Pipe Support Hinge Base for Joint Bending Load Prevention
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional pipe supports for securing pipes near joints are complex and costly due to multiple components requiring time-consuming assembly and separate spacers to prevent bending loads, increasing installation time and costs.
Innovation Solution
A pipe support system with a base, clamp, and hinge that functions as both a hanger and brace, using a single fastener for installation, and featuring a compliant ligament to facilitate relative movement and prevent bending loads by positioning the pipe at a predetermined distance from the support surface, thus simplifying installation and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pipe supports with multiple components (clamp and multiple fasteners) are used, then the pipe can be securely restrained, but the assembly becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fasteners into a single integrated fastening mechanism. The pipe support assembly uses one fastener that simultaneously secures both the clamp to the pipe and the entire assembly to the support surface, eliminating the need for multiple separate fasteners while maintaining secure restraint.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe support assembly is designed as a universal component that can function both as a hanger for mid-region pipe support and as a brace for pipe restraint near joints. This multi-functionality is achieved through the integrated design of the clamp, base, and single fastener system that adapts to different installation requirements.
2Reliability
If traditional pipe supports with separate spacers are used, then bending loads on joints are prevented, but installation time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the spacer function directly into the base component of the pipe support assembly. The base is designed with built-in spacing features that automatically maintain the required distance between the pipe support and joint, eliminating the need for separate spacer components and reducing installation steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The base is pre-configured with integrated spacer functionality during manufacturing, so the correct spacing distance is built into the component itself. This preliminary action ensures that when the assembly is installed, the spacing requirement is automatically satisfied without requiring additional measurement or adjustment steps during installation.
3Reliability
If pipe supports are used in close proximity to joints, then code requirements are met, but bending loads may be induced on the joint
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated base acts as an intermediary element between the pipe support assembly and the joint. It provides the necessary spacing and load distribution to prevent bending loads from being directly transmitted to the joint, while still allowing the assembly to be positioned in code-compliant locations near joints for seismic restraint.
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 support system simplifies installation, reduces costs, and meets seismic code requirements by providing a single assembly that can function as both a hanger and brace, effectively preventing bending loads at joints with a single fastener and integrated spacer functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a hinge (140) coupling the base (120) and the clamp (130), wherein the hinge (140) is operable to facilitate relative movement between the base (120) and the clamp (130)
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe support is disclosed for restraining a pipe at a position in close proximity to a joint formed by the pipe and a pipe fitting. The pipe support includes a base configured to be secured to a support surface and to interface with an outer surface of the pipe. The pipe support also includes a clamp operable with the base to restrain the pipe. Additionally, the pipe support includes a hinge coupling the base and the clamp, operable to facilitate relative movement between the base and the clamp. The base positions the outer surface of the pipe at a pre-determined distance from the support surface sufficient to at least offset a distance between the outer surface of the pipe and an outer surface of the pipe fitting, thereby preventing a bending load from occurring at the joint upon securing the pipe support to the support surface.