Hose clamp

Abstract

The invention relates to a hose clamp (1) for securing a pipe (2). More particularly, such a hose clamp (1) comprises: a first part (10) adapted to position the hose clamp on the pipe (2); a second part (20) that is rotatable relative to the first part and adapted to conform to the pipe when folded over it; and a flexible retaining band (30) located between the pipe and at least a portion of the first and second parts when the clamp is in a first position tightened around the pipe (2). More particularly, in such a hose clamp, one end of the retaining band (30) is attached to the first part (10) and a second end of the retaining band (30) is attached to the second part (20). Figure for the abstract: FIG. 1a

Description

Title of the invention: Hose clamp for fixing pipes Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a clamp intended for fixing rigid tubes or pipes (for example, made of metal or plastic) but can also be applied to flexible tubes or pipes, such as, for example, hoses. Technical background

[0002] Many fixing clamps are already provided for fixing pipes, particularly for the automotive world. For example, the solution described in patent document US4591119. However, existing solutions do not allow the tubes (whether rigid or flexible) to be held or maintained in translation or rotation. For example, conventionally, to maintain a flexible hose in translation, it is already known to provide lugs or ribs on the surfaces of the clamp in contact with the hose. Such lugs or ribs ensure translational stability thanks to the frictional stresses generated between the lugs or ribs and the hose. Another solution commonly used is to add flexible material blocks (for example, TPE) to the rigid body of a clamp, which also creates friction forces between the blocks and the hose.

[0003] However, the manufacture of such clamps is complex and expensive. Summary of the invention

[0004] Based on the aforementioned problems, the present invention relates to a hose clamp for securing a pipe. According to one embodiment of the invention, the hose clamp comprises a first portion adapted to position the hose clamp on the pipe, and a second portion rotatable relative to the first portion and adapted to conform to the pipe once folded over the pipe. According to one embodiment of the invention, the hose clamp further comprises a flexible retaining band located between the pipe and at least a portion of the first and second portions when the hose clamp is in a first position clamped around the pipe. According to one embodiment of the invention, a first end of the retaining band is secured to the first portion and a second end of the retaining band is secured to the second portion.

[0005] In the present invention, flexible strip is understood to mean a strip that can be bent or folded easily. It may, for example, be a flexible strap.

[0006] Preferably, the length of the flexible retaining band is less than the perimeter of the pipe to be clamped. Thus, when tightening the hose clamp around the pipe, the tension exerted by the flexible retaining band on the pipe allows the pipe to be retained in translation and rotation.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the invention, a gap is provided between at least one portion of the retaining band and a first portion of the first part and / or between a portion of the retaining band and a second portion of the second part when the clamp is in a second unclamped position around the pipe. Thus, one or more such gaps improve the flexibility of the retaining band so that it conforms better to the pipe to be clamped.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first part and the second part are integral with each other.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the invention, the clamp comprises first and second fixing means provided respectively on the first and second parts and adapted to fix the clamp to the pipe.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the first and second fixing means is of the hook type.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the first and second fixing means is a hook comprising at least one tooth, said hook being provided at an outer end of said at least one of the first and second fixing means and at least one other of the first and second fixing means comprises a lug comprising at least one tooth, said lug being provided at an outer end of said at least one other of the first and second fixing means.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the hook and lug comprises at least two teeth.

[0013] Thus, the hook and the lug, thanks to their multiple teeth, allow the clamp to adapt to pipes of different diameters. Furthermore, the teeth reinforce the tightening of the clamp, which is particularly suitable for applications in which the pipe carries liquid, for example in a vehicle cooling circuit.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first part and the second part together define a segment with a substantially regular profile.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first part and the second part are joined at a junction zone of the first and second parts.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the invention, the clamping collar comprises a substantially more flexible portion at the junction zone of the first and second parts, making it easier to rotate the second part relative to the first part.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the invention, the substantially more flexible portion is a substantially thinner portion so that this portion is easier to bend. or fold.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the invention, at the junction of the first and second parts, one of the first and second parts comprises a hook and the other of the first and second parts comprises a locking lug, the hook and the locking lug being adapted to conform to each other once the clamping collar has been tightened.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the invention, the clamp comprises means for fixing to a mechanical part, in particular a mechanical part belonging to a vehicle body.

