Snap-Lock Clamp Assembly for Joining Polymeric Column Components

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional mass transfer columns require welding of polymeric members, which is difficult, dangerous, and can weaken the structural integrity of the components due to changes in polymer chains during the welding process.

Innovation Solution

A clamp system featuring a lock with snap lock arms and a deformable elastic annular head key, made from synthetic polymer materials, that securely couples polymeric components without welding, using a snap-lock mechanism to prevent release and ensure rigid locking.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If welding is used to join polymeric members, then structural integrity may be compromised due to polymer chain changes, but alternative joining methods are needed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoiddifficulty and danger of welding

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the thermal welding process with a mechanical clamp system featuring snap lock arms and a deformable elastic annular head key. The clamp uses mechanical interlocking and elastic deformation to secure polymeric members together without applying heat, thereby avoiding polymer chain degradation while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp acts as an intermediary device between polymeric members that need to be joined. Instead of directly welding the polymeric members together, the clamp provides a mechanical connection interface that secures the members without requiring direct thermal contact between them, thus preserving their structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If welding process is applied to polymeric members, then components can be joined, but safety risks and structural weakening occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to join componentsVSAvoiddanger and structural weakening

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes the hazardous welding process with a safe mechanical clamping system. The clamp uses snap lock arms and elastic deformation mechanisms to join components mechanically rather than thermally, eliminating safety risks associated with welding while maintaining the ability to securely join polymeric members.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp appears to be a disposable or single-use component designed to secure polymeric members during installation or operation. Rather than permanently modifying the polymeric members through welding, the clamp provides temporary or permanent mechanical support that can be installed safely without compromising the underlying structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Adaptability or versatility

If conventional welding methods are used, then polymeric members can be connected, but installation becomes difficult and dangerous

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to connect membersVSAvoiddifficulty and danger of installation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex welding operations with simple mechanical clamping actions. The snap lock arms and deformable elastic annular head key allow for tool-free or minimal-tool installation, making the connection process much easier and safer to perform while maintaining the versatility of connecting various polymeric members.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp incorporates dynamic elements including flexible snap lock arms and a deformable elastic annular head key that can flex and deform during installation. This dynamic behavior allows the clamp to adapt to slight variations in member positioning and geometry, facilitating easier installation compared to rigid welding processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 clamp system allows for secure assembly of mass transfer column components without welding, reducing the risk of structural weakening and facilitating easier, safer installation while reducing material weight and installation costs.

Implementation Method 1

The deformable elastic annular head portion is sized to engageably cooperate with the annular shaped receptacle to provide the releasable retention

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11739776B1Clamp having a lock and a release resisting key

Publication Date: 2023.08.29 KOCH GLITSCH INC

AI summary

A clamp includes a lock and a key. The lock defines a first longitudinal axis, and the key defines a second longitudinal axis. The lock has a clamping body portion, a pair of opposing snap lock arms, and an annular shaped receptacle. Each snap lock arm has a mounting end integrally joined to the clamping body portion. Each snap lock arm is flexible about its mounting end. The annular shaped receptacle is defined by the pair of opposing snap lock arms, being disposed between the pair of opposing snap lock arms adjacent to the mounting ends. The key includes a wedge body portion and a deformable elastic annular head portion. The annular head portion releasably retains the key in the lock. The annular head portion sized to engageably cooperate with the annular shaped receptacle to provide the releasable retention.