Mechanism for forming orthogonal joints in conduits

The present disclosure provides an apparatus for forming orthogonal joints in conduits. The apparatus includes a first piece including a first plurality of curved openings and a second piece including a second plurality of curved openings. The apparatus includes a hinge configured to couple the first piece to the second piece and to enable the first and second pieces to be configurable in each of a closed position and an open position, where, when in the open position, the first piece is positioned adjacent to the second piece and, when in the closed position, the first and second pieces are configured to define a channel for receiving a conduit and each of the first plurality of curved openings is aligned with a corresponding one of the second plurality of curved openings. The apparatus further includes one or more magnets coupled to the first or the second piece.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure is generally related to mechanisms for holding and marking conduits (e.g., pipes or tubes) to form joints comprising conduits of differing diameter.

BACKGROUND

Conduits, such as pipes or other tubes, may be cut in various shapes and sizes to construct various products. For example, a conduit may be cut perpendicular to its axis or at an angle. Pipe guides enable a user to mark a conduit in positions that are to be cut. However, pipe guides often enable marking of only one, or a few, positions. Additionally, pipe guides are designed to fit onto a single conduit. If marking of multiple conduits having different diameters, a single pipe guide is insufficient. Additionally, pipe guides do not typically enable marking of a shape on the conduit that can be used to form an orthogonal joint.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide mechanisms (e.g., apparatuses) for forming orthogonal joints in conduits, such as pipes or tubes, having different diameters. In a particular implementation, the mechanism includes a first piece that includes a first plurality of curved openings and a second piece that includes a second plurality of curved openings. The pieces may be metal, plastic, or another material. The first piece, the second piece, or both also include one or more magnets. In some implementations, the one or more magnets may be recessed into the inner surface of the respective piece. In other implementations, the magnets may be strips or layers of magnetic material that are coupled to the respective piece. The mechanism also includes a hinge configured to couple the first piece to the second piece. The hinge enables the first piece and the second piece (e.g., the mechanism) to be configurable in an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the first piece is adjacent to the second piece, and a conduit may be disposed