Pipe Clamp Hook and Screw Joint Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe clamps face challenges in being cost-effective, easy to produce, and simple to handle while maintaining robustness and the ability to apply large mechanical forces, with many designs either lacking in strength or being complex and costly to manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A pipe clamp design that distributes the functions of closure, joint, and tensioning between the ends of two semicircular brackets, using a tensioning screw as a joint and hook devices for closure, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly with a simple and robust structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a pipe clamp uses two clamping screws with flanges and threads to connect two semicircular brackets, then the clamping force and robustness are improved, but the manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the closure function and tensioning function into a single integrated mechanism. The first bracket has both a closure element (hook) and a tensioning element (screw) at its ends, while the second bracket has corresponding reception elements. This merging eliminates the need for separate closure and tensioning mechanisms, reducing the number of parts and simplifying assembly while maintaining clamping force.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning screw serves multiple functions: it acts as both a closure mechanism (by securing the two brackets together) and a tensioning device (by applying clamping force to the pipe). This multi-functionality reduces the overall complexity of the clamp while maintaining the necessary mechanical strength.
2Productivity
If a pipe clamp uses an elastic clamp body with a snap lock connection, then the assembly speed and ease of handling are improved, but the achievable clamping force decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp body is divided into two rigid semicircular brackets instead of using a single elastic component. Each bracket has specific functions (closure element and tensioning element) assigned to its ends. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity and assembly speed.
3Strength
If a pipe clamp uses multiple locking positions with a special tool, then the clamping force and robustness are improved, but the ease of operation and assembly simplicity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is designed to be self-assembling without requiring special tools. The closure element (hook) automatically engages with the reception element, and the tensioning screw can be tightened by hand. The design eliminates the need for external tools or complex locking mechanisms while maintaining robustness through the simple but effective hook-and-screw 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 design significantly simplifies the assembly process, reduces production costs, and enhances mechanical robustness, enabling a 70% time savings in installation compared to conventional pipe clamps.
Implementation Method 1
The first ends of the first bracket (20) and of the second bracket (30) are connected to one another by means of a tensioning screw (60) which also acts as a joint
Implementation Method 2
corresponding second hook means (43) integral with the second end of the second strap (30) for interlocking the second ends of the straps
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A pipe clamp (10) comprises a first bracket (20) and a second bracket (30), which together form a clamp body for enclosing and retaining a pipe (12) or a hose, also comprises a tensioning device (26, 60) for connecting, and drawing together, a first end (21) of the first bracket (20) and a first end (31) of the second bracket (30), further comprises a first hook device (42), which is formed in one piece with the second end (22) of the first bracket (20), and additionally comprises a corresponding second hook device (43), which is formed in one piece with the second end (32) of the second bracket (30), for connecting the second ends (22, 32) of the brackets (20, 30) in a form-fitting manner.