Sanitary clamp for diaphragm pump cover

Abstract

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

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 119,479, filed Nov. 30, 2020, entitled “Sanitary Clamp for Diaphragm Pump Cover,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Background Art

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to clamps. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to sanitary clamps for pumps. Sanitary pumps require frequent disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly. Sanitary pumps can include one or more diaphragms that are reciprocated to pump material through the pump. The edges of the diaphragms can be captured between the cover and the body of the pump. A clamp can be used to secure the cover to the body. The clamp is utilized in sanitary pump applications to facilitate disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a clamp for sealing a fluid assembly includes a ring having a circumferential gap separating a first end of the ring from a second end of the ring, the ring includes a bracket assembly attached to the first end of the ring, the bracket assembly including a first bracket attached to the first end of the ring, including a first opening through the bracket assembly, the periphery of the first opening being closed; a second bracket attached to the second end of the ring, having an open slot and forming a cradle; and an adjustment assembly configured to pull the first and second ends together to reduce the width of the circumferential gap. The adjustment assembly includes a rod having an elongated external thread along the adjustment axis and extending through the first opening. A nut having a threaded hole with an internal thread complementary to the external thread of the rod, so that the rod can move at least partially through the nut by relative rotation between the rod and the nut; and a head attached to the rod, the head being wider than the slot of the second bracket, so that the head can be fixed to the cradle of the second bracket, the head being positioned on the opposite side of the first opening from the nut. The relative rotation between the nut and the rod tightens and loosens the ring by decreasing and increasing the width of the circumferential gap, respectively, while the head is positioned within the cradle of the second bracket. The head can be released from the second bracket by completely moving the head out of the cradle, swiveling the tension assembly to change the orientation of the adjustment axis, and allowing the rod to exit through the open slot.

[0004] In an additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a method for securing a fluid assembly involves positioning a ring of a clamp around a flange formed by a drive cover of a fluid assembly such that the flange is positioned within an annular groove of the ring, and pivoting a rocker supported by a first bracket positioned at the first end of the ring on a pivot axis such that a rod of an adjustment assembly passes through a slot in a second bracket positioned at the second end of the ring in the clamp, the rod extending through a first opening extending through the rocker, the adjustment assembly comprising a rod having an external thread, a nut having an internal thread, and a head attached to a portion of the rod positioned opposite the nut at the first opening, the clamp being tightened by rotating the nut relative to the rod to pull the rod into the nut such that the nut engages with the rocker and the head is positioned within a cradle of the second bracket, the head engaging with the second bracket to prevent the rod from rotating completely around the adjustment axis. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0005] [Figure 1A] This is an isometric view of the pump system. [Figure 1B] Figure 1A is an enlarged isometric view showing a part of the pump system. [Figure 1C] This is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view showing the fixed engagement portion of the pump system. [Figure 2A] This is a first-order isometric view of the clamp. [Figure 2B] Figure 2A is a second isometric exploded view of the clamp. [Figure 3A] This is an isometric view showing the clamp in Figure 2A in the released state. [Figure 3B] This is an isometric view showing the clamp in Figure 3A in its fixed state. [Figure 3C] This is a side view showing the clamp in Figure 3A in its fixed state. [Figure 4A] This is a cross-sectional view along line 4-4 in Figure 3B. [Figure 4B] Figure 3B is an isometric view of the clamp, showing a quarter cross-section of a portion of the clamp's tension assembly. [Figure 5A] This is an isometric exploded view of the second embodiment of the clamp. [Figure 5B] This is an isometric view showing the clamp in Figure 5A, which is in the unlocked state and is being aligned for fixing. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0006] This disclosure relates to a clamp for a sanitary pump. The clamp secures a fluid cover to the pump, trapping a diaphragm between them. The clamp secures the components together, defining a pumping chamber between the fluid cover and the diaphragm, through which various materials can be pumped. The clamp includes a ring and a tension assembly that acts to secure the pump components together, moving the clamp from an unlocked to a locked state. The tension assembly self-aligns to prevent galling, bending, and other damage to the clamp. The tension assembly remains connected to the clamp ring during operation, regardless of the locked state, reducing the number of loose parts and facilitating quicker and more efficient assembly and disassembly. Parts of the tension assembly can be removed from the clamp ring and replaced if the fastening device is worn or otherwise damaged. The clamp facilitates quick and efficient assembly and disassembly of the pump for cleaning and / or replacement of parts. The clamp further minimizes engaging parts such as hinges, which provide points of accumulation for contaminants.

[0007] Figure 1A is an isometric view of the pump 10. Figure 1B is an enlarged isometric view showing a portion of the pump 10. Figure 1C is a cross-sectional view showing the fixed engagement portion of the pump 10. Figures 1A to 1C are described together. The pump 10, inlet manifold 12, outlet manifold 14, clamp 16, fluid cover 18, drive cover 20, and diaphragm 22 (only one of which is shown). Each clamp 16 includes a ring 24 and a tension assembly 26. The ring 24 includes a first end 28, a second end 30, an outer band 32, and an inner band member 34. The tension assembly 26 includes a bracket assembly 36 having a first bracket 38 and a rocker 40, a second bracket 42, an adjustment assembly 44, and the rocker 40. The adjustment assembly 44 includes a nut 46, a rod 48, and a head 50.

[0008] Pump 10 is configured to drive material from upstream to downstream. Pump 10 draws material from the upstream inlet manifold 12 and drives the material downstream through the downstream outlet manifold 14. Fluid covers 18 are located at the opposing axial ends of pump 10. More specifically, a pair of fluid covers 18 are located at both ends of the drive cover 20. The drive cover 20, also called the pump body, at least partially houses the drive system for moving the diaphragm 22. Such a drive system may be pneumatic, electric, and / or mechanical. For example, a motor, such as an electric motor, can be at least partially housed within the drive cover 20. The motor can interact with a part of the drive system to drive the reciprocating motion of the diaphragm 22. For example, the motor may be connected to a drive unit configured to convert the rotational output from the motor into the linear reciprocating motion of one or more diaphragms 22.

[0009] In the illustrated example, the pump 10 includes a pair of diaphragms 22, so that the pump 10 is a double diaphragm pump. The diaphragms 22 are compressed between a drive cover 20 and fluid covers 18 at each end of the drive cover 20. The circumferential edges of the diaphragms 22 are held between the fluid covers 18 and the drive cover 20 to form a sealing engagement 52 for facilitating pumping through the pump chamber defined by the fluid covers 18 and the diaphragms 22.

[0010] The clamp 16 secures the fluid cover 18 to the drive cover 20. Specifically, the clamp 16 applies circumferential pressure to facilitate the sealing of the diaphragm 22 between each fluid cover 18 and the drive cover 20. Since the clamps 16 are identical, a single clamp 16 will be described in more detail, but it will be understood that the description is equally applicable to both clamps 16.

