Clamping device

Abstract

To provide a clamp device which has good appearance and is inexpensive and easy to use.SOLUTION: A clamp device includes a first clamp 10 mountable on an outer periphery of a first pipe 55, and a second clamp 20 mountable on an outer periphery of a second pipe 56. The first clamp 10 includes a first cylindrical portion 11 capable of holding the first pipe 55, and a plurality of engagement projections 13 formed on an outer peripheral surface 11a of the first cylindrical portion 11. The second clamp 20 includes a second cylindrical portion 21 capable of holding the second pipe 56, and a pair of engagement leg portions 27 projecting from the second cylindrical portions 21. By engaging the pair of engagement leg portions 27 with the engagement projections 13 at both sides, the first pipe 55 and the second pipe 56 can be connected in directions orthogonal to each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a clamp device for connecting a plurality of pipes in a direction perpendicular to each other.

Background Art

[0002] A plurality of pipes are connected in a T-shape or an L-shape by a clamp such as that in Patent Document 1, and scaffolds and the like are assembled. However, since such a general clamp has protrusions such as bolts, there is a risk of snagging on clothes or the like, and the appearance is not very good.

[0003] Also known is a pipe joint called a key clamp (registered trademark: KEEKLAMP) as shown in Non-Patent Document 1. This key clamp is formed of a casting and has no protrusions such as bolts, so it is safer and has a better appearance compared to a general clamp such as that in Patent Document 1.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Non-Patent Documents

[0005]

Non-Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] As already explained, conventional clamps like the one in Patent Document 1 have problems such as safety issues due to the presence of protrusions and aesthetic issues, which limit the purpose and location of their use.

[0007] Furthermore, the key clamp shown in Non-Patent Document 1 was made of cast iron, which resulted in high manufacturing costs and a tendency to break easily upon impact. Additionally, it required the production of a separate casting for each connection configuration, resulting in limited flexibility. Therefore, the objective of the present invention is to provide a clamping device that is aesthetically pleasing, inexpensive, and easy to use. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a clamping device for connecting a plurality of pipes in a direction perpendicular to each other, comprising a first clamp that can be attached to the outer circumference of a first pipe and a second clamp that can be attached to the outer circumference of a second pipe, wherein the first clamp comprises a first cylindrical portion capable of holding the first pipe and a plurality of engaging protrusions formed on the outer surface of the first cylindrical portion, and the second clamp comprises a second cylindrical portion capable of holding the second pipe and a pair of engaging legs that protrude from the second cylindrical portion, wherein the first pipe and the second pipe can be connected in a direction perpendicular to each other by engaging the pair of engaging legs with the engaging protrusions on both sides. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] As described above, the present invention allows pipes to be connected in directions perpendicular to each other by engaging the first clamp and the second clamp orthogonally. With this configuration, a clamping device with a neater appearance than a typical clamp can be constructed.

[0010] Furthermore, since it does not need to be integrally cast like a key clamp, it is possible to use rust-resistant, inexpensive, and crack-resistant materials (such as aluminum). Therefore, an inexpensive and easy-to-use clamping device can be provided. Furthermore, increasing the variety of clamps allows for greater flexibility in connection methods depending on how they are combined, making them usable in a wider range of situations. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of the first clamp. [Figure 2] (a) Plan view, (b) Front view, and (c) Side view of the first clamp. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of the second clamp. [Figure 4] The second clamp is shown in (a) a plan view, (b) a front view, (c) a bottom view, and (d) a side view. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of the third clamp. [Figure 6] These are (a) a plan view, (b) a front view, (c) a bottom view, and (d) a side view of the third clamp. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view showing two pipes connected in a T-shape using a clamping device according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] These are enlarged sections of Figure 7, where (a) is a view from direction A1, (b) is a view from direction A2, and (c) is a view from direction A3. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view of Figure 7, with the pipes connected at a right angle. [Figure 10] These are enlarged sections of Figure 9, with (a) a view from direction B1 and (b) a view from direction B2. [Figure 11] This is a perspective view of the second clamp, which has a different length. [Figure 12] These are (a) a top view, (b) a front view, (c) a bottom view, and (d) a side view of the second clamp with different lengths. [Figure 13] This is a perspective view of the sealing material. [Figure 14] These are (a) a plan view, (b) a front view, and (c) a side view of the sealing material. [Figure 15] This is a perspective view showing two pipes connected in an L-shape using a clamping device according to the embodiment. [Figure 16]Partial enlarged view of FIG. 15, which is (a) a view seen from the C1 direction, (b) a view seen from the C2 direction, and (c) a view seen from the C3 direction. [Figure 17] Perspective view of FIG. 15 with an additional pipe connected at a right angle. [Figure 18] Partial enlarged view of FIG. 17, which is (a) a view seen from the D1 direction, (b) a view seen from the D2 direction, and (c) a view seen from the D3 direction. [Figure 19] Perspective view of a trolley configured using the clamping device according to the embodiment.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction described indicate directions that are orthogonal to each other. These X direction, Y direction, and Z direction are shown for the convenience of explaining each drawing and do not indicate a common direction between the drawings. For example, the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction in FIG. 1 and the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction in FIG. 3 do not necessarily coincide.

