Tube clamp ear gap tab segmentation for uniform compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe clamps with compressible ears for tightening clamping rings on pipes suffer from uneven compression due to gaps in the ear, which can lead to incomplete sealing and require complex manufacturing processes like bending sheet metal for ear gap tabs.
Innovation Solution
Attaching the ear gap tab to the clamping ring holder instead of the clamping ring itself, allowing for simpler production, such as injection molding, and incorporating a predetermined breaking point for homogeneous compression, with features like a tube stop flange and calibration area for precise fitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the ear gap tab is integrated into the clamping ring as a bend in sheet metal, then the clamping ring can be tightened securely, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the clamping device into separate functional components: the clamping ring and the clamping ring holder with integrated ear gap tab. This segmentation allows the clamping ring to be a simple closed ring while the holder contains the complex ear gap tab structure, enabling independent optimization of each component's manufacturing process
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping ring holder acts as an intermediary component that bridges the gap between the ear and the pipe surface. By attaching the ear gap tab to the holder rather than the clamping ring itself, the invention creates a mediator structure that ensures homogeneous compression of the pipe end while simplifying the clamping ring's manufacturing
2Ease of manufacture
If the ear gap tab is attached to the clamping ring holder instead of the clamping ring, then production becomes simpler through injection molding, but the structural integration is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the ear gap tab from the clamping ring and attaches it to the clamping ring holder instead. This allows the clamping ring to be manufactured as a simple closed component while the holder with the ear gap tab can be produced through injection molding, significantly simplifying the overall manufacturing process
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the ear gap tab with the clamping ring holder into a single integrated component. This combination allows both elements to be manufactured together as one piece through injection molding, reducing the number of separate manufacturing operations and assemblies required
3Manufacturing precision
If the ear gap tab is designed with a predetermined breaking point, then homogeneous compression of the pipe end is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ear gap tab is pre-designed with a predetermined breaking point during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that when the ear is compressed, the tab will break at the correct location to allow the ear to lie flush against the pipe end, achieving homogeneous compression without requiring additional adjustment steps
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a specific geometric parameter - the predetermined breaking point - into the ear gap tab design. This parameter change enables controlled failure of the tab at a specific location, transforming the compression process to achieve homogeneous pressure distribution across the pipe end surface
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
Facilitates easier, more cost-effective production of pipe clamps with improved round and secure pressing of pipe ends, ensuring uniform compression and easy assembly with reduced manufacturing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the ear gap tab has a predetermined breaking point, so that it detaches from the clamping ring holder when it is pressed
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~9
Figure 10~14
AI summary
The clamp (1a) has a clamping ring including a circular section along circumference and a radially outwardly extending ear compressible by a tool. The clamping ring is supported in a clamping ring holder (15a). An ear gap cover plate (23) bridges the circular section in an area of a gap of the ear and is attached to the clamping ring holder. The plate has a reference breaking point (24) such that the plate is detached from the ring holder when the clamping ring is pressed, where the breaking point is designed as a film hinge.