Universal Pipe Brace Assembly with Cable Tensioning Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe-to-pipe bracing assemblies require specific hardware for each size of brace pipe and braced pipe, leading to increased installation time and costs due to the need for multiple hardware configurations.
Innovation Solution
A universal pipe brace assembly that uses a cable tensioning mechanism with a main clamp body, allowing a single assembly to support various pipe sizes by wrapping a cable around the braced pipe and securing it with a cable anchor and set screw, which can be adjusted to tension the cable and secure the pipe effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If specific hardware is used for each size of brace pipe and braced pipe, then the bracing can be securely installed, but the installation time increases and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single bracing assembly with an adjustable cable tensioning mechanism that can accommodate multiple pipe sizes. The main clamp body includes a cable anchor and cable stop that work with a cable to provide secure bracing for various brace pipe and braced pipe size combinations, eliminating the need for multiple size-specific hardware configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple size-specific components are used, then the bracing can be precisely fitted to different pipe sizes, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracing assembly uses a universal main clamp body design that can adapt to different pipe sizes through the cable tensioning mechanism. Instead of having multiple specialized components for each pipe size combination, the single assembly with adjustable cable tension provides versatile fitting capability across various sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating an adjustable cable tensioning mechanism that can be modified to accommodate different pipe sizes. The cable can be tensioned and adjusted within the main clamp body, allowing the assembly to dynamically adapt to various brace pipe and braced pipe size combinations rather than requiring fixed size-specific components.
3Productivity
If traditional bracing assemblies are used, then the installation can be completed, but the installation process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The universal bracing assembly design allows installers to use the same component for multiple pipe size applications, reducing the time spent selecting and installing different hardware configurations. The single assembly with adjustable cable tensioning provides quick adaptation to various sizes without requiring multiple specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable is pre-configured within the main clamp body with the cable anchor and cable stop positioned to facilitate quick installation. The tensioning mechanism is designed to allow rapid adjustment and securing of the cable, reducing the time required for the installation process while maintaining secure bracing.
Data Source
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AI summary
A pipe brace assembly includes a main clamp body that can be secured to a brace pipe. A cable, or other flexible tensioning member, can be wrapped around a braced pipe and secured to the main clamp body. The pipe brace assembly includes a method or mechanism for tensioning the cable or flexible tensioning member around the braced pipe. In some embodiments, the tensioning method or mechanism involves moving, such as rotating, the main clamp body to tension the cable or tensioning member. The clamping of the main clamp body and tensioning of the cable or tensioning member can occur simultaneously.