Pipe restraint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for bracing and supporting loads like pipes and cables in construction are often inefficient, require multiple parts, and are costly, while also failing to reliably restrain against seismic disturbances.
Innovation Solution
A pipe restraint device with a pipe coupling portion and a support member coupling portion, featuring a securing mechanism with a threaded fastener to securely attach to both the pipe and a building structure, allowing for easy installation and adjustment to withstand seismic events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If existing bracing and supporting products are used, then pipes and cables can be supported, but the devices are inefficient, require multiple parts, and are costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (pipe clamping, support member attachment, and adjustment mechanisms) into a single integrated device. The pipe restraint device includes a pipe coupling portion with clamping arms that directly interface with support members, eliminating the need for separate clamps, braces, and mounting hardware that were required in traditional systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe restraint device is designed to perform multiple functions: it clamps onto pipes of various sizes, attaches to different support members (rod, threaded rod, pipe, shaft, beam, strut, bar, conduit, or dowel), and provides adjustable positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized components.
2Reliability
If existing bracing and supporting products are used, then pipes and cables can be supported, but the devices are too costly
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe restraint device utilizes readily available, inexpensive materials and standard hardware components. The clamping arms can be made from simple metal stock, and the device uses common fasteners and connectors, making it significantly cheaper than proprietary bracing systems while maintaining adequate reliability for seismic restraint applications.
3Ease of operation
If existing bracing and supporting products are used, then pipes and cables can be supported, but they fail to reliably restrain against seismic disturbances
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe coupling portion includes clamping arms with pivot joints that allow the device to dynamically respond to seismic forces. The clamping arms can rotate and adjust their position during seismic events, maintaining secure grip on the pipe while accommodating movement, thereby providing reliable seismic restraint without complicating the installation process.
4Strength
If existing bracing and supporting products are used, then pipes and cables can be supported, but the devices require too many parts
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe restraint device integrates the pipe clamping function and support member attachment function into a single unified structure. The clamping arms directly connect to support member interfaces, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets, fasteners, and adjustment mechanisms that would otherwise be required to achieve the same support strength.
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 device provides simple, cost-effective, and reliable support for pipes and branch lines during seismic activities by securely fastening to both the pipe and the building structure, preventing undesirable sway.
Implementation Method 1
The securing mechanism can be configured to exert a force on the support member to cause the support member to bear against the support member interface sufficient to secure the support member to the support member coupling portion
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe restraint device is disclosed. The pipe restraint device can include a pipe coupling portion to couple with a pipe to be restrained, and a support member coupling portion to couple with a support member extending from a building structure to support the pipe. The support member coupling portion can have a support member interface and a securing mechanism. The securing mechanism can be configured to exert a force on the support member to cause the support member to bear against the support member interface sufficient to secure the support member to the support member coupling portion.