Modular Elastomeric Pipe Support with Interlocking Teeth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rooftop pipe support systems face issues such as rotting wood, rusting hardware, sharp edges, weight, difficulty in movement, and lack of tools for installation, as well as limitations in accommodating elevation changes and wind resistance.
Innovation Solution
A modular elastomeric or polymeric pipe support system with a wide base and toothed slots, allowing for easy elevation adjustments without tools, self-ballasting, and secure pipe retention using interlocking teeth and distal arms, accommodating various pipe sizes and configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional lumber and hardware pipe supports are used, then the support structure is simple and inexpensive, but the wood will rot, hardware will rust, and sharp edges can penetrate the roof membrane
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining rubber base material with embedded metal reinforcement elements (such as wire mesh or metal strands) within the pipe support structure. This composite construction provides the durability and rot/rust resistance of synthetic materials while maintaining the structural strength needed for pipe support, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and harmful degradation factors.
2Ease of operation
If lumber pipe supports are used, then the structure is simple, but the wood is heavy and difficult to move, requiring additional tools for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from traditional lumber to lightweight rubber composite material, significantly reducing the weight of the pipe support while maintaining structural integrity. This material substitution eliminates the need for heavy tools during installation and makes the supports easier to handle and position, directly resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and weight.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-height pipe supports are used, then the structure is simple, but they cannot accommodate elevation changes or movement due to thermal expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a sliding mechanism that allows the pipe support to move vertically within the rubber body, transforming the fixed-height structure into a dynamic, adjustable system. This sliding capability enables accommodation of elevation changes and thermal expansion movement while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
4Ease of operation
If lightweight pipe supports are used, then they are easy to install, but they are prone to movement by wind and errant workers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials with embedded metal reinforcement elements that provide enhanced structural stability and resistance to wind and physical disturbance. The metal reinforcement within the rubber matrix creates a stronger, more stable structure that maintains ease of installation while preventing unwanted movement, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and stability.
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 modular system provides stable, tool-free installation and adjustment, self-ballasting, and secure pipe retention across a range of sizes and configurations, addressing the drawbacks of existing systems while ensuring wind load compliance.
Implementation Method 1
the orientation of (e.g., downward angle of) the interlocking teeth cause them to flatten upon application of the load, wedging the teeth into the mating opening on the bottom, effectively locking the top half of the support to the bottom without the need for glue or additional fasteners
Implementation Method 2
The product is easy to carry, but also self-ballasting by virtue of the weight associated with the material (e.g., extruded rubber) used in the base
Data Source
AI summary
An extruded or molded elastomeric (e.g., rubber) or polymeric multi-piece (e.g., two-piece) modular pipe support system utilizes a wide base with protrusions and/or recesses, and a separate top with recesses and/or protrusions that engage the protrusions and/or recesses of the top. The tops are configured to securely capture a pipe/conduit without any additional parts, straps, etc. The top may have one or more pipe-receiving recesses for receiving the pipes (conduits).