Vessel Internal Support Clip for Faster Deflector Plate Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vessel designs require complex and time-consuming processes for installing and removing vertically oriented components, such as deflector plates, which hinder efficient maintenance and refurbishment of vapor-liquid contacting vessels.

Innovation Solution

A clip assembly comprising an arm with a first end attached to a panel and a second end opposed to it, allowing a slidably disposed plate to be easily secured and removed between the arm and panel, facilitating quick installation and removal of vertical members within the vessel.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional installation methods are used for vertical members in vessels, then the members can be securely installed, but the installation and removal process becomes time-consuming and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure installationVSAvoidinstallation and removal time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The support structure is segmented into a panel with multiple openings and multiple independent clips that can be individually attached to different openings. This allows partial installation or removal of members without requiring complete disassembly of the entire support system, significantly reducing installation and removal time while maintaining secure support through the distributed clip arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The clips are designed with flexible arms that can dynamically adjust during installation and removal operations. The flexible arm allows the clip to engage and disengage from vertical members more easily, reducing the time and complexity of installation while ensuring reliable support when engaged.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If traditional support structures are used for vertical members, then the members are securely supported, but the complexity of the support structure increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport reliabilityVSAvoidsupport structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support structure is divided into simple, modular clips that attach to a panel. Each clip is a simple component with a flexible arm and attachment mechanism, avoiding the need for complex integrated support structures. Multiple simple clips distributed across the panel provide reliable support without increasing individual component complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The clips are designed as universal components that can support various vertical members (such as deflector plates or other vessel internals) through the same basic mechanism. The flexible arm and attachment design allow the same clip type to accommodate different member shapes and sizes, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable support.

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

Data Source

PatentUS10953342B2Clip for supporting vessel internals, assembly and method of assembly
Publication Date: 2021.03.23 UOP LLC
  • US10953342B2 patent drawing
  • US10953342B2 patent drawing
  • US10953342B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An assembly for supporting a member in a vessel comprises a clip comprising an arm with a first end attached to a panel and a second end opposed to the panel. The panel is secured in the vessel. The assembly also comprises a plate slidably disposed between the second end of the arm and the panel. The subject matter also pertains to the clip itself and the method of use.