[0013] Also, in the following description, expressions such as "first pipe 55", "second pipe 56", and "third pipe 57" are used, but these names are for distinguishing the pipes at the connection points and do not represent the individuality of the pipes themselves. That is, the pipe held by the first clamp 10 is the first pipe 55, the pipe held by the second clamp 20 is the second pipe 56, and the pipe held by the third clamp 30 is the third pipe 57. For this reason, for a certain pipe, it may be "first pipe 55 (held by the first clamp 10)" at a certain connection point, but "second pipe 56 (held by the second clamp 20)" at another connection point.

[0014] The clamping device according to this embodiment is for connecting multiple pipes in a direction perpendicular to each other, and is composed of a combination of multiple clamps that are separable from each other. Specifically, when connecting two pipes, a first clamp 10 that can be attached to the outer circumference of the first pipe 55 and a second clamp 20 that can be attached to the outer circumference of the second pipe 56 are used. When connecting three pipes, in addition to the first clamp 10 and the second clamp 20, a third clamp 30 that can be attached to the outer circumference of the third pipe 57 is further used. In this way, the clamping device according to this embodiment can be configured by freely combining parts suitable for the number and direction of pipes to be connected. The individual parts will be described below.

[0015] First, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first clamp 10 includes a first cylindrical portion 11 capable of holding the first pipe 55, and a plurality of engaging protrusions 13 formed on the outer circumferential surface 11a of the first cylindrical portion 11. The first clamp 10 according to this embodiment is made of metal, and is integrally formed (as one part) from a material such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Furthermore, the first clamp 10 according to this embodiment is manufactured by processing an extruded profile.

[0016] The first cylindrical portion 11 is a cylindrical part through which a pipe can be inserted, and is formed with an inner diameter that is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the pipe (slightly larger than the outer diameter of the pipe, to the extent that the pipe can be inserted). Four engaging protrusions 13 protrude from the outer circumferential surface 11a of this first cylindrical portion 11 at equal intervals when viewed in the circumferential direction. These engaging protrusions 13 are angular in shape, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, and are formed to protrude radially. In detail, the engaging protrusions 13 consist of two rising surfaces 13a on both sides and a zenith surface 13b that connects the tips of the rising surfaces 13a. The two rising surfaces 13a on both sides are parallel to each other and are formed perpendicular to the axial direction of the first cylindrical portion 11 (the X direction shown in Figure 1) (parallel to the Y direction or Z direction shown in Figure 1). The zenith surface 13b is formed perpendicular to the two rising surfaces 13a on both sides.

[0017] The engagement projection 13 is formed on the outer circumferential surface 11a of the first cylindrical portion 11, so that the portion where the engagement projection 13 is formed is radially thicker than other portions. A first tapped hole 14 is formed through this thickened portion. The first tapped hole 14 is a through hole with an internal thread on its inner circumference, and is formed to engage with a bolt 50 (male thread) for fixing the pipe. After inserting the pipe into the first cylindrical portion 11, the bolt 50 inserted into the first tapped hole 14 is tightened inward, allowing the tip of the bolt 50 to press down on the pipe inserted into the first cylindrical portion 11. By forming this first tapped hole 14 in the thickened portion, the length of the internal thread (the fastening length of the bolt 50) can be secured, thereby increasing the fastening force.

[0018] Furthermore, an engagement groove 12 is formed on the inner circumferential surface 11b of the first cylindrical portion 11. This engagement groove 12 is for receiving the tenon portion 41 of the sealing material 40, which will be described later, and is formed along the entire length of the first cylindrical portion 11 in the axial direction. In this embodiment, four engagement grooves 12 are formed at equal intervals when viewed in the circumferential direction, and are arranged so as not to overlap with the engagement projections 13 when the first cylindrical portion 11 is viewed in the radial direction. This engagement groove 12 is formed in a dovetail shape as shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0019] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the second clamp 20 comprises a second cylindrical portion 21 capable of holding the second pipe 56, and a pair of engaging legs 27 protruding from the second cylindrical portion 21. The second clamp 20 according to this embodiment is made of metal, and is integrally formed (as one part) from a material such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The second clamp 20 according to this embodiment is manufactured by processing an extruded profile.

