Pipe Clamp Stiffening Element Reduces Tightening Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe clamp assemblies require multiple tightening elements, making the sealing process cumbersome and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A pipe clamp assembly incorporating a stiffening element that extends between two tightening elements, reducing the need for additional tightening elements by distributing compressive force evenly along its length, thereby simplifying the tightening operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple tightening elements are used to achieve a proper seal, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the device complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp members are divided into two separate pieces that can be assembled around the pipe, allowing the stiffening element to be positioned between them. This segmentation enables the stiffening element to distribute compressive forces effectively while reducing the total number of tightening elements needed from four to two.
Solution Approach 2:
A stiffening element is introduced as an intermediary component between the clamp members and the pipe. This stiffening element has a C-shaped cross-section that provides structural support and distributes the compressive force from the tightening elements along the entire length of the clamp, eliminating the need for additional tightening elements between the ends.
2Reliability
If multiple tightening elements are used to achieve a proper seal, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stiffening element is extracted as a separate, pre-formed component with a C-shaped cross-section. This extracted component is then positioned between the clamp members, allowing the tightening operation to be performed with only two tightening elements instead of four, significantly reducing the time required for installation while maintaining sealing reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The stiffening element is prepared in advance with its C-shaped cross-section and positioning features before the clamp assembly is put together. This preliminary preparation allows for quick installation and positioning during the tightening operation, reducing the overall time required to achieve a proper seal.
3Manufacturing precision
If additional tightening elements are used between clamp ends, then the sealing uniformity is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The stiffening element provides localized structural support at critical positions along the clamp length, with its C-shaped cross-section designed to distribute compressive forces uniformly. This local reinforcement ensures sealing uniformity without requiring additional tightening elements, maintaining ease of operation.
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 significantly reduces the number of tightening elements required, making the sealing process quicker and easier while maintaining a proper seal.
Implementation Method 1
The stiffening element extends between two tightening elements at ends of the clamp and eliminates the need for additional tightening elements between the ends of the clamp
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~8B
AI summary
A pipe clamp assembly (10) includes a band (12) having an inner annular seal element (14) wrappable around a pipe, opposing clamp members (16) extending from the band, and tightening elements (18) for clamping together the clamp members. The tightening elements are positioned at or near opposite ends of each of the clamp members. A stiffening element is constructed of an elongate beam with mounting holes near opposite ends of the beam. The tightening elements pass through the mounting holes of the stiffening element. There are no tightening elements along a length of the stiffening element between the mounting holes.