[0020] The invention also relates to a fixing element comprising at least one clamping collar as previously described. According to one embodiment of the invention, such a fixing element comprises two clamping collars arranged on either side of an axis of the fixing element.

[0021] Such a fixing element is for example a fixing element to a mechanical part, in particular a mechanical part belonging to a vehicle body.

[0022] Such a fixing element is for example a clip.

[0023] For the avoidance of doubt, all features described herein apply equally to any aspect of the invention.

[0024] Within the scope of the present application, it is expressly provided that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set forth in the preceding paragraphs and / or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. In other words, all embodiments and / or features of any embodiment may be combined in any way, unless such features are incompatible.

[0025] For the avoidance of doubt, the terms "may", "and / or", "for example", "for example" and any other similar terms used herein should be interpreted as non-limiting, such that any feature so described need not necessarily be present. Indeed, any combination of optional features is expressly contemplated without departing from the scope of the invention. Brief description of the figures

[0026] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear during the reading of the detailed description which follows for the understanding of which reference will be made to the appended drawings in which:

[0027] [Fig. 1a] schematically illustrates a clamp before tightening on a pipe according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] [Fig.lb] schematically illustrates the clamp of [Fig.la] arranged in clamping position on a pipe;

[0029] [Fig. 1c] schematically illustrates the clamp of [Fig. 1a] implemented in a fixing element to a mechanical part;

[0030] [Fig.2a] schematically shows a clamp before tightening on a pipe according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] [Fig.2b] schematically shows a clamp before tightening on a pipe according to a variant of the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] [Fig.2c] schematically illustrates the clamp of [Fig.2a] arranged in clamping position on a pipe;

[0033] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates a clamp according to an embodiment of the invention according to which the diameter of the clamp can be adapted;

[0034] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates a clamping collar according to a variant of the methods of previous embodiment wherein the first and second parts form a single continuous segment;

[0035] [Fig.5] schematically illustrates a fixing element comprising two collars clamping according to one embodiment of the invention. Detailed description of the invention

[0036] Various aspects of various embodiments according to the invention are described in more detail below, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] Throughout the description of this patent application, the words "comprise" and "contain" and their variations mean "including but not limited to". On the other hand, they are not intended to (and do not exclude) other parts, additives, components, devices, products or steps. Throughout the description of this patent application, the singular includes the plural, unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, when the indefinite article is used, the description is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context otherwise requires.

[0038] In relation to figures 1a to 1c, we will now describe a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] [Fig. 1a] schematically illustrates a clamp 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the clamp 1 not yet being tightened on a pipe 2.

[0040] [Fig.lb] schematically illustrates the clamp 1 of [Fig. la] once the clamp 1 has been placed in the clamping position on the pipe 2.

[0041] [Fig. 1c] schematically illustrates the clamp of [Fig. 1a] implemented in a fixing element to a mechanical part.

[0042] Thus, the clamp 1 is a clamp for fixing a pipe 2.

[0043] The pipe may be rigid (for example, made of metal or plastic) but may also be flexible, such as, for example, a hose. The pipe may also be a tube or even any conduit or sheath carrying or incorporating fluids, liquids, electrical cables or any other material or device. The section of the pipe may be circular, elliptical or may have any other shape.

[0044] By way of example and without limitation, the pipe may be a water or glycol supply hose, or an aluminum or rigid plastic tube or even a plasticized metal tube for brake fluid application.

[0045] The clamp 1 comprises a first part 10 (or first segment 10) adapted to position the clamp 1 on the pipe 2. The first part 10 extends for example between an outer end 1010 or free and an inner end 1020.

[0046] It also comprises a second part 20 (or second segment 20) movable in rotation relative to the first part 10 and adapted to conform to the pipe 2 once folded over the pipe 2. The second part 20 extends for example between an outer end 2010 or free and an inner end 2020.

[0047] The hose clamp 1 also comprises a flexible retaining band 30 located between the pipe 2 and at least a portion of the first and second parts when the hose clamp is in a first clamped position around the pipe 2.

[0048] For example, the length of the flexible retaining band is less than the perimeter of the pipe to be clamped. Thus, when tightening the hose clamp around the pipe, the tension exerted by the flexible retaining band on the pipe allows the pipe to be retained in translation and rotation.

