SE541736C2 - A pipe connection arrangement and a vehicle comprising such arrangement - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a pipe connection arrangement (10), comprising: a first pipe (20) with a first flange (22); a second pipe (30) with a second flange (32), the second pipe (30) being adapted to be connected to the first pipe (20) with the second flange (32) abutting the first flange (22); and a clamp element (40) adapted to connect the first pipe (20) and the second pipe (30), and wherein the clamp element (40) is adapted to encircle the first and second flange (22; 32), such that the flanges (22; 32) are pressed against each other. The second pipe (30) comprises a hook member (34) adapted to be positioned over the first flange (22), such that the second pipe (30) is hanged on the first pipe (20) by means of the hook member (34).The invention also relates to a vehicle (1) comprising such a pipe connection arrangement (10).

Description

A pipe connection arrangement and a vehicle comprising such arrangement TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a pipe connection arrangement and a vehicle comprising such an arrangement.

BACKGROUND There are different ways of connecting pipes with flanges and one common way is to use a so called v-clamp or v-band clamp. With such couplings the pipe flanges are joined by exerting a wedging load, which presses the flanges together. When connecting two pipes by means of a v-clamp the pipes need to be fixated in a secure position before the clamp can be placed over the flanges. Typically, positioning the clamp requires the use of both hands and it may thus be difficult to both hold the pipes in a secure position and at the same time place the clamp in correct position and tighten the clamp. If the pipes are heavy it may be even more difficult. Thus, connecting pipes by means of a v-clamp may be time consuming and ergonomically disadvantageous. Another way of connecting pipes is to use bolts or other fasteners through the flanges. Individually attaching each fastener is time consuming and this may therefore not be a desired solution. It would thus be advantageous to develop a solution for time efficient and ergonomic pipe connection.

Document US2014/0091570 A1 discloses a sliding duct connection comprising a first flange adapted to be coupled to a first duct, the first flange comprising a slip fit and receiving area, wherein a flange of another duct can be slid into the receiving area. The duct connection may be welded to the first duct. Document US5560656 A discloses a pipe connecting structure comprising a back-up ring interposed between the pipe flanges and a housing clamped around the flanges and the back-up ring.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Despite known solutions in the field, there is still a need to develop a pipe connection arrangement, which enables connection of two pipes in an easy, ergonomic and time efficient way.

An object of the present invention is therefore to achieve an advantageous pipe connection arrangement, which enables time efficient and cost efficient connection of two pipes.

Another object of the present invention is to achieve an advantageous pipe connection arrangement, which enables connection of two pipes in an ergonomic way.

These objects are achieved by a pipe connection arrangement according to the independent claim.

Hence, according to an aspect of the present invention a pipe connection arrangement is provided. The pipe connection arrangement comprising: a first pipe with a first flange; a second pipe with a second flange; and a clamp element adapted to connect the first pipe and the second pipe, wherein the first pipe and the second pipe are adapted to be connected with the first flange and the second flange abutting each other, and wherein the clamp element is adapted to encircle the first flange and the second flange, such that the flanges are pressed against each other. Furthermore, the second pipe comprises a hook member adapted to be positioned over the first flange when connecting the second pipe and the first pipe, such that the second pipe can be hanged on the first pipe by means of the hook member.

The process of connecting pipes may be complicated and may impose high demands on the person performing the connection. Using a clamp element encircling and pressing the pipe flanges together facilitates the process. However, when the clamp element is positioned over the flanges it should be ensured that the second pipe is in a correct position in relation to the first pipe. Positioning the clamp element may thus normally include some difficulties. With the pipe connection arrangement according to the invention the hook member on the second pipe makes it possible to hang the second pipe on the first pipe. This way, a third hand solution is achieved, which facilitates the mounting of the clamp element. By hanging the second pipe on the first pipe the assembler no longer needs to hold the second pipe while positioning the clamp element. Both hands can thereby be used for positioning and tightening the clamp element. A pipe connection arrangement is thereby achieved, which enables easy, time efficient and ergonomic connection of two pipes. “Hanging” the second pipe on the first pipe thus means that the second pipe is arranged to be positioned adjacent to the first pipe and that centre axes of the pipes becomes substantially aligned. In other word, the pipes are substantially concentrically arranged when the second pipe is arranged to hang on the first pipe.

