Flexible Webbing Pipe Support with Rigid Chocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe support technologies face issues with stability, slippage, and surface damage during the transport and storage of cylindrical pipes, as prior art chocks and padding systems fail to effectively prevent lateral movement and scratching.
Innovation Solution
A pipe support apparatus comprising flexible webbing with integrated rigid members and a landing pad, featuring locking brackets that securely engage the rigid members to the webbing, preventing slippage and providing a stable padding surface to prevent rotation and surface damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional wedges are used as chocks, then lateral movement is prevented, but the chocks move and slide around the pipe reducing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the chocking function into separate components: rigid members for lateral restraint and a flexible webbing strap for positional stability. The rigid members are inserted into receptacles formed in the webbing, creating a segmented system where each component performs its optimal function without interfering with the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible webbing strap acts as an intermediary between the rigid chock members and the pipe. It provides a stable base that prevents the rigid members from sliding, while also providing cushioning to prevent direct metal-to-pipe contact. The webbing mediates between the need for rigid restraint and the need for stable positioning.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If padding is added to prevent surface damage, then scratching and dents are prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the padding function with the chocking structure by integrating cushioning material directly into the webbing strap and receptacle surfaces. This combination eliminates the need for separate padding components while still providing comprehensive surface protection. The padding is built into the structure rather than added as an external element.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible webbing strap serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the structural base for the chock, offers cushioning protection for the pipe surface, and enables easy adjustment and positioning. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity by eliminating the need for separate dedicated padding components.
3Strength
If rigid members are made sturdy to withstand repetitive use, then durability is improved, but the weight of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device applies rigidity only where absolutely necessary - in the small contact areas of the rigid chock members that directly restrain the pipe. The majority of the structure uses lightweight flexible webbing material. This localized application of strength provides the required durability while minimizing overall weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The device combines rigid materials (for the chock members) with flexible lightweight materials (the webbing strap). This composite construction allows the rigid components to be small and minimal in size while still providing the necessary strength, as the overall structure is supported by the flexible webbing framework.
4Ease of operation
If the device is made portable and easily handled, then ease of operation is improved, but the structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses flexible dynamic webbing material that can be easily manipulated and positioned by hand, yet when assembled with the rigid members, creates a stable configuration. The flexibility of the webbing allows for easy adjustment and portability, while the rigid members provide the necessary structural stability when in use.
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 apparatus ensures improved stability and protection against scratches and deformation, reducing the risk of slippage and surface damage, while being portable, easily installable, and adaptable for various pipe diameters.
Implementation Method 1
The length of webbing and the landing pad forms a pipe receiving surface between the first and second rigid members, the pipe receiving surface being a top surface of the webbing and a top surface of the landing pad
Implementation Method 2
The chocks are formed by cylindrical rigid members connected by a strap of webbing. The chocks prevent the rotation, and the webbing prevents surface damage.
Data Source
AI summary
The pipe support apparatus of the present invention includes a length of flexible webbing having a first receptacle formed at one end of the length and a second receptacle formed at an opposite end of the webbing. A first rigid member has a locking bracket received within the first receptacle, and a second rigid member has another locking bracket received within the second receptacle. A landing pad is transversely extended from the length of flexible webbing and is positioned on the length of flexible webbing between the first and second rigid members. The length of webbing and landing pad form a pipe receiving surface between the first and second rigid members, the pipe receiving surface being a top surface of the webbing and a top surface of the landing pad.