Modular Pipe Clamp Saddle for Tool-Free Leak Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current clamping techniques for pipe leaks require tools like channel locks and wrenches, are cumbersome, and often fail to effectively adapt to different pipe diameters, necessitating a tool-free, adaptable clamp solution.
Innovation Solution
A modular saddle system for pipe clamps that can be attached to various clamp types, featuring interchangeable semi-circular bodies conforming to specific pipe diameters, with resilient materials and pin mechanisms for secure attachment, allowing easy adaptation to different pipe diameters and materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional clamping techniques using tools like channel locks and wrenches are used, then the clamp can be applied to pipe, but the installation process becomes cumbersome and requires both hands
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp saddle is designed with an integrated attachment mechanism that allows it to be self-installed onto the clamp arm without requiring external tools. The saddle includes features such as engagement protrusions that fit into corresponding recesses on the clamp arm, enabling one-handed or tool-free attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the clamp body and saddle into an integrated assembly where the saddle is permanently or semi-permanently attached to the clamp arm. This combination eliminates the need for separate tool operations to attach the saddle to the clamp, simplifying the installation process.
2Reliability
If clamps are adapted to match specific diameter pipes, then the clamp can seal effectively, but the device loses adaptability to different pipe diameters
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp saddle is designed with a universal attachment mechanism that can be mounted on clamp arms of various sizes. The saddle itself features an adjustable or flexible sealing surface that can adapt to different pipe diameters, allowing a single clamp design to serve multiple pipe sizes effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The saddle incorporates dynamic elements such as flexible sealing lips or adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow it to conform to different pipe diameters. This dynamic adaptation maintains sealing effectiveness across various pipe sizes without requiring multiple specialized clamp designs.
3Strength
If the clamp saddle is made from rigid materials like aluminum or steel, then structural strength is sufficient, but adhesion to the pipe surface is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp saddle employs composite construction with a rigid structural core made from aluminum or steel for strength, combined with a compliant sealing layer or coating on the pipe-contact surface. This composite structure provides both the structural integrity needed to withstand clamping forces and the adhesion properties required for effective sealing against the pipe surface.
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
Enables quick, tool-free temporary repairs of pipe leaks across various diameters and materials, providing effective sealing and pressure without the need for additional tools, suitable for both liquid and gas leaks, and allowing continued pipe functionality until permanent repairs can be made.
Implementation Method 1
An interior surface layer fabricated from one of nitrile rubber, silicone rubber, or neoprene rubber that engages the pipe surface
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp saddle for attachment to a pipe clamp that allows the clamp to be used for plugging leaks in different diameters of pipe is disclosed. The clamp saddle includes a semi-circular main body that is conformed to a specific pipe diameter. An attachment mechanism on the main body that interchangeably connects to an arm of a clamp. A different diameter clamp saddle may replace the initial saddle to allow the clamp to be used for a different diameter pipe.