Slidable Tube Clamp Structure to Prevent Kinking and Micro-Leaks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation and maintenance of flexible tubing networks in maple sugaring are complex due to issues like kinking, micro-leaks, and the need for various fittings, which hinder efficient sap harvesting and increase labor costs.
Innovation Solution
A versatile supporting clamp that can be used with flexible tubes of different diameters, featuring a slidable part and guideways to securely attach tubes without kinking, and can be easily installed and adjusted without tools, reducing the need for multiple fittings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If flexible tubes are used to transport sap in maple sugaring, then the tubing can be easily installed and adapted to different locations, but the tubes are prone to kinking and micro-leaks which hinder efficient sap harvesting
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp divides the support function into multiple contact points along the tube, with each segment of the clamp body providing localized support. This segmentation allows the tube to maintain its shape and avoid kinking while still being adaptable to different installation locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp provides localized support at specific points along the flexible tube rather than requiring continuous support. The asymmetric design creates different support characteristics at different locations on the tube, preventing kinking at critical areas while maintaining overall flexibility and adaptability.
2Reliability
If traditional fittings and supports are used to secure flexible tubes, then the tubes can be anchored, but the installation and maintenance become complex requiring extensive workforce and multiple fittings
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp merges multiple functions into a single device: it provides anchoring, prevents kinking, and secures the tube simultaneously. This consolidation eliminates the need for multiple separate fittings and supports, simplifying both installation and maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp is designed to work with flexible tubes of different diameters and can be installed at various locations in the tubing network. Its universal design reduces the need for multiple specialized fittings, allowing a single type of clamp to handle diverse anchoring requirements throughout the sugar bush.
3Stability of the object's composition
If flexible tubes are made taut to prevent collapse and maintain flow, then the tubes remain relatively straight between anchor points, but the installation process becomes much more complex and tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is pre-configured with an asymmetric design that automatically positions support elements to prevent tube collapse. This preliminary design eliminates the need for complex tensioning operations during installation, as the clamp structure itself provides the necessary support geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp acts as an intermediary device between the flexible tube and the anchor point, providing mechanical support that maintains tube tautness without requiring the installer to manually tension the tube. The clamp absorbs the complexity of maintaining proper tube tension, simplifying the installation process.
Data Source
AI summary
The clamp includes a hollow base having an open top side, two opposed open ends, and an inner sidewall bordering a bottom side as well as two opposite lateral sides of the base. The inner sidewall defines a passage extending between the two opposite open ends and through which a flexible tube can pass. The clamp also includes a slidable part inserted into the base at one of its ends to close its top side. The proposed concept is particularly advantageous for sugar making.