d, 150d. In an embodiment, the first edges 140c, 150c may be parallel to and located opposite to the second edges 140d, 150d. In an embodiment, each of the first edges 140c, 150c and the second edges 140d, 150d may have a thickness equal to or different from the other edges.

[0029] In an embodiment, the first side segment 110 may include a third sub-segment 155 directly connected to the distal end 160a of the second sub-segment 140, and the second side segment 115 may include a third sub-segment 165 directly connected to the distal end 160b of the second sub-segment 150. In an embodiment, each of the third sub-segments 155 and 165 may extend away from the second sub-segments 140 and 150 at an acute angle, a 90-degree angle, or an obtuse angle. In an embodiment, the angle formed between the third sub-segment 155 and the second sub-segment 140 may be the same as or different from the angle formed between the third sub-segment 165 and the second sub-segment 150. In an embodiment, the shape and / or size of the third sub-segments 155 and 165 may be the same as or different from the shape and / or size of the second sub-segments 140 and 150 and / or the first sub-segments 130 and 135.

[0030] Each of the third sub-segments 155 and 165 may include a first surface 155a, 165a and a second surface 155b, 165b. In an embodiment, for each of the third sub-segments 155 and 165, the first surface 155a, 165a may have substantially the same shape and / or size as the second surface 155b, 165b. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the first surface 155a, 165a may have a different shape and / or different size than the second surface 155b, 165b. In an embodiment, the shape and / or size of either the first surface 155a or the second surface 155b of the third sub-segment 155 may be the same as or different from the shape and / or size of either the first surface 165a or the second surface 165b of the third sub-segment 165. In an embodiment, each of the third sub-segments 155 and 165 may have a first edge 155c, 165c and a second edge 155d, 165d. In an embodiment, the first edges 155c and 165c may be parallel to and located opposite to the second edges 155d and 165d. In an embodiment, the first edges 155c and 165c and the second edges 155d and 165d may have a thickness equal to or different from the other edges.

[0031] In embodiments, some or all of the surfaces of any of the aforementioned sections of the bracket assembly may be substantially solid from beginning to end (e.g., currently in...). Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram). Alternatively, in other embodiments, some or all of the surfaces of any of the segments may be partially hollow. For example, some or all of the surfaces of any of the segments may contain one or more holes (e.g., circular holes, elliptical holes, rectangular holes, etc.). In embodiments, each of the edges of the bracket assembly may have a specific type of finish (e.g., the edge may be a sharp edge, a beveled edge, a rounded edge, a chamfered edge, etc.). The type of finish may be the same for all edges, the same for a subset of edges, or different for all edges.

[0032] In one embodiment, the end connection segment 105 may include an end bracket 170. In another embodiment, the end bracket 170 may be integrated into the first edge 105c at virtually any location along the length of the end connection segment 105. For example, Figure 1The end bracket 170 shown is substantially located in the middle of the end connection section 105. In embodiments, the end bracket 170 can be virtually any shape (e.g., square, rectangular, trapezoidal, etc.). In embodiments, the end bracket 170 can extend away from the first edge 105c toward the open central region of the bracket assembly 100. More specifically, in embodiments, the end bracket 170 can extend from the first edge 105c at an angle (e.g., an acute angle, etc.).

[0033] In an embodiment, each of the first sub-segments 130, 135 may include support brackets 175, 180. In an embodiment, support bracket 175 may be integrated into a second edge 130d of the first sub-segment 130, and support bracket 180 may be integrated into a second edge 135d of the first sub-segment 135. In an embodiment, each of the support brackets 175, 180 may be positioned virtually anywhere along the length of the first sub-segments 130, 135. For example, Figure 1 The support brackets 175, 180 shown are substantially located in the middle of the first sub-sections 130, 135. In embodiments, the support brackets 175, 180 can be virtually any shape (e.g., square, rectangular, trapezoidal, etc.). In embodiments, each of the support brackets 175, 180 may extend away from the second edges 130d, 135d toward the open central region of the bracket assembly 100. More specifically, in embodiments, each of the support brackets 175, 180 may extend at an angle (e.g., substantially 90 degrees) away from the second edges 130d, 135d. In embodiments, the bracket assembly 100 may include two support brackets (e.g., as shown in the original text). Figure 1 As shown in the diagram, or alternatively, more or fewer support brackets may be included. For example, bracket assembly 100 may contain only a single support bracket (e.g., only one of support brackets 175, 180).