[0020] The second cylindrical portion 21 is a roughly C-shaped section through which a pipe can be inserted, and is formed with an inner diameter that is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the pipe (slightly larger than the outer diameter of the pipe so as to allow insertion of the pipe), in other words, an inner diameter equivalent to that of the first cylindrical portion 11. Three ribs 24 are formed on the outer circumferential surface 21a of this second cylindrical portion 21. These ribs 24 are rectangular in shape as shown in Figures 3 and 4, and are formed to protrude radially perpendicular to the axial direction of the second cylindrical portion 21 (the X direction shown in Figure 3). The three ribs 24 are arranged at 90-degree intervals in the circumferential direction, with one rib 24 protruding in the Y direction shown in Figure 3 and two ribs 24 protruding in the Z direction shown in Figure 3.

[0021] As described above, the rib 24 is formed on the outer circumferential surface 21a of the second cylindrical portion 21, so that the portion where the rib 24 is formed is radially thicker than other portions. A second tapped hole 25 is formed through this thickened portion. The second tapped hole 25 is a through hole with an internal thread on its inner circumference, and is formed to engage with a bolt 50 (male thread) for fixing the pipe. After inserting the pipe into the second cylindrical portion 21, the bolt 50 inserted into the second tapped hole 25 is tightened inward, allowing the tip of the bolt 50 to press down on the pipe inserted into the second cylindrical portion 21. By forming this second tapped hole 25 in the thickened portion, the length of the internal thread (the fastening length of the bolt 50) can be secured, thereby increasing the fastening force.

[0022] Furthermore, an engagement groove 22 is formed on the inner circumferential surface 21b of the second cylindrical portion 21. This engagement groove 22 is for receiving the tenon portion 41 of the sealing material 40, which will be described later, and is formed along the entire length of the second cylindrical portion 21 in the axial direction. This engagement groove 22 is formed with the same shape and at the same interval as the engagement groove 12 of the first clamp 10. However, since the second cylindrical portion 21 is not cylindrical but has a roughly C-shaped cross-section, there are only two engagement grooves 22 with a complete shape. These engagement grooves 22 are arranged so as not to overlap with the rib 24 when the second cylindrical portion 21 is viewed radially.

[0023] The engaging leg portion 27 is a plate-shaped portion that protrudes in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction (X direction shown in Figure 3) of the second cylindrical portion 21 (Y direction shown in Figure 3). This engaging leg portion 27 protrudes in the direction of the opening (Y direction shown in Figure 3) from the substantially C-shaped opening in the cross-section of the second cylindrical portion 21. This engaging leg portion 27 protrudes from both ends of the opening, forming a pair of legs that are symmetrical to each other in cross-sectional view. The engaging leg portion 27 according to this embodiment is a substantially U-shaped portion in cross-section consisting of an expanding portion 27a, a protruding portion 27b, and a claw portion 27c. As shown in Figure 7, this engaging leg portion 27 can engage with the engaging projection 13 of the first clamp 10. The expanded portion 27a is the part that extends in a direction away from each other (the Z direction shown in Figure 3) from both ends of the roughly C-shaped cross-section of the second cylindrical portion 21.

[0024] The protruding portion 27b is a part that extends perpendicularly from the end of the expanding portion 27a. This protruding portion 27b occupies almost the entire length of the engaging leg portion 27 (more than 80% of its total length), and the direction of protrusion of this protruding portion 27b (the Y direction shown in Figure 3) is substantially the same as the direction of protrusion of the engaging leg portion 27. The outer surface of this protruding portion 27b is formed flush with the surface of the rib 24 that protrudes laterally (the Z direction shown in Figure 3). Furthermore, the length W3 of the inner surface of the protruding portion 27b (see Figure 4(b)) is formed to be approximately equal to the axial length W1 of the first clamp 10 (see Figure 2(a)) (W1 ≈ W3).

[0025] The claw portion 27c is a part that is bent inward (in the Z direction as shown in Figure 3) from the end of the protruding portion 27b. The claw portion 27c is a part that can be hooked onto the engaging projection 13 of the first clamp 10, and is formed with a protrusion amount that is approximately equal to the height of the engaging projection 13 (the height of the rise of the rising surface 13a).

