Self-Aligning Pipe Clamp Wedge Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe clamps with self-aligning mechanisms face difficulties in achieving proper lip alignment due to misalignment issues, which previous designs, such as those with rivet-shaped locator pins, are insufficient in correcting.
Innovation Solution
A self-aligning pipe clamp design featuring first and second rounded wedge-like shapes with an acute angle, where the wedge tips contact each other and are tightened by screw fasteners, and includes alignment projections and recesses to ensure accurate alignment of the clamp lips.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a band clamp is tightened by screw fasteners, then the clamp force increases, but the lips become misaligned
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment projections are positioned on the wedge bases before tightening occurs. As the clamp is assembled, these projections automatically engage with corresponding recesses in the pipe ends, establishing correct alignment before the tightening force is fully applied. This preliminary alignment action prevents misalignment from developing during the tightening process.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment projections act as intermediary elements between the wedge bases and the pipe ends. These projections transfer and maintain the correct angular relationship between the wedge bases and pipe ends throughout the tightening process, mediating the interaction between the clamping force and the alignment requirement.
2Manufacturing precision
If the wedge base angle is reduced to improve alignment, then the alignment improves, but the clamp force distribution becomes uneven
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment projections are localized features on the wedge bases, concentrated at specific positions where alignment is most critical. This local quality approach allows the wedge bases to maintain their overall geometry for force distribution while adding localized alignment features that correct lip alignment without altering the global force distribution characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
An annular band is adapted for wrapping around an outer diameter of a pipe. The band has two end members including tightening fasteners, which when tightened together, tighten the and against the pipe. The end members include alignment elements that mate with each other upon tightening of the tightening fasteners. The alignment elements axially align the end members with each other.