Lockable Pipe Shield With Upper-Edge Tabs for Slip Restraint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe support assemblies often experience slipping issues due to vibrations and expansion/contraction cycles, which can damage insulation and pipes, and existing restraint features are load-bearing and may cause damage.
Innovation Solution
A lockable pipe shield with bendable lock tabs that secure to the pipe hanger, preventing lateral movement and distributing load without damaging insulation or pipes, by folding around the hanger arms to lock into place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If restraint features are added to the bottom of the pipe shield to reduce slipping, then the pipe shield stability improves, but the insulation and pipe may be damaged due to load-bearing constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint feature is extracted from the load-bearing bottom surface of the pipe shield and relocated to the non-load-bearing upper edge. This separation allows the restraint feature to provide stability without interfering with the insulation and pipe support function of the bottom surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper edge of the pipe shield acts as an intermediary location that provides restraint functionality without directly contacting or constraining the insulation and pipe. The restraint feature engages with the hanger arm at this intermediary point, preventing direct transmission of constraining forces to the protected objects.
2Reliability
If the pipe shield is designed to prevent slipping during vibrations and expansion/contraction cycles, then the reliability improves, but the complexity of the restraint mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint feature utilizes the natural geometric parameters of the pipe shield (its curved cross-section and upper edge geometry) to achieve restraint functionality. By engaging with the hanger arm at the upper edge, the system leverages existing structural parameters rather than introducing complex additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe shield's own structure (its upper edge and curved geometry) provides the restraint capability. The shield body itself, through its designed geometry, enables the restraint function without requiring separate complex restraint mechanisms, making the system self-sufficient.
3Ease of operation
If lock tabs are made bendable to enable easy installation, then the ease of operation improves, but the locking reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The lock tabs are designed with dynamic characteristics, being bendable during installation to enable easy positioning and engagement. Once installed, the tabs maintain their deformed shape to provide reliable locking, transitioning from a flexible installation state to a stable operational state.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock tab is segmented into distinct functional zones: a bendable portion that enables easy installation and positioning, and a locking portion that provides reliable retention. This segmentation allows different parts of the same component to serve different functions with optimized properties.
Data Source
AI summary
A lockable pipe shield includes a substantially curved shield body defining a first upper shield edge and a second upper shield edge opposite the first upper shield edge; a first lock tab formed monolithically with the shield body at the first upper shield edge and bent relative to the shield body to extend in a first direction, a first hanger engagement channel defined between the first lock tab and shield body; and a second lock tab formed monolithically with the shield body at the second upper shield edge and bent relative to the shield body to extend in a second direction substantially opposite the first direction, a second hanger engagement channel defined between the second lock tab and the shield body.