[0034] In an embodiment, each of the second sub-segments 140, 150 may include a pair of fixing brackets 185, 190. In an embodiment, each of the fixing bracket pairs 185, 190 may include a first fixing bracket 185a, 190a integrated into a first edge 140c, 150c of the second sub-segments 140, 150, and a second fixing bracket 185b, 190b integrated into a second edge 140d, 150d of the second sub-segments 140, 150. In an embodiment, the first fixing brackets 185a, 190a and / or the second fixing brackets 185b, 190b may be positioned virtually anywhere along the length of the second sub-segments 140, 150. In an embodiment, the first fixing brackets 185a, 190a and the second fixing brackets 185b, 190b can be virtually any shape (e.g., square, rectangular, trapezoidal, etc.) and can extend away from the first edge 140c, 150c and the second edge 140d, 150d toward the open central region of the bracket assembly 100. More specifically, in an embodiment, each of the first fixing brackets 185a, 190a and the second fixing brackets 185b, 190b can extend away from the first edge 140c, 150c and the second edge 140d, 150d at an angle (e.g., substantially 90 degrees, an acute angle, etc.). In an embodiment, the first fixing brackets 185a, 190a can extend away from the first edge 140c, 150c at an angle that is substantially the same as or different from the angle at which the second fixing brackets 185b, 190b extend away from the second edge 140d, 150d.

[0035] In embodiments, the bracket assembly 100 may be made of a flexible material sufficient to wrap around the TC connector (as further described herein) and capable of withstanding the high-temperature environment of the cleaning machine and the acidic solutions used during disinfection. For example, the bracket assembly 100 may be made of stainless steel with predetermined specifications. In embodiments, the entire bracket assembly 100 may be made of the same material, or alternatively, portions of the bracket assembly 100 may be made of different materials. In embodiments, the entire bracket assembly 100 may contain the same toughness from beginning to end. Alternatively, in other embodiments, some portions of the bracket assembly 100 may contain greater toughness than other portions. For example, the end bracket 170, support brackets 175, 180, and / or the fixing bracket pair 185, 190 may be more flexible or less flexible than other portions of the bracket assembly 100. In embodiments, each of the side sections 110, 115 may have substantially the same dimensions (e.g., length, width, etc.) and the same number of brackets. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the size and / or bracket on one of the side sections 110, 115 may differ from the size and / or protrusion of the other on the opposite section, for example, to accommodate TC connectors of varying shapes and sizes.

[0036] In an embodiment, the bracket device 100 can be configured to secure the conventional TC connector 200, such as... Figure 2 As shown in the diagram, the TC connector 200 can be configured to attach and secure various types of equipment (e.g., tubes, bottles, connector assemblies, etc.). In embodiments, the TC connector 200 may be made of plastic or other materials such as polymers and may have varying dimensions (e.g., 1). 1 / 2”, 3 / 4”, etc.). In embodiments, the TC connector 200 may be substantially solid from start to finish, or alternatively, may contain one or more hole portions therein.

[0037] In one embodiment, the TC connector 200 may be substantially bowl-shaped and may include a surface 205 that intersects with the recess 210 of the TC connector 200 at a first edge 215. In another embodiment, the surface 205 may be substantially circular in shape, for example, as shown in the figure. Figure 2 As shown, it may contain a consistent width defined by the first edge 215 and the second edge 220.

[0038] In an embodiment, the TC connector 200 may include a first clamping assembly 225 and a second clamping assembly 230, respectively. In an embodiment, the first clamping assembly 225 may be positioned virtually anywhere along the surface relative to the second clamping assembly 230 (e.g., the two clamping assemblies 225, 230 may be substantially adjacent to each other, substantially opposite each other, close to each other, etc.). In an embodiment, each of the first clamping assembly 225 and the second clamping assembly 230 may include vertical segments 225a, 230a and protruding segments 225b, 230b. In an embodiment, the vertical segments 225a, 230a may be directly connected to a portion of the surface 205 and may extend substantially at a 90-degree angle away from the surface 205. In an embodiment, each of the protruding segments 225b, 230b may be connected to the vertical segments 225a, 230a at edges 235a, 235b. In some embodiments, each of the protruding segments 225b and 230b may extend toward the center of the TC connector 200, thus protruding a portion of the surface 205, and in some embodiments, protruding the area of ​​the recess 210.

