Variable-Angle V-Clamp Assembly for Uniform Flange Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing v-clamps apply axial loads unevenly and non-uniformly to tubular body end flanges, leading to potential leakage and the need for higher tightening forces due to frictional losses, necessitating larger fasteners and thicker bands.
Innovation Solution
A v-clamp design with a band that varies in v-angle and shape along its circumference, combined with end flanges having partially spherical profiles, ensures even and uniform axial load distribution by minimizing sliding friction and reducing tightening forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a conventional v-clamp with constant cross-sectional profile is used, then the structure is simple, but the axial load is applied unevenly causing leakage and requiring higher tightening forces
Solution Approach 1:
The band cross-sectional profile is varied locally along its length to optimize load distribution. The profile transitions from a first configuration to a second configuration, with each local section designed to provide the appropriate v-angle for even axial load application at that specific location, eliminating the need for uniformly high tightening forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The v-angle parameter of the band cross-section is changed progressively along the band length. By varying this geometric parameter, the contact pressure distribution is optimized to achieve uniform axial load application on the end flanges, resolving the contradiction between simple structure and even load distribution.
2Reliability
If higher tightening forces are applied to compensate for frictional losses, then the joint reliability improves, but the fastener size and band thickness must increase
Solution Approach 1:
The band profile is optimized locally to minimize frictional losses at each section. By providing the appropriate v-angle at each location, the design reduces sliding friction between the band and end flange, allowing reliable joint formation with lower overall tightening forces and smaller fastener sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The design converts the potentially harmful effect of frictional losses into a benefit by using the varying profile to control and reduce friction. The optimized geometry ensures that frictional forces do not cause uneven load distribution, thereby maintaining joint reliability without requiring excessive tightening forces.
3Force
If a varying v-angle profile is implemented, then uniform axial load is achieved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The v-angle parameter is varied systematically along the band length according to a defined profile. This controlled parameter change achieves uniform axial load distribution while maintaining manufacturability through predictable geometric transitions that can be fabricated using standard forming processes.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 3A~3E
Figure 4~6
AI summary
A v-clamp provides an enhanced axial load to tubular body end flanges in order to establish a fluid-tight joint therebetween. The v-clamp, according to an example, has a v-angle that varies in value over a section or more of a band of the v-clamp. The varying v-angle has been shown to effect an axial load that is more evenly and uniformly applied around a circumference of the v-clamp and to the underlying tubular body end flanges. Furthermore, in an example, the tubular body end flanges have a partially spherical shape.