Clevis Hanger Reinforcement and Pipe Shield Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clevis hanger systems deform or fail under significant loads, and pipe shields are difficult to secure without welding or specialized tools, leading to instability and misalignment.
Innovation Solution
The clevis hanger system incorporates reinforcing spacers and annular flanges at bolt holes to enhance structural integrity, and a pipe shield with engagement features like hooks and tabs that can be secured to the hanger body without welding or riveting, using extruded flanges and internal threading for assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional clevis hanger designs are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the hanger deforms or fails under significant loads
Solution Approach 1:
The clevis hanger is divided into multiple components: a clevis body, reinforcing spacers, and annular flanges. These segments are assembled together to create a structure that can bear significant loads while maintaining manufacturing simplicity. The reinforcing spacers are positioned at critical stress areas to strengthen the hanger without requiring a complete redesign of the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines different structural elements (clevis body, spacers, flanges) to create a composite structure that leverages the strengths of each component. The annular flanges provide additional bearing surface area, while the reinforcing spacers add structural rigidity, together creating a hanger capable of withstanding high loads.
2Reliability
If pipe shields are welded or riveted onto clevis bottom, then the shield is securely attached, but installation is time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces traditional mechanical attachment methods (welding, riveting) with a friction-based mechanical interference fit system. The pipe shield features engagement protrusions that fit into corresponding recesses in the clevis bottom, creating a secure attachment through friction and geometric interlocking rather than thermal or permanent mechanical joining.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe shield design includes self-aligning features where the engagement protrusions automatically guide the shield into the correct position on the clevis bottom during installation. The friction fit provides self-locking characteristics, allowing the shield to secure itself without requiring additional fasteners or specialized installation tools.
3Ease of operation
If pipe shields are simply placed onto clevis bottom without fasteners, then installation is easy, but the shield shifts or falls away
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement feature design allows for dynamic adjustment during installation, where the pipe shield can be easily positioned and aligned. Once installed, the friction fit and geometric interlocking transform the connection into a stable, load-bearing joint that resists shifting and falling away under operational conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the contact parameters between the pipe shield and clevis bottom by introducing engagement protrusions and recesses with specific friction characteristics. This creates a connection that transitions from a loose, unstable fit to a secure, stable attachment while maintaining ease of installation through the designed interference fit.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention provide a clevis hanger system. A clevis top can include a hanging portion, a first leg with a first hole, and a second leg with a second hole. A clevis bottom can include a saddle, a third leg with a third hole, and a fourth leg with a fourth hole. To secure the clevis top to the clevis bottom and define an internal area to receive pipe, the first hole can be aligned with the third hole and the second hole can be aligned with the fourth hole, and a fastener can be received through the first hole, the second hole, the third hole, and the fourth hole. At least one of the first hole and the third hole can be surrounded by a first annular flange. At least one of the second hole and the fourth hole can be surrounded by a second annular flange.