Tri-Clamp Bracketing Structure for Washer Dislodgment Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Equipment in washers often becomes dislodged during disinfecting cycles, leading to re-washing requirements that are costly, time-consuming, and burdensome due to the use of caustic and acidic solutions and hot environments, which degrade conventional securing mechanisms like Tri-Clamp connectors.
Innovation Solution
A bracketing device composed of stainless steel, designed to secure a Tri-Clamp connector, maintains grip on equipment by wrapping around it and applying compressive forces through integrated securing brackets, preventing dislodgment during washer operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional securing mechanisms like Tri-Clamp connectors are used, then equipment can be easily attached and detached, but the connectors become degraded and lose grip during washer operations due to harsh conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The bracketing device is divided into multiple independent bracket elements (first bracket, second bracket, third bracket, fourth bracket) that can be individually positioned and adjusted. Each bracket can independently engage with the connector at different locations, providing distributed securing points that enhance reliability while maintaining ease of assembly through modular configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The bracketing device is designed to wrap around and enclose the connector, with brackets nested in sequence around the connector body. This nested configuration creates multiple concentric securing layers that progressively constrain the connector, preventing dislodgment while allowing straightforward installation by simply placing the connector within the bracket structure
2Reliability
If multiple securing brackets are used to prevent dislodgment, then equipment security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each bracket element is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a structural support component and as a securing element that directly engages with the connector. The brackets simultaneously provide mechanical support, positioning, and constraint functions, eliminating the need for separate securing mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The bracketing device merges multiple securing functions into a single integrated structure where the first, second, third, and fourth brackets work together as a unified system. The brackets are combined to form a continuous wrapping structure that secures the connector at multiple points simultaneously, simplifying the overall design compared to using separate independent securing devices
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 bracketing device ensures secure attachment of equipment, minimizing dislodgment and reducing the need for re-washing, thus saving time and resources by maintaining the integrity of the securing mechanism despite harsh washer conditions.
Implementation Method 1
applying compressive forces through integrated securing brackets, preventing dislodgment during washer operations
Data Source
AI summary
A bracketing device configured to secure a connector, the bracketing device including: a first side section comprising: a first subsection comprising a first supporting bracket; a second subsection connected to the first subsection, wherein the second subsection comprises a first securing bracket pair; and a third subsection connected to the second subsection; a second side section comprising: a fourth subsection comprising a second supporting bracket; a fifth subsection connected to the fourth subsection, wherein the fifth subsection comprises a second securing bracket pair; and a sixth subsection connected to the fifth subsection; and an end connecting section positioned between the first side section and the second side section, wherein the end connecting section comprises an end bracket.