Pipe connectors

Abstract

To provide a pipe connector for actualizing easy mounting to a pipe already assembled.SOLUTION: The pipe connector for connecting a pipe 61 with a clamp tool including a cylindrical hole 13 for holding the pipe 61 includes a separated type clamp tool 10 consisting of at least two member, namely, base member 11 formed with a holding groove 11b opened larger than the diameter of the pipe 61 and a cover member 12 mountable to the base member 11 so as to block the opening of the holding groove 11b. In the separated type clamp tool 10, the cover member 12 is mounted to the base member 11 to form the cylindrical hole 13 with the holding groove 11b and the cover member 12. The pipe 61 can be fixed inside the cylindrical hole 13.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a pipe connector for connecting a plurality of pipes.

Background Art

[0002] As an apparatus for connecting a plurality of pipes, for example, a pipe joint called Key Clamp (registered trademark: KEEKLAMP) as shown in Non-Patent Document 1 is known. This Key Clamp is formed of cast metal and includes cylindrical holes opening in orthogonal directions. By inserting pipes into the respective orthogonal cylindrical holes, the pipes can be connected in orthogonal directions.

Prior Art Literature

Non-Patent Literature

[0003]

Non-Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the Key Clamp shown in Non-Patent Document 1 has a problem that it is difficult to attach to an already assembled pipe because it is necessary to insert the end of the pipe to be connected. For example, when an additional pipe is connected to an intermediate portion of an already assembled pipe, there is a problem that the pipe must be reassembled. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a pipe connector that can be easily attached even to an already assembled pipe.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a pipe connector for connecting pipes using a clamp having a cylindrical hole for holding the pipe, comprising a separable clamp consisting of at least two members: a base member having a retaining groove that opens larger than the diameter of the pipe, and a cover member that can be attached to the base member so as to close the opening of the retaining groove, wherein the separable clamp is configured such that by attaching the cover member to the base member, the retaining groove and the cover member form the cylindrical hole, and the pipe can be fixed inside the cylindrical hole. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] As described above, the present invention provides a separable clamping device. A cover member is attached to a base member that has a retaining groove that opens larger than the diameter of the pipe, so as to close the opening of the retaining groove. This creates a cylindrical hole between the retaining groove and the cover member, allowing the pipe to be fixed inside the cylindrical hole. With this configuration, the separable clamping device can be attached to the middle of the pipe, making it easy to attach even to pipes that have already been assembled. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] (a) Perspective view of the first clamping device, (b) Perspective view of the first clamping device in a separated state. [Figure 2] This diagram shows how the first clamping device is attached to the pipe. [Figure 3] The first clamping device is shown in (a) a top view, (b) a front view, (c) a bottom view, and (d) a right side view. The rear view of the first clamping device is the same as the front view. [Figure 4] These are (a) a plan view, (b) a front view, and (c) a right side view of the first base member. [Figure 5] (a) Plan view, (b) Front view, (c) Right side view of the first cover member. [Figure 6] (a) is a perspective view and (b) is a side view showing the pipe connected using the first clamp and the second clamp. [Figure 7](a) is a perspective view and (b) is a side view showing the pipe connected using the first clamp, the second clamp, and the third clamp. [Figure 8] This is a diagram showing a trolley assembled using clamping devices. [Figure 9] (a) A perspective view and (b) A front view of the fourth clamping device. [Figure 10] (a) is a perspective view and (b) is a front view showing the pipes connected with the fourth clamping device. [Figure 11] (a) A perspective view and (b) A front view of the fifth clamping device. [Figure 12] (a) is a perspective view and (b) is a side view showing the pipe connected using the fourth and fifth clamping devices. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the figures. The pipe connector according to this embodiment is for connecting multiple pipes 61 in a non-linear manner, and connects the pipes 61 using a clamping device equipped with a cylindrical hole for holding the pipes 61. Specifically, this pipe connector can connect pipes 61 in various ways by combining multiple clamping devices.

[0009] In this embodiment, five clamping devices will be described: the first clamping device 10, the second clamping device 20, the third clamping device 30, the fourth clamping device 40, and the fifth clamping device 50. By combining two or more of these clamping devices, two or more pipes 61 can be connected. In addition, without departing from the spirit of the present invention, other clamping devices with different shapes and lengths may be used, not just those described herein.

[0010] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the first clamping device 10 is a separable clamping device consisting of at least two members: a base member and a cover member. Specifically, the first clamping device 10 comprises a first base member 11 shown in Figure 4 and a first cover member 12 shown in Figure 5. The first base member 11 and the first cover member 12 are made of metal, and are formed from materials such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Specifically, the first base member 11 and the first cover member 12 in this embodiment are manufactured by processing extruded profiles.

