Mechanical Pipe Bonding Jumper for Weld-Free Grounding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional grounding methods for metal pipes in the food and beverage industry require specialized tools and permits, posing installation challenges and safety risks due to electrical potential buildup.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a tensioning member and strap member that mechanically and electrically connects to metal pipes, providing grounding protection without welding, using hand tools and allowing for easy installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If welding is used to attach grounding devices to metal pipes, then reliable electrical grounding is achieved, but installation complexity and safety risks increase due to specialized tools and permits required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the welding process (thermal/mechanical system) with a mechanical fastening system using a tensioning member, strap member, and clamping assembly. This substitution eliminates the need for specialized welding tools and permits while maintaining reliable electrical grounding through direct mechanical contact with the pipe surface, thereby resolving the contradiction between grounding reliability and installation complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a strap member as an intermediary element that wraps around the pipe and is secured by the tensioning member. This intermediary provides a mechanical connection that achieves reliable grounding without requiring direct welding to the pipe, thus reducing installation complexity while maintaining grounding effectiveness
2Reliability
If welding is used to attach grounding devices, then secure electrical connection is achieved, but installation time and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the time-consuming welding process with a rapid mechanical assembly process involving the tensioning member and clamping assembly. This mechanical system can be installed quickly using basic hand tools, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining secure electrical connection through direct contact with the pipe
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning member is designed with pre-formed threading and the clamping assembly is prepared in advance, allowing for rapid assembly. The components are designed to fit together in a predetermined sequence, eliminating the need for complex preparation and execution steps associated with welding, thus reducing installation time while ensuring secure connection
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 device offers effective electrical grounding by creating a discharge path for electrical potential, preventing ignition or combustion, while eliminating the need for welding and specialized permits.
Implementation Method 1
a position of the tensioning member in the first nut is adjustable in a direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the elongate article to apply a tension force between the strap member and the elongate article
Implementation Method 2
the second end of the tensioning member is configured to contact a surface of an elongate article to electrically connect the elongate article to the tensioning member and the electrical conductor
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a tensioning member including a head portion and a cylindrical portion. The head portion includes a first bore and a second bore in communication with the first bore. The cylindrical portion extends from the head portion towards a second end and includes one or more threads. A device may include a set screw member including threads formed along its length. The set screw member may couple to the first bore and retains an electrical conductor positioned in the second bore in connected engagement with the tensioning member. The tensioning member is configured to contact an elongate article to electrically connect the elongate article to the tensioning member and the electrical conductor. A device may also include a strap member. The strap member extends around the elongate article and the tensioning member applies a tension force between the strap member and the elongate article.