The first pipe and/or the second pipe may be sections of a pipe. The first pipe may be a casted pipe section. The second pipe may be a steel pipe section. The first pipe and the second pipe may constitute pipe segments of an exhaust conduit. The first pipe and the second pipe may alternatively constitute pipe segments of any other conduit. The pipe connection arrangement may be arranged on a vehicle. By flange is meant a plate or ring forming a circumferential rim at the end of the respective pipe.

The hook member may be attached to the envelope surface of the second pipe or it may be attached to the second flange of the second pipe. The hook member may be welded to the second pipe, for example spot welded. The hook member may alternatively be adhered to the second pipe by means of an adhesive. Alternatively, the hook member constitutes an integrated part of the second flange of the second pipe.

The hook member may be configured to extend beyond the second flange, in direction away from the second pipe. The hook member may have a shape corresponding to the profile shape of the first flange. The hook member may have a shape corresponding to the profile shape of the first flange and the second flange. The hook member may thus comprise a first portion adapted to traverse and abut the periphery of the first flange and the second flange, and a second portion extending essentially perpendicularly to the first portion. The hook member may be configured to abut the side of the first flange that faces away from the second pipe and/or a part of the envelope surface of the first pipe.

The clamp element may be a v-clamp or v-band clamp. Such v-clamps are considered to be commonly known and typically comprise at least one retainer segment with a somewhat v-shaped cross section, a band and a latch. The cross section of the retainer segment may have a shape corresponding to the profile shapes of the first flange of the first pipe and the second flange. The latch typically comprises a bolt and a nut. When a torque is applied on the nut for tightening the clamp element an inward radial force is created in the retainer segment. The radial force wedges the flanges together. Furthermore, the band is tensioned and an axial load acts on the flanges due to the wedging action of the retainer segment. This way, a strong coupling is achieved. Using a v-clamp when connecting two pipes typically requires the use of two hands for positioning and tightening the v-clamp. By configuring the pipe connection arrangement according to the invention with a third hand solution, the v-clamp can be positioned and tightened in an easier way.

A gap is suitably formed in the clamp element, whereby the clamp element is adapted to be arranged such that the hook member extends in the gap of the clamp element. The hook member may thereby function as a clamp positioner, facilitating the positioning of the clamp element in a desired position. Furthermore, when tightening the clamp element, a force is applied, which may rotate the clamp element in relation to the first and second pipe. This may impede the tightening of the clamp element. However, with the hook member arranged in the gap of the clamp element, the hook element will function as a stop means restricting/preventing rotation of the clamp element. Connection of the two pipes is thereby facilitated.

According to an embodiment of the invention the first pipe comprises a retaining portion adapted to interact with the hook member of the second pipe, to restrict rotation of the second pipe in relation to the first pipe. Suitably, the retaining portion is adapted to interact with at least a part of the hook member. This way, the second pipe is retained in correct position and the clamp element can be mounted without having to worry about the position of the pipes. The retaining portion may be configured to reduce or prevent lateral movement of the hook member, whereby rotation of the second pipe in relation to the first pipe is reduced or prevented. Thus, the hook member alone restricts the movement of the second pipe in direction away from the first pipe and the hook member in combination with the retaining portion restricts the rotational movement of the second pipe. The retaining portion may be arranged in the envelope surface of the first pipe or it may be arranged on the first flange of the first pipe.

When connecting the second pipe to the first pipe, the second pipe should suitably be positioned, such that the hook member interacts with the retaining portion. The second pipe may thus be adapted to be positioned, such that the hook member interacts with the retaining portion. The retaining portion will thereby also function as a guiding means for positioning the second pipe accurately. This facilitates the connection of the pipes.

According to an embodiment of the invention the retaining portion comprises a recess in the first pipe. The recess may correspond to the shape of the portion of the hook member interacting with the retaining portion. The recess may be a groove or a slot in the first pipe. The recess may be arranged in the first flange of the first pipe. The recess may restrict lateral movement of the hook member. The recess may be configured to allow a certain play between the hook member and walls of the recess.

According to an embodiment of the invention the retaining portion comprises at least two protrusions on the first pipe. The at least two protrusions may be adapted to be positioned on opposite sides of the hook member. The at least two protrusion may be arranged to restrict lateral movement of the hook member. The protrusions may have any shape. The protrusions may be shoulders, lugs or similar. The at least two protrusions may be arranged at a distance from each other forming a gap between the protrusions. The distance between the protrusions is suitably such that a portion of the hook member fits in the gap. The gap may allow a certain play between the hook member and the protrusions. The protrusions may be casted as an integrated part of the first pipe or they may be welded to the first pipe.

