Integrated Profile Clamp Hinge for High Axial Flange Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing profile clamps for connecting flange parts face challenges in applying high axial forces while being complex in design and requiring multiple parts, making them difficult to manufacture and assemble.
Innovation Solution
A profile clamp with a first and second profiled clamp section, featuring a hinged connection formed by a mechanically processed flat strip section with defined flexibility, allowing for simplified assembly and high axial force application, using a single piece of flat strip material with notches or geometric modifications to enhance flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional profile clamps use multiple separate parts (clamp halves, connecting elements, flat band sections) to achieve high axial forces, then the clamping force is sufficient, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (clamp halves, connecting elements, flat band sections) into a single integrated profile clamp structure. The one-piece design eliminates the need for separate connecting elements and flat band sections while maintaining the ability to generate high axial clamping forces through the integrated hinge connection and profile geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
While integrating the overall structure, the patent maintains functional segmentation through the hinge connection that allows the clamp to open and close. The profile geometry is segmented into sections that can independently deform to generate axial force, enabling the single piece to function as multiple components would.
2Strength
If traditional profile clamps use welded connecting elements to join clamp halves, then the connection is permanent and strong, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates welding by integrating the connecting element functionality directly into the clamp structure. The hinge connection is formed as an integral part of the profile clamp, removing the need for separate welding operations to join clamp halves while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the manufacturing approach from welding (high temperature, complex process) to cold-forming or integral shaping (lower temperature, simpler process). The hinge connection is created through forming operations during extrusion or bending, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining structural integrity.
3Strength
If profile clamps use rigid connecting elements to maintain structural integrity, then the clamp strength is high, but the ability to apply high axial forces is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different mechanical properties to different regions of the profile clamp. The main body maintains high structural integrity with thick-walled construction, while the hinge connection region is designed with controlled flexibility to enable axial force application. This local differentiation allows the clamp to be both strong and flexible where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic flexibility through the hinge connection, allowing the rigid profile sections to move relative to each other during clamping. This controlled movement enables the application of high axial forces while the overall structure maintains its integrity through the rigid profile sections.
4Ease of manufacture
If profile clamps use seamless integration of flat band sections, then the manufacturing is simplified, but the flexibility for opening and closing is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material or geometric parameters of the integrated hinge region to provide controlled flexibility. The flat band section is formed with specific thickness, curvature, or material properties that allow it to bend and flex during opening and closing operations while remaining seamlessly integrated with the rigid profile sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the integrated flat band section to exhibit dynamic flexibility during operation. The hinge connection allows controlled movement and deformation during opening and closing, while maintaining seamless integration with the profile clamp body. This dynamic behavior enables ease of operation without compromising manufacturing simplicity.
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 design enables high clamping forces with simplified manufacturing and assembly, ensuring precise clamping without mechanical aids, suitable for applications like turbocharger connections.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanically or forming-processed flat strip section, which is integrally connected to the clamp sections and has a defined flexibility
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a profiled clamp having a first profiled clamp half and a second profiled clamp half, by means of which two flange parts can be connected to each other while applying an axial force, wherein a first tightening head is formed at an end of the first clamp half and a second tightening head is formed at an end of the second clamp half in order to form a tightening device, wherein the ends of the clamp halves, which are located opposite the tightening heads, are connected to one another by means of an articulated connection. The articulated connection is formed from a flat strip section which has been machined mechanically or by using forming techniques. As a result, the flat strip section has an increased flexibility and/or a defined flexibility adapted to the intended application and can thus be mounted in a simpler manner.