Telescoping Pipe Bracket With Ramped Clamping Connectors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing plumbing brackets lack torsional resistance, are inefficient in accommodating variable stud spacing, and are complex to use, often requiring multiple operations and misalignment due to fixed connectors and material wastage.

Innovation Solution

A telescoping strut system with an elongated insert and C-shaped cross-section brackets that allow adjustable length, torsional resistance, and easy connection to plumbing devices, featuring a threaded post, nut clamping mechanism, and radial clamping connectors for secure pipe fixation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If telescoping struts are used to accommodate variable stud spacing, then adaptability is improved, but torsional resistance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustable lengthVSAvoidtorsional resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket is divided into multiple connectors distributed along the strut, each capable of independent use. This segmentation allows the bracket to adapt to different stud spacings while maintaining structural integrity at each connection point, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and torsional resistance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The bracket utilizes composite construction combining rigid connector elements with the telescoping strut structure. This composite approach provides both the adjustability needed for variable spacing and the torsional resistance required for structural strength, simultaneously addressing both requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple fixed connectors are provided at predetermined locations, then adaptability is improved, but material waste increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning flexibilityVSAvoidmaterial waste
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket transitions from a static structure with fixed connectors to a dynamic system where the telescoping strut can be adjusted to different lengths. This dynamic capability allows a single bracket design to accommodate multiple positioning scenarios without requiring multiple fixed connectors, reducing material waste while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The telescoping strut design makes the bracket universal, capable of functioning at multiple positions and spacings. This multi-functionality eliminates the need to manufacture separate brackets for different stud spacings, reducing material waste while improving positioning flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If multiple operations and hands are required to connect plumbing devices, then connection security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection securityVSAvoidinstallation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket merges the positioning and securing functions into a single integrated component. The telescoping strut simultaneously provides position adjustment and structural support, eliminating the need for multiple separate operations and hands during installation, while maintaining connection security through its robust design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 solution provides a stable, adjustable, and easy-to-use bracket system that ensures secure pipe mounting with improved torsional resistance, accommodating variable stud spacing and reducing material wastage while simplifying installation processes.

Implementation Method 1

A nut installed on the post urges the parts immovably together, clamping the flanges of the strut between the insert and the bracket

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew: Screw

Implementation Method 2

Two threaded mounting connector part with opposing ramped surfaces, encircle the pipe on opposing sides of the bracket and deform toward the pipe when tightened to clamp the pipe

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical deformation: Deformation

Data Source

PatentUS9022326B2Pipe holder and support
Publication Date: 2015.05.05 RELIANCE WORLDWIDE CORP
  • US9022326B2 patent drawing
  • US9022326B2 patent drawing
  • US9022326B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A support for pipes uses a telescoping strut slidably holding an elongated insert with a threaded post extending outward from the insert, through a slot in the C-shaped cross-section of the struts. A bracket fits over the post and abuts supports opposing edges of the strut. A nut on the post clamps the parts immovably together. The bracket has a depending portion extending below the strut with an opening through which a pipe passes. Two threaded couplers with opposing ramped surfaces encircle the pipe and deform when tightened to clamp the pipe while also clamping opposing sides of the depending portion.