The hook member may comprise a band or a tape or similar. The hook member may thus be a bent band. The hook member may alternatively comprise a wire or a thread. The hook member may be configured with sufficient strength to carry the weight of the second pipe. At the same time, the hook member is suitably configured to be lightweight. In the case where the pipe connection arrangement according to the invention is arranged on a vehicle, a lightweight hook member results in less weight added to the vehicle, which reduces the fuel consumption. The hook member may comprise metal, plastics or composite.

Further objects, advantages and novel features of the present invention will become apparent to one skilled in the art from the following details, and also by putting the invention into practice. Whereas embodiments of the invention are described below, it should be noted that it is not restricted to the specific details described. Specialists having access to the teachings herein will recognise further applications, modifications and incorporations within other fields, which are within the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS For fuller understanding of the present invention and further objects and advantages of it, the detailed description set out below should be read together with the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference notations denote similar items in the various drawings, and in which: Figure 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 schematically illustrates a pipe connection arrangement according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 3a-b schematically illustrates a pipe connection arrangement according to embodiments of the invention; Figure 4 schematically illustrates a pipe connection arrangement according to an embodiment of the invention; and Figure 5a-c schematically illustrates a detail of a pipe connection arrangement according to embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 schematically shows a side view of a vehicle 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. The vehicle 1 comprises a propulsion unit 2. The vehicle 1 may further comprise a pipe connection arrangement 10. The pipe connection arrangement 10 may comprise pipe segments of an exhaust gas conduit or similar. The pipe connection arrangement 10 is further described in Figures 2-5. The vehicle 1 may be a heavy vehicle, e.g. a truck or a bus. The vehicle 1 may be manually operated, remotely operated or autonomously operated.

Figure 2 schematically illustrates a pipe connection arrangement 10 according to an embodiment of the invention. The pipe connection arrangement 10 may be used on a vehicle 1 according to Figure 1. The pipe connection arrangement 10 comprises: a first pipe 20 with a first flange 22; a second pipe 30 with a second flange 32, and a clamp element 40 adapted to connect the first pipe 20 and the second pipe 30, wherein the first pipe 20 and the second pipe 30 are adapted to be connected with the first flange 22 and the second flange 32 abutting each other, and wherein the clamp element 40 is adapted to encircle the first flange 22 and the second flange 32, such that the flanges 22, 32 are pressed against each other. Furthermore, the second pipe 30 comprises a hook member 34 adapted to be positioned over the first flange 22 when connecting the second pipe 30 to the first pipe 20, such that the second pipe 30 is hanged on the first pipe 20 by means of the hook member 34. By means of the hook member 34 a third hand solution is achieved, which facilitates the mounting of the clamp element 40 and thus the connection of the two pipes 20, 30.

The hook member 34 may be attached to the envelope surface of the second pipe 30 or it may be attached to the second flange 32 of the second pipe 30. The hook member 34 may be welded to the second pipe 30, for example spot welded. The hook member 34 may alternatively be adhered to the second pipe 30 by means of an adhesive. The hook member 34 may thus be a separate part that is attached to the second pipe 30. Alternatively, the hook member 34 constitutes an integrated part of the second flange 32.

It is to be understood that although this figure illustrates the pipes 20, 30 and the clamp element 40 with essentially circular cross sections, the pipes 20, 30, the flanges 22, 32 and the clamp element 40 may have any shape.

The clamp element 40 may be a so called v-clamp or v-band clamp. Such vclamps are considered to be commonly known. The clamp element 40 thus comprises at least one retainer segment 42 with an essentially v-shaped cross section, a band 44 and a latch 46. The v-shaped groove of the retainer segment 42 is placed over the flanges 22, 32. The cross section of the retainer segment 42 suitably corresponds to the profile shapes of the first flange 22 and the second flange 32. At the position of the latch 46 there is a gap 50 in the retainer segment 42 and the band 44. The clamp element 40 may be adapted to be positioned such that the hook element 34 extends through the gap 50 of the clamp element 40. This is further illustrated in Figure 4. The latch 46 may comprise a bolt 47 and a nut 48. To tighten the clamp element 40 a torque is applied on the nut 48 whereby an inward radial force is created in the retainer segment 42. The radial force presses the flanges 22, 32 together. When the clamp element 40 is tightened the gap 50 may be decreased.

