Snap-On Pipe Saddle Clip for Fast Pipe Support Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for supporting pipes in buildings, such as those used in air conditioning and refrigeration, often require cumbersome strap hangers or trapeze supports, which can damage the pipes and are difficult to install efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A pipe saddle with a U-shaped cross-sectional design featuring a support clip with a resiliently deflectable lower arm that snaps onto a support structure, providing secure attachment and protection for the pipe while allowing easy installation and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional strap hangers or trapeze supports are used to hang pipes, then the pipes can be supported, but the pipes may be damaged and installation is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into separate functional components: a saddle body for pipe support and protection, and an integrated support clip for attachment. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the saddle body protects the pipe while the clip provides easy attachment to support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The support clip is integrated directly with the saddle body, merging the attachment function with the support function. This eliminates the need for separate mounting hardware and simplifies installation, as the entire support assembly can be attached to the support structure in one operation.
2Productivity
If strap hangers are used to support pipes, then the pipes can be hung, but the installation process is cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The support clip incorporates a resiliently deflectable lower arm that can flex during installation and then snap into place on the support structure. This dynamic element allows for quick, tool-free attachment and adjustment, significantly improving installation efficiency while reducing the overall complexity of the support system.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient lower arm changes its physical state from deflected (during installation) to engaged (during operation), allowing the same component to facilitate both easy installation and secure support. This parameter change enables simple installation without requiring complex mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If conventional support methods are used, then pipes can be supported, but the installation requires multiple components and steps
Solution Approach 1:
The support clip is integrated directly with the saddle body, merging the attachment function with the support function. This eliminates the need for separate mounting hardware and simplifies installation, as the entire support assembly can be attached to the support structure in one operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The support clip is designed to attach to various support structures (straps, hangers, trapeze supports) using its resilient lower arm, making it a universal attachment solution. This multi-functionality allows the same saddle design to work with different support systems without requiring additional components.
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 pipe saddle effectively protects pipes from damage, simplifies installation by allowing quick attachment to various support structures, and enhances structural support with its ribbed design for improved load-bearing capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a resiliently deflectable lower arm extending outward from a lower end of the side wall and generally opposing the bottom wall portion. The resiliently deflectable lower arm is configured to engage a support structure to attach the pipe saddle to the support structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe saddle includes a saddle body having an interior surface with a generally U-shaped cross-sectional shape defining an interior configured to receive a pipe therein. The saddle body includes a bottom wall portion. A support clip is included on the bottom wall portion of the saddle body. The support clip includes a side wall extending downward. A resiliently deflectable lower arm extends outward from a lower end of the side wall and generally opposing the bottom wall portion. The resiliently deflectable lower arm includes a catch at a free end thereof. The resiliently deflectable lower arm is configured to snap onto a support structure to attach the pipe saddle to the support structure.