[0011] The clamp 16 includes a ring 24 extending around the fluid cover 18 and the drive cover 20. The ring 24 does not include a hinge. The fluid cover 18 includes a fluid cover flange 54, and the drive cover 20 includes a drive cover flange 56. The fluid cover flange 54 and the drive cover flange 56 together form a pump flange, which is engaged by the clamp 16, so that the clamp 16 engages to compress the fluid cover 18 and the drive cover 20 together and capture the periphery of the diaphragm 22. A tension assembly 26 engages with the ring 24 to generate tension within the ring 24, reducing the diameter of the ring 24 and compressing the fluid cover 18 and the drive cover 20 together. It is understood that all components of the clamp 16 referenced and / or shown herein may be formed from metal. The entire clamp 16 can be formed from metal. For example, stainless steel is a possible type of metal that can form some or all of the components of the clamp 16.

[0012] The ring 24 includes an outer band 32 on the outside of the ring 24 relative to the pump 10, and an inner band member 34 on the inside of the ring 24 relative to the pump 10. Multiple inner band members 34 can be considered to form the inner band of the ring 24. Each inner band member 34 may have an inner groove 58 that receives the fitted fluid cover flange 54 and drive cover flange 56. The groove 58 may be U-shaped. Each inner band member 34 partially extends around the pump 10. The inner band member 34 may be arched and can extend circumferentially around the pump 10 by any desired amount. For example, each inner band member 34 can extend around the pump 10 by 45 degrees, 90 degrees, or 120 degrees, among other options. The inner band members 34 can be fixed to the outer band 32. For example, the inner band members 34 can be welded to the outer band 32, among other types of fastening.

[0013] The ring 24 is a segmented ring extending between a first end 28 and a second end 30. The ring 24 does not extend a full 360 degrees around the pump 10 and therefore includes a gap 60. The gap 60 is circumferentially located between the first end 28 and the second end 30 of the ring 24. The tension assembly 26 is configured to bridge the gap 60 and pull the first end 28 and the second end 30 together to narrow the gap 60 and generate tension across the gap 60.

[0014] The tension assembly 26 extends across the gap 60 and generates a clamping force across the ring 24 to secure the diaphragm 22 while simultaneously securing the fluid cover 18 and the drive cover 20 together. The bracket assembly 36 is positioned at the first end 28 of the ring 24. More specifically, the first bracket 38 is attached to the first end 28 of the ring 24. The second bracket 42 is attached to the second end 30 of the ring 24. In the illustrated example, the first bracket 38 and the second bracket 42 are attached to the outer band 32. The first bracket 38 and the second bracket 42 can be secured to the outer band 32 by any desired method, such as welding.

[0015] The rocker 40 is attached to the first bracket 38 to form the bracket assembly 36. The rocker 40 is attached to the first bracket 38 such that the rocker 40 can pivot on the pivot axis PA. In some examples, the rocker 40 can rotate freely on the pivot axis PA when the adjustment assembly 44 is removed from the rocker 40. In some examples, the rocker 40 is limited to prevent full rotation, with the first side of the rocker 40 oriented away from the second bracket 42 and the second side of the rocker 40 oriented towards the second bracket 42. For example, the rocker 40 can be limited to rotate less than 180 degrees, less than 120 degrees, less than 90 degrees, etc.

[0016] The adjustment assembly 44 is held on the ring 24 by the bracket assembly 36. In the illustrated example, the adjustment assembly 44 is held on the ring 24 by the rocker 40. The adjustment assembly 44 extends through the rocker 40 and engages the second bracket 42 to secure the ring 24 on the pump 10. The adjustment assembly 44 is elongated along the adjustment axis AA. The adjustment assembly 44 can be pivoted on the pivot axis PA having the rocker 40 to change the orientation of the adjustment axis AA.

[0017] The adjustment assembly 44 is configured by the head 50 of the rod 48, by the rocker 40 and the second bracket 42, to be interlocked with the first bracket 38 and generate a force to pull the first end 28 and the second end 30 of the ring 24 towards each other and clamp the fluid cover 18 and the drive cover 20 together. Specifically, the head 50 of the rod 48 is received by the second bracket 42. The head 50 is disposed at the distal end of the rod 48. The rod 48 is connected to the nut 46. In the illustrated example, the rod 48 extends through the rocker 40 into the nut 46. A threaded engagement is formed between the external threads of the nut 46 and the internal threads of the rod 48.

[0018] Nut 46 engages with the rocker 40. The nut 46 can be rotated in the first rotation direction about the adjustment axis AA, displacing the rod 48 in the first axial direction along the adjustment axis AA, pulling the rod 48 into the nut 46, and moving the head 50 towards the first bracket 38 and the rocker 40. The nut 46 can be rotated in the second rotation direction about the adjustment axis AA opposite to the first rotation direction, displacing the rod 48 in the second axial direction along the adjustment axis AA, driving the rod 48 from the nut 46, and separating the head 50 from the rocker 40 and the first bracket 38.

[0019] To disassemble the pump 10, the nut 46 is rotated in the second rotation direction until the head 50 exits the cradle of the second bracket 42. The spring force of the outer band 32 widens the gap 60 as the tension assembly 26 is loosened. The nut 46 is rotated until the head 50 passes the end of the finger of the second bracket 42. With the head 50 pushed beyond the retaining finger of the second bracket 42, the adjustment assembly 44 pivots about the pivot axis PA and moves outwardly to move the head 50 away from the pump 10 and away from the ring 24. Thus, the first end 28 and the second end 30 of the ring 24 are separated across the gap 60, and the ring 24 can be manipulated to allow removal of the fluid cover 18 and access to the diaphragm 22.

[0020] The adjustment assembly 44 remains connected to the ring 24 by the clamp 16 in both the fixed and released states. The nut 46 and the head 50 are disposed on opposite sides of the rocker 40, engage with the rocker 40, and are dimensioned to prevent the adjustment assembly 44 from being disconnected from the ring 24. The nut 46 can engage with the rocker 40 to prevent the adjustment assembly 44 from moving in the first direction through the rocker 40 along the adjustment axis AA. The head 50 can engage with the rocker 40 to prevent the adjustment assembly 44 from moving in the second direction through the rocker 40 along the adjustment axis AA.

[0021] To assemble the pump 10, the ring 24 is fitted onto the fluid cover flange 54 and the drive cover flange 56. The rocker 40 and adjustment assembly 44 are swung on the pivot axis PA to align the head 50 with the receiving cradle of the second bracket 42. Swiveling the adjustment assembly 44 repositions the adjustment axis AA. The nut 46 is rotated in the first rotational direction, pulling the head 50 into the second bracket 42. The nut 46 continues to rotate, and the head 50 seats in the second bracket 42, and the nut 46 engages with the rocker 40. The head 50 engages with the second bracket 42 to prevent the rod 48 from rotating completely on the adjustment axis AA while the nut 46 is rotating. Further rotation of the nut 46 pulls the first end 28 and the second end 30 of the ring 24 together, pulling the ring 24 and the clamp fluid cover 18 and drive cover 20 together. When the clamp 16 is fixed in the state shown in Figures 1A to 1C, the head 50 of the rod 48 is received by the second bracket 42, and the nut 46 interfaces with the bracket assembly 36.

[0022] The clamp 16 offers specific advantages and is intended for sanitary applications requiring frequent disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly. The clamp 16 allows for easy replacement of the adjustment assembly 44, and does not require the complete removal of the adjustment assembly 44 from the ring 24 for removal and installation of the clamp 16. The clamp 16 does not require the removal of the nut 46 and rod 48 from each other or from the first bracket 38 for removal and installation of the clamp 16. Therefore, the clamp 16 remains assembled throughout the installation process, whether in a fixed or unlocked state. Such a configuration reduces the number of parts and simplifies the installation and removal processes.

