GB2405444A

GB2405444A - Clip with retention means

Info

Publication number: GB2405444A
Application number: GB0320425A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Wesley James Pearce; Ewan Fergus Thompson
Original assignee: Rolls Royce PLC
Current assignee: Rolls Royce PLC
Priority date: 2003-09-01
Filing date: 2003-09-01
Publication date: 2005-03-02
Also published as: GB0320425D0

Abstract

Clips 1 are utilised in order to provide for appropriate routing and assembly of cabling and piping. The clips 1 are of a so-called p-clip type in which a strip is folded in order to define a loop 3 to accommodate the cabling or piping whilst overlapping sections 4, 5 define holes 6 or other means to allow the clip 1 to be secured to a structure. These overlapping sections 4, 5 incorporate retainer means whereby the sections 4, 5 remain in a juxtaposed position once associated whereby an installer can then concentrate with regard to securing the clip 1 to the structure. The retainer means can be formed from a tang 10 within a slot 9 or through hook arrangements which may simply overlap or be locked through hook end engagement with appropriate locking elements.

Description

A Clip The present invention relates to clips and more particularly to

clips used with regard to piping and cabling within aircraft engines.

It is a requirement to robustly secure cabling and piping in a number of situations in order that that piping does not dangle, but more importantly to prevent fraying, etc. It is known to provide so called p- clips which comprise an lo overlapping strip in order to define a loop which wraps around a pipe or cable or more normally a bundle of such pipes and cables whilst the overlapping sections provide a fixing point to secure the clip to an appropriate structure, such as an engine casing, etc. These p-clips are relatively simple and easy to manufacture but can present significant difficulties with regard to installation particularly when it is desirable to secure several p-clips at the same clipping point. In such circumstances it would be advantageous to enable the clip to be retained about the pipes or cables so that the installer can then concentrate upon securing the overlapping sections to the mounting point. Thus, a number of proposals have been made with regard to providing clip locking mechanisms for p-clips.

so Unfortunately, these locking mechanisms can detract from the inherent simplicity of p-clip manufacture and usage as well as increase the necessary envelope size with consequent potential problems with respect to accommodation within situations such as engine casings where space is at a premium. For example, DE1134557 describes a clip which includes a lock but requires a stop to keep the clips together along with deformation of particular portions of the clip and opposed overlapping edges to form the lock. Ideally, the simple one piece p-clip configuration shall be retained and particularly with respect to maintenance and repair situations replacement p-clips should have a like for like space requirement.

In accordance with the present invention there is provided a clip for piping or cabling, the clip comprising a fold to define a loop with overlapping sections, the loop being shaped to wrap around piping or cabling whilst the overlapping d.

sections provide means to allow fixing of the clip to a structure, the clip characterized in that interference retainer means are provided between the overlapping sections, the interference retainer means extending laterally inward from respective adjacent and substantially aligned longitudinal edges of the overlapping sections such that the interference retainer means remains within the plane cross-section of the clip.

Typically, the interference retainer means comprises a tang on one to longitudinal edge and a slot in the other longitudinal edge, one engaged in the other to form the interference retaining means in use.

Alternatively, the interference retainer means comprises an upstanding hook in one longitudinal edge substantially extending over the other longitudinal edge in use. Typically, the other longitudinal edge includes a slot or dimple or eye or sleeve to receive an end of the hook.

Possibly, interference retainer means are provided in both longitudinal edges of the overlapping sections. Furthermore, the interference retainer means so may be staggered relative to each other. Additionally, the interference retainer means may be spaced along respective longitudinal edges to accommodate different clip sizes.

Normally, the interference retainer means is positioned adjacent to the loop apex formed by the fold.

Also in accordance with the present invention there is provided an engine assembly including a clip as described above.

so Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a clip in accordance with the present invention in an open configuration; Fig. 2 is a front perspective view of the clip depicted in Fig. 1 in a closed configuration; Fig. 3 is a front part cross section illustrating overlapping clip sections in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention depicted in Figs. 1 to and 2; Fig. 4 is a part side view of the clip section depicted in Fig. 3; Fig. 5 is a front perspective view of a clip in accordance with a second Is embodiment of the present invention in an open configuration; Fig. 6 is a front perspective view of the clip depicted in Fig. 5 in a closed configuration; Fig. 7 is a front part cross section of a first hook arrangement utilised in accordance with the second embodiment of the inventions depicted in Figs. 5 and 6; Fig. 8 is a part side view of the first hook arrangement depicted in Fig. 7; Fig. 9 is a front part cross section of a second hook arrangement utilised in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention depicted in Figs. 5 and 6; so Fig. 10 is a part side view of the second hook arrangement depicted in Fig. 9; Fig. 11 is a part front cross section of a third hook arrangement utilised in: accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention depicted in Figs. 5 and 6; and, Fig. 12 is a part side view of the third hook arrangement depicted in Fig. 11.

