Grooved Pipe Coupling Clamp for Secure Riser Anchoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing pipe coupling and anchoring systems face challenges in securely anchoring pipe risers in high-rise buildings, particularly due to issues like incorrect anchoring, lack of control over clamp tightness, and interference from other building elements.

Innovation Solution

A coupling and anchoring system comprising a pipe coupling with an external peripheral groove and an anchoring clamp formed from arced bands, which can be assembled around the groove to securely fasten the pipe coupling to a structure, allowing for adjustable tightness and versatility in anchoring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional clamps are used to anchor pipe risers, then the pipe can be secured to the structure, but the clamps may lift off due to thermal expansion and contraction over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanchoring reliabilityVSAvoidservice life
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The anchoring clamp is designed with a dynamic mechanism that allows it to flex and adjust during thermal expansion and contraction of the pipe. The clamp maintains continuous contact with the pipe through elastic deformation, ensuring reliable anchoring throughout the service life without lifting off.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp incorporates material or structural parameters that change in response to thermal conditions. The elastic modulus or geometric dimensions of the clamp are designed to vary with temperature, allowing the clamp to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction while maintaining secure anchoring.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If installers over tighten the clamp on the pipe, then the pipe may be deformed or damaged, but if under tightened, the clamp cannot support the weight of the pipe

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclamp installationVSAvoidsupport capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The clamp incorporates a feedback mechanism through its elastic deformation characteristics. As the clamp is tightened, it deforms elastically and provides visual or tactile feedback indicating the appropriate tightness level. This self-regulating mechanism prevents over-tightening while ensuring sufficient support capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp is pre-designed with built-in elastic compliance that cushions against excessive tightening forces. The elastic material or structure absorbs excess torque before it reaches the pipe, preventing deformation or damage while maintaining adequate clamping force for supporting the pipe weight.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Reliability

If clamps are designed for specific anchoring locations, then they can be securely fastened, but they lack versatility when other building elements are near the pipe

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanchoring securityVSAvoidanchoring location flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The anchoring clamp is designed as a universal component that can be installed in multiple locations and orientations. The clamp's symmetric or adjustable geometry allows it to function effectively whether anchored to concrete slabs, steel beams, or other structural elements, accommodating various building conditions without compromising security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp system is divided into modular components with standardized interfaces. This segmentation allows the clamp to be adapted to different anchoring scenarios by reconfiguring or selecting appropriate components, maintaining secure anchoring while providing flexibility for various building element configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12234931B2Pipe coupling and anchoring system
Publication Date: 2025.02.25 IPEX TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • US12234931B2 patent drawing
  • US12234931B2 patent drawing
  • US12234931B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A coupling and anchoring system for coupling lengths of pipe and anchoring the lengths of pipe to a structure comprise a pipe coupling having an external peripheral groove defined by axially facing axial clamp engaging surfaces, said groove receiving an anchoring clamp. The anchoring clamp has corresponding axial coupling engaging surfaces for engaging the axial clamp engaging surfaces of the pipe coupling to restrict axial movement of the pipe coupling when the anchoring clamp is fastened to the structure. The anchoring clamp is formed from arced bands having laterally extending connecting portions and laterally extending arced elements. The laterally extending connecting surfaces and arcs combine to form dual fastener openings for optionally receiving fastening elements perpendicular and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pipe coupling for optionally anchoring the system to perpendicular and parallel portions of the structure. The internal are radius of the arced bands is comparable to the outer diameter of the external peripheral groove with the laterally extending connecting portions radially remote from the groove so that connection of the laterally extending portions prevents over tightening of the clamp. The coupling has an hour-glass cross section with the peripheral groove located axially interposed between the pipe stops and the clamp engaging surfaces such that the pipe lengths would not be axially coincident with the external groove.