[0023] Figure 2A is a first isometric exploded view of the clamp 16. Figure 2B is a second isometric exploded view of the clamp 16. Figures 2A and 2B will be described together. The clamp 16 includes a ring 24 and a tension assembly 26. The ring 24 includes a first end 28, a second end 30, an outer band 30, and an inner band member 34. The tension assembly 26 includes a bracket assembly 36 having a first bracket 38 and a rocker 40, a second bracket 42, and an adjustment assembly 44. The adjustment assembly 44 includes a nut 46, a rod 48, and a head 50. The nut 46 includes a barrel 62, a handle 64, a tool engagement portion 66, a rod opening 68, and an internal thread 70. The barrel 62 includes a first barrel end 72 and a second barrel end 74. The rod 48 includes a shaft 78 and an external thread 80. The first bracket 38 includes a first bracket base 96 and a first bracket arm 98. Each first bracket arm 98 includes a pivot 100. The rocker 40 includes a gap side 82, a nut side 84, a rocker body 86, a rocker end 88, an opening 90, a recess 92, and a rocker surface 94. The second bracket 42 includes a second bracket base 102 and a second bracket arm 104. Each second bracket arm 104 includes a first finger 106, a second finger 108, and a shoulder portion 110.

[0024] The tension assembly 26 is attached to the ring 24 and configured to generate tension in the ring 24 to facilitate clamping the components of the pump 10 together. The rocker 40 is attached to the first bracket 38. The adjustment assembly 44 extends through the rocker 40 and is held on the ring 24 by the rocker 40 when the clamp 16 is not clamped. The adjustment assembly 44 works in conjunction with the second bracket 42 to generate tension in the ring 24, thereby acting on the clamp 16 and holding the clamp 16 in a fixed position.

[0025] The first bracket 38 and the second bracket 42 are attached to the first end 28 and the second end 30 of the ring 24, respectively. The first bracket 38 is fixed to the outer band 30 at the first end 28. The first bracket base 96 is connected to the outer band 30 by welding or other means, among other fixing options. The first bracket arms 98 are positioned at both ends of the first bracket base 96. The first bracket arms 98 define a gap between them that is circumferentially oriented relative to the ring 24. The first bracket arms 98 extend outward from the first bracket base 96 and away from the ring 24. In the illustrated example, the first bracket 38 can be considered U-shaped. The pivot 100 is formed through the first bracket arm 98. The pivot 100 is an opening configured to receive a portion of the rocker 40. The pivot axis PA extends through the pivot 100. The first bracket arm 98 can be considered to be positioned at the axial end of the first bracket base 96 opposite to the pivot axis PA.

[0026] The rocker 40 is attached to the ring 24 by a first bracket 38. Specifically, the rocker 40 is attached to the first bracket 38 by a rocker end 88 that extends into the pivot 100. The rocker 40 includes a rocker body 86, which may be substantially cylindrical, and includes a rocker end 88. In the illustrated example, the nut side 84 of the rocker 40 is formed as a flat side having a rocker body 86 curved around a pivot axis PA. The rocker end 88 is positioned at the axial end of the rocker body 86 opposite to the pivot axis PA. The rocker end 88 extends into the pivot 100 and engages with the first bracket 38 in the opening forming the pivot 100, preventing the rocker 40 from being pulled out of the first bracket 38.

[0027] The rocker 40 is positioned such that its gap side 82 faces the second bracket 42, traverses the gap 60, and its nut side 84 faces away from the second bracket 42. The opening 90 completely penetrates the rocker 40. The opening 90 is open at the gap side 82 and the nut side 84 of the rocker 40. The periphery of the opening 90 is closed. It can be understood that the periphery of the opening 90 can be considered closed as long as the shaft 78 cannot exit the opening 90 radially relative to the adjustment axis AA. In the illustrated example, the periphery of the through-opening is completely closed. In some examples, the opening 90 is cylindrical. In the illustrated example, the opening 90 can be considered to form a bore that penetrates the rocker body 86. The adjustment axis AA is positioned through the opening 90 with the adjustment assembly 44 attached to the ring 24. The adjustment axis AA can intersect and orthogonal to the pivot axis PA.

[0028] The recess 92 extends into the rocker body 86. The recess 92 extends only partially into the rocker body 86 and does not penetrate completely. The recess 92 is positioned around the opening 90. The opening of the opening 90 in the nut side portion 84 of the rocker 40 opens into the recess 92. The recess 92 may be a cylindrical flat-bottomed hole that widens the opening 90. The opening 90 may be coaxial with the recess 92. The recess 92 can be thought of as forming a counterbore of the opening 90. As shown, the recess 92 is formed such that its walls are positioned on the sides of the recess 92. The recess 92 opens inward and outward relative to the ring 24. In some examples, the recess 92 is understood to be sized such that the recess 92, like the opening 90, has a completely closed perimeter. A rocker surface 94 is formed on the bottom surface of the recess 92. The rocker surface 94 is positioned around the opening of the opening 90 in the nut side portion 84. The rocker surface 94 can be planar. The rocker surface 94 may be a flat ring positioned around the opening of the opening 90. The rocker surface 94 can extend a full 360 degrees around the opening of the opening 90. The rocker surface 94 is configured as a flat ring formed in a plane perpendicular to the adjustment axis AA.

[0029] The second bracket 42 is fixed to the outer band 30 at the second end 30. The second bracket base 102 is connected to the outer band 30 by welding or other means, among other fixing options. The second bracket arms 104 are positioned on both sides of the second bracket base 102. The second bracket arms 104 extend outward from the second bracket base 102 and away from the ring 24. Slots 112 are positioned between the second bracket arms 104. The slots 112 are open to allow components such as rods 48 to pass freely between the second bracket arms 104 within the slots 112. Each of the second bracket arms 104 is curved away from the first bracket 38. The cradle 114 is formed by the curved arms 104 and is configured to receive the head 50 of the tension assembly 26. Although the cradle 114 is shown to be formed by the second bracket arm 104, it should be understood that the cradle 114 can be formed in other ways, not all embodiments of which involve the second bracket arm 104. For example, the cradle 114 can be formed from a pocket in the second bracket 42. In the illustrated example, the second bracket 42 can be considered to be J-shaped or hook-shaped. Each second bracket arm 104 can be considered to be J-shaped or hook-shaped. However, it should be understood that the second bracket 42 can be any desired shape suitable for receiving the head 50, preventing the head 50 from rotating completely on the adjustment axis AA, and restricting the movement of the head 50 away from the ring 24. For example, the second bracket 42 can be U-shaped. In some examples, one or both of the second bracket arms 104 may be U-shaped.

[0030] The shoulder portion 110 extends from the second bracket base 102 away from the ring 24. In the illustrated example, the first finger 106 and the second finger 108 of the second bracket arm 104 form the curved portion of the second bracket arm 104 and define the cradle 114. The first finger 106 extends from the second bracket base 102 away from the ring 24. The second finger 108 is located at the end of the first finger 106 opposite to the second bracket base 102. The second finger 108 is oriented to extend in a different direction than the first finger 106. In the illustrated example, the second finger 108 can be considered to extend circumferentially relative to the ring 24. The second finger 108 extends away from the bracket assembly 36. The end of the second finger 108 is oriented away from the first bracket 38.

