Aftercooler Pipe Support Assembly With Adjustable Linkages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rigid attachment mechanisms for fluid tubes in industrial machines are difficult to assemble and install while maintaining alignment, and can be subjected to stress leading to damage and failure.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable support assembly with linkage assemblies that allow movement of clamps relative to brackets in multiple planes, using rods and connectors with locking and tightening assemblies to maintain alignment and absorb stress without deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid attachment mechanism is used to secure the tube to prevent movement, then the alignment stability is improved, but the ease of assembly and installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly transitions from a rigid static structure to a dynamic adjustable structure. The linkage assembly includes adjustable linkages that can be modified during assembly to accommodate misalignments between tube components and the support structure, enabling easy installation while maintaining operational stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly mechanism allows changing the geometric parameters of the linkage assembly during installation. The adjustable linkages can be extended or repositioned to match the actual spacing and alignment of tube components, facilitating straightforward assembly without requiring precise pre-alignment.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid attachment mechanism is used to prevent tube movement, then the alignment stability is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to stress concentration
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly incorporates adjustable linkages that can adapt to thermal expansion and vibration-induced movements. This dynamic capability distributes mechanical stresses across multiple adjustable connection points rather than concentrating them at rigid fixed points, preventing fatigue failure and improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable linkage assembly is designed with built-in compliance that can absorb and cushion stress variations before they reach critical levels. The ability to adjust the linkages allows pre-compression or pre-tensioning that cushions against future thermal and vibrational loads.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a movable mounting mechanism is used to allow pipe movement, then the adaptability is improved, but the alignment precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage assembly provides controlled movement capability through adjustable connections. The linkages can be positioned at specific intervals and angles to maintain precise alignment of tube ports with mating components while still allowing the tube to move within defined limits for adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable linkages allow modification of geometric parameters such as length, angle, and position to achieve both movement flexibility and alignment precision. The linkages can be adjusted to compensate for manufacturing tolerances and maintain precise alignment while accommodating operational movements.
Data Source
AI summary
A support assembly for a pipe arrangement includes a bracket, a clamp configured to couple to the pipe arrangement, and linkage assemblies coupled to the bracket and the clamp. The linkage assemblies include a rod, a first connector coupled to the rod at a first end and coupled to the bracket by a first locking assembly at a second end, and a second connector coupled to the rod at a first end and coupled to the clamp by a second locking assembly at a second end. The first connector is configured to rotate relative to the bracket about the first locking assembly and the second connector is configured to rotate relative to the clamp about the second locking assembly to allow movement of the clamp relative to the bracket in a first plane. A tightening assembly is adjustable to move the clamp relative to the bracket in a second plane.