Corrugated Band Clamp for Non-Parallel Pipe Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional band clamps fail to securely attach pipes with non-parallel surfaces or irregular curvatures due to lack of contact, leading to inadequate structural support and potential dislocation under vibrations.
Innovation Solution
A corrugated band clamp with a combination of corrugated and non-corrugated portions that provides circumferential and radial clamping pressure, allowing effective securement of non-parallel surfaces and curvatures without design changes, using a clamping member to form a loop around the pipe.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional smooth band clamps are used, then the device complexity is low, but the contact area with non-parallel pipe surfaces is insufficient leading to inadequate clamping
Solution Approach 1:
The band clamp incorporates corrugated portions at specific locations along its length, creating localized areas of increased contact capability. These corrugated sections provide multiple contact points with the pipe surface while the remaining smooth portions maintain simplicity, thus achieving adequate contact area without excessive overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The corrugated portions introduce curved, wavy surfaces that can better conform to non-parallel pipe surfaces and irregular curvatures. This curvature allows the band clamp to maintain contact across varying pipe geometries, increasing the effective contact area compared to a completely straight, smooth band
2Reliability
If conventional smooth band clamps are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the clamp fails to securely attach pipes with irregular curvatures leading to potential dislocation
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than making the entire band clamp complex, corrugated portions are introduced only at specific locations where enhanced contact is needed. This localized approach improves attachment security for irregular pipes while keeping the overall manufacturing process relatively simple, as only portions of the band require corrugation
Solution Approach 2:
The corrugated portions are pre-formed into the band clamp during manufacturing, creating built-in compliance features that automatically adapt to pipe irregularities during installation. This preliminary structuring ensures reliable attachment without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms or post-installation modifications
3Area of stationary object
If conventional smooth band clamps are used, then the structure is simple, but complete contact along the pipe surface cannot be achieved under vibratory motion
Solution Approach 1:
The corrugated portions with their wavy, curved surfaces can maintain contact under vibratory motion better than smooth surfaces. The multiple peaks and valleys in the corrugation pattern ensure that at least some contact points remain engaged with the pipe surface during vibration, preventing complete loss of contact
Data Source
AI summary
A corrugated band clamp is configured to effectively secure a sleeve around a pipe. The corrugated band clamp comprises an elongate member having a first lateral side and an opposing second lateral side. Typically, at least a portion of the length of the elongate member comprises a corrugated portion and at least a portion of the length of the elongate member comprises a non-corrugated portion. The corrugated portion of the elongate member enables the corrugated band clamp to effectively secure sleeves on pipes with non-parallel surfaces. In addition, applications of the corrugated band clamp system, methods of manufacture and methods of use are provided.