[0031] The adjustment assembly 44 is held on the ring 24 by the bracket assembly 36. More specifically, the adjustment assembly 44 is held on the ring 24 by extending through the rocker 40 and by the rocker 40 engaging with the first bracket 38. The adjustment assembly 44 is configured to engage with the bracket assembly 36 and the second bracket 42 to pull together the first end 28 and the second end 30 to generate tension on the ring 24. The nut 46 and the rod 48 are coaxially aligned on the adjustment axis AA. The adjustment assembly 44 works in conjunction with the bracket assembly 36 so that the adjustment axis AA can pivot to maintain the coaxial alignment between the nut 46 and the rod 48. More specifically, the threaded hole of the nut 46 is located on the nut axis NA, and the threaded shaft 78 of the rod 48 is elongated on the shaft axis SA. The pivotable engagement between the adjustment assembly 44 and the bracket assembly 36 maintains the nut axis NA and the shaft axis SA coaxially on the adjustment axis AA. Maintaining concentricity between the nut 46 and the rod 48 prevents benign damage, galling, and other damage that may occur due to misalignment between the nut axis NA and the shaft axis SA.

[0032] The nut 46 is positioned on the nut side 84 of the rocker 40 such that the rocker 40 is positioned between the nut 46 and the second bracket 42. The barrel 62 of the nut 46 is elongated along the nut axis NA. The barrel 62 is tubular with a central chamber to allow the rod 48 to move axially within the barrel 62 along the adjustment axis AA. An internal thread 70 is formed inside the nut 46. The rod opening 68 is positioned at the first barrel end 72 of the barrel 62. The rod 48 can move in and out of the barrel 62 through the rod opening 68. The barrel surface 76 is positioned at the first barrel end 72. The barrel surface 76 is positioned around the rod opening 68. The barrel surface 76 may be a plane. The barrel surface 76 can be a flat ring positioned around the rod opening 68. The barrel surface 76 can extend a full 360 degrees around the rod opening 68. The barrel surface 76 is configured as a flat ring oriented on a plane perpendicular to the nut axis NA. The barrel surface 76 is configured to engage with the rocker surface 94 and the clamp 16 when it is fixed in place.

[0033] The handle 64 is located at the second barrel end 74. In the illustrated example, the handle 64 is formed by one or more bars extending radially outward from the barrel 62 with respect to the adjustment axis AA. For example, a crossbar extends through a cross hole in the nut 46, forming the handle 64 and allowing torque to be applied. The handle 64 facilitates the user to manipulate the nut 46 to adjust the tension of the ring 24 produced by the tension assembly 26. In some examples, the nut 46 itself can be considered to form the handle, as the user can grip the barrel 62 to rotate the nut 46 on the adjustment axis AA. A tool engagement portion 66 is formed at the second barrel end 74. The tool engagement portion 66 provides a function for a tool, such as a wrench, to engage with the nut 46 and rotate the nut 46 to adjust the tension of the ring 24.

[0034] The rod 48 is elongated along the shaft axis SA. The rod 48 is a threaded rod having an external thread 80 along its length. In some examples, it is understood that the rod 48 is threaded along only a portion of its length. The rod 48 extends through the opening 90 of the rocker 40. The rod 48 engages with the nut 46 by a threaded engagement between the internal thread 70 of the nut 46 and the external thread 80 of the rod 48. In the illustrated example, only the threaded portion of the adjustment assembly 44 is located within the opening 90 of the rocker 40. More specifically, only the portion of the adjustment assembly 44 located within the closed perimeter of the opening 90 is the shaft 78.

[0035] The head 50 is attached to the end of the rod 48 opposite the nut 46. The head 50 can be fixed to the rod 48 by welding, among other fixing options. In some examples, the head 50 is permanently attached to the end of the rod 48. The head 50 is fixed to the rod 48 so that the head 50 does not rotate relative to the rod 48. In various implementations, the head 50 is part of the rod 48 oriented perpendicular to the rod 48. In this way, the head 50 and the rod 48 are T-shaped so as to be captured by the cradle 114 of the second bracket 42. The head 50 can be cylindrical. The head 50 can have a diameter larger than the diameter of the rod 48. The width W1 of the head 50 is greater than the width W2 of the slot 112 taken between the inner opposing sides of the second bracket arm 104.

[0036] In the diagrams shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the tension assembly 26 is disassembled. In particular, the rod 48 is not fully threaded out of the hole in the nut 46, and the rod 48 slides out of the opening 90 of the rocker 40. The rocker 40 is detached from the first bracket 38. However, it is understood that during typical operation, the rocker 40 is held on the ring 24 by the first bracket 38, and the adjustment assembly 44 is held on the ring 24 by the bracket assembly 36. The adjustment assembly 44 can be removed from the ring 24 without threading in order to replace any components as needed.

[0037] The tension assembly 26 facilitates the rapid and efficient tensioning and release of the ring 24. The rod 48 is positioned through the rocker 40 and connected to the nut 46 by an engaging screw between an internal thread 70 and an external thread 80. The adjustment assembly 44 and the rocker 40 pivot together on the pivot axis PA. During installation, the adjustment assembly 44 is pivoted so that the rod 48 passes through the slot 112 and is positioned between the second bracket arms 104 of the second bracket 42. The head 50 passes through the end of the second finger 108 so that the head 50 is positioned between the second finger 108 and the ring 24. The nut 46 can be gripped and pulled along the adjustment axis AA to allow the head 50 to enter the cradle 114 of the second bracket 42 so that the head 50 is directly positioned between the second finger 108 and the ring 24. The nut 46 is rotated on the adjustment axis AA by the user gripping the handle 64 or the barrel 62, or by a tool engaging with the tool engagement portion 66, causing the engagement screw to pull the rod 48 into the barrel 62, thereby reducing the length of the rod 48 exposed outside the barrel 62 and reducing the distance between the barrel surface 76 and the head 50 along the adjustment axis AA. When the head 50 is positioned within the cradle 114, the second bracket 42 prevents the rod 48 and the head 50 from rotating on the adjustment axis AA as the nut 46 rotates. With the head 50 positioned within the cradle 114, the first finger 106 prevents the head 50 from moving further toward the rocker 40 along the adjustment axis AA, and the second finger 108 prevents the head 50 from moving away from the outer band 30 of the ring 24 and out of the cradle 114.

[0038] The nut 46 engages the bracket assembly 36 and head 50 with the second bracket 42, applying force to the ring 24 via the first bracket 38 and the second bracket 42, pulling the first end 28 and the second end 30 of the ring toward each other, and generating tension in the ring 24. Specifically, the first end 28 of the nut 46 extends into the recess 92. The barrel surface 76 engages with the rocker surface 94. The flat contact surface of the barrel surface 76 seats and engages with the flat contact surface of the rocker surface 94. The engaging barrel surface and rocker surface 94 align the adjustment assembly 44 with the opening 90 of the rocker 40. The flat engaging surfaces of the barrel surface 76 and rocker surface 94 prevent the nut 46 from twisting, swiveling, or becoming out of coaxial alignment with the rod 48. The side walls of the recess 92 engage with the outer surface of the barrel 62, helping to maintain the concentricity of the nut 46 and the rod 48 on the alignment axis AA. Although the barrel 62 is described as extending into the recess 92, it is understood that some examples of rocker 40 do not include the recess 92, such that the rocker surface 94 is formed by the nut side portion 84.

