Pipe Collar Hinge Adjustment Without Section Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional branch collars for fluid pipelines face issues such as component loss during assembly and adjustment, as operators must separate and reassemble parts, leading to risks of components being misplaced or lost, especially during difficult conditions.
Innovation Solution
A collar design featuring a hinge mechanism with non-circular lugs and adjustment openings, allowing diameter adjustment without separating the collar sections, and a toggle clamp for secure tightening without tools, ensuring components remain linked during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the collar sections are separated for diameter adjustment, then the diameter can be adjusted, but components may be lost during the process
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge pin and adjustment openings are integrated into a single unified structure where the hinge pin remains permanently attached to one collar section while the adjustment openings are formed in the other section. This merging eliminates the need to separate components for adjustment, as the hinge mechanism itself provides the adjustment function through its rotational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge pin is designed to rotate between different adjustment openings, providing dynamic adaptability. The hinge mechanism allows the collar diameter to be changed by rotating the hinge pin to engage different openings, rather than requiring complete disassembly and reassembly of components.
2Reliability
If the collar is tightened by screwing, then the collar can be secured, but components may slip or be lost during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The collar assembly system is designed to be self-contained, where the hinge pin automatically engages with the adjustment openings and the collar sections self-align during assembly. The integrated design eliminates the need for separate screwing operations that require manual handling of multiple components, reducing the risk of components slipping or being lost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are used for collar assembly, then the collar can be adjusted and secured, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions (hinging, adjusting, and securing) are merged into a single integrated mechanism. The hinge pin serves both as a rotational pivot for adjustment and as a securing element when engaged with the adjustment openings, eliminating the need for separate components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge pin is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as a rotational axis for opening/closing the collar, serves as an adjustment mechanism by engaging different openings for diameter selection, and provides securing functionality when locked in place. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed.
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 collar can be adjusted to fit different pipe diameters without separating sections, reducing the risk of component loss and enabling quick, tool-free assembly and tightening, enhancing operational safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
articulation means (4) connecting the first end (21) of the first collar section (2) and the first end (31) of the second collar section (3) comprise an axis of articulation (A) pivotally mounted in at least one opening
Implementation Method 2
said hinge pin comprising at least one lug (40; 41) of non-circular section, said at least one opening comprising a pair of adjustment openings (43; 44) allowing two distinct adjustment positions for the axis of articulation (A) of which said at least one lug (40; 41) of non-circular section is trapped in one or the other of the two adjustment openings (43; 44)
Implementation Method 3
a groove (45), of width less than the diameter of the adjustment openings (43; 44), puts the two openings of the pair of adjustment openings (43; 44) in communication with one another, by authorizing during the opening of the collar by pivoting of said articulation axis (A) with respect to one or the other two adjustment openings (43; 44), the pivoting of said at least one lug (40; 41) of non-circular section to a position allowing the engagement of said at least one lug (40; 41) of non-circular section through the groove (45)
Data Source
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AI summary
Pipe collar (1) comprising: - a first collar section (2) - a second collar section (3), - articulation means (4) connecting the first end (21) of the first collar section (2) and the first end (31) of the second collar section (3) include an articulation axis (A) mounted pivotally in at least one opening, said articulation axis being integral with the first end of the first collar section (2) and said at least one opening integral with the first end of the second collar section, or vice versa - connecting and clamping means (5), configured removable so as to allow passage from a retracted position to a connecting position linking the second end. Notably, the collar range can be adjusted without separating the first and second collar sections.