Rotating Connecting Device for Pipe Support Attachment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connecting arrangements for suspending pipes from supports, such as struts, lack a secure and efficient method to attach devices to supports, particularly in cases where direct attachment is not feasible, like with unistrut supports.
Innovation Solution
A connecting device with a securing arrangement and an attaching arrangement featuring projecting formations and a bridging element, which includes a spacer portion with a stop formation to prevent rotation in one direction, allowing for secure attachment to supports by inserting the second projecting formation through an aperture and rotating the attaching arrangement to engage the support, with the bridging element fixing the securing arrangement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional fastening device with threaded rods and nuts is used to attach pipes to supports, then the connection can be securely fastened, but the installation process becomes complex and time-consuming requiring multiple components and alignment steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated connecting device. The attaching arrangement integrates the mounting bracket, securing mechanism, and pipe connection elements into one unified component that attaches to the support structure and secures the pipe simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate threaded rods, nuts, and alignment procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting device incorporates self-aligning features where the attaching arrangement automatically positions itself on the support structure during installation. The device includes self-securing mechanisms that engage with the support and lock into place without requiring external fasteners or complex alignment procedures, allowing the installer to simply attach and secure the pipe
2Ease of operation
If a simple attachment method is used for connecting devices to supports, then the installation is quick and easy, but the connection lacks security and reliability especially with complex support structures like unistrut
Solution Approach 1:
The attaching arrangement incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow the connecting device to adapt to different support structures during installation. The device can be positioned and secured in various orientations and locations on the support, providing both ease of installation and secure connection through its dynamic adjustment capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate attaching arrangement that serves as a mediator between the connecting device and the support structure. This attaching arrangement includes engagement features that interface with the support structure (such as unistrut) and connection features that secure the pipe, providing a reliable interface that simplifies installation while ensuring secure attachment
3Stability of the object's composition
If projecting formations are designed to fit tightly into support apertures for secure attachment, then the connection is stable and aligned, but the installing process becomes more difficult requiring precise positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The projecting formations are designed with asymmetric geometries that provide stable attachment once installed. The formations include features such as asymmetric engagement surfaces, directional locking mechanisms, and non-circular cross-sections that prevent rotation or disengagement after installation, ensuring stability while allowing for easier insertion during installation
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A connecting device (10) for connecting an article to a carrier (14) is disclosed. The connecting device comprises a securing arrangement (12) for securing the connecting device to the article, and an attaching arrangement (26) for attaching the connecting device to the carrier. The attaching arrangement comprises a first projecting formation (28) for engaging the carrier, and a second projecting formation (32) for insertion through the carrier. When the second projecting formation is inserted through the carrier, a portion of the carrier can be received between the first and second projecting formations, thereby attaching the connecting device to the carrier.