[0039] The barrel surface 76 engages with a rocker surface 94 having a nut 46 that engages with the rocker 40. The rod 48 extends through the opening 90 and the head 50 is located within the cradle 114. When the adjustment assembly 44 is tightened, the rotation of the nut 46 changes the orientation of the adjustment axis AA. As the first end 28 and the second end 30 of the ring 24 are pulled toward each other, the shortening distance shifts the adjustment axis AA. The nut 46 that engages with the rocker 40 maintains concentricity between the rod 48 and the nut 46 and facilitates the rotation of the adjustment assembly 44 in order to maintain coaxial alignment between the rod 48 and the barrel 62.

[0040] The tension assembly 26 takes into account the repositioning of the adjustment axis AA during tensioning and release of the clamp 16. The engagement of the nut 46 with the swivel member of the bracket assembly 36 formed by the rocker 40 maintains concentricity between the nut 46 and the rod 48, preventing galling, bending, and / or other damage to these components. The rocker 40 can swivel on the swivel axis PA during operation, both during tightening and loosening of the adjustment assembly 44. The engagement between the nut 46 and the rocker 40 fixes the threaded hole of the nut 46 on the axis of the adjustment axis AA, thereby ensuring that the nut 46 remains aligned with the rod 48 when the rocker 40 swivels in response to the changing axial direction along the adjustment axis AA.

[0041] The tension assembly 26 is configured such that the tension generated by the adjustment assembly 44 is transmitted from the adjustment assembly 44 to other components of the tension assembly 26 on the axial side opposite the swivel member along the adjustment axis AA. In the illustrated example, the swivel member is a rocker 40 that swivels on the swivel axis PA. A nut 46 engages with the rocker 40 in a first position along the adjustment axis AA. The head 50 engages with the second bracket 42 in a second position along the adjustment axis AA. The first engagement position between the nut 46 and the rocker 40 is located on the opposite side of the rocker 40 from the second engagement position between the head 50 and the second bracket 42. In the illustrated example, the first and second engagement positions are located on either side of the swivel axis PA. More specifically, the first engagement position is formed between the barrel surface 76 and the rocker surface 94, and the second engagement position is formed between the second bracket arm 104 of the head 50 in the cradle 114. Placing the pivot point between the force application points facilitates the coaxial alignment of the components of the adjustment assembly 44 on the adjustment axis AA during installation and removal, providing a more robust clamp configuration, increasing component lifespan, and reducing costs. The force application points on either side of the pivot point balance the adjustment assembly 44 to maintain the alignment of the nut 46 and rod 48 along the adjustment axis AA.

[0042] Significant advantages are provided by the engagement of the operable components of the adjustment assembly 44 (i.e., the nut 46) with the pivot components of the tension assembly 26 (i.e., the rocker 40). The engagement at the pivot maintains the alignment of the operable components along the adjustment axis AA. The barrel surface 76 of the nut 46 engages with the rocker 40, and the rod 48 enters the nut 46 through the rod opening 68 on which the barrel surface 76 extends. The swivel and threaded engaging portions are positioned together, eliminating the unsupported span between them which could result in the generation of a moment arm that may cause bending and / or galling. The unsupported length between the swivel and threaded engaging portions is minimized, preventing relative movement of the components of the adjustment assembly 44, maintaining concentricity between them, and providing a more robust clamp 16.

[0043] Figure 3A is an isometric view of the clamp 16 in the unlocked state. Figure 3B is an isometric view of the clamp 16 in the locked state. Figure 3C is a side view of the clamp 16 in the locked state. Figures 3A to 3C are discussed together. The ring 24 includes a first end 28, a second end 30, an outer band 30, and an inner band member 34. The tension assembly 26 includes a bracket assembly 36 having a first bracket 38 and a rocker 40, a second bracket 42, and an adjustment assembly 44. The adjustment assembly 44 includes a nut 46, a rod 48, and a head 50. The nut 46 includes a barrel 62, a handle 64, a tool engagement portion 66, a rod opening 68, and an internal thread 70. The barrel 62 includes a first barrel end 72 and a second barrel end 74. The rod 48 includes a shaft 78 and an external thread 80. The rocker body 86 and rocker end 88 of the rocker 40 are shown. The first bracket 38 includes a first bracket base 96 and a first bracket arm 98. Each first bracket arm 98 includes a pivot 100. The second bracket 42 includes a second bracket base 102 and a second bracket arm 104. Each second bracket arm 104 includes a first finger 106, a second finger 108, and a shoulder portion 110.

[0044] The adjustment assembly 44 is held on the ring 24 by the bracket assembly 36. The nut 46 and rod 48 are constrained and held by the rocker 40 and are released only when the rod 48 is completely unscrewed from the nut 46. The rod 48 extends through the opening 90 of the rocker 40. The head 50 and nut 46 are sized larger than the opening 90 so that neither the head 50 nor the nut 46 can pass through the opening 90. The bracket assembly 36 thereby maintains the connection between the adjustment assembly 44 and the ring 24 even when the clamp 16 is in the unlocked state and the head 50 is removed from the cradle 114. Due to the larger width of the nut 46, the larger width of the head 50, and the narrower width of the opening 90, the nut 46 and rod 48 can only be prevented from being caught by the rocker 40 by completely unscrewing the rod 48 from the nut 46 and then separating the rod 48 from the nut 46 so that the rod 48 can slide axially out of the opening 90 along the adjustment axis AA. Regardless of the operating state of the clamp 16, whether it is fixed or not, the adjustment assembly 44 remains connected to the ring 24 by the bracket assembly 36, reducing the number of parts the user has to track and facilitating the quick and efficient operation of the clamp 16.

[0045] The clamp 16 can be operated between the unclamped state shown in Figure 3A and the clamped state shown in Figure 3B. The adjustment assembly 44 and rocker 40 pivot around the pivot axis PA such that the shaft 78 passes through the slot 112 between the second bracket arm 104 and the head 50 and through the end of the second finger 108. The nut 46 and rod 48 are shifted to move the head 50 into the cradle 114. For example, the nut 46 can be gripped and pulled axially along the adjustment axis AA, away from the rocker 40, thereby pulling the rod 48 by the threaded engagement and moving the head 50 into the cradle 114. The engagement of the head 50 with the second bracket arm 104 prevents the rod 48 from rotating, and as a result, when the nut 46 rotates, the rod 48 is pulled further into the nut 46, shortening the distance between the end of the nut 46 and the head 50. More specifically, the head 50 engages with the underside of either of the second fingers 108 (for example, the side facing the ring 24) and / or with the shoulder portion 110 to prevent the rod 48 from rotating around the adjustment axis AA.

