Profile Clamp Geometry for Easier Tubular Flange Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing profile clamps for connecting tubular bodies are complex to assemble due to the need for a separate work step to guide the clamping head completely open and reassemble it, making the installation process cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A profile clamp design featuring a clamp band with a radially open profile cross-section and a clamping element that can be tensioned in the circumferential direction, with a uniformly increasing bottom width and articulated clamp sections, allowing for easier assembly and manufacturing, and enabling the clamping head to be relaxed rather than completely dismantled.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the profile clamp is designed with a conventional uniform cross-section, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the assembly process becomes complex requiring separate work steps to guide the clamping head fully open and reassemble it
Solution Approach 1:
The profile clamp incorporates a variable cross-sectional design where the base width changes along the longitudinal axis, creating a dynamic geometric progression from narrower to wider sections. This dynamic shape allows the clamp to flex and adapt during assembly, enabling easier insertion of flanges without requiring complete disassembly of the clamping head
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies parameter changes by systematically varying the base width parameter along the length of the clamp band. The base width increases progressively from the first end to the second end, creating optimized clearance zones at specific locations that facilitate assembly operations while maintaining structural integrity
2Shape
If the profile clamp has a narrow base width, then the external shape remains compact, but the maximum clear width is insufficient for easy insertion of flanges and sealing rings
Solution Approach 1:
The profile clamp implements local quality by creating zones of varying base width along its length. Specific regions have increased base width to provide maximum clear width for flange and sealing ring insertion, while other regions maintain narrower dimensions to preserve overall compactness. This localized dimensional variation optimizes both insertion ease and external shape
Solution Approach 2:
The invention resolves the dimensional conflict by utilizing the longitudinal dimension of the clamp band. Instead of increasing width uniformly in the radial dimension, the base width varies along the longitudinal axis, creating three-dimensional clearance pathways that facilitate insertion while maintaining a compact external profile when viewed from other dimensions
3Ease of manufacture
If abrupt curvature transitions are present in the clamp band, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but material flow issues occur during forming leading to local thinning or fracture
Solution Approach 1:
The profile clamp employs smooth, continuous curvature transitions throughout its variable cross-section. The base width changes gradually along the longitudinal axis without abrupt steps or sharp corners, creating smooth stress distribution pathways that guide material flow uniformly during the forming process and prevent localized thinning or fracture
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a profile clamp for connecting two tubular bodies, wherein: the profile clamp comprises a clamp band having a profile cross-section that is open on the radially inner side; the clamp band, at at least one end, comprises a first transition portion and an adjoining, radially protruding clamping portion; and the clamping element can be clamped in the circumferential direction in order to tighten the profile clamp. According to the invention, the width of a base of the profile cross-section evenly increases from the end of the first transition portion facing away from the clamping element to the clamping element.