Adjustable Pipe Support Blocks for Varying Diameters and Thermal Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe support systems are inflexible and costly, requiring unique bearing plates for each pipe size, and are difficult to maintain due to time-consuming and expensive replacement processes, while also failing to accommodate varying outer diameters and thermal expansion/contraction effectively.
Innovation Solution
A pipe support system comprising wedge blocks with angled top surfaces and through-openings for adjustable positioning, threaded bars for inward/outward movement, and corrugated caps for water wicking, allowing for easy installation, replacement, and longitudinal movement of pipes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If unique bearing plates are made for each pipe size, then the pipe support system can accommodate specific pipe dimensions, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single adjustable pipe support structure that can accommodate multiple pipe sizes through the use of adjustable bearing plates and positioning mechanisms. Instead of creating unique support structures for each pipe diameter, the invention uses a standardized platform with adjustable components that can be configured for different pipe dimensions, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through adjustable bearing plates and positioning mechanisms that allow the pipe support structure to be dynamically reconfigured for different pipe sizes. The bearing plates can be adjusted in position and orientation to match various pipe diameters, transforming a static, size-specific support system into a dynamic, multi-size accommodating system
2Ease of repair
If bearing plates are made replaceable, then maintenance becomes easier, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the pipe support structure into modular components, with bearing plates that can be independently removed and replaced. The bearing plates are designed as separate, detachable elements from the main support structure, allowing maintenance personnel to replace worn bearing plates without disassembling the entire support system, thus improving ease of repair while keeping the overall device complexity manageable through modular design
3Adaptability or versatility
If the pipe support system is made adjustable for varying outer diameters, then adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a standardized adjustable support structure that can handle multiple pipe outer diameters. The support system includes adjustable components such as positioning pins, bearing plates, and spacing mechanisms that can be configured for different pipe sizes using a common design platform, reducing the need for multiple specialized support structures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow the support structure to be reconfigured for different pipe outer diameters. The bearing plates and positioning elements can be moved and adjusted to match various pipe dimensions, transforming a static support system into a dynamic one that adapts to different pipe sizes through mechanical adjustment
4Adaptability or versatility
If the bearing surfaces permit sliding movement, then thermal expansion and contraction are accommodated, but frictional wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by designing bearing plates as replaceable, sacrificial components that can withstand frictional wear from sliding movement. The bearing plates are made from wear-resistant materials and can be easily replaced when worn, allowing the support structure to accommodate thermal expansion through sliding movement while managing frictional wear through periodic replacement of the bearing surfaces
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides a cost-effective, adjustable, and maintainable solution for supporting pipes of varying diameters, reducing friction and corrosion, and accommodating thermal expansion/contraction, while allowing for quick replacement of worn parts.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the caps comprises corrugations arranged to gravitationally wick away water
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe support system. The pipe support system comprises a first wedge block and a second opposing wedge block. Each of the wedge blocks comprises a base having walls, and forming an angled top surface. The angled top surfaces face one another and support respective replaceable caps. The caps are configured to support a joint or section of pipe along an outer diameter of the pipe. Beneficially, the distance or spacing between the wedge blocks may be adjusted by an operator to accommodate sections of pipe having different diameters. A method for supporting a section of pipe is also provided.