[0046] The nut 46 is rotated in a first rotational direction such that the engaged thread between the nut 46 and the rod 48 pulls the shaft 78 into the hole in the nut 46, shortening the distance between the head 50 and the nut 46. Sufficient rotation of the nut 46 in the first rotational direction pulls the shaft 78 into the nut 46 enough to engage the nut 46 with the rocker 40. Once the nut 46 is engaged with the rocker 40 and the head 50 is engaged with the second bracket 42, further rotation of the nut 46 in the first rotational direction pulls the first end 28 of the ring 24 toward the second end 30 of the ring 24, creating tension in the ring 24. The nut 46 continues to rotate in the first rotational direction, fixing the clamp 16 in the fixed position shown in Figures 3B and 3C, generating sufficient tension to clamp the components of the pump 10 together. The tension assembly 26 shortens the circumferential gap 60 between the first end 28 and the second end 30, reducing the circumference of the ring 24 and generating tension.

[0047] In the fixed position, the head 50 is received within a cradle 114 defined by a second bracket 42. The head 50 engages with the second bracket 42, applying force to the second bracket 42 within the cradle 114. In the illustrated example, the cradle 114 is sized to prevent the head 50 from moving closer to or away from the ring 24. Specifically, the second finger 108 engages with the head 50 to prevent it from moving away from the ring 24, and the shoulder portion 110 engages with the head 50 to prevent it from moving toward the ring 24. The portion of the second bracket 42 defining the base of the cradle 114 has a contour similar to the cylindrical exterior of the head 50. Such complementary contouring allows the head 50 to pivot freely within the cradle 114, while the head 50 is prevented by the second bracket 42 from moving in the first axial direction along the adjustment axis AA, and by the second bracket 42 from moving radially toward or away from the ring relative to the adjustment axis AA. The nut 46 engages with the rocker 40 and applies force to it. The engagement of the external thread on the rod 48 with the internal thread in the hole of the nut 46 generates tension in the shaft 78 and in the ring 24 across the gap 60.

[0048] To release the clamp 16, the nut 46 is rotated in a second rotational direction on the adjustment axis AA. By rotating the nut 46 in a second rotational direction, the threaded engagement between the nut 46 and the rod 48 displaces the rod 48 along the adjustment axis AA, exposing an additional length of the shaft 78 to the outside of the nut 46, and increasing the distance between the head 50 and the nut 46. The increase in the distance between the head 50 and the nut 46 allows the first bracket 38 to move away from the second bracket 42. The tension in the outer band 30 causes the outer band 30 to flex, expanding the distance between the first end 28 and the second end 30, thereby allowing the first end 28 to move away from the second end 30 and increasing the circumference of the ring 24.

[0049] The nut 46 can continue to rotate so as to create enough play that the head 50 can move away from the first bracket 38 and beyond the distal end of the second finger 108 from the cradle 114. With the head 50 positioned outside the cradle 114, the adjustment assembly 44 is no longer swivel-retained. The adjustment assembly 44 and rocker 40 swivel on the pivot axis PA so that the rod 48 passes through the slot 112 and the adjustment assembly 44 is in the position shown in Figure 3A. With the clamp 16 unfixed, the adjustment assembly 44 is captured on the ring 24 by the bracket assembly 36 because the rod 48 extends through the opening 90 and the nut 46 and head 50 are wider than the opening 90. Such a connection allows the clamp 16 not to be fixed as a single piece, minimizing the risk of dropping components and contaminating them in sanitary applications.

[0050] The orientation of the adjustment axis AA changes with respect to the ring 24 and the pivot axis PA as tension is applied to and released from the ring 24. The rocker 40 can freely pivot on the pivot axis PA during tightening and loosening of the rocker 40. The pivot of the rocker 40 also pivots the force application engagement portion at the first end 28, formed by the engagement between the barrel surface 76 and the rocker surface 94, around the pivot axis PA. The head 50 is located within the cradle 114 of the second bracket 42 and is constrained from movement toward or away from the ring 24, but the head 50 can pivot on an axis parallel to the pivot axis PA. The double pivot of the adjustment assembly 44 at two force application points, namely a first point between the head 50 and the second bracket 42 and a second point between the nut 46 and the rocker 40, facilitates maintaining concentricity between the nut 46 and the rod 48 even when the orientation of the adjustment axis AA changes due to a change in the size of the circumferential gap 60. The double pivot maintains coaxial alignment between the nut axis NA and the shaft axis SA, preventing undesirable bending of the shaft 78 and damage to the threaded engagement between the nut 46 and the rod 48.

[0051] The threaded engagement between the nut 46 and the rod 48 is located in the bracket assembly 36 where the pivot is positioned. The threaded engagement is located on the first side of the swivel rocker 40 along the adjustment axis AA, and the engagement between the head 50 and the second bracket 42 is located on the second side of the swivel rocker 40 along the adjustment axis AA. The relative positioning facilitates maintaining concentricity between the nut 46 and the rod 48 and prevents galling and bending. The tension assembly 26 is configured such that the adjustment axis AA swivels relative to the first bracket 38 at a position intermediate between the nut 46 and the head 50. By positioning the nut 46 to engage with the pivot component (e.g., the rocker 40), it is prevented that a moment arm is formed between positions that could cause bending of the shaft 78. The swivel axis PA is located between the two force-applying engagements of the tension assembly 26 along the adjustment axis AA, the two force-applying engagements being between the nut 46 and the rocker 40, and between the head 50 and the second bracket 42. The relative positioning of the force application engagement parts facilitates the rotation of both the shaft axis SA and the nut axis NA while maintaining concentricity between them.

[0052] Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view along line 4-4 in Figure 3B. Figure 4B is an isometric view of the clamp 16 shown in Figure 3B, having a quarter cross-section of a portion of the tension assembly 26 of the clamp 16. The tension assembly 26 includes a bracket assembly 36 having a first bracket 38 and a rocker 40, a second bracket 42, and an adjustment assembly 44. The adjustment assembly 44 includes a nut 46, a rod 48, and a head 50. The nut 46 includes a barrel 62, a handle 64, a tool engagement portion 66, a rod opening 68, an external thread 70, a cavity 116, and a neck 118. The barrel 62 includes a first barrel end 72, a second barrel end 74, and a barrel face 76. The rod 48 includes a shaft 78, a head 50, and an external thread 80. The rocker 40 includes a gap side 82, a nut side 84, a rocker end 88, an opening 90, a recess 92, and a rocker surface 94. The first bracket 38 includes a first bracket base 96 and a first bracket arm 98. Each first bracket arm 98 includes a pivot 100. The second bracket 42 includes a second bracket base 102 and a second bracket arm 104. Each second bracket arm 104 includes a first finger 106, a second finger 108, and a shoulder portion 110.

[0053] The adjustment assembly 44 is connected to the ring 24 by the bracket assembly 36. The rod 48 extends into the nut 46 through the opening 90 of the rocker 40, forming the adjustment assembly 44. The shaft 78 is elongated along the shaft axis SA. An external thread 80 is formed on the shaft 78. In the illustrated example, the external thread 80 extends along the entire length of the shaft 78 between the distal end of the shaft 78, which is located in the nut 46, and the end of the shaft 78 that engages with the head 50. However, it is understood that some examples of the rod 48 include an external thread 80 along only a portion of the length of the shaft 78. For example, the external thread 80 may extend from the distal end of the shaft 78, which first enters into the nut 46 and then only partially enters along the shaft 78 toward the head 50, among other options, such as partway along the length of the shaft 78. The head 50 is mounted on the reduced diameter portion of the shaft 78. The reduced diameter portion of the shaft 78 is fixed to the head so that the head does not rotate relative to the shaft 78.