[0026] Furthermore, a tapped hole 28 is formed through the engaging leg portion 27. The tapped hole 28 is a through hole with an internal thread on its inner circumference, and is formed to engage with a bolt 50 (male thread) for fixing the pipe. This tapped hole 28 is positioned to communicate with the first tapped hole 14 when the engaging leg portion 27 engages with the engaging projection 13. This configuration allows the bolt 50 inserted through the tapped hole 28 to pass through the first tapped hole 14 and reach the pipe inserted into the first cylindrical portion 11.

[0027] When engaging the second clamp 20 with the first clamp 10, the first clamp 10 is inserted between the pair of engaging legs 27 from the X direction as shown in Figure 3. At this time, the orientation of the pair of engaging legs 27 is aligned so that the protruding direction of the pair of engaging legs 27 coincides with the axial direction of the first cylindrical part 11, and the engaging projection 13 faces the engaging legs 27. When the first clamp 10 is inserted between the pair of engaging legs 27 in this way, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the pair of engaging legs 27 embrace the engaging projection 13 from both sides, and the claw portion 27c engages with the engaging projection 13 at the end face of the first clamp 10. After that, the two can be fixed together by inserting bolts 50 through the tapped holes 28 of the engaging legs on both sides and fastening them.

[0028] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the third clamp 30 comprises a third cylindrical portion 31 capable of holding the third pipe 57, and a pair of protruding legs 35 formed to protrude from the third cylindrical portion 31. The third clamp 30 according to this embodiment is made of metal, and is integrally formed (as one part) from a material such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The third clamp 30 according to this embodiment is manufactured by processing an extruded profile.

[0029] The third cylindrical portion 31 is a cylindrical part through which a pipe can be inserted, and is formed with an inner diameter that is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the pipe (slightly larger than the outer diameter of the pipe so as to allow insertion of the pipe), in other words, an inner diameter equivalent to that of the first cylindrical portion 11. Four ribs 33 are formed on the outer circumferential surface 31a of this third cylindrical portion 31 at equal intervals when viewed in the circumferential direction. These ribs 33 are rectangular in shape as shown in Figures 5 and 6, and are formed to protrude radially perpendicular to the axial direction of the third cylindrical portion 31 (the X direction shown in Figure 5).

[0030] As described above, the rib 33 is formed on the outer circumferential surface 31a of the third cylindrical portion 31, so that the portion where the rib 33 is formed is radially thicker than other portions. A third tapped hole 34 is formed through this thickened portion. The third tapped hole 34 is a through hole with an internal thread on its inner circumference, and is formed to engage with a bolt 50 (male thread) for fixing the pipe. After inserting the pipe into the third cylindrical portion 31, the bolt 50 inserted into the third tapped hole 34 is tightened inward, allowing the tip of the bolt 50 to press down on the pipe inserted into the third cylindrical portion 31. By forming this third tapped hole 34 in the thickened portion, the length of the internal thread (the fastening length of the bolt 50) can be secured, thereby increasing the fastening force.

[0031] Furthermore, an engagement groove 32 is formed on the inner circumferential surface 31b of the third cylindrical portion 31. This engagement groove 32 is for receiving the tenon portion 41 of the sealing material 40, which will be described later, and is formed along the entire length of the third cylindrical portion 31 in the axial direction. This engagement groove 32 is formed with the same shape and at the same interval as the engagement groove 12 of the first clamp 10. This engagement groove 32 is positioned so as not to overlap with the rib 33 when the third cylindrical portion 31 is viewed radially.

[0032] The protruding leg portion 35 is a plate-shaped part that protrudes parallel to the axial direction (X direction shown in Figure 5) of the third cylindrical portion 31, and is provided to engage with the engaging projection 13 of the first clamp 10 from the outside. These protruding leg portions 35 are provided in pairs, one on the left and one on the right, and are formed to be continuous with two of the four ribs 33 (those on opposite sides of each other). In this embodiment, the protruding leg portion 35 is a substantially L-shaped part consisting of a protruding portion 35a and a claw portion 35b.

[0033] The protruding portion 35a is a part that extends continuously from the rib 33 and has the same cross-sectional shape as the rib 33. This protruding portion 35a occupies almost all of the protruding leg portion 35 (more than 80% of the total length), and the protruding direction of this protruding portion 35a (the X direction shown in Figure 5) is substantially the protruding direction of the protruding leg portion 35. The length W5 of the inner surface of this protruding portion 35a (see Figure 6(b)) is formed to be approximately equal to the length obtained by adding the distance W2 (see Figure 2(b)) from the top surface 13b of any engaging projection 13 of the first clamp 10 to the rising surface 13a of the engaging projection 13 that protrudes perpendicular to the said engaging projection 13 (however, the rising surface 13a that is farther from the top surface 13b) and the thickness W4 (see Figure 4(b)) of the engaging leg portion 27 of the second clamp 20 (W2 + W4 ≈ W5).