[0011] As shown in Figure 4(b), the first base member 11 is a member with a substantially U-shaped cross-section and a retaining groove 11b formed inside. The retaining groove 11b is a groove with a substantially U-shaped cross-section and has a semi-cylindrical bottom surface 11c and side surfaces 11d extending from both sides of the bottom surface 11c. The bottom surface 11c is formed to be approximately the same diameter (slightly larger) as the pipe 61 held by the clamping device, so that when the pipe 61 is inserted into the retaining groove 11b, the bottom surface 11c follows the outer circumference of the pipe 61. The side surfaces 11d are formed parallel to each other from both sides of the bottom surface 11c. These side surfaces 11d on both sides form the opening of the retaining groove 11b. With this configuration, the retaining groove 11b has an opening larger than the diameter of the pipe 61, and the pipe 61 can be inserted through this opening. That is, the pipe 61 can be inserted into the inside of the retaining groove 11b from a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the retaining groove 11b (the upward direction shown in Figure 4(b)).

[0012] A slide groove 11a is formed inside the retaining groove 11b described above. The slide groove 11a is a groove for attaching the first cover member 12 and is formed in pairs on the left and right near the upper part of both sides 11d. This slide groove 11a is formed along the entire length of the first base member 11 when viewed in the direction of extension of the retaining groove 11b (the left-right direction shown in Figure 4(c)). By inserting the slide projection 12a of the first cover member 12, which will be described later, from the end of this slide groove 11a, the first cover member 12 can be slid and attached to the first base member 11.

[0013] The first cover member 12 is a member attachable to the first base member 11 so as to close the opening of the aforementioned holding groove 11b. As shown in FIG. 5(b), this first cover member 12 is a dish-shaped member in cross section. An arc-shaped cover groove 12b is formed inside the first cover member 12. The arc of the cover groove 12b is formed to have substantially the same radius as that of the pipe 61, and has a central angle of 180 degrees or less. As shown in FIG. 3(b), when combined with the holding groove 11b, the cover groove 12b can form a cylindrical hole 13 having substantially the same diameter as that of the pipe 61. In other words, by attaching the first cover member 12 to the first base member 11, a cylindrical shape through which the pipe 61 can be inserted is formed.

[0014] Further, slide protrusions 12a are formed to protrude from both side end faces of the first cover member 12. Each slide protrusion 12a is a protrusion that can be engaged with the slide groove 11a of the first base member 11. The slide protrusion 12a extends in the extending direction of the cover groove 12b (the left-right direction shown in FIG. 5(c)), and has a shape with both ends in the extending direction cut away to form a first engaging groove 14a described later.

[0015] By inserting the pair of slide protrusions 12a into the slide grooves 11a on both sides of the first base member 11 respectively, the first cover member 12 can be slidably attached to the first base member 11. In this way, the first cover member 12 can be attached to the first base member 11 by sliding it in the extending direction of the holding groove 11b. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, by inserting the pipe 61 into the holding groove 11b and attaching the first cover member 12 along the surface of the pipe 61, the slide protrusions 12a engage with the slide grooves 11a, resulting in a state where the pipe 61 is inserted through the cylindrical hole 13.

[0016] The first clamping tool 10 attached to the pipe 61 as described above is fixed to the pipe 61 by a screw 60 inserted from the radially outer side of the mounting hole 15. The first clamping tool 10 according to the present embodiment includes a total of four mounting holes 15 arranged at 90-degree intervals in the circumferential direction. At least one of the mounting holes 15 is formed in the first cover member 12, and the remaining mounting holes 15 are formed in the first base member 11. The mounting hole 15 is a hole extending in the radial direction of the cylindrical hole 13 (the pipe 61), and is formed to penetrate from the outer peripheral surface of the first clamping tool 10 to the cylindrical hole 13. The inner surface of this mounting hole 15 may be tapped. As shown in FIG. 6 and other figures, a screw 60 is attached to this mounting hole 15. By tightening the screw 60, the pipe 61 can be pressed by the tip end of the screw 60. It is preferable to use a screw 60 that does not protrude from the mounting hole 15, such as a set screw.

[0017] As described above, in the first clamping tool 10, the cylindrical hole 13 can be formed by the holding groove 11b of the first base member 11 and the cover groove 12b of the first cover member 12. And the pipe 61 can be fixed inside the cylindrical hole 13.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 1(a), four engagement projections 14 are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the first clamping tool 10 so as to protrude at equal intervals when viewed in the circumferential direction. Each of the engagement projections 14 is formed such that its zenith surface is flat, and the zenith surfaces of the farthest pair of engagement projections 14 are parallel to each other. For example, in FIG. 3(b), the zenith surfaces of the upper and lower engagement projections 14 are parallel to each other, and the zenith surfaces of the left and right engagement projections 14 are parallel to each other.