[0054] The head 50 engages with the second bracket 42 in the cradle 114. The head 50 engaging with the second bracket 42 forms a force-applying engagement portion of the clamp 16, which is positioned so that the adjustment assembly 44 applies force to the other components of the tension assembly 26, thereby applying force to the ring 24 and reducing the circumference of the ring 24 by reducing the size of the circumferential gap 60. The nut 46 connects to the rod 48 and is rotatable around the rod 48 on the adjustment axis AA. More specifically, the threaded engagement portion between the internal thread 70 of the nut 46 and the external thread 80 of the rod 48 connects the rod 48 to the nut 46. In some examples, the internal thread 70 and the external thread 80 are formed to have a trapezoidal thread shape. In one embodiment, the external thread 70 and the internal thread 80 can be formed in an Acme thread shape. The trapezoidal thread formation of the internal thread 70 and external thread 80 provides a robust thread engagement that prevents deformation and wear and facilitates the construction tension across the shaft 78 and the circumferential gap 60.

[0055] The barrel 62 of the nut 46 is elongated along the nut axis NA. The cavity 116 is formed inside the barrel 62. The internal thread 70 is formed on the inside of the barrel 62. The threaded portion of the barrel 62 can be thought of as forming a threaded hole. In the illustrated example, the external thread 70 extends only partially along the inside of the barrel 62. For example, the length of the threaded portion along the nut axis NA may extend to less than one-third of the length of the nut 46 along the nut axis NA. With the clamp 3 fixed, the distal portion of the shaft 78 is positioned inside the cavity 116 and can be cantilevered away from the threaded engagement portion. The external thread 70 is positioned along the portion of the barrel 62, forming the neck 118 of the nut 46. In the illustrated example, the barrel 62 has the same outer diameter along the neck 118 and along the other portion of the barrel 62. In some examples, the neck 118 may be a reduced-diameter portion of the barrel 62 having a smaller outer diameter than the other portion of the barrel 62 (as shown, for example, in Figures 5A and 5B).

[0056] The engagement between the internal thread 70 and the external thread 80 pulls the rod 48 into the nut 46, building tension in the shaft 78, and can also push the rod 48 out of the nut 46 across the gap 60, relieving the tension in the shaft 78. The tension generated by the adjustment assembly 44 is transmitted to the ring 24 at the first end 28 via the rocker 40 and the first bracket 38, and to the ring 24 at the second end 30 via the second bracket 42. The tension generated by the threaded engagement is transmitted at the first end 28 by the nut 46, rocker 40, and the first bracket 38, and the tension is transmitted at the second end 30 by the shaft 78, head 50, and the second bracket 42. The thread adjustment of the adjustment assembly 44 formed by the nut 46 is formed by the rocker 40, engages with the pivot component of the tension assembly 26, extends across the circumferential gap 60, and prevents bending of the shaft 78 that transmits tension. The pivoting components are positioned closer to the threaded force application points along the rod 48 than to the force application points in the head 50. Such a configuration prevents misalignment between the shaft axis SA and the nut axis NA by minimizing the length of any moment arm between the pivoting rocker 40 and the interface between the external thread 70 and the internal thread 80 that generate tension.

[0057] The nut 46 engages with the rocker 40 in its position within the recess 92. More specifically, the flat barrel surface 76 engages with the flat rocker surface 94. The engagement portion is annular and extends around the adjustment axis AA. The planar engagement portion between the nut 46 and the rocker 40 aligns the adjustment assembly 44 with the opening 90 on the adjustment axis AA. The engagement portion between the nut 46 on the swivel member of the tension assembly 26 and the alignment of the adjustment assembly 44 and the opening 90 on the adjustment axis AA maintains the concentricity and orientation of the nut 46 and the rod 48 when the clamp 16 is tightened. The nut 46, which engages with the rocker 40 and applies force to the rocker 40, maintains the alignment to prevent damage to the components of the clamp 16.

[0058] Figure 5A is an exploded isometric view of clamp 16'. Figure 5B is an isometric view of clamp 16' in the unlocked state. Clamp 16' includes a ring 24 and a tension assembly 26'. Ring 24 includes an outer band 32 and an inner band member 34. Tension assembly 26' includes a bracket assembly 36' having a first bracket 38' and a washer 120, a second bracket 42', and an adjustment assembly 44'. Adjustment assembly 44' includes a nut 46', a rod 48', and a head 50'. The barrel 62', handle 64, tool engagement portion 66, and the neck 118' of the nut 46' are shown. Barrel 62' includes a first barrel end 72' and a second barrel end 74'. Rod 48' includes a shaft 78' and an external thread 80. First bracket 38' includes a first bracket base 96' and a first bracket arm 98'. The first bracket arm 98' includes an opening 90'. The second bracket 42' includes a second bracket base 102' and a second bracket arm 104'. Each second bracket arm 104' includes a first finger 106' and a second finger 108'.

[0059] Clamp 16' is substantially the same as clamp 16. The first bracket 38' is attached to the first end 28 of the ring 24. In the illustrated example, the first bracket 38' is attached to the inner band member 34. The second bracket 42' is attached to the second end 30 of the ring 24. In the illustrated example, the second bracket 42' is attached to the inner band member 34.

[0060] The first bracket base 96' is fixed to the first end 28 by welding or other means, among other options. The first bracket arm 98' extends from the first bracket base 96' away from the ring 24. The first bracket 38' can be considered L-shaped, but other configurations are understood to be possible. The first bracket arm 98' is oriented so that the alignment axis AA passes through the first bracket arm 98'. Specifically, the opening 90' is aligned through the opening 90' formed in the first bracket arm 98'. The opening 90' is elongated perpendicular to the outer band 32 of the ring 24. In the illustrated example, the opening 90' can be considered to form a radially elongated slot with respect to the adjustment axis AA. The opening 90' can be formed as a slot with rounded ends. However, other shapes are understood to be possible. The opening 90' has a closed outer circumference, and therefore the rod 48' cannot slide laterally from the opening 90'. Instead, the rod 48' can only slide axially along the adjustment axis AA from the opening 90'. In the illustrated example, the area around the opening 90' is completely closed. The width of the head 50' and nut 46' is greater than the maximum dimension of the opening 90' in order to keep the adjustment assembly 44' on the clamp 16' in the unlocked position.