Figure 3a and 3b schematically illustrate a pipe connection arrangement 10 according to embodiments of the invention. The pipe connection arrangement 10 may be configured as disclosed in Figure 2. In these figures the clamp element 40 is omitted to more clearly illustrate the hook member 34.

The hook member 34 may be fixedly attached to the second pipe 30 and may extend over the second flange 32 and the first flange 22. The hook member 34 may thus be configured to extend beyond the second flange 32, in direction away from the second pipe 30. The hook member 34 suitably abuts the second flange 32 and the first flange 22 and may thus have a shape corresponding to the profile shapes of the flanges 22, 32. The hook member 34 may thus have a similar shape as the cross section of the retaining segment 42 of the clamp element 40. The hook member 34 may be configured to abut the side of the first flange 22 that faces away from the second pipe 30 and/or a part of the envelope surface of the first pipe 20.

The width of the hook member 34 may be defined as the extension along the circumference of the second pipe 30. The width of the hook member 34 may be relatively small and the hook member 34 may thus only extend along a small part of the circumference of the second pipe 30. Figure 3a illustrates the hook member 34 as a wire or a thread whereas Figure 3b illustrates the hook member 34 as a band or tape or similar. Irrespective of the cross section shape of the hook member 34, the hook member 34 suitably has sufficient strength to carry the weight of the second pipe 30. At the same time, the hook member 34 is suitably configured to be lightweight, considering the size and/or the material. This way, the hook member 34 will not add a lot of weight to the arrangement 10. The width of the hook member 34 is suitably such that the hook member 34 fits in the gap 50 in the clamp element 40. The hook member 34 may comprise metal, plastics or composite.

Figure 4 schematically illustrates a pipe connection arrangement 10 according to an embodiment of the invention. The pipe connection arrangement 10 may be configured as disclosed in Figure 2, Figure 3a and/or Figure 3b.

When the second pipe 30 is hanged on the first pipe 20 by means of the hook member 34, the clamp element 40 is mounted over the flanges 22, 32 of the pipes 20, 30. Figure 4 illustrates the clamp element 40 arranged such that the hook member 34 extends through the gap 50 of the clamp member 40 as also discussed in relation to Figure 2. The hook member 34 will thereby function as a clamp positioner, facilitating the positioning of the clamp element 40 in a desired position for clearance and accessibility.

When the latch 46 is manoeuvred to tighten the nut 48, a force may be applied in a direction illustrated with an arrow in the figure. The force may affect the clamp element, such that it rotates in relation to the pipes 20, 30. This may of course complicate the tightening of the nut 48. Thus, to tighten the nut 48 a counteracting force is required, which thereby prevents rotation of the clamp element 40. With prior art solutions the counteracting force must be applied manually by an assembler/operator. However, with the pipe connection arrangement 10 according to the invention, rotation of the clamp element 40 will result in the clamp element 40 abutting the hook member 34. The hook member 34 will thus function as a stop means that will prevent/restrict rotation of the clamp element 40. The hook member 34 thereby facilitates connection of the two pipes 20, 30. Suitably, an end of the retainer segment 42 will abut the hook member 34, irrespective of the direction of rotation of the clamp element 40. Thus, the width of the gap 50 determines how much the clamp element 40 will rotate before the hook member 34 stops the rotation.

Figures 5a, 5b and 5c schematically illustrate a pipe connection arrangement 10 according to embodiments of the invention. The pipe connection arrangement 10 in each of these figures may be configured as disclosed in Figure 2, Figure 3a, Figure 3b and/or Figure 4 with the addition that the first pipe 20 comprises a retaining portion 60 adapted to interact with the hook member 34, to restrict rotation of the second pipe 30 in relation to the first pipe 20. In these figures the clamp element 40 has been omitted to more clearly illustrate the retaining portion 60. It is to be understood that even though the hook member 34 herein is illustrated as a wire/thread the hook member 34 may have any shape.

The retaining portion 60 may be adapted to interact with at least a part of the hook member 34. This way, lateral movement of the hook member 34 is restricted or prevented and rotation of the second pipe 30 is thereby restricted or prevented. By means of the retaining portion 60 the second pipe 30 is retained in correct position and the clamp element 40 can be fitted without having to worry about the position of the pipes 20, 30. The retaining portion 60 also functions as a guiding means for positioning the second pipe 30 correctly when hanging it on the first pipe 20. The retaining portion 60 may be configured, such that a person can feel it with his/her hands. Thus, a person with impaired vision could still identify the retaining portion 60 and thereby achieve an accurate position of the second pipe 30.