[0039] Now turning Figure 3 The exemplary illustration shows how the TC connector 200 can be attached to the bracket assembly 100. More specifically, the bracket assembly 100 can be configured to wrap around the TC connector 200 via manually moving the rear end 240 of the TC connector 200 through the opening 195 of the bracket assembly 100 (i.e., in the space between the side sections 110, 115) and toward the end connection section 105. Attachment can be achieved when the rear end 240 of the TC connector 200 is secured by the end bracket 170 and each of the clamping assemblies 225, 230 is secured by one of the two sets of retaining bracket pairs 185, 190, as shown. Figure 4 As shown in the diagram. In this respect, the end bracket 170 may wrap around the surface 205 corresponding to a portion of the rear end 220 of the TC connector 200 and correspondingly provide a compressive downward force to the base 210, thereby securing the TC connector 200 between the support brackets 175, 180 and the end bracket 170. Furthermore, each of the first retaining brackets 185a, 190a may contact the protruding sections 225b, 230b and extend over at least a portion of the surface thereon. Each of the second retaining brackets 185b, 190b may contact the outer surface (not shown) of the TC connector 200, thereby further securing the TC connector between the first retaining brackets 185a, 190a and the second retaining brackets 185b, 190b.

[0040] Now turning Figure 5An attachment component is provided for attachment to a TC connector secured by a bracket assembly. In the illustration, the attachment component 300 is an elbow connector; however, this designation is exemplary and not intended to be limiting. In an embodiment, the edge 305 of the attachment component 300 can be secured to the TC connector 200 by inserting the edge 305 of the attachment component 300 into the space provided by the protruding portions 225b, 230b of the clamping assemblies 225, 230 and the corresponding surface portions 205. In this attachment configuration, the bracket assembly 100 can prevent expansion of the TC connector 200 and / or loosening of the clamping assemblies 225, 230 due to the rigid frame of the bracket assembly 100 and the compressive forces thus provided. Therefore, the attachment component 300 can be held securely in place during washing machine operation.

[0041] In one embodiment, the bracket assembly 100 may be a single dedicated object configured to secure a single TC connector 200. Once secured, the bracket assembly may be located on a rack inside the washing machine. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the bracket assembly 100 may be an assembly (not shown) containing two or more integrated bracket assemblies. In this embodiment, the larger unit may be configured to secure two or more TC connectors, each associated with a bracket assembly, and thus configured to secure multiple assemblies.

[0042] Embodiments of this disclosure may include the following features:

[0043] Item 1. A bracket device configured to fix a connector, the bracket device comprising:

[0044] The first side section includes:

[0045] The first sub-section includes a first support bracket;

[0046] A second sub-section, connected to the first sub-section, wherein the second sub-section includes a first pair of fixing brackets; and

[0047] A third sub-segment, which is connected to the second sub-segment;

[0048] The second side section includes:

[0049] The fourth sub-section includes a second support bracket;

[0050] A fifth sub-section, connected to the fourth sub-section, wherein the fifth sub-section includes a second pair of fixed brackets; and

[0051] The sixth sub-segment, which is connected to the fifth sub-segment; and

[0052] An end connection section is located between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connection section includes an end bracket.

[0053] Item 2. The bracket device as described in Item 1, wherein the bracket device is made of stainless steel.

[0054] Item 3. The bracket device as described in Item 2, wherein the stainless steel has predetermined specifications.

[0055] Item 4. The bracket device as described in Item 1, wherein the first fixed bracket pair includes a first fixed bracket and a second fixed bracket, and wherein the second fixed bracket pair includes a third fixed bracket and a fourth fixed bracket.

[0056] Item 5. The bracket device as described in Item 4, wherein the first fixing bracket and the third fixing bracket are integrated into a first side edge of the bracket device, and wherein the second fixing bracket and the fourth fixing bracket are integrated into a second side edge of the bracket device.

[0057] Item 6. The bracket device as described in Item 1, wherein the first fixed bracket pair is positioned along the midpoint of the second sub-section, and wherein the second fixed bracket pair is positioned along the midpoint of the fifth sub-section.

[0058] Item 7. The bracket device as described in Item 1, wherein each of the first support bracket and the second support bracket is integrated into a second side edge of the bracket device.

[0059] Item 8. The bracket device as described in Item 7, wherein the first support bracket is located at a first midpoint along the second side edge of the first sub-section, and wherein the second support bracket is located at a second midpoint along the second side edge of the fourth sub-section.