[0019] Since the engagement projections 14 are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the first clamping tool 10, the portion where the engagement projections 14 are formed is thicker in the radial direction than other portions. The aforementioned mounting hole 15 is formed penetrating through this thick portion. By forming the mounting hole 15 in the thick portion, the fastening force can be increased. A first engagement groove 14a and a second engagement groove 14b are formed on the rising surface of the engagement projection 14.

[0020] The first engagement groove 14a is a groove for engaging the engagement leg portion 25 of the second clamping device 20, which will be described later. This first engagement groove 14a is formed on a surface perpendicular to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 13. That is, this first engagement groove 14a is a groove recessed in the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 13. In this embodiment, this first engagement groove 14a is formed on the end face of the first clamping device 10. The first engagement grooves 14a are formed in pairs on both sides of the central axis of the cylindrical hole 13, that is, they are formed parallel to each other on both of the furthest engaging projections 14. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 4(b), the first engagement grooves 14a are formed on the rising surfaces of the engaging projections 14 formed on both sides of the first base member 11.

[0021] The second engagement groove 14b is a groove for engaging the protruding leg portion 35 of the third clamping device 30, which will be described later. This second engagement groove 14b is formed on a surface parallel to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 13. In other words, this second engagement groove 14b is a groove that extends in the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 13. The second engagement groove 14b is formed parallel to each other on both of the furthest engaging projections 14.

[0022] The second clamping device 20 is a clamping device used in combination with the first clamping device 10. As shown in Figure 6, the second clamping device 20 has a cylindrical hole 21 for holding the pipe 61 in a single component. This second clamping device 20 is made of metal, and is integrally formed (as one part) from a material such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Specifically, the second clamping device 20 according to this embodiment is manufactured from an extruded profile.

[0023] The cylindrical hole 21 of the second clamping device 20 is formed in a substantially C-shape in cross-section. The inner diameter of this cylindrical hole 21 is formed to be approximately equal to the outer diameter of the pipe 61, allowing the pipe 61 to be inserted through it. After the pipe 61 is inserted into the cylindrical hole 21, the second clamping device 20 is fixed to the pipe 61 by a screw 60 inserted from the radially outer side of the mounting hole 22. The second clamping device 20 according to this embodiment has a total of three mounting holes 22 spaced at 90-degree intervals in the circumferential direction. The mounting holes 22 are holes that extend radially through the cylindrical hole 21 (pipe 61) and are formed to penetrate from the outer circumferential surface of the second clamping device 20 to the cylindrical hole 21. The inner surface of these mounting holes 22 is tapped. As shown in Figure 6, a screw 60 is attached to this mounting hole 22. By tightening the screw 60, the tip of the screw 60 can press down on the pipe 61. It is desirable to use a screw 60 that does not protrude from the mounting hole 22 (such as a grub screw).

[0024] The second clamping device 20 is equipped with a pair of engaging legs 25 that protrude in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 21. As shown in Figure 6(b), the engaging legs 25 are plate-shaped portions that protrude in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 21 (to the left as shown in Figure 6(b)). These engaging legs 25 protrude in the direction of the opening from the substantially C-shaped opening of the cylindrical hole 21. These engaging legs 25 protrude from both ends of the opening, forming a pair of legs that are symmetrical to each other in cross-sectional view. The engaging legs 25 according to this embodiment are substantially U-shaped portions in cross-section, consisting of an expanding portion 25a, a protruding portion 25b, and a claw portion 25c. As shown in Figure 6, these engaging legs 25 can engage with the engaging projection 14 (first engaging groove 14a) of the first clamping device 10. The expanded portion 25a is the part that extends in a direction away from each other from both ends of the opening of the cylindrical hole 21.

[0025] The protruding portion 25b is a part that extends perpendicularly from the end of the expanding portion 25a. This protruding portion 25b occupies almost the entire length of the engaging leg portion 25 (more than 80% of its total length), and the direction in which this protruding portion 25b protrudes (leftward as shown in Figure 6(b)) is substantially the direction in which the engaging leg portion 25 protrudes.

[0026] The claw portion 25c is a part provided so as to bend inward from the end of the protruding portion 25b. The tip of the claw portion 25c is formed in a hook shape (bent into a roughly L shape), and as shown in Figure 6(b), the tip of the claw portion 25c is designed to hook into the first engagement groove 14a. At this time, the inner surface of the engaging leg portion 25, which forms a roughly U shape (the inner surface of the expanding portion 25a, the protruding portion 25b, and the claw portion 25c), holds the engaging projection 14 by embracing it from three directions.

[0027] Furthermore, a leg mounting hole 28 is formed through the engaging leg portion 25. The leg mounting hole 28 is a through hole with a tapped inner surface, and is formed to engage with a screw 60 for fixing the pipe 61. This leg mounting hole 28 is positioned to communicate with the mounting hole 15 of the first clamp 10 when the engaging leg portion 25 engages with the engaging projection 14. This configuration allows the screw 60 inserted through the leg mounting hole 28 to pass through the mounting hole 15 of the first clamp 10 and reach the pipe 61 inserted into the first clamp 10.

