Flexible Conduit Support With Shock-Absorbing Releasable Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support systems for flexible conduits, such as anchoring rods, are inadequate for large or heavy conduits as they can lead to conduit breakage and undesirable sagging, and existing releasable connectors may not effectively manage forces during seismic events or thermal changes.
Innovation Solution
A support apparatus featuring a releasable connector with a shock absorber and tether system that includes a rigid plate, elastomeric pads, and a rotary dampener to absorb and distribute forces, preventing conduit breakage and sagging by allowing controlled separation and supporting the conduit when primary support is disengaged.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid anchoring rods are used to support the flexible conduit, then the conduit is securely anchored, but the conduit may break under strong forces and the flexible portion sags undesirably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by incorporating a shock absorber that activates when the releasable connector disengages. The shock absorber includes a spring element and damping mechanism that cushion the conduit's movement and absorb impact forces, preventing the conduit from breaking during seismic events or thermal changes while maintaining secure support during normal operation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple supports are added to distribute weight and reduce sagging, then the conduit support improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated support assembly. The releasable connector, tether, and shock absorber are combined into one unit that simultaneously provides secure anchoring, automatic release capability, continuous support, and impact absorption. This integration achieves stable conduit support with reduced sagging while minimizing device complexity compared to separate components.
3Reliability
If a releasable connector with tether is used to prevent conduit breakage, then conduit safety improves, but the system is insufficient for very large or heavy conduits
Solution Approach 1:
The shock absorber is pre-configured with a spring element and damping mechanism designed to handle the weight and dimensions of very large or heavy conduits. When the releasable connector disengages, the shock absorber immediately activates to cushion the conduit's movement, providing sufficient force handling capacity for heavy conduits while maintaining safety through controlled energy absorption.
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 apparatus effectively supports large and heavy flexible conduits by distributing weight and absorbing impact forces, minimizing sagging and damage during disengagement, ensuring safety and stability.
Implementation Method 1
a shock absorber configured to absorb a load transferred to the structural support member when the releasable connector separates
Implementation Method 2
the flexible portion can dampen vibration of the conduits and reduce the transmission of noise through the conduit
Implementation Method 3
the other of the female member and the male member includes a biased member configured to engage the detent, such that the biased member secures the male member in the female member until the releasable connector encounters a force sufficient to overcome a biasing force exerted by a biasing element on the biased member
Implementation Method 4
a rotary dampener to absorb and distribute forces, preventing conduit breakage and sagging
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus having a flexible conduit which includes a flexible member and a rigid member in fluid communication with the flexible member, and a releasable connector. The releasable connector has a first member and a second member. When a releasing force is applied to the flexible conduit, the releasable connector separates. The apparatus also includes a shock absorber to configured to absorb a load when the releasable connector separates. The shock absorber may include elastomeric pads between rigid plates, a rotary dampener, a spring, rod and piston, or an elastic strap.