Elastic Pipe Securing Strap for Tension Loss Compensation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing securing systems for elements on submerged conduits fail to maintain tension over time due to conduit retraction, leading to loss of securing effectiveness.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising a compensator member made of elastic material, two strands forming a strap around the conduit, and tightening buckles that allow for adjustable tension to compensate for conduit retraction, ensuring the element remains secured.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a tension strap is used to secure an element to a conduit, then the element is held in place initially, but the tension in the strap is released when the conduit retracts over time, causing the element to become unsecured

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecuring effectivenessVSAvoidtension maintenance period
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the strap length adjustable after installation. The strap includes a movable section that can be lengthened or shortened through a ratchet mechanism or similar device, allowing the system to adapt dynamically as the conduit contracts over time. This enables continuous tension maintenance despite changes in conduit dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the physical parameters of the strap system - specifically the length and tension parameters. The adjustable mechanism allows operators to change the strap length parameter in response to conduit contraction, thereby maintaining the necessary tension parameter for reliable element securing throughout the service life of the conduit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If a rigid strap system is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate conduit retraction or size variations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem structureVSAvoidconduit size accommodation
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The strap system incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through movable sections and ratchet mechanisms that allow the strap length to be modified after installation. This dynamic feature enables the system to accommodate varying conduit sizes and contraction while maintaining relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The ratchet mechanism or similar self-adjusting device allows the strap system to automatically maintain tension without requiring continuous external intervention. Once adjusted, the mechanism self-regulates to maintain securing effectiveness as the conduit contracts, reducing the need for frequent manual adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 solution provides flexibility and elasticity to the securing system, maintaining tension and securing elements along conduits of varying sizes, even as the conduit retracts over time, ensuring long-term stability and versatility.

Implementation Method 1

The compensating member is gradually retractable over time to keep the device and the strap in tension when the conduit retracts while submerged

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3674590B1Device for securing a member to a pipe, system for securing, installation and method for implementing same
Publication Date: 2023.02.01 FINANCIERE DE BEAUMONT FDB
  • EP3674590B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3674590B1 patent drawingFigure 3~5
  • EP3674590B1 patent drawingFigure 6~7

AI summary

The present invention relates to a device (1) for securing an element (2) to a conduit (4), the device (1) comprising: a compensating member (10) made of elastic material, extensible when the device (1) is put under tension around the conduit (4) with a strap (6), and progressively retractable over time to maintain the device (1) and the strap (6) under tension when the conduit (4) retracts; two clamping loops (20, 30) each designed to receive a free end (62, 63) of the strap (6); and two strands (40, 50) made of a material less elastic than the compensating member (10), each extending between a first end (41, 51) attached to the compensating member (10) and a second end (42, 52) attached to one of the clamping loops (20, 30).The invention also relates to a system (1, 6) comprising such a device (1) and a strap (6); an installation (1, 2, 3, 4, 6) comprising such a system (1, 6); and a method of implementing such a system (1).