[0028] When engaging the second clamping device 20 with the first clamping device 10, the first clamping device 10 is inserted between the pair of engaging legs 25. At this time, the orientation of the two is aligned so that the protruding direction of the pair of engaging legs 25 and the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 13 of the first clamping device 10 are aligned before insertion. When the first clamping device 10 is inserted between the pair of engaging legs 25 in this manner, as shown in Figure 6, the pair of engaging legs 25 embrace the engaging projection 14 from both sides, and the claw portion 25c engages with the engaging projection 14 (first engaging groove 14a) at the end face of the first clamping device 10. After that, the two can be fixed together by inserting screws 60 through the leg mounting holes 28 on both sides and fastening them.

[0029] In this way, the two pipes 61 can be connected by engaging the first clamping device 10 (separable clamping device) that holds the pipe 61 with the second clamping device 20 that is attached to the outer circumference of the other pipe 61. Specifically, by engaging the pair of engaging legs 25 with the engaging projection 14, the pipe 61 held by the first clamping device 10 and the pipe 61 held by the second clamping device 20 can be connected in directions perpendicular to each other.

[0030] The third clamp 30 is a clamp used in combination with the first clamp 10 and the second clamp 20. As shown in Figure 7, the third clamp 30 has a cylindrical hole 21 for holding the pipe 61 in a single component. This third clamp 30 is made of metal, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy, and is formed integrally (as one part). Specifically, the third clamp 30 according to this embodiment is manufactured from an extruded profile.

[0031] The inner diameter of the cylindrical hole 31 of the third clamping device 30 is formed to be approximately equal to the outer diameter of the pipe 61, allowing the pipe 61 to be inserted through it. After the pipe 61 is inserted through the cylindrical hole 31, the third clamping device 30 is fixed to the pipe 61 by a screw 60 inserted from the radially outer side of the mounting hole 32. The third clamping device 30 according to this embodiment has a total of four mounting holes 32 spaced at 90-degree intervals in the circumferential direction. The mounting holes 32 are holes that extend radially through the cylindrical hole 31 (pipe 61) and are formed to penetrate from the outer circumferential surface of the third clamping device 30 to the cylindrical hole 31. The inner surface of these mounting holes 32 is tapped. As shown in Figure 7, a screw 60 is attached to these mounting holes 32. By tightening the screw 60, the tip of the screw 60 can press down on the pipe 61. It is desirable to use a screw 60 that does not protrude from the mounting hole 32 (such as a grub screw).

[0032] The third clamping device 30 is equipped with a pair of protruding legs 35 that protrude parallel to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 31. As shown in Figure 7(b), the protruding legs 35 are plate-shaped portions that protrude parallel to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 31 (upward as shown in Figure 7(b)). These protruding legs 35 can engage with the engaging projection 14 (second engaging groove 14b) of the first clamping device 10. These protruding legs 35 are provided in a pair, left and right. In this embodiment, the protruding legs 35 are substantially L-shaped portions consisting of a protruding portion 35a and a claw portion 35b.

[0033] The protruding portion 35a is a part that extends from the edge of the cylindrical part that forms the cylindrical hole 31 of the third clamping tool 30, along the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 31. 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 (upward direction as shown in Figure 7(b)) is substantially the protruding direction of the protruding leg portion 35.

[0034] The claw portion 35b is a part that is bent inward from the end of the protruding portion 35a. The claw portion 35b is a part that can be hooked onto the engaging projection 14 (second engaging groove 14b) of the first clamping device 10. The tip of the claw portion 35b is formed in a hook shape (bent into a roughly L shape), and as shown in Figure 7(a), the tip of the claw portion 35b is designed to be hooked onto the second engaging groove 14b. At this time, the inner surface of the protruding leg portion 35 (the inner surfaces of the protruding portion 35a and the claw portion 35b) holds the engaging projection 14 by embracing it.

[0035] Furthermore, a leg mounting hole 36 is formed through the protruding leg portion 35. The leg mounting hole 36 is a through hole with a tapped inner surface, and is formed to engage with a screw 60 for fixing the pipe 61. This leg mounting hole 36 is positioned to communicate with the mounting hole 15 of the first clamping device 10 when the protruding leg portion 35 engages with the engaging projection 14. This configuration allows the screw 60 inserted through the leg mounting hole 36 to pass through the mounting hole 15 of the first clamping device 10 and reach the pipe 61 inserted into the first clamping device 10.

[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. At this time, the orientation of the two is aligned so that the protruding direction of the pair of protruding legs 35 and the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 13 of the first clamp 10 are perpendicular to each other. When the first clamp 10 is inserted between the pair of protruding legs 35 in this way, as shown in Figure 7, the pair of protruding legs 35 embrace the engaging projection 14 from both sides, and the claw portion 35b engages with the engaging projection 14 (second engaging groove 14b). After that, the two can be fixed together by inserting screws 60 through the leg mounting holes 36 on both sides and fastening them.

