No Hub Clamp Locking Mechanism for Pipe Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing no hub clamps for connecting pipes are complex and difficult to manufacture and use, requiring a simpler and more convenient solution for secure and sealed connections.
Innovation Solution
A no hub clamp design featuring an elongated band with a locking mechanism that includes flexible tabs, rigid nubs, and complementary members, allowing for easy adjustment and secure locking of pipe ends, along with a collapsible gasket for enhanced sealing, and a tool for facilitating the locking process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional no hub clamps with bands that wrap around and screw together are used, then pipe connections can be achieved, but the device becomes complex and difficult to manufacture and use
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into two separate pipe ends that are connected through a locking mechanism, allowing each end to be independently positioned and secured. This segmentation simplifies the overall structure compared to traditional wrapped bands while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is pre-configured with complementary members (nubs and slots) that automatically engage when the pipe ends are brought together. This preliminary arrangement of locking components eliminates the need for complex wrapping and screwing operations during installation.
2Reliability
If traditional no hub clamps requiring wrapping and screwing are used, then pipe connection is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficult installation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism components are pre-positioned on each pipe end before assembly. When the pipes are brought together, the complementary nubs and slots automatically engage, providing secure locking without requiring complex manual operations like wrapping and screwing.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to self-lock automatically when the pipe ends are positioned together. The complementary geometric features (nubs fitting into slots) create inherent mechanical interlocking that secures the connection without additional fastening steps.
3Reliability
If traditional no hub clamps with complex band structures are used, then pipe connection is achieved, but manufacturing ease deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp structure is segmented into separate components (first pipe end, second pipe end, locking mechanism) that can be manufactured independently using simpler processes. This avoids the need to manufacture and assemble complex wrapped bands with integrated fastening elements.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a continuous band that wraps around both pipes and requires fastening, the invention inverts the approach by using separate pipe ends with protruding locking features that connect through complementary recesses. This inversion simplifies manufacturing by eliminating the need for complex band forming and fastening operations.
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 provides a straightforward, cost-effective, and reliable method for connecting pipes with improved ease of use and manufacturing, ensuring secure and durable seals.
Implementation Method 1
the flexible tab is configured to flex to allow the rigid nub to snap into the position adjacent to the edge
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices and methods for pipe connectors and associated components are disclosed. Features for no hub clamps, for locking mechanisms on no hub clamps, for tools for no hub clamps, and for gaskets are described. The clamp has a band with a locking mechanism for convenient locking together of the ends of the band about two adjacent pipes. The band may have two narrower, elongated sub-bands connected together in between by transverse ties. The locking mechanism may include a securement feature such as a tab on one end of the band and a complementary engagement area on the other end. The engagement area may have slots into which features of the tab may be secured. The band may have arcuate gripping projections whereby rotation of a tool head causes linear translation of the two ends of the band. The various locking mechanisms may be tightened and secured using various tools having engagement features complementary to the gripping projections.