Rotatable Clamp Device for Angular Pipe Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current clamp devices are limited to securing elongated items only in parallel configurations, failing to accommodate items at varying angles and distances, which leads to vibration, chafing, and potential damage in applications like fuel dispensers where pipes run in different directions.
Innovation Solution
A clamp device with rotatable coupling structures and adjustable locking mechanisms allows for interlocked positions at various angles and distances, using C-shaped configurations and offset sleeve and shaft members to maintain elongated components in fixed positions relative to each other.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current clamp devices are used to secure elongated items, then the items can be maintained in a fixed parallel configuration, but the items cannot be accommodated at varying angles and distances
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp device is divided into two separate sections: a first section for clamping the first elongated item and a second section for clamping the second elongated item. Each section can be independently positioned and oriented, allowing the device to accommodate various angular orientations while maintaining structural simplicity in each individual section.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling structure features a sleeve member that receives a shaft member, creating a nested configuration where one component fits within another. This nesting arrangement enables rotational freedom and angular adjustment while keeping the overall device compact and avoiding excessive structural complexity.
2Reliability
If clamp devices are designed for parallel configurations only, then the structure remains simple, but vibration and chafing occur when pipes run in different directions
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling structure between the first and second sections allows for dynamic adjustment of angular orientation. The shaft member can rotate within the sleeve member, enabling the clamp to adapt to different angular positions and maintain secure holding of elongated items running in different directions, thereby preventing vibration and chafing.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling structure acts as an intermediary mechanism between the first and second sections. It mediates the connection by allowing rotational movement and angular adjustment, enabling the two sections to be positioned at various angles relative to each other while maintaining a stable and reliable connection that prevents vibration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed distance clamps are used, then manufacturing is simple, but the device cannot accommodate varying distances between elongated items
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve member and shaft member are pre-configured with specific geometric features and offset dimensions that enable multiple fixed distance positions. These preliminary design features allow the device to accommodate varying distances between elongated items while maintaining manufacturing simplicity, as the distance adjustment is achieved through predetermined structural configurations rather than complex adjustable mechanisms.
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 device effectively prevents vibration and chafing by allowing secure clamping of elongated items at selected angular orientations and distances, enhancing durability and preventing fuel leakage in hydraulics systems.
Implementation Method 1
said locking arrangement comprises a friction based locking arrangement. In one embodiment said locking arrangement comprises a conical shaped shaft member on said second base for inserting in a sleeve member on said first base
Implementation Method 2
said first and second bases have coupling structures configured to rotatably assemble to one another to allow rotation of first and second elongated components within parallel planes of motion
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
A clamp device (1) is disclosed. According to one embodiment the clamp device includes a first section (10) having a first base (11) and at least one receiver (12) configured to receive and clamp at least a first elongate component (30); and a second section (20) having a second base (21) and at least one receiver (22) configured to receive and clamp at least a second elongated component (40). The first and the second bases (11, 21) have coupling structures (13, 23) to be rotatably assembled to one another holding the first and the second elongated component (30, 40) in an interlocked position.