The retaining portion 60 may be arranged in the envelope surface of the first pipe 20 or it may be arranged on the first flange 22. The retaining portion 60 may for example be arranged on the peripheral of the first flange 22 or on the side of the first flange 22 facing away from the second pipe 30.

Figure 5a illustrates an embodiment where the retaining portion 60 comprises at least two protrusions 62 on the first pipe 20. The at least two protrusions 62 may be adapted to be positioned on opposite sides of the hook member 34. This way, the at least two protrusions 62 restrict lateral movement of the hook member 34. The at least two protrusions 62 may have any shape. The at least two protrusions 62 may be shoulders, lugs or similar.

Suitably, the at least two protrusions 62 are arranged at a distance from each other forming a gap there between. The distance between the protrusions 62 is suitably such that a portion of the hook member 34 fits in the gap. The gap between the protrusions 62 may thus be similar to the width of the hook member 34. The gap may allow a certain play between the hook member 34 and the protrusions 62. The protrusions 62 may be casted as an integrated part of the first pipe 20 or they may be welded to the first pipe 20.

Figures 5b and 5c illustrate an embodiment where the retaining portion 60 comprises a recess 64 in the first pipe 20. The recess 64 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the portion of the hook member 34 interacting with the retaining portion 60. Thus, the width of the recess 64 may be similar to the width of the hook member 34. The width of the recess 64 may be defined as the extension in the circumferential direction of the pipes 20, 30. The recess 64 may be a groove or a slot in the first pipe 20. The recess 64 suitably forms two inner side walls. These side walls will restrict lateral movement of the hook member 34. The recess 64 may be configured to allow a certain play between the hook member 34 and the side walls.

Figure 5b shows a view from above and Figure 5c shows a cross section view where the recess 64 is arranged in the periphery of the first flange 22. A recess 64 may alternatively or additionally be arranged in the envelope surface of the first pipe 20. The retaining portion 60 may thus comprise a recess 64 in the first flange 22 and a recess 64 in the envelope surface of the first pipe 20.

The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention is provided for illustrative and descriptive purposes. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to restrict the invention to the variants described. Many modifications and variations will obviously be apparent to one skilled in the art. The embodiments have been chosen and described in order best to explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications and hence make it possible for specialists to understand the invention for various embodiments and with the various modifications appropriate to the intended use.

Claims (10)

Claims

1. A pipe connection arrangement (10), comprising: a first pipe (20) with a first flange (22); a second pipe (30) with a second flange (32); and a clamp element (40) adapted to connect the first pipe (20) and the second pipe (30), wherein the first pipe (20) and the second pipe (30) are adapted to be connected with the first flange (22) and the second flange (32) abutting each other, and wherein the clamp element (40) is adapted to encircle the first flange (22) and the second flange (32), such that the flanges (22; 32) are pressed against each other, characterised in that the second pipe (30) comprises a hook member (34) adapted to be positioned over the first flange (22) when connecting the second pipe (30) with the first pipe (20), such that the second pipe (30) can be hanged on the first pipe (20) by means of the hook member (34).

2. The arrangement (10) according to claim 1, wherein the clamp element (40) is a v-clamp.

3. The arrangement (10) according to claim 1or 2, wherein the first pipe (20) comprises a retaining portion (60) adapted to interact with the hook member (34) of the second pipe (30), to prevent rotation of the second pipe (30) in relation to the first pipe (20).

4. The arrangement (10) according to claim 3, wherein the retaining portion (60) comprises a recess (64) in the first pipe (20).

5. The arrangement (10) according to claim 3, wherein the retaining portion (60) comprises at least two protrusions (62) on the first pipe (20).

6. The arrangement (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the clamp element (40) comprises a gap (50), wherein the clamp element (40) is adapted to be arranged such that the hook member (34) extends through the gap (50) in the clamp element (40).

7. The arrangement (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hook member (34) comprises a band or a tape.

8. The arrangement (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hook member (34) comprises a wire or a thread.

9. The arrangement (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hook member (34) comprises metal, plastics or composite.

10. A vehicle (1), comprising a pipe connection arrangement (10) according to any of the preceding claims.