[0034] The claw portion 35b is a part that is bent inward (in the Y direction as shown in Figure 5) from the end of the protruding portion 35a. The claw portion 35b is a part that can be hooked onto the engaging projection 13 of the first clamp 10, and is formed with a protrusion amount that is approximately equal to the height of the engaging projection 13 (the height of the rise of the rising surface 13a).

[0035] Furthermore, a tapped hole 36 is formed through the protruding leg portion 35. The tapped hole 36 is a through hole with an internal thread on its inner circumference, and is formed to engage with a bolt 50 (male thread) for fixing the pipe. This tapped hole 36 is formed in a position that communicates with the first tapped hole 14 when the protruding leg portion 35 engages with the engaging projection 13. With this configuration, the bolt 50 inserted through the tapped hole 36 passes through the first tapped hole 14 and reaches the pipe inserted into the first cylindrical portion 11.

[0036] When engaging the third clamp 30 with the first clamp 10, the first clamp 10 is inserted between the pair of protruding legs 35 from the Z direction as shown in Figure 5. At this time, the orientation of the pair of protruding legs 35 is aligned so that the protruding direction of the pair of protruding legs 35 and the axial direction of the first cylindrical part 11 are perpendicular, and the engaging projection 13 faces the engaging leg 27. When the first clamp 10 is inserted between the pair of protruding legs 35 in this way, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, the pair of protruding legs 35 embrace the engaging projection 13 from both sides, and the claw portion 35b engages with the rising surface 13a of the engaging projection 13. After that, the two can be fixed together by inserting bolts 50 through the tapped holes 36 of the protruding legs on both sides and fastening them.

[0037] In this embodiment, each clamp member and pipe is connected by bolts 50. The bolts 50 in this embodiment are embedded in tapped holes so as not to protrude from the outer surface of the clamping device. Therefore, the bolts 50 do not protrude from the surface of the clamp, resulting in a safe and aesthetically pleasing design. Any bolt that can be fastened with a wrench can be used as the bolt 50; for example, socket head cap screws can be used. Next, a method of connecting two pipes in a T-shape using the first clamp 10 and the second clamp 20 described above will be explained with reference to Figures 7 and 8.

[0038] When connecting two pipes in a T-shape, first, the first clamp 10 is attached to the outer circumference of the first pipe 55, and the second clamp 20 is attached to the outer circumference of the second pipe 56. That is, as shown in Figure 7, the end of the first pipe 55 is inserted into the first cylindrical part 11, and the bolt 50 inserted through the first tapped hole 14 is fastened to fix the first pipe 55 to the first clamp 10. Also, the second pipe 56 is inserted through the second cylindrical part 21, and the bolt 50 inserted through the second tapped hole 25 is fastened to fix the second pipe 56 to the second clamp 20.

[0039] Subsequently, the first clamp 10 and the second clamp 20 are engaged with each other, connecting the first pipe 55 and the second pipe 56 in mutually perpendicular directions. Specifically, the pair of engaging legs 27 of the second clamp 20 are engaged with the engaging projection 13 of the first clamp 10 from both sides. At this time, as shown in Figure 8, the U-shaped inner surfaces of the engaging legs 27 engage with the engaging projection 13 on all three surfaces. As a result, the first clamp 10 and the second clamp 20 engage without any play in the four directions: up, down, left, and right.

[0040] The first clamp 10 and the second clamp 20, which are engaged in this manner, are fixed to each other by a bolt 50 inserted from the outside of the tapped hole 28 of the engaging leg. That is, the bolt 50 inserted from the outside of the tapped hole 28 of the engaging leg passes through the first tapped hole 14 of the first clamp 10 and reaches the first pipe 55. By fastening this bolt 50, the first clamp 10, the second clamp 20, and the first pipe 55 are firmly joined together.

[0041] Furthermore, in addition to the T-shaped pipes connected as described above, it is also possible to add pipes to connect pipes in the X, Y, and Z directions. The configuration for connecting pipes in three directions will be explained with reference to Figures 9 and 10. First, connect the two pipes in a T-shape using the same procedure as already explained in Figures 7 and 8.