[0060] Item 9. The bracket device as described in Item 1, wherein the end bracket is integrated into the first side edge of the end connection section of the bracket device.

[0061] Item 10. The bracket device as described in Item 9, wherein the end bracket is located at a midpoint along the first side edge of the end connection section.

[0062] Item 11. An equipment fixing device, comprising:

[0063] A connector configured as a fixed equipment component, wherein the connector includes a first clamping assembly and a second clamping assembly;

[0064] A bracket assembly attached to and at least partially surrounding the connector, wherein the bracket assembly comprises:

[0065] The first side section includes:

[0066] The first sub-section includes a first support bracket;

[0067] A second sub-section, connected to the first sub-section, wherein the second sub-section includes a first pair of fixing brackets; and

[0068] A third sub-segment, which is connected to the second sub-segment;

[0069] The second side section includes:

[0070] The fourth sub-section includes a second support bracket;

[0071] A fifth sub-section, connected to the fourth sub-section, wherein the fifth sub-section includes a second pair of fixed brackets; and

[0072] The sixth sub-segment, which is connected to the fifth sub-segment; and

[0073] An end connection section is located between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connection section includes an end bracket;

[0074] The first fixing bracket pair is clamped around the first clamping assembly, the second fixing bracket pair is clamped around the second clamping assembly, and the end bracket is clamped on the first end of the connector.

[0075] Item 12. The equipment fixing device as described in Item 11, wherein the connector is a triple clamp (TC) connector.

[0076] Item 13. The equipment fixing device as described in Item 11, wherein the connector is made of plastic material.

[0077] Item 14. The equipment fixing device as described in Item 11, wherein the bracket device is made of stainless steel.

[0078] Item 15. The equipment fixing device as described in Item 11, wherein the first fixing bracket pair includes a first fixing bracket and a second fixing bracket, and wherein the second fixing bracket pair includes a third fixing bracket and a fourth fixing bracket.

[0079] Item 16. The equipment fixing device as described in Item 11, wherein each of the first support bracket and the second support bracket is integrated into a second side edge of the bracket device, and wherein the first support bracket is located at a first midpoint along the second side edge of the first sub-section, and wherein the second support bracket is located at a second midpoint along the second side edge of the fourth sub-section.

[0080] Item 17. The equipment fixing device as described in Item 11, wherein the end bracket is integrated into a first side edge of the end connection section of the bracket device, and wherein the end bracket is located at a midpoint along the first side edge of the end connection section.

[0081] Item 18. A method for securing a connector to a bracket assembly, the method comprising:

[0082] The first clamping assembly of the connector is clamped between the first fixed bracket pair of the bracket assembly;

[0083] The second clamping assembly of the connector is clamped between the second pair of fixed brackets of the bracket assembly; and

[0084] The first end of the connector is clamped between the end bracket of the bracket assembly and the first support bracket and the second support bracket.

[0085] Item 19. The method of Item 18, wherein the first fixed bracket pair is located on a second sub-section of the bracket device, wherein the second fixed bracket pair is located on a fifth sub-section of the bracket device, wherein the end bracket is located on an end connection section of the bracket device, wherein the first support bracket is located on a first sub-section of the bracket device, and wherein the second support bracket is located on a fourth sub-section of the bracket device.

[0086] Item 20. The method of Item 18 further includes securing the equipment component to the connector in the following manner:

[0087] A portion of the equipment component is inserted between a first space created by a first protruding section of the first clamping assembly relative to the surface of the connector and a second space created by a second protruding section of the second clamping assembly relative to the surface.

[0088] Many features and advantages of this disclosure will be apparent from the detailed description, and therefore the appended claims are intended to cover all such features and advantages of this disclosure that fall within the true spirit and scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, since various modifications and variations will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not intended to limit this disclosure to the precise construction and operation shown and described, and therefore all suitable modifications and equivalents may be invoked within the scope of this disclosure.

[0089] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the concepts upon which this disclosure is based can be readily used as the basis for designing other structures, methods, and systems for achieving the various objectives of this disclosure. Therefore, the claims should not be considered limited by the foregoing description.

Claims

1. A bracket device configured to fix a connector, the bracket device comprising: The first side section includes: The first sub-section includes a first support bracket; A second sub-section, connected to the first sub-section, wherein the second sub-section includes a first pair of fixing brackets; and A third sub-segment, which is connected to the second sub-segment; The second side section includes: The fourth sub-section includes a second support bracket; A fifth sub-section, connected to the fourth sub-section, wherein the fifth sub-section includes a second pair of fixed brackets; and The sixth sub-segment, which is connected to the fifth sub-segment; and An end connection section is located between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connection section includes an end bracket.

