Flexible Pipe Clamp With Pre-Stressed Curved Plates for Diameter Change
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping devices for flexible pipes in deep and ultra-deep water environments struggle to maintain a compressive force as the pipe diameter changes due to hydrostatic pressure, leading to potential failure under extreme conditions.
Innovation Solution
A clamping device comprising outwardly curved plates that apply a compressive force through pre-stressing, allowing the device to maintain the force even when the pipe diameter reduces, with a reduced component count and easier installation compared to traditional designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional clamping devices are used to clamp flexible pipe, then the pipe is held in position, but the compressive force is not maintained when pipe diameter changes due to hydrostatic pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping device employs a dynamic mechanism where the compression member is biased by a spring element, allowing it to automatically adjust and maintain compressive force as the pipe diameter changes under hydrostatic pressure. The biasing force adapts to diameter reductions, ensuring continuous contact and clamping effectiveness throughout the operational pressure range.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical state of the clamping system by introducing a spring element that stores and releases mechanical energy. As the pipe diameter changes, the spring compresses or expands, converting potential energy to kinetic energy to maintain the required compressive force, thereby adapting to parameter changes in the pipe geometry.
2Reliability
If multiple components are used in traditional clamping devices, then the clamping function is achieved, but the device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple traditional clamping components into a single integrated body comprising first and second clamping members connected by a fastening assembly. The compression member with spring element is integrated directly into this body, eliminating the need for separate adjustment mechanisms and reducing the overall component count while maintaining reliable clamping function.
Solution Approach 2:
The body of the clamping device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the structural framework, houses the compression member, incorporates the fastening assembly, and enables both initial clamping and automatic adjustment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.
3Reliability
If traditional clamping devices are used, then the pipe is clamped, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is pre-loaded during manufacturing to provide the required biasing force on the compression member. This preliminary action ensures that when the clamping device is installed, the compressive force is immediately available without requiring complex adjustment procedures, thereby accelerating the installation process while maintaining clamping effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping device is segmented into modular components (body, compression member, spring element, fastening assembly) that can be independently manufactured and then quickly assembled on-site. This segmentation allows for simplified installation where components are attached to the pipe and secured with the fastening assembly, reducing installation time and cost.
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 effectively maintains a compressive force on the flexible pipe despite diameter changes, reducing the risk of failure and offering a more efficient and cost-effective installation process.
Implementation Method 1
A clamping device for clamping an elongate member, the clamping device comprising a body portion for surrounding the elongate element and configured to apply a compressive force on the elongate member, wherein the body portion comprises at least two outwardly curved plates
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a clamping device and method of securing a clamping device. The clamping device is suitable for clamping an elongate member, and includes a body portion for surrounding the elongate element and configured to apply a compressive force on the elongate member. The body portion includes at least two outwardly curved plates.