[0049] A first end 3010 of the retaining strip 30 is secured to the first part 10 (substantially at the outer end 1010 of the first part 10) and a second end 3020 of the retaining strip 30 is secured to the second part 20 (substantially at the outer end 2010 of the second part 20).

[0050] The retaining strip 30 ensures that the pipe 2 is held in translation and rotation.

[0051] The first part 10 and the second part 20 are integral with each other, for example at their inner ends.

[0052] In the present embodiment, a free space (without material) is provided between the retaining band 30 (with the exception of the portions of this retaining band 30 which correspond to the first and second ends of the retaining band 30, ends which are secured substantially to the outer ends of the first and second parts) and each of the first part 10 and second part 20 when the clamp is in a second untightened position around the pipe 2 (as illustrated by [Fig. 1a] for example).

[0053] This space without material thus makes it possible to obtain a clamping collar capable of conforming to any type of pipe or tube, whatever the material or diameter of the pipe or tube.

[0054] The clamp 1 comprises first and second fixing means 101, 201 provided respectively on the first 10 and second 20 parts and adapted to fix the clamp 1 on the pipe 2 by cooperation of said first and second fixing means 101, 201 with each other.

[0055] For example, the first fixing means 101 is a lug 101 provided at the outer end of the first part 10 and the second fixing means 201 is a hook 201 provided at the outer end of the second part 20.

[0056] Thus, these lugs 101 and hooks 201 make it possible, once in contact with each other or engaged with each other, to secure the retention of the clamp 1 around the pipe 2.

[0057] For example, the first part 10 and the second part 20 are joined (at their inner ends) at a junction area of ​​the first and second parts.

[0058] For example, a portion 4 that is significantly more flexible at the junction zone of the first and second parts makes it easier to rotate the second part 20 relative to the first part 10. Thus, such a flexible portion 4 plays the role of a hinge.

[0059] For example, the substantially more flexible portion is a substantially thinner portion so that this portion is easier to bend or fold.

[0060] For example, it may be a portion having a lesser thickness of materials to perform a folding function of the second part 20 at the level of this flexible portion.

[0061] For example, at the junction of the first and second parts, one of the first and second parts comprises a hook 103 and the other of the first and second parts comprises a locking lug 104, the hook and the locking lug being adapted to conform to each other once the clamping collar has been tightened.

[0062] Thus, these hooks 103 and locking lugs 104 make it possible, once in contact with each other, to secure the holding of the clamp 1 around the pipe 2 even in the event of breakage of the flexible portion 4 which acts as a hinge.

[0063] For example, the clamp also comprises means 7 for fixing to a mechanical element, in particular a mechanical element belonging to a vehicle body. An example of fixing means 7 is shown in [Fig. 1c]. This is for example a removable clip (non-limiting).

[0064] Thus, the solution as described allows the pipe 2 to be held in translation and rotation by means of a clamping collar.

[0065] The clamp 1 may be a single-piece, i.e. made from a single piece. The clamp may also be made from a single material. For example, the clamp is made from polyamide or nylon, for example PA66 or POM (for “Polyoxymethylene”) or PEEK (polyetheretherketone).

[0066] The choice of the use of a material depends on the location of the clamp or the fastening element comprising at least one clamp in the vehicle (temperature / fluid resistance). For example, such a clamp can be located under the body of a vehicle or in an engine compartment of a vehicle.

[0067] Figures 2a and 2b schematically illustrate a clamp 1' before tightening on a pipe according to a second embodiment of the present invention and a variant of this second embodiment.

[0068] [Fig.2c] schematically illustrates the clamp of [Fig.2a] arranged in the clamping position on a pipe.

[0069] In the second embodiment of figures 2a, 2b and 2c, only a flexible portion 4' provides the hinge function between the first part 10' and the second part 20', so as to simplify the design.

[0070] In [Fig.2c], the pipe 2' can be seen in the clamping position, the clamping of the flexible retaining band on the pipe 2' being carried out when the first 101' and second 201' fixing means are joined.

[0071] [Fig. 3] schematically illustrates a clamp according to a third embodiment of the invention according to which the diameter of the clamp can be adapted. Indeed, according to this embodiment, a hook 201 comprising several teeth 2010 is provided at the outer end of the second part and a lug 101 comprising at least one tooth 1010 (for example two teeth) is provided at the outer end of the first part. The hook can be inserted into the lug to the desired depth which corresponds to the diameter of the desired clamp. The cooperation of the teeth of the hook and the lug makes it possible to secure the clamp on tubes having different diameters. Of course, as a variant, the hook can be carried by the first part and the lug by the second part. This design is particularly suitable for the case of pipes or conduits carrying liquid, for example in a cooling circuit of a vehicle.