[0037] In this way, multiple pipes 61 can be connected by engaging the first clamping device 10 (separable clamping device) that holds the pipe 61 with the third clamping device 30 that is attached to the outer circumference of another pipe 61. Specifically, by engaging a pair of protruding legs 35 with the engaging projection 14, the pipe 61 held by the first clamping device 10 and the pipe 61 held by the third clamping device 30 can be connected in directions perpendicular to each other.

[0038] Furthermore, by using the three clamps, the first clamp 10, the second clamp 20, and the third clamp 30, it is possible to connect the three pipes 61 (the pipe 61 held by the first clamp 10, the pipe 61 held by the second clamp 20, and the pipe 61 held by the third clamp 30) in directions perpendicular to each other, as shown in Figure 7.

[0039] By using such pipe connectors, 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 8, it is possible to construct a trolley 65 by freely combining pipes 61.

[0040] The trolley 65 shown in Figure 8 has casters 66 attached to the ground contact points. These casters 66 can be attached using the cylindrical holes of the clamping device. For example, the mounting shaft of the caster 66 may be attached to a spacer inserted into the cylindrical hole.

[0041] Next, the fourth clamping device 40 will be described. As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the fourth clamping device 40 is a separable clamping device consisting of at least two members: a fourth base member 41 and a fourth cover member 42. The fourth base member 41 and the fourth cover member 42 are made of metal, and are formed from materials such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Specifically, the fourth base member 41 and the fourth cover member 42 in this embodiment are manufactured by processing extruded profiles.

[0042] The basic structure of the fourth base member 41 is the same as that of the first base member 11. That is, the fourth base member 41 is a member that has a retaining groove 41b with a substantially U-shaped cross-section formed inside. The retaining groove 41b has an opening larger than the diameter of the pipe 61, and the pipe 61 can be inserted through this opening.

[0043] Furthermore, a slide groove 41a is formed inside the retaining groove 41b described above. The slide groove 41a is a groove for attaching the fourth cover member 42 and is formed in pairs on the left and right sides. This slide groove 41a is formed along the entire length of the fourth base member 41 when viewed in the direction of extension of the retaining groove 41b. By inserting the slide projection 42a of the fourth cover member 42, which will be described later, from the end of this slide groove 41a, the fourth cover member 42 can be slid and attached to the fourth base member 41.

[0044] The fourth cover member 42 is a member that can be attached to the fourth base member 41 so as to close the opening of the retaining groove 41b described above. The basic structure of this fourth cover member 42 is the same as that of the first cover member 12, except that it is equipped with a protruding piece 44. By attaching the fourth cover member 42 to the fourth base member 41, a cylindrical hole 43 with approximately the same diameter as the pipe 61 is formed. In other words, by attaching the fourth cover member 42 to the fourth base member 41, a cylindrical shape is formed through which the pipe 61 can be inserted.

[0045] Furthermore, sliding protrusions 42a are formed protruding from both end faces of the fourth cover member 42. These sliding protrusions 42a are projections that can engage with the sliding grooves 41a of the fourth cover member 42. The sliding protrusions 42a extend along the entire length of the fourth cover member 42 in the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 43.

[0046] By inserting this pair of sliding protrusions 42a into the sliding grooves 41a on both sides of the fourth base member 41, the fourth cover member 42 can be slidably attached to the fourth base member 41 (the same attachment method as in Figure 2 is possible). In this way, the fourth cover member 42 can be attached to the fourth base member 41 by sliding it in the extending direction of the retaining groove 41b. Therefore, by attaching the fourth cover member 42 along the pipe 61 inserted inside the retaining groove 41b, the fourth clamp 40 can be attached to the pipe 61.

[0047] The fourth clamping device 40, attached to the pipe 61 in this manner, is fixed to the pipe 61 by a screw 60 inserted from the radially outer side of the mounting hole 45. The fourth clamping device 40 according to this embodiment has a total of four mounting holes 45 spaced 90 degrees apart in the circumferential direction. At least one of the mounting holes 45 is formed in the fourth cover member 42, and the remaining mounting holes 45 are formed in the fourth base member 41. The mounting holes 45 are holes that extend radially through the cylindrical hole 43 (pipe 61), and are formed to penetrate from the outer circumferential surface of the fourth clamping device 40 to the cylindrical hole 43. The inner surface of these mounting holes 45 may be tapped. A screw 60 is attached to this mounting hole 45 as shown in Figure 10, etc. By tightening the screw 60, the tip of the screw 60 can press down on the pipe 61. It is desirable to use a screw 60 that does not protrude from the mounting hole 45 (such as a grub screw).

