Spacer Segment Structure for Flexible Multi-Point Pipe Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spacers either lack sufficient flexibility to support pipes in non-vertical orientations or are too inflexible, leading to point load concentrations that hinder installation and cause damage to pipes and bore walls.
Innovation Solution
A spacer segment with movable support assemblies that distribute load across multiple points, adjusting to curvature and providing a flexible, resilient support system that minimizes contact pressure and accommodates irregular surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate components (distension element, positioning element, fastening element) are used to ensure reliable anchoring and positioning, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need to handle and assemble multiple parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the distension element, positioning element, and fastening element into a single integrated spacer segment. This unified structure maintains the functional benefits of reliable anchoring and positioning while eliminating the complexity of handling and assembling multiple separate components. The integrated design allows all functions to be achieved through one component that is inserted as a single unit.
2Manufacturing precision
If a complex assembly process with multiple steps is used to ensure precise positioning and secure anchoring, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to the time-consuming assembly process
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer segment is pre-configured with the distension element, positioning element, and fastening element integrated into a single structure during manufacturing. This preliminary integration eliminates the need for complex multi-step assembly processes during installation, while still achieving precise positioning through the pre-designed geometric features and attachment mechanisms built into the unified structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used to provide comprehensive functionality, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to the need to handle multiple parts
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated spacer segment design incorporates multiple functions (distension, positioning, and fastening) within a single component structure. This multi-functional design maintains the adaptability and comprehensive functionality previously achieved through multiple separate components, while significantly improving ease of operation by allowing the entire assembly to be installed as one unit without handling multiple separate parts.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a spacer (11) and a spacer segment (13). One or more spacer segments (13) form the spacer (11). The one or more spacer segments (13) are adapted to be interconnected and fitted to/on a first surface. The spacer segment (13) comprises a first collar portion (17), a second collar portion (19), and at least one support assembly (15) extending between the first collar portion and the second collar portion. The at least one support assembly is movable from a normal position, wherein no or minimal force is exerted on the support assembly, to a compressed position, wherein the support assembly supports a load or a portion of a load.