[0042] Furthermore, a third clamp 30 is attached to the outer circumference of the third pipe 57. That is, as shown in Figure 9, the end of the third pipe 57 is inserted into the third cylindrical part 31, and the bolt 50 inserted through the third tapped hole 34 is fastened to fix the third pipe 57 to the third clamp 30.

[0043] Subsequently, the first clamp 10 and the third clamp 30 are engaged with each other, connecting the first pipe 55 and the third pipe 57 in mutually perpendicular directions. Specifically, the pair of protruding legs 35 of the third clamp 30 are engaged with the engaging projection 13 of the first clamp 10 from both sides. At this time, as shown in Figure 10, the L-shaped inner surface of the protruding leg 35 engages with the engaging projection 13, and the end face of the third cylindrical portion 31 abuts against the surface of the engaging leg 27 of the second clamp 20. As a result, the first clamp 10 and the second clamp 20 are engaged without any play in the four directions: up, down, left, and right.

[0044] The first clamp 10 and the third clamp 30, which are engaged in this manner, are fixed to each other by a bolt 50 inserted from the outside of the tapped hole 36 of the protruding leg. That is, the bolt 50 inserted from the outside of the tapped hole 36 of the protruding leg passes through the first tapped hole 14 of the first clamp 10 and reaches the first pipe 55. By fastening this bolt 50, the first clamp 10, the third clamp 30, and the first pipe 55 are firmly joined together.

[0045] When the three clamps (first clamp 10, second clamp 20, and third clamp 30) are engaged with each other in this manner, the pair of engaging legs 27 of the second clamp 20 engage with two of the four engaging protrusions 13 of the first clamp 10 that are in opposite positions, and the pair of protruding legs 35 of the third clamp 30 engage with the remaining two engaging protrusions 13. By engaging them in this manner, the first pipe 55, the second pipe 56, and the third pipe 57 are connected in directions that are perpendicular to each other.

[0046] Furthermore, when the three clamps are engaged with each other, the engaging leg portion 27 (either one) of the second clamp 20 is pressed down by the third cylindrical portion 31 of the third clamp 30. Therefore, combining the clamps improves the holding force.

[0047] By the way, the above-described embodiment explained the case where pipes are connected in a T-shape, but when connecting pipes in an L-shape, a second clamp 20 with the shape shown in Figures 11 and 12 may be used instead of the second clamp 20 shown in Figures 3 and 4. The basic form of the second clamp 20 shown in Figures 11 and 12 is the same as the second clamp 20 shown in Figures 3 and 4 which has already been described, but the difference is that the length of the second cylindrical part 21 is extended. Specifically, the second clamp 20 shown in Figures 11 and 12 differs from the second clamp 20 shown in Figures 3 and 4 in that it has an extension part 23 (see Figures 11 and 12) which is an extension of the second cylindrical part 21, and apart from the presence or absence of this extension part 23, the two are the same shape.

[0048] The extension 23 is a portion for attaching the sealing material 40, which will be described later, and is an extension of the second cylindrical portion 21 in the axial direction (the X direction shown in Figure 11). The cross-sectional shape of this extension 23 is the same as that of the second cylindrical portion 21, and is roughly C-shaped in cross-section. A tapped hole 26 for the sealing material is formed through this extension 23. The tapped hole 26 for the sealing material is a through hole with internal threads cut on its inner circumference, similar to the second tapped hole 25, and is formed at a position corresponding to the rib 24.

[0049] The sealing member 40 inserted into the extension 23 is a cylindrical member as shown in Figures 13 and 14. The sealing member 40 in this embodiment is made of metal, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The first clamp 10 in this embodiment is an extruded profile. The sealing member 40 can also be manufactured using materials other than metal, such as synthetic resin or rubber.

[0050] A tenon portion 41 is formed to protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the sealing material 40. This tenon portion 41 can slide-engage with the engagement groove 12 formed on the inner circumferential surface 11b of the first cylindrical portion 11, the engagement groove 22 formed on the inner circumferential surface 21b of the second cylindrical portion 21, or the engagement groove 32 formed on the inner circumferential surface 31b of the third cylindrical portion 31. Therefore, the sealing material 40 can be slid into the interior of these clamp members. In this embodiment, an example in which the sealing material 40 is inserted into the extension portion 23 is described.

[0051] The sealing material 40 inserted into the extension 23 is fixed to the extension 23 by a bolt 50. That is, after inserting the sealing material 40 into the extension 23, the bolt 50 inserted into the tapped hole 26 for the sealing material is tightened inward, so that the tip of the bolt 50 presses down on the sealing material 40 inserted into the extension 23. A method of connecting two pipes in an L-shape using the second clamp 20 having this extension 23 will be described with reference to Figures 15 and 16.