[0048] In this way, the fourth clamping device 40 can form a cylindrical hole 43 using the holding groove 41b of the fourth base member 41 and the fourth cover member 42. The pipe 61 can then be fixed inside this cylindrical hole 43.

[0049] A projection piece 44 is formed to protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the fourth clamping device 40 in the radial direction of the cylindrical hole 43. In this embodiment, only one projection piece 44 is provided for each fourth clamping device 40. The projection piece 44 in this embodiment is a plate-like portion that protrudes from near the end of the fourth cover member 42, and its front and back surfaces are parallel to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 43. Furthermore, a shaft insertion hole 44a is formed through this projection piece 44 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 43. By using this shaft insertion hole 44a, the fourth clamping device 40 is connected to other clamping devices.

[0050] For example, as shown in Figure 10, a fourth clamping device 40 can be attached to each of two pipes 61, the protruding pieces 44 of the two fourth clamping devices 40 can be overlapped, and then joined together with a shaft member such as a bolt 63. The bolt 63 passes through the shaft insertion holes 44a of the two fourth clamping devices 40 and is fastened with a nut 64. In this way, the fourth clamping device 40 can be connected to other clamping devices by the shaft member attached to the shaft insertion hole 44a. Furthermore, by loosening the fastening of the bolt 63, the fourth clamping device 40 can be rotated around the bolt 63 as an axis, as shown in Figure 10(a). Therefore, the pipes 61 can be connected at any angle. It is also possible to hold the pipes 61 parallel, as shown in Figure 10(b).

[0051] In this embodiment, the protruding piece 44 is formed on the fourth cover member 42, or in other words, the protruding piece 44 is not formed on the fourth base member 41. Therefore, the fourth base member 41 can be formed with substantially the same shape (same extruded profile) as the first base member 11. By configuring it in this way, parts can be shared, and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0052] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 12, the pipe 61 may be connected using the fourth clamp 40 and the fifth clamp 50. Using the fourth clamp 40 and the fifth clamp 50 allows the pipe 61 to be connected in a twisted position, and angle adjustment is also possible.

[0053] As shown in Figure 11, the fifth clamping device 50 is a separable clamping device consisting of at least two members: a fifth base member 51 and a fifth cover member 52. The fifth base member 51 and the fifth cover member 52 are made of metal, and are formed from materials such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Specifically, the fifth base member 51 and the fifth cover member 52 in this embodiment are manufactured by processing extruded profiles.

[0054] The basic structure of the fifth base member 51 is the same as that of the first base member 11. That is, the fifth base member 51 is a member that has a retaining groove 41b with a substantially U-shaped cross-section formed inside. The retaining groove 51b has an opening larger than the diameter of the pipe 61, and the pipe 61 can be inserted through this opening.

[0055] Furthermore, a slide groove 51a is formed inside the retaining groove 51b described above. The slide groove 51a is a groove for attaching the fifth cover member 52 and is formed in pairs on the left and right sides. This slide groove 51a is formed along the entire length of the fifth base member 51 when viewed in the direction of extension of the retaining groove 51b. By inserting the slide projection 52a of the fifth cover member 52, which will be described later, from the end of this slide groove 51a, the fifth cover member 52 can be slid and attached to the fifth base member 51.

[0056] The fifth cover member 52 is a member that can be attached to the fifth base member 51 so as to close the opening of the retaining groove 51b described above. The basic structure of this fifth cover member 52 is the same as that of the first cover member 12, except that it is equipped with a protruding engaging portion 54. By attaching the fifth cover member 52 to the fifth base member 51, a cylindrical hole 53 with approximately the same diameter as the pipe 61 is formed. In other words, by attaching the fifth cover member 52 to the fifth base member 51, a cylindrical shape is formed through which the pipe 61 can be inserted.

[0057] Furthermore, sliding protrusions 52a are formed protruding from both end faces of the fifth cover member 52. These sliding protrusions 52a are projections that can engage with the sliding grooves 51a of the fifth cover member 52. The sliding protrusions 52a extend along the entire length of the fifth cover member 52 in the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 53.

[0058] By inserting this pair of sliding protrusions 52a into the sliding grooves 51a on both sides of the fifth base member 51, the fifth cover member 52 can be slidably attached to the fifth base member 51 (the same attachment method as in Figure 2 is possible). In this way, the fifth cover member 52 can be attached to the fifth base member 51 by sliding it in the extending direction of the retaining groove 51b. Therefore, by attaching the fifth cover member 52 along the pipe 61 inserted inside the retaining groove 51b, the fifth clamp 50 can be attached to the pipe 61.