Referring to Figs. 1 and 2 illustrating a clip 1 in accordance with a first to embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the clip 1 comprises a strip 2 folded in order to define a loop 3 with overlapping sections 4, 5 arranged in the closed configuration (Fig. 2) to define a hole 6 through which the clip can be secured or fixed to a structure. The hole 6 is formed from alignment of holes 6a, 6b in the respective overlapping sections 4, 5. As indicated above the loop 3 in use is arranged to wrap around the constrain piping or cabling. Generally, the clip is of a pclip type denoted by its shape.

In accordance with the present invention a longitudinal edge 7, 8 of the respective overlapping sections 4, 5 incorporates co-operative interference so retainer elements. In the first embodiment depicted in Figs. 2 and 3, this retainer arrangement comprises a slot 9 and a tang 10. In such circumstances in the open configuration depicted in Fig. 1 the clip 1 is located around cabling or piping with the piping within the loop 3. The overlapping sections 4, 5 are then brought into alignment particularly with regard to the longitudinal edges 7, 8. The tang 10 iS upstanding so that in order to engage the slot 9 the clip is slightly twisted or displaced to one side for such alignment whereby the stem of that tang 10 enters the slot 9 whilst the cross piece prevents substantial spring back disassociation between the overlapping sections 4, 5. It will also be understood that when fully installed the fixing means presented through the hole 6 will also prevent such disassociation.

The purpose of the interference retainer comprising tang 10 and slot 9 is to ensure that the clip 1 substantially remains in the closed configuration depicted s in Fig. 2 whilst the installer attempts to secure the clip 1 through the hole and normally bolt or screw to a structure (not shown). Without the retainer comprising slot 9 and tang 10 the overlapping sections 4, 5 will tend to spring back as a result of shaped memory within the strip 2 and also the compressive effect of piping and cabling within the loop 3. In such circumstances, securing the clip 1 to the structure will be rendered easier with the present invention.

Provision of an interference retainer only on one longitudinal side of the lo clip 1 is preferred in order to render it easier by twist and slight side movement for the tang 10 to be accommodated in the slot 9. However, particularly if the retainer combinations are staggered it may be possible to provide retainers on either side of the aligned longitudinal adjacent edges of the clip 1.

Is The present invention ensures that the planar cross section or foot print of the clip 1 is substantially retained whereby a similar clip of the same dimensions without a retainer combination in accordance with the present invention can be replaced by the present clip 1. Figs. 3 and 4 illustrate the retainer combination comprising the slot 9 and tang 10 in accordance with the first embodiment do depicted in Figs. 1 and 2. Thus, as can be seen particularly with regard to Fig. 3, the tang 10 is formed in the longitudinal edge 8 such that it is upstanding substantially perpendicular to the plane of the overlapping section 5. The slot 9 is formed in the adjacent longitudinal edge 7 again substantially in the plane of its overlapping section 4. Thus, the whole retainer combination of slot 9 and tang 10 remains within a perimeter 11 defined by the strip in which the clip and therefore overlapping sections 4, 5 is formed.

Advantageously the interference retainer combination will be positioned at the junction or apex from which the loop extends. Such positioning may utilise so the actual spring back effect created by the loop 3 in order to force engagement between the tang and slot shoulder portion. Possibly, a number of interference retainer combinations in accordance with the present invention may be provided along the adjacent longitudinal edges to accommodate or allow formation of different sizes of loop with the additional tangs broken off when not required.

Figs. 5 and 6 illustrate a clip 51 in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. As with the first embodiment depicted in Figs. 1 and 2 it will be appreciated that a strip 52 defines by a folding action a loop 53 which wraps around piping or cabling as required. Overlapping sections 54, 55 define a hole 56 which acts as a point for fixing the clip 51 to a structure (not shown).

Aligned and adjacent edges 57, 58 incorporate an interference retainer to combination in accordance with the present invention. In the second embodiment depicted in Figs. 5 and 6 this retainer combination comprises a hook which extends from a first longitudinal edge to a second longitudinal edge.

In such circumstances the lateral penetration of the retainer combination ensures that the overlapping sections 54, 55 stay together whilst the loop 53 l5 encompasses cabling or piping. Thus it is easier for an installer to then achieve appropriate fixing of the clip 51 through the hole 56 and screw or bolt to a structure (not shown). In order to locate the overlapping sections 54, 55 together typically the cabling or piping is encompassed by the clip 51 within the loop 53.

The sections 54, 55 are then brought together in the direction of arrowhead B. Just prior to juxtaposed position the clip is twisted or there is a slight sideways distortion whereby the upper section 54 is located below the hook 59 in order to be retained. It will be understood in ongoing use retention between these sections 54, 55 is also provided by the means for securing the clip 51 to the structure through the hole 56.

As depicted in Fig. 6 in the closed configuration the hook 59 may simply extend over from the lower section 55 to engage an upper surface of the other section 54.

So Figs. 7 to 12 respectively illustrate three different hook arrangements in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.

