Self-Aligning Sanitary Pump Clamp for Fast Clean Disassembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sanitary pumps require frequent disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly, and existing clamps are inefficient and prone to contamination due to multiple parts and complex interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A clamp design with a self-aligning tensioning assembly that secures the fluid cover to the pump, minimizing loose parts and facilitating quick assembly and disassembly, while reducing contamination risks through a design that maintains alignment and prevents galling and bending.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing clamps with multiple parts and complex interfaces are used, then the clamping function is achieved, but contamination risk increases and assembly/disassembly efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp integrates the band and tensioning assembly into a unified structure where the tensioning assembly is mounted directly to the band. This merging reduces the number of separate parts and interfaces, minimizing contamination risk while maintaining the clamping function. The patent explicitly states that minimizing interfaces reduces accumulation points for contaminants.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp is divided into two main functional segments: the band that encircles the pump and the tensioning assembly that applies clamping force. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while reducing overall complexity compared to traditional multi-part clamp designs.
2Productivity
If traditional clamps are used, then the clamping function is achieved, but assembly and disassembly time increases due to complex interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning assembly is pre-configured with a self-aligning mechanism that automatically orients itself during assembly, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment. This preliminary configuration of the self-aligning feature significantly reduces assembly and disassembly time by removing complex alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-aligning tensioning assembly automatically adjusts its own position and orientation during installation, without requiring external alignment tools or complex procedures. This self-service capability streamlines the assembly process and reduces the time needed for both assembly and disassembly operations.
3Strength
If non-self-aligning tensioning assemblies are used, then the clamp structure is simpler, but galling and bending damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning assembly incorporates dynamic self-aligning features that allow it to adapt its position and orientation based on the actual installation conditions. This dynamic capability prevents galling and bending damage by ensuring proper alignment during operation, while the self-aligning mechanism keeps the overall device complexity manageable.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A clamp for sanitary pumps includes a tensioning assembly mounted on a ring. The tensioning assembly includes an adjustment assembly that interfaces with first and second brackets disposed at first and second ends of the ring. The adjustment assembly includes a nut that interfaces with a rod at a threaded interface. A head is disposed at an end of the rod opposite the nut and interfaces with the second bracket. The nut and rod are coaxial and an orientation of a common adjustment axis can be changed by pivoting the adjustment assembly relative to the first bracket, to maintain concentricity between the nut and rod.