[0059] The fifth clamping device 50, attached to the pipe 61 in this manner, is fixed to the pipe 61 by a screw 60 inserted from the radially outer side of the mounting hole 55. The fifth clamping device 50 according to this embodiment is provided with one mounting hole 55 that penetrates the bottom of the retaining groove 51b (the position furthest from the fifth cover member 52). The mounting hole 55 is a hole that extends radially through the cylindrical hole 53 (pipe 61) and is formed to penetrate from the outer circumferential surface of the fifth clamping device 50 to the cylindrical hole 53. The inner surface of this mounting hole 55 may be tapped. A screw 60 is attached to this mounting hole 55 as shown in Figure 12, etc. By tightening the screw 60, the tip of the screw 60 can press down on the pipe 61. The pipe 61, pressed down by the screw 60, is pressed against the fifth cover member 52. The friction generated between the pressed pipe 61 and the fifth cover member 52 fixes the fifth cover member 52 in a non-sliding position. In this way, even without directly attaching the screw 60 to the cover member, the cover member can be prevented from falling off by using the screw 60 to press the pipe 61 against the cover member. It is preferable to use a screw 60 that does not protrude from the mounting hole 55 (such as a grub screw).

[0060] In this way, the fifth clamping device 50 can form a cylindrical hole 53 using the retaining groove 51b of the fifth base member 51 and the fifth cover member 52. The pipe 61 can then be fixed inside this cylindrical hole 53.

[0061] A protruding engaging portion 54 is formed to protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the fifth clamping device 50 in the radial direction of the cylindrical hole 53. In this embodiment, only one protruding engaging portion 54 is provided for each fifth clamping device 50. The protruding engaging portion 54 in this embodiment is a block-shaped portion that protrudes from near the center of the fifth cover member 52. A shaft holding hole 54a is formed through this protruding engaging portion 54 parallel to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole 53. By using this shaft holding hole 54a, the fifth clamping device 50 is connected to other clamping devices.

[0062] For example, as shown in Figure 12, a fourth clamping device 40 is attached to one pipe 61, and a fifth clamping device 50 is attached to another pipe 61. Then, the protruding piece 44 of the fourth clamping device 40 and the protruding engaging portion 54 of the fifth clamping device 50 are overlapped and joined with a shaft member such as a bolt 63. The bolt 63 passes through the shaft insertion hole 44a of the fourth clamping device 40 and the shaft holding hole 54a of the fifth clamping device 50 and is fastened with a nut 64. In this way, the fifth clamping device 50 can be connected to other clamping devices by the shaft member attached to the shaft holding hole 54a. Furthermore, by loosening the fastening of the bolt 63, the fifth clamping device 50 can be rotated around the bolt 63 as an axis. Therefore, the pipes 61 can be connected at any angle.

[0063] In this embodiment, the protruding engagement portion 54 is formed on the fifth cover member 52, or in other words, the protruding engagement portion 54 is not formed on the fifth base member 51. Therefore, the fifth base member 51 can be formed with substantially the same shape (same extruded material) as the first base member 11. By configuring it in this way, parts can be shared, and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0064] As described above, in this embodiment, the separable clamping device is formed by attaching a cover member to a base member that has a retaining groove that opens larger than the diameter of the pipe 61, so as to close the opening of the retaining groove. This creates a cylindrical hole between the retaining groove and the cover member, and the pipe 61 can be fixed inside the cylindrical hole. With this configuration, the separable clamping device can be attached to the middle of the pipe 61, making it easy to attach even to an already assembled pipe 61. In addition, the degree of freedom in the assembly order is increased, which improves workability.

[0065] Furthermore, in the separable clamping device according to this embodiment, the cover member can be attached to the base member by sliding it in the direction of extension of the retaining groove. With this configuration, the cover member can be reliably and easily assembled to the base member. In addition, since extruded profiles can be used in the sliding direction, manufacturing is also easy. Moreover, since hinges and the like are unnecessary, it has a clean appearance and good design.

[0066] Furthermore, the clamp is fixed to the pipe 61 by a screw 60 inserted from the radially outer side of the cylindrical hole. With this configuration, the clamp can be fixed simply by tightening the screw 60. In addition, since the cover member can be fixed with the screw 60 so that it does not slide from the base member, the clamp can be fixed to the pipe 61 and the cover member can be prevented from falling off the base member at the same time. Moreover, if a screw 60 that does not protrude from the mounting hole 15 (such as a grub screw) can be used, a clean appearance can be achieved and the design can be improved.

[0067] Furthermore, by engaging the first clamping device 10, the second clamping device 20, and the third clamping device 30 orthogonally, the pipes 61 can be connected in directions perpendicular to each other. With this configuration, a clamping device with a neater appearance than a typical clamping device can be constructed.

[0068] Furthermore, by using the fourth clamp 40 and the fifth clamp 50, the pipes 61 can be connected not only in a perpendicular direction but also at any angle. Therefore, by changing the clamps according to the usage environment, the pipes 61 can be assembled freely.