[0061] The washer 120 is attached to the rod 48' between the first bracket 38' and the nut 46'. The washer 120 is positioned such that a first side of the washer 120 engages with the first bracket arm 98' and a second side of the washer 120 engages with the barrel 62'. For example, the washer 120 can engage with the surface of the barrel 62' as well as the barrel surface 76. The barrel 62' engages with the washer 120, pushing the washer 120 into the first bracket arm 98'. The washer 120 is configured to provide an engagement between the barrel 62' and the first bracket 38', facilitating the nut 46' to move perpendicularly to the first bracket arm 98' along the long axis of the opening 90'. Such perpendicular movement maintains concentricity between the nut 46' and the rod 48' during tensioning and loosening. In the illustrated example, the neck 118' of the barrel 62' is the reduced diameter portion of the barrel 62'. The internal thread 70 of the nut 46' can be formed only within the neck 118'. In some examples, the threading of the nut 46' extends along the entire length of the neck 118'. The internal thread of the nut 46' engages with the external thread 80 of the shaft 78'. In the illustrated example, the shaft 78' is threaded only partially along its length.

[0062] In the illustrated example, the cradle 114 formed by the second bracket arm 104' has a height between the second finger 108' and the second bracket base 102' that is greater than the diameter of the head 50'. The head 50', having a width smaller than the cradle 114, facilitates the head 50' to move perpendicular to the first finger 106' within the cradle 114, allowing for the dual movement of the adjustment assembly 44' in the first bracket 38' and the second bracket 42', and maintaining the concentricity of the adjustment assembly 44' during tightening and loosening of the clamp 16'.

[0063] To engage the clamp 16', the adjustment assembly 44' is pivoted so that the rod 48' passes through the slot 112 and the head 50' passes through the distal end of the second bracket arm 104'. The opening 90' is radially elongated with respect to the adjustment axis AA so as to allow the rod 48' to move within the opening 90'. The adjustment assembly 44' is pulled along the adjustment axis AA, causing the head 50' to enter the cradle 114. The nut 46' rotates around the adjustment axis AA, pulling the rod 48' into the nut 46'. Sufficient movement engages the nut 46' with the washer 120, pushing the washer 120 against the first bracket 38', generating tension on the shaft 78', pulling the first bracket 38' toward the second bracket 42', pulling the first end 28 toward the second end 30, and tightening the clamp 16'. The elongated opening 90' facilitates the movement of the adjustment axis AA so that the adjustment assembly 44' can pivot from the head 50' into the opening 90' at any point along the adjustment axis AA. The threaded engagement portion that generates tension is located at the same position as the point of application of circumferential force between the nut 46' and the bracket assembly 36'. Such a configuration facilitates maintaining coaxial alignment and concentricity between the rod 48' and the nut 46' on the adjustment axis AA, preventing bending and galling. In addition, the head 50' and the nut 46' are larger than the opening 90' so that the adjustment assembly 44' is kept in an unlocked state as a single clamp assembly having the clamp 16' on the clamp 16'.

[0064] While the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention, and that equivalents can be used in place of those elements. In addition, many modifications can be made without departing from its essential scope to adapt specific situations or materials to the teachings of the invention. Thus, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and is intended to include all embodiments that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A clamp for sealing a fluid assembly, A ring having a circumferential gap separating a first end and a second end, comprising an outer band and a plurality of inner band members arranged on the inner diameter side of the outer band, wherein each of the plurality of inner band members is spaced apart in the circumferential direction, and each of the plurality of inner band members includes an inner groove, A bracket assembly attached to the first end of the ring, comprising: a first bracket attached to the first end; a rocker attached to the first bracket; and a first opening formed through the rocker, wherein the periphery of the first opening is closed. A second bracket, attached to the second end of the ring, having an open slot and forming a cradle, comprising: a first finger curved away from the first bracket; and a second finger curved away from the first bracket, wherein the first and second fingers define the cradle, and the open slot is located between the first and second fingers; An adjustment assembly configured to reduce the width of the circumferential gap by pulling the first end and the second end together, A rod extending along the adjustment axis, having an external thread, and extending through the first opening, A nut having a threaded hole with an internal thread complementary to the external thread of the rod, such that the rod can move at least partially through the nut by relative rotation between the rod and the nut, The adjustment assembly includes a head attached to the rod, wherein the head is wider than the slot of the second bracket and positioned opposite the nut to the first opening, so that the head can be fixed to the cradle of the second bracket, Includes a rocker mounted on the first bracket so as to be able to pivot on a pivot axis positioned perpendicular to the adjustment axis, the rod extending through the rocker, The relative rotation between the nut and the rod tightens and loosens the ring by decreasing and increasing the width of the circumferential gap, respectively, while the head is positioned within the cradle of the second bracket. The head can be released from the second bracket by completely moving the head away from the cradle, rotating the adjustment assembly to change the orientation of the adjustment shaft, and allowing the rod to exit the open slot. A clamp comprising the head, the first finger, and the second finger, wherein the head is configured to be movable away from the first bracket by removing the head from the cradle, by removing the head from the first end of the first finger and the second end of the second finger.

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

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

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

5. The nut comprises a first nut end in which the opening of the screw hole is formed, and a first surface of the nut formed around the opening at the first nut end. The clamp according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first surface is flat.

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

7. The clamp according to claim 6, wherein a recess extends outward from the outside of the rocker, and the second surface is positioned at the base of the recess.

8. The clamp according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first bracket comprises a pair of first arms extending away from the ring, each of the pair of first arms includes a pivot opening through which it passes, and the rocker is attached to the first bracket in the pivot opening.

9. The aforementioned locker is A cylindrical locker body, The clamp according to claim 8, comprising a plurality of protrusions disposed at the distal end of the cylindrical rocker body, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions engages with the first bracket in one of the pivot openings.

10. The clamp according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first bracket is U-shaped.

11. The clamp according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the head is cylindrical and is positioned at the end of the rod opposite to the nut.

12. The clamp according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the engagement between the head and the second bracket prevents the rod from rotating completely while the head is inside the cradle, and allows the rod to rotate completely relative to the nut when the head is outside the cradle.

13. The clamp according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the width of the head is greater than the maximum dimension of the first opening.

14. The clamp according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the ring does not include a hinge.

15. The clamp according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the head is elongated, oriented perpendicularly to the rod, and forms a T-shape.

16. The clamp according to claim 1, wherein the bracket assembly includes a washer through which the rod passes, and the washer is positioned between the first bracket and the nut.

17. Fluid cover and, Drive cover and A diaphragm disposed between the fluid cover and the drive cover, The fluid assembly is equipped with the clamp described in any one of claims 1 to 16, such that the flange of the fluid cover and the flange of the drive cover are positioned within the annular groove of the ring, The tightening of the adjustment assembly involves tightening the fluid cover and the drive cover together to seal the diaphragm between them, forming a fluid assembly.

18. A method for securing a fluid assembly using the clamp described in Claim 1, The steps include positioning the ring of the clamp around the flange formed by the drive cover and the fluid cover of the fluid assembly such that the flange is positioned within the inner grooves of the plurality of inner band members of the ring, A step of changing the orientation of the adjustment shaft of the adjustment assembly of the clamp, and rotating the rocker supported by the first bracket located at the first end of the ring on a pivot axis such that the rod of the adjustment assembly passes through the slot of the second bracket located at the second end of the ring, wherein the rod extends through a first opening extending through the rocker, A method comprising the steps of tightening the clamp by rotating the nut relative to the rod to pull the rod into the nut such that the nut contacts the rocker and the head is positioned within the cradle of the second bracket, wherein the head engages with the second bracket such that the rod does not rotate completely around the adjustment axis.

Images