[0072] In the context of a variant of the previous embodiments, a variant illustrated by [Fig. 4], the first part and the second part together define a single segment 100 with a substantially regular profile between the outer ends. The first and second parts are in particular devoid of a more flexible portion at their junction zone.

[0073] [Fig. 5] schematically illustrates a fixing element 50 comprising two clamping collars 1 according to one embodiment of the invention. Of course, according to variants of this embodiment, the fastening element may comprise any number of clamps 1 as previously described. For example, in [Fig. 5], such a fastening element 50 comprises two clamps connected to a fastening element.

[0074] Such a fixing element is for example a fixing element 50 to a mechanical part, in particular a mechanical part belonging to a vehicle body.

[0075] Such a fixing element 50 is for example a clip. List of reference signs

[0076] 1, 1' hose clamp

[0077] 4, 4' flexible portion

[0078] 10, 10' first part

[0079] 20, 20' second part

[0080] 30, 30' retaining strip

[0081] 100 segment

[0082] 101, 101' first fixing means / lug

[0083] 103 hook

[0084] 104 locking lug

[0085] 201, 201' second fixing means / hook

[0086] 6 empty space

[0087] 7 means of attachment to a mechanical element

[0088] 8 teeth

[0089] 50 fixing element

[0090] 1010, 2010 outer end

[0091] 1020, 2020 inner end

[0092] 3010 first end

[0093] 3020 second end

Claims

Claims

1. A hose clamp (1, 1') for securing a hose (2), the clamp comprising: a first portion (10, 10') adapted to position the hose clamp on the hose (2); a second portion (20, 20') rotatably movable relative to the first portion and adapted to conform to the hose once folded over the hose; a flexible retaining band (30, 30') located between the hose and at least a portion of the first and second portions when the hose clamp is in a first clamped position around the hose (2); wherein a first end of the retaining strip (30, 30') is secured to the first part (10, 10'), substantially at an outer end (1010) of the first part (10), and a second end of the retaining strip (30, 30') is secured to the second part (20, 20'), substantially at an outer end (2010) of the second part (20);the clamp (1, 1') comprising a free space between the retaining band (30, 30') and each of the first part (10, 10') and second part (20, 20') when the clamp (1, 1') is in a second unclamped position around the pipe, except for the portions of this retaining band (30, 30') which correspond to the first and second ends of the retaining band (30, 30') which are secured substantially to the outer ends of the first and second parts (10, 10', 20, 20').;

2. Clamp according to claim 1, characterized in that the first part (10, 10') and the second part (20, 20') are integral with each other.

3. A hose clamp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises first and second fixing means (101; 201) provided respectively on the first (10, 10') and second (20, 20') parts and adapted to fix the hose clamp to the pipe (2).

4. A clamp according to claim 3, characterized in that at least one of the first and second fixing means is of the hook type.

5. A clamp according to any one of claims 3 and 4, characterized in that at least one of the first and second fixing means is a hook comprising at least one tooth, said hook being provided at an outer end of said at least one of the first and second fixing means and at least one other of the first and second fixing means comprises a lug comprising at least one tooth, said lug being provided at an outer end of said at least one other of the first and second fixing means.

6. A clamp according to claim 5, characterized in that at least one of the hook and lug comprises at least two teeth.

7. Clamp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first part and the second part together define a segment (100) with a substantially regular profile.

8. A clamp according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the first part (10, 10') and the second part (20, 20') are joined at a junction zone of the first and second parts.

9. Clamp according to claim 8, characterized in that it comprises a portion (4) which is substantially more flexible at the junction zone of the first and second parts, making it easier to rotate the second part (20, 20') relative to the first part (10, 10').

10. A clamp according to claim 9, characterized in that at the junction of the first and second parts, one of the first and second parts comprises a hook (103) and the other of the first and second parts comprises a locking lug (104), the hook and the locking lug being adapted to conform to each other once the clamp has been tightened.

11. Fastening element (50), characterized in that it comprises at least one clamping collar (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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