Split Clamping Ring Connecting Structure for Uniform Pipe Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Split clamping rings face uneven force distribution, causing the ring to depart from a true circular shape and compromising the seal around the pipe due to heavier and thicker hinges, which are required to bear higher forces.
Innovation Solution
A split clamping ring design featuring first and second clamping ring members with a connecting structure that includes a circumferentially extending connecting member and a male/female connector system, allowing for improved strength and even force distribution without the need for mechanical fasteners at the hinges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If split clamping rings use traditional hinge connections, then the ring can be assembled, but the forces are unevenly distributed causing the ring to depart from a true circular shape and compromising the seal
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting member is divided into multiple teeth segments (first teeth on the connecting member, second teeth on the ring member) that engage with each other. This segmentation distributes the force across multiple contact points rather than concentrating it at a single hinge point, maintaining the ring's circular shape and ensuring uniform sealing pressure around the pipe.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting structure features localized engagement surfaces with specific tooth geometries designed to distribute forces evenly. The male/female connector configuration creates localized stress distribution zones that prevent deformation of the ring members, maintaining their true circular shape throughout the structure.
2Strength
If hinges are made heavier and thicker to bear higher forces, then the structural strength is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting member incorporates a series of teeth instead of a single massive hinge structure. This segmentation allows the connection to bear high forces through distributed engagement across multiple tooth interfaces, achieving the required strength without increasing overall structure complexity or weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The male/female connector system combines geometric interlocking (teeth engagement) with friction-based force distribution, creating a composite connection mechanism that achieves high strength-to-weight ratio without requiring heavier materials or more complex structural forms.
3Force
If the ring members are tightened towards each other, then the sealing force is improved, but the uneven force distribution at the hinges causes deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The toothed engagement divides the sealing force into multiple discrete contact zones around the ring circumference. This segmentation ensures that tightening forces are distributed evenly across all tooth interfaces, preventing localized deformation and maintaining the ring's true circular shape while achieving effective sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The symmetric male/female tooth configuration creates equipotential force distribution around the ring, ensuring that all engagement points experience equal stress during tightening. This balanced force distribution prevents any single section from deforming, maintaining uniform circularity throughout the ring structure.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 2A~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A clamping ring (10) includes first and second clamping ring members (12, 14), each of which includes: a) an inner curved contour (16) with a circumferential span of at least 90° that extends from a lower face (18) to an upper face (20), the upper face (20) being formed with an aperture (22) for receiving therein a fastener (23) for tightening the first and second clamping ring members towards each other, and b) an inner groove (24) for receiving therein a seal (26). The first clamping ring member (12) includes a first connecting member (28) that extends circumferentially beyond the lower face (18). The second clamping ring member (14) includes a second connecting member (32) that couples the first connecting member (28) with the second clamping ring member (14).