Elastic Cam Clamping Ring for Consistent Pipe Self-Holding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping rings for pipe fittings require complex manufacturing processes and are not flexible in use, leading to inconsistent self-holding of pipes and potential seal damage.
Innovation Solution
A clamping ring with multiple ring elements, including inhibiting elements with radially inwardly directed cams that are elastically deformable, to improve pipe self-holding and simplify manufacturing and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional clamping rings with multiple slots and complex holding elements are used, then the pipe holding function is provided, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and production time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping ring is divided into multiple independent ring elements (at least three) that can function separately. Each ring element can be manufactured independently with simpler processes, then assembled to form the complete clamping ring, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining the pipe holding function
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism is designed to provide multiple functions: it guides the pipe during insertion, centers the pipe radially, and provides self-holding through asymmetric geometry. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate guiding elements and centering mechanisms, simplifying the overall structure and manufacturing process
2Ease of operation
If conventional clamping rings with fixed geometry are used, then the insertion process is straightforward, but the self-holding of the pipe is inconsistent and extraction force varies
Solution Approach 1:
The ring elements are designed with elastic deformability, allowing them to adapt dynamically to the pipe during insertion and provide consistent self-holding. The cam mechanism transforms the axial insertion motion into radial clamping force, creating a dynamic response that ensures reliable pipe retention regardless of insertion variations
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism features asymmetric geometry with a cam surface that has different profiles on opposite sides. This asymmetry creates different forces during insertion versus extraction, generating high extraction force and consistent self-holding while maintaining easy insertion through the tapered guiding surface
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional clamping rings with rigid structure are used, then the structural stability is maintained, but the risk of seal damage increases due to insufficient flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The ring elements are designed with elastic deformability, allowing them to flex and adapt to the pipe surface. This flexibility reduces stress concentrations that could damage the seal, while the overall ring structure maintains structural stability through the coordinated action of multiple ring elements
Solution Approach 2:
The material properties of the ring elements are optimized to provide appropriate elasticity and deformability. By controlling the elastic modulus and geometric parameters of the ring elements and cam mechanisms, the system achieves both structural stability and flexibility to prevent seal damage
4Manufacturing precision
If conventional clamping rings require precise alignment during installation, then the connection precision is high, but the installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is pre-configured with asymmetric geometry that automatically guides the pipe into correct alignment during insertion. The tapered cam surface performs preliminary centering and orientation actions, eliminating the need for precise pre-alignment during installation while ensuring high connection precision
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 design enhances the self-holding of pipes by increasing the extraction force compared to the insertion force, simplifies the manufacturing process, and provides a more flexible and durable connection.
Implementation Method 1
the cam is designed to be elastically deformable outwards in the radial direction
Implementation Method 2
the cam has a radially inwardly directed curved surface... the amount of the extraction force is greater than the amount of the insertion force
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping ring for a fitting for a connection to a pipe, having a plurality of ring elements. The ring elements being designed to hold and/or fix a pipe to be inserted. At least one ring element is designed as a inhibiting element with a radially inwardly directed cam. The cam is designed to be elastically pivotable outwards in the radial direction and that the cam has a radially inwardly directed curved surface. The invention also relates to a fitting and a system including a fitting and a pipe. The clamping ring leads to improved self-locking of the inserted pipe.