[0069] In the embodiment described above, a mechanism for sliding the base member and the cover member is provided by providing a groove in the base member and a projection in the cover member, but this is merely one example. Other known structures may be used to make the base member and cover member detachable by sliding them. For example, a projection may be provided in the base member and a groove in the cover member. Also, instead of a simple uneven shape, a rail shape may be used. [Explanation of symbols]

[0070] 10. First clamping device (separable clamping device) 11. First base member (base member) 11a Slide groove 11b Retaining groove 11c Bottom 11d side 12. First cover member (cover member) 12a Sliding projection 12b Cover groove 13 Tube hole 14 Engagement protrusion 14a First engagement groove 14b 2nd engagement groove 15 mounting holes 20. Second clamping tool 21 Tube hole 22 mounting holes 25 Engagement leg 25a Expansion section 25b Protrusion 25c Claw part 28 Leg mounting holes 30 Third clamping tool 31 Tube hole 32 mounting holes 35 Protruding legs 35a Protrusion 35b Claw part 36 Leg mounting holes 40. Fourth clamping device (separable clamping device) 41. Fourth base member (base member) 41a Slide groove 41b Retaining groove 42. Fourth cover member (cover member) 42a Sliding projection 43 Tube hole 44 Projecting piece 44a Shaft insertion hole 45 mounting holes 50. Fifth clamping device (separable clamping device) 51. Fifth base member (base member) 51a Slide groove 51b Retaining groove 52. Fifth cover member (cover member) 52a Sliding projection 53 Tube hole 54 Projection engagement part 54a Shaft holding hole 55 mounting holes 60 screws 61 pipes 63 Bolt (shaft member) 64 nuts 65 bogies 66 casters

Claims

1. A pipe connector that connects pipes using a clamping device having a cylindrical hole for holding the pipe, The separable clamping device comprises at least two members: a base member having a retaining groove that opens larger than the diameter of the pipe, and a cover member that can be attached to the base member so as to close the opening of the retaining groove. The aforementioned detachable clamping device is configured such that, by attaching the cover member to the base member, the cylindrical hole is formed by the retaining groove and the cover member, and the pipe can be fixed inside the cylindrical hole. Pipe connector.

2. The cover member can be attached to the base member by sliding it in the direction in which the retaining groove extends. The pipe connector according to claim 1.

3. The clamping device is fixed to the pipe by a screw inserted from the radially outer side of the cylindrical hole. The pipe connector according to claim 1.

4. The device is configured to connect multiple pipes by engaging the detachable clamp that holds the pipe with another clamp attached to the outer circumference of another pipe. The device comprises at least a first clamping device as a detachable clamping device and a second clamping device as another clamping device, The first clamping device is provided with a plurality of engaging protrusions on its outer circumferential surface, The second clamping device comprises a pair of engaging legs that protrude in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole, By engaging the pair of engaging legs with the engaging projection, the pipe held by the first clamp and the pipe held by the second clamp can be connected in directions perpendicular to each other. The pipe connector according to claim 1.

5. The device is configured to connect multiple pipes by engaging the detachable clamp that holds the pipe with another clamp attached to the outer circumference of another pipe. The device comprises at least a first clamping device as a detachable clamping device and a third clamping device as another clamping device, The first clamping device is provided with a plurality of engaging protrusions on its outer circumferential surface, The third clamping device comprises a pair of protruding legs that project parallel to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole, By engaging the pair of protruding legs with the engaging projection, the pipe held by the first clamp and the pipe held by the third clamp can be connected in directions perpendicular to each other. The pipe connector according to claim 1.

6. The device is configured to connect multiple pipes by engaging the detachable clamp that holds the pipe with another clamp attached to the outer circumference of another pipe. The device comprises at least a first clamping device as a detachable clamping device, and a second and third clamping device as other clamping devices, The first clamping device is provided with a plurality of engaging protrusions on its outer circumferential surface, The second clamping device comprises a pair of engaging legs that protrude in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole, The third clamping device comprises a pair of protruding legs that project parallel to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole, By engaging the pair of engaging legs with the engaging projection, and by engaging the pair of protruding legs with the engaging projection, the pipe held by the first clamp, the pipe held by the second clamp, and the pipe held by the third clamp can be connected in mutually orthogonal directions. The pipe connector according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned detachable clamping device includes at least a fourth clamping device, The fourth clamping device is equipped with a protruding piece that protrudes radially from the cylindrical hole, The protruding piece has a shaft insertion hole formed through it in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole. The fourth clamping device can be connected to other clamping devices by a shaft member attached to the shaft insertion hole. The pipe connector according to claim 1.

8. The aforementioned detachable clamping device includes at least a fifth clamping device, The fifth clamping device is equipped with a protruding engaging portion that protrudes radially from the cylindrical hole, A shaft holding hole is formed through the aforementioned protruding engagement portion, parallel to the axial direction of the cylindrical hole. The fifth clamping device can be connected to other clamping devices by a shaft member attached to the shaft holding hole. The pipe connector according to claim 1.

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