2. The bracket device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bracket device is made of stainless steel.

3. The bracket device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the stainless steel has a predetermined specification.

4. The bracket device of claim 1, wherein the first fixed bracket pair includes a first fixed bracket and a second fixed bracket, and wherein the second fixed bracket pair includes a third fixed bracket and a fourth fixed bracket.

5. The bracket device of claim 4, wherein the first fixing bracket and the third fixing bracket are integrated into a first side edge of the bracket device, and wherein the second fixing bracket and the fourth fixing bracket are integrated into a second side edge of the bracket device.

6. The bracket device of claim 1, wherein the first fixing bracket is positioned along the midpoint of the second sub-segment, and wherein the second fixing bracket is positioned along the midpoint of the fifth sub-segment.

7. The bracket device of claim 1, wherein each of the first support bracket and the second support bracket is integrated into a second side edge of the bracket device.

8. The bracket device of claim 7, wherein the first support bracket is located at a first midpoint along the second side edge of the first sub-section, and wherein the second support bracket is located at a second midpoint along the second side edge of the fourth sub-section.

9. The bracket device of claim 1, wherein the end bracket is integrated into the first side edge of the end connection section of the bracket device.

10. The bracket device of claim 9, wherein the end bracket is located at a midpoint along the first side edge of the end connection section.

11. An equipment fixing device, comprising: A connector configured as a fixed equipment component, wherein the connector includes a first clamping assembly and a second clamping assembly; A bracket assembly attached to and at least partially surrounding the connector, wherein the bracket assembly comprises: The first side section includes: The first sub-section includes a first support bracket; A second sub-section, connected to the first sub-section, wherein the second sub-section includes a first pair of fixing brackets; and A third sub-segment, which is connected to the second sub-segment; The second side section includes: The fourth sub-section includes a second support bracket; A fifth sub-section, connected to the fourth sub-section, wherein the fifth sub-section includes a second pair of fixed brackets; and The sixth sub-segment, which is connected to the fifth sub-segment; and An end connection section is located between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connection section includes an end bracket; The first fixing bracket pair is clamped around the first clamping assembly, the second fixing bracket pair is clamped around the second clamping assembly, and the end bracket is clamped on the first end of the connector.

12. The equipment fixing device as claimed in claim 11, wherein the connector is a triple clamp (TC) connector.

13. The equipment fixing device as claimed in claim 11, wherein the connector is made of plastic material.

14. The equipment fixing device as claimed in claim 11, wherein the bracket device is made of stainless steel.

15. The equipment fixing device as claimed in claim 11, wherein the first fixing bracket pair includes a first fixing bracket and a second fixing bracket, and wherein the second fixing bracket pair includes a third fixing bracket and a fourth fixing bracket.

16. The equipment fixing device of claim 11, wherein each of the first support bracket and the second support bracket is integrated into a second side edge of the bracket device, and wherein the first support bracket is located at a first midpoint along the second side edge of the first sub-section, and wherein the second support bracket is located at a second midpoint along the second side edge of the fourth sub-section.

17. The equipment fixing device of claim 11, wherein the end bracket is integrated into a first side edge of the end connection section of the bracket device, and wherein the end bracket is located at a midpoint along the first side edge of the end connection section.

18. A method of securing a connector to a bracket assembly, the method comprising: The first clamping assembly of the connector is clamped between the first fixed bracket pair of the bracket assembly; The second clamping assembly of the connector is clamped between the second fixed bracket pair of the bracket assembly; as well as The first end of the connector is clamped between the end bracket of the bracket assembly and the first support bracket and the second support bracket.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the first fixing bracket pair is located on a second sub-section of the bracket device, wherein the second fixing bracket pair is located on a fifth sub-section of the bracket device, wherein the end bracket is located on an end connection section of the bracket device, wherein the first support bracket is located on a first sub-section of the bracket device, and wherein the second support bracket is located on a fourth sub-section of the bracket device.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising securing the equipment component to the connector in the following manner: A portion of the equipment component is inserted between a first space created by the first protruding section of the first clamping assembly relative to the surface of the connector and a second space created by the second protruding section of the second clamping assembly relative to the surface.

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