Adjustable Jaw Fitting Assembly for Variable Pipe Brace Spacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fixed-length piping support assemblies are incompatible with varying distances between piping systems and structures, making it difficult to accommodate dynamic loads and ensure secure mounting in applications like seismic events.
Innovation Solution
A fitting assembly with an adjustable fastener system that allows for repositioning relative to the fitting, enabling the assembly to adjust its length by threading or unthreading a fastener, thereby accommodating different distances and securing the piping system to a brace member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-length piping support assembly is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it cannot accommodate varying distances between piping systems and structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the fastener length adjustable rather than fixed. The fastener can be repositioned along the piping system to accommodate varying distances between the piping and supporting structure, transforming a static fixed-length design into a dynamic adjustable-length design that adapts to different installation requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-length piping support assembly is used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but it is incompatible with varying installation distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the fastener into modular components with threaded sections that can be independently positioned. This allows the fastener to be manufactured in standardized segments that can be assembled and repositioned to achieve different effective lengths, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while providing adaptability
3Adaptability or versatility
If the fastener is repositionable to adjust length, then adaptability to varying distances is improved, but the operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service through the threaded mechanism that allows the fastener to be repositioned by simple rotational movement. The threading system provides self-contained adjustment capability where the fastener secures itself at the desired position through the threaded engagement, requiring minimal tools or complex adjustment procedures
Data Source
AI summary
A fitting assembly includes a jaw fitting comprising a body, a first jaw extending from the body, and a second jaw extending from the body, the first jaw oriented substantially parallel to the second jaw, the jaw fitting defining a bore formed through the body and a hole formed through the first jaw, the jaw fitting further defining a slot between the first jaw and second jaw; a first fastener engaged with the hole and extending into the slot, the first fastener configured to couple a brace member to the jaw fitting; and a second fastener defining a tail end engaged with the bore, the second fastener repositionable relative to the jaw fitting to adjust a length of the fitting assembly, wherein the second fastener is oriented perpendicular to the first fastener.