[0052] When connecting two pipes in an L-shape, first, the first clamp 10 is attached to the outer circumference of the first pipe 55, and the second clamp 20 is attached to the outer circumference of the second pipe 56. That is, as shown in Figure 15, the end of the first pipe 55 is inserted into the first cylindrical part 11, and the first pipe 55 is fixed to the first clamp 10 by fastening a bolt 50 inserted through any first tapped hole 14. Also, the end of the second pipe 56 is inserted into the second cylindrical part 21, and the second pipe 56 is fixed to the second clamp 20 by fastening a bolt 50 inserted through the second tapped hole 25. Furthermore, a sealing material 40 is inserted into the extension part 23, and the sealing material 40 is fixed to the second clamp 20 by fastening a bolt 50 inserted through the tapped hole 26 for the sealing material.

[0053] Subsequently, the first clamp 10 and the second clamp 20 are engaged with each other, connecting the first pipe 55 and the second pipe 56 in mutually perpendicular directions. Specifically, the pair of engaging legs 27 of the second clamp 20 are engaged with the engaging projection 13 of the first clamp 10 from both sides. At this time, as shown in Figure 16, the U-shaped inner surfaces of the engaging legs 27 engage with the engaging projection 13 on all three surfaces. As a result, the first clamp 10 and the second clamp 20 engage without any play in the four directions: up, down, left, and right.

[0054] The first clamp 10 and the second clamp 20, which are engaged in this manner, are fixed to each other by a bolt 50 inserted from the outside of the tapped hole 28 of the engaging leg. That is, the bolt 50 inserted from the outside of the tapped hole 28 of the engaging leg passes through the first tapped hole 14 of the first clamp 10 and reaches the first pipe 55. By fastening this bolt 50, the first clamp 10, the second clamp 20, and the first pipe 55 are firmly joined together.

[0055] Furthermore, as described above, it is possible to add more pipes to the L-shaped pipes and connect them in the X, Y, and Z directions. This embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 17 and 18. First, connect the two pipes in an L-shape using the same procedure as already explained in Figures 15 and 16.

[0056] Furthermore, a third clamp 30 is attached to the outer circumference of the third pipe 57. That is, as shown in Figure 17, the end of the third pipe 57 is inserted into the third cylindrical part 31, and the bolt 50 inserted through the third tapped hole 34 is fastened to fix the third pipe 57 to the third clamp 30.

[0057] Subsequently, the first clamp 10 and the third clamp 30 are engaged with each other, connecting the first pipe 55 and the third pipe 57 in mutually perpendicular directions. Specifically, the pair of protruding legs 35 of the third clamp 30 are engaged with the engaging projection 13 of the first clamp 10 from both sides. At this time, as shown in Figure 18, the L-shaped inner surface of the protruding leg 35 engages with the engaging projection 13, and the end face of the third cylindrical part 31 abuts against the surface of the engaging leg 27 of the second clamp 20. As a result, the first clamp 10 and the second clamp 20 are engaged without any play in the four directions: up, down, left, and right.

[0058] The first clamp 10 and the third clamp 30, which are engaged in this manner, are fixed to each other by a bolt 50 inserted from the outside of the tapped hole 36 of the protruding leg. That is, the bolt 50 inserted from the outside of the tapped hole 36 of the protruding leg passes through the first tapped hole 14 of the first clamp 10 and reaches the first pipe 55. By fastening this bolt 50, the first clamp 10, the third clamp 30, and the first pipe 55 are firmly joined together.

[0059] With the clamping device described above, various structures can be constructed by combining the first clamp 10, the second clamp 20, and the third clamp 30. For example, as shown in Figure 19, it is possible to construct a trolley 58 by freely combining pipes.

[0060] The trolley 58 shown in Figure 19 has casters 59 attached to its bottom. These casters 59 can also be attached using a blocking material 40. Specifically, a through hole 42 is formed in the axial direction inside the blocking material 40 (see Figures 13 and 14). By inserting the shaft of the caster 59 into this through hole 42 and fixing it, the caster 59 can be attached to a clamping device (for example, a second clamp 20).

[0061] As described above, the clamping device according to this embodiment allows pipes to be connected in mutually perpendicular directions by engaging multiple types of clamps orthogonally. With such a configuration, a clamping device with a neater appearance than a typical clamp can be constructed.

[0062] Furthermore, since it does not need to be integrally cast like a key clamp, it is possible to use rust-resistant, inexpensive, and crack-resistant materials (such as aluminum). Therefore, an inexpensive and easy-to-use clamping device can be provided. In particular, by using extruded profiles of aluminum or other materials, an inexpensive and high-quality clamping device can be provided.

