Double-Ring Clamp Structure for Barb Tube Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hose clamps for biopharmaceutical applications are cumbersome to install and may not properly fit around barb connectors due to their design, requiring complex handling and potential interference with other fluid circuit parts.
Innovation Solution
A double ring connection clamp with adjustable inner circumference, featuring two C-shaped clamping elements and bridging portions, allows for easy installation and secure fitting around barb connectors without the need for loop formation or multiple encircling operations, ensuring proper positioning and robust clamping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hose clamps are used, then the connection is secure, but the installation is cumbersome and requires complex handling
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into two separate C-shaped clamping elements instead of a single continuous ring, allowing each element to be independently positioned and installed on opposite sides of the barb connector, simplifying the installation process while maintaining secure connection
Solution Approach 2:
Bridging portions connect the two clamping elements and provide a mediator structure that maintains proper spacing and alignment, enabling easy single-handed operation while ensuring the clamp fits properly around the barb connector
2Reliability
If traditional hose clamps are used, then the connection is secure, but the clamp may not properly position around the barb connector
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the clamp into two C-shaped elements with bridging portions, the design enables precise positioning on either side of the barb connector, ensuring each clamping element can be accurately placed around the tube without interference from the connector geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The bridging portions are pre-formed to maintain a predetermined spacing between the clamping elements, allowing the operator to position both elements simultaneously or sequentially with proper spacing already established, eliminating the need for complex alignment during installation
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable clamps are used, then the clamp can fit different tube sizes, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The segmentation into two independent C-shaped elements with interlocking mechanisms provides adjustability for different tube sizes and connector geometries while keeping each individual element structurally simple and easy to manufacture
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping elements feature adjustable inner circumferences that can be dynamically modified to accommodate different tube diameters and connector sizes, allowing the same clamp design to be universally applied across various configurations without increasing overall structural complexity
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The connection clamp (1) has two clamp ends and a double ring structure, so that two parallel clamping elements (11, 12) are provided, of C-shape at ring parts thereof, sharing a same longitudinal axis (X). Corresponding interlocking parts (11f, 12f) are carried by the elements (11, 12), to form two pairs of jaws in a clamp end for engagement of two tongue members that belong to the other clamp end. A bridging portion (31) fixedly connects a first pair of jaws to the second pair of jaws with a predetermined spacing. The clamp allows connecting a flexible tube (T) to a barb connector (9) protruding into a tube end, with a circumferential radial bulge of the tube, formed at location of the barb (19), passing between the clamping elements, while a radial interspace is leaved relative to the bridging portion to prevent any clamp contact with the bulge.