Adjustable Compression Support Band for Universal Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support bands are limited by requiring multiple sizes for specific dimensions, leading to increased manufacturing costs, complex installation procedures, and safety hazards due to their weight and size, as well as the need for specialized tools and training for onsite fabrication.
Innovation Solution
A modular support band system using lightweight aluminum alloy segments that can be easily connected and adapted to various structures through compression or expansion configurations, featuring adjustable connection ends and quick connect mounting points, allowing for flexible installation without specialized tools and reducing weight and packaging challenges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If support bands are pre-sized for narrow ranges of specific circumferential dimensions, then the necessary strength at the right angle bent connection ends is provided, but a large number of different sized models must be manufactured and inventoried
Solution Approach 1:
The support band is designed with a universal adjustable mechanism that allows a single model to fit multiple circumferential dimensions. The band includes adjustment features such as extendable sections or reconfigurable connection ends that can be adapted to different structure sizes, eliminating the need for multiple pre-sized models while maintaining the necessary strength at connection ends.
Solution Approach 2:
The support band incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow it to change its configuration based on the required circumference. The connection ends can be adjusted in length or angle, and the band can be extended or compressed, enabling a single universal model to adapt to various structure sizes while maintaining structural integrity and strength.
2Adaptability or versatility
If larger circumferential dimensions are accommodated, then more structures can be supported, but the band becomes difficult to package, warehouse and deliver
Solution Approach 1:
The support band is divided into multiple separable segments or sections that can be nested within each other for compact packaging. The band can be disassembled into smaller components that fit together in a space-efficient manner, allowing large circumferential dimensions to be accommodated while maintaining compact packaging for easy warehousing and delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The support band components are designed to nest within each other when not in use. The adjustable sections and connection ends can be collapsed or folded into a compact configuration that fits within a small packaging volume, enabling the band to accommodate large circumferential dimensions while maintaining small packaging requirements for efficient warehousing and delivery.
3Strength
If support bands are made from heavy quarter inch rolled steel, then the necessary strength is provided, but the overall weight and delivery packaging requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support band uses composite construction combining lightweight materials with strategic reinforcement. Instead of uniform heavy steel throughout, the band employs high-strength aluminum alloy or composite materials for the main body, with localized steel reinforcement only at critical connection points where strength is absolutely necessary, significantly reducing overall weight while maintaining required strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The support band features non-uniform material distribution with high-strength materials concentrated only at the connection ends and critical load-bearing areas, while the main body uses lighter materials. This local quality approach provides necessary strength at specific locations without increasing the overall weight of the entire band, reducing both weight and packaging requirements.
4Adaptability or versatility
If support bands are fabricated onsite from coils of steel band, cable or chain, then universal dimensions can be achieved, but installation time increases and specialized tools and training are required
Solution Approach 1:
The support band is pre-assembled and pre-configured at the manufacturing stage with adjustable connection ends and mounting points set in optimal positions. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex onsite fabrication, allowing installers to simply adjust the pre-configured band to the required circumference and install it quickly without specialized tools or training, maintaining dimensional flexibility while dramatically reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The support band incorporates self-adjusting mechanisms and user-friendly connection systems that allow installation personnel to configure the band to the required dimensions using simple manual adjustments without specialized tools or extensive training. The band's design includes self-aligning features and intuitive connection points that enable anyone to achieve proper configuration quickly, maintaining universal adaptability while eliminating the need for complex fabrication procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A support band having at least one band segment, a first connection end and a second connection end. The first and second connection end(s) each having a mounting surface with a wedge end, a wedge surface extending from the wedge end forming an acute angle with respect to the mounting surface, and a stand-off surface between the mounting surface and proximate a distal end of the wedge surface. The first and second connection end mounting surface(s) coupled to the at least one band segment. The support band having mounting means for mounting on and or within a structure via compression and or expansion.