[0063] In this embodiment, the sealing material 40 is attached to the extension 23 of the second clamp 20, but it is not limited to this, and it is also possible to attach the sealing material 40 to the first cylindrical part 11 of the first clamp 10, the second cylindrical part 21 of the second clamp 20, and the third cylindrical part 31 of the third clamp 30.

[0064] Furthermore, engagement grooves 12, 22, and 32 that engage with the sealing material 40 are formed on the inner circumferential surfaces 11b, 21b, and 31b of the first cylindrical portion 11 of the first clamp 10, the second cylindrical portion 21 of the second clamp 20, and the third cylindrical portion 31 of the third clamp 30. The shape of these engagement grooves 12, 22, and 32 can be freely set to match the shape of the tenon portion 41 of the sealing material 40. In other words, as long as the shape of the engagement grooves 12, 22, and 32 matches the shape of the tenon portion 41, the shape can be freely changed and is not limited to a dovetail groove. Also, if the sealing material 40 does not have a tenon portion 41, the engagement grooves 12, 22, and 32 do not need to be formed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0065] 10. First clamp 11. First cylindrical part 11a Outer surface 11b Inner surface 12 Engagement groove 13 Engagement protrusion 13a Rising surface 13b Zenith plane 14. First tapped hole 20 Second Clamp 21 Second cylindrical part 21a Outer surface 21b Inner surface 22 Engagement groove 23 Extension 24 Ribs 25 Second tapped hole 26 Tapped holes for sealing material 27 Engagement leg 27a Expansion section 27b Projection 27c Claw part 28 Engaging leg tapped hole 30 Third Clamp 31 Third cylindrical part 31a Outer surface 31b Inner surface 32 Engagement groove 33 Ribs 34. Third tapped hole 35 Protruding legs 35a Protrusion 35b Claw part 36 Tapped holes in protruding legs 40. Sealing material 41 Tenon 42 Through hole 50 volts 55 The first pipe 56 The second pipe 57 The third pipe 58 bogies 59 Casters

Claims

1. A clamping device for connecting multiple pipes in a direction perpendicular to each other, A first clamp that can be attached to the outer circumference of the first pipe, A second clamp that can be attached to the outer circumference of the second pipe, Equipped with, The first clamp comprises a first cylindrical portion capable of holding a first pipe, and a plurality of engaging protrusions formed on the outer circumferential surface of the first cylindrical portion. The second clamp comprises a second cylindrical portion capable of holding a second pipe, and a pair of engaging legs protruding from the second cylindrical portion. The first pipe and the second pipe are configured to be connectable in directions perpendicular to each other by engaging the pair of engaging legs with the engaging projections on both sides. Clamping device.

2. The third pipe is further equipped with a third clamp that can be attached to the outer circumference of the third pipe. The third clamp comprises a third cylindrical portion capable of holding a third pipe, and a pair of protruding legs formed to protrude from the third cylindrical portion. Four engagement protrusions are formed on the outer circumferential surface of the first cylindrical portion, at equal intervals when viewed in the circumferential direction. The first pipe, the second pipe, and the third pipe are configured to be connected in mutually orthogonal directions by engaging the pair of engaging legs with two of the four engaging protrusions that are in opposite positions to each other, and engaging the pair of protruding legs with the remaining two engaging protrusions. The clamping device according to claim 1.

3. The pair of engaging legs are formed to protrude in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the second cylindrical portion. The clamping device according to claim 1.

4. The pair of protruding legs are formed to protrude parallel to the axial direction of the third cylindrical portion. The clamping device according to claim 2.

5. The second clamp is equipped with a sealing material that can be inserted inside it. The clamping device according to claim 1.

6. The first clamp and the second clamp are formed from extruded profiles. The clamping device according to claim 1.

7. The first clamp has a first tapped hole formed through the thickened portion where the engaging projection is formed. The pipe inserted into the first cylindrical portion is secured by tightening a bolt that is screwed into the first tapped hole. The clamping device according to claim 1.

8. The first clamp and the second clamp are fixed together by the bolt. The clamping device according to claim 7.

9. The bolt is embedded in the tapped hole so as not to protrude from the outer surface of the clamping device. The clamping device according to claim 7 or 8.

10. When the first clamp, the second clamp, and the third clamp are engaged with each other, The engaging leg of the second clamp is formed to be pressed down by the third cylindrical portion of the third clamp. The clamping device according to claim 2.

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