Elevator Connector With Nested Locking Jaws
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elevator connectors with locking jaws are limited to specific pipe dimensions, leading to uncertain connections and unnecessary wear during lifting operations due to diameter variations, and require rebuilding for different pipe sizes.
Innovation Solution
An elevator connector with multiple locking jaws of varying internal diameters that can be selectively rotated or displaced between active and passive positions, allowing for easy adaptation to different pipe dimensions without rebuilding, and featuring crescent-shaped jaws that can be built into each other for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single locking jaw is used for a specific pipe dimension, then the connection is secure for that dimension, but the elevator connector cannot adapt to different pipe dimensions without rebuilding
Solution Approach 1:
The elevator connector is segmented into multiple locking jaws with different internal diameters, each capable of independently engaging pipes of specific dimensions. This allows the connector to adapt to various pipe sizes without requiring complete rebuilding, as each jaw can be selectively positioned based on the pipe dimension being handled.
Solution Approach 2:
The elevator connector is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating several locking jaws that can each engage with different pipe dimensions. This universal design enables a single connector unit to serve multiple pipe size requirements, eliminating the need for multiple specialized connectors or rebuilding operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If clamping jaws are used to grip the pipe and take up diameter variations, then different pipe dimensions can be accommodated, but uncertain connection and unnecessary wear occur
Solution Approach 1:
Each locking jaw is designed with a specific internal diameter optimized for particular pipe dimensions, creating local quality variations that ensure precise engagement. Instead of using a generic clamping jaw that makes uncertain contact, each jaw has geometries specifically tailored to match certain pipe sizes, ensuring reliable and certain connections while accommodating diameter variations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple locking jaws are added to handle different pipe dimensions, then adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking jaws are designed to be nested within each other, with each jaw capable of being positioned inside or alongside other jaws. This nesting arrangement allows multiple locking jaws with different internal diameters to coexist in a compact configuration, increasing adaptability to various pipe dimensions while minimizing the overall space required and reducing apparent device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An elevator connector device designed with an opening for passage of a pipe having a socket, wherein a locking jaw complementary fitting in the elevator connector is arranged to come to abutment against the socket when the pipe is lifted, and wherein the elevator connector is provided with several connected, different locking jaws fitting different pipe dimensions.