Figs. 7 and 8 illustrate a simple hook arrangement as depicted in Fig. 5 and 6. Thus, the longitudinal edge 57 incorporates an indent whilst the hook 59 extends from the longitudinal edge 58 but within the clip edge profile 60. Thus, the bend of the hook 59 does not extend beyond that profile 60 so that the clip remains within the plane cross section of the clip. The hook 59 includes a hook end 50 which overlaps with the section 57 in order to prevent divergence of the sections 54, 55 in the direction of arrowhead X. In such circumstances, the clip is retained around a bundle of piping or cables. To further ensure retention, a lo separate upstanding lip post or an intermediate pip/dipple could be provided to inhibit lateral movement and so release of hook association.

Figs. 9 and 10 illustrate a second hook arrangement utilised in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention depicted in Figs. 5 and 6.

Thus, a hook 159 extends from an overlapping section 155 and in particular its longitudinal edge 158 whereby a hook end 150 is engaged within a hole 90 in another overlapping section 154. In such circumstances, as described previously, the sections 154, 155 will be brought into a near juxtaposed position and then through twist the hook 159 is manipulated into engagement with the hole 150 in order to prevent disassociation there between as well as prevent divergence between the sections 154 so that a clip in accordance with the present invention remains associated through its loop with cabling or piping. As an alternative to a hole 90 it will be appreciated that a dimple or recess could simply be formed by appropriate press deformation or other machining in the section 154 in order to accommodate the hook end 150.

Figs. 11 and 12 illustrate a third hook arrangement utilised in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention depicted in Figs. 5 and 6.

Thus a hook 259 again extends from a longitudinal edge 258 of an overlapping so section 255 such that it overlaps with an indent in a longitudinal edge 257 of another overlapping section 254 in order to retain association between the overlapping sections 254 and prevent divergence so that piping or cabling is retained within a loop of a clip in accordance with the present invention. Initial positioning between the sections 254, 255 with overlap engagement by the hook 259 is achieved through twist and side movement before alignment between the sections 254, 255. In accordance with the third hook arrangement depicted in Figs. 11 and 12 a sleeve 110 is secured to the upper surface of the section 254 in order to engage with a hook end 250 to prevent its accidental release. This sleeve 110 is secured through an appropriate mechanism such as welding or adhesive to the section 254.

lo It will be noted that all of the hooks 59, 159 and 259 remain within the clip peripheral edge and so the interference retainer combination in accordance with the hook arrangements depicted in Figs. 7 to 12 are all within the planar cross section of the clip. In such circumstances, a clip in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention can replace a similar clip without a retainer combination in accordance with the present invention.

Normally the outer surface of a clip in accordance with the present invention will incorporate a rubber cushion about that part of the clip which defines the loop 3, 53. This cushion provides protection for the cable or pipe So from the clip. As indicated previously clips in accordance with the present invention will be particularly utilised with regard to engines and in particular aircraft engines in order to provide for cable or pipe routing about structures and casings of that engine. In such circumstances the holes 6, 56 will be utilised in order to appropriately route the piping or cabling in the appropriate pathways and directions as required.

Whilst endeavouring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features of the invention believed to be of particular importance it should be understood that the Applicant claims protection in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features hereinbefore referred to and/or shown in the drawings whether or not particular emphasis has been placed thereon.

Claims

1. A clip (1, 51) for piping or cabling, the clip (1, 51) comprising a fold to define a loop (3, 53) with overlapping sections (4, 5; 54, 55; 154, 155; 254, 255), the loop being shaped to wrap around piping or cabling whilst the overlapping sections provide means (6, 56) to allow fixing of the clip to a structure, the clip characterized in that interference retainer means (9, 10; 59, 159; 259) are provided between the overlapping sections, the interference retainer means lo extending laterally inward from respective adjacent and substantially aligned longitudinal edges (7, 8; 57, 58; 157, 158; 257, 258) of the overlapping sections such that the interference retainer means remains within the plane cross-section of the clip.

2. A clip as claimed in claim 1 wherein the interference retainer means comprises a tang (10) on one longitudinal edge and a slot (9) in the other longitudinal edge, one engaged in the other to form the interference retaining means in use.

do

3. A clip as claimed in claim 1 wherein the interference retainer means comprises an upstanding hook (59; 159; 259) in one longitudinal edge substantially extending over the other longitudinal edge in use.

4. A clip as claimed in claim 3 wherein the other longitudinal edge includes a hole (90) or dimple or eye or sleeve (110) to receive an end of the hook.

5. A clip as claimed in any preceding claim wherein interference retainer means are provided in both longitudinal edges of the overlapping sections.

so

6. A clip as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the interference retainer means may be staggered relative to each other.

7. A clip as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the interference retainer means may be spaced along respective longitudinal edges to accommodate different clip sizes. s

8. A clip as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the interference retainer means is positioned adjacent to an apex of the loop formed by the fold.

9. A clip for piping or cabling substantially as hereinbefore described with to reference to Figs. 1 to 4.

10. A clip for piping or cabling substantially as herein before described with reference to Figs. 5 to 12 in the accompanying drawings.

11. An engine assembly including a clip as claimed in any preceding claim.

12. Any novel subject matter or combination including novel subject matter disclosed herein, whether or not within the scope of or relating to the same invention as any of the preceding claims.