Tamper-Resistant Pipe Clamp Locking Against Nut Back-Off
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe clamps lack protection against the locking nut backing off and opening, and they do not have a mechanism to inhibit opening or tampering, which is particularly problematic in sanitary systems that require single-use clamps.
Innovation Solution
The proposed pipe clamp features a locking device with a screw and nut configuration that includes a tamper collar with slots, which can be secured using a zip tie or similar member, preventing the locking device from being removed without disengagement, thus enhancing security and preventing unauthorized opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a locking nut is used to secure the pipe clamp, then the clamp can be easily adjusted and opened, but the locking nut may back off and open the clamp unintentionally
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by providing a tamper collar with a slot that receives a member (such as a zip tie or hask) to prevent the locking nut from backing off. This preventive measure is built into the structure before operation, counteracting the potential harmful effect of the locking nut loosening during use.
2Device complexity
If a simple locking mechanism is used, then the device complexity is low, but the clamp can be tampered with or opened unauthorized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the locking mechanism into distinct functional components: a locking nut for basic securing, a tamper collar with a slot for additional security, and a member (zip tie/hask) that provides tamper resistance. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite locking system by combining different elements (locking nut, tamper collar, and securing member) into a unified security mechanism. This composite approach provides enhanced tamper resistance while keeping individual components simple and easy to manufacture.
3Reliability
If a tamper-proof mechanism is added to prevent unauthorized opening, then reliability against tampering improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a tamper collar with a slot as an intermediary element between the locking nut and the external environment. This intermediary component provides a interface for securing the locking mechanism with a zip tie or hask, adding tamper proof capability without significantly complicating the overall system.
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 enhanced pipe clamp design provides a secure, tamper-proof fluid tight seal by preventing the locking nut from backing off and ensuring that the clamp remains closed until intentionally opened, addressing the limitations of existing pipe clamps, especially in sanitary systems.
Implementation Method 1
The compression facilitates a fluid tight seal by compressing the gasket 112 in the aligned sealing grooves 106 and 114.
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp for is provided. The clamp has a first arm and second arm both with a pivot end and a lock end that are hingedly coupled. The lock end of the second arm has a seat and a pair of fingers forming a slot. The first arm and the second arm have a radially inwardly facing channel. A lock has a part that extends through a bore of the first arm and rotatingly engages a shoulder. The lock rotates and positions within the slot. The lock has a part that engages the other part and seats in the lock seat. A tamper collar is coupled to the locking device. A member threads through the slot and engages the tamper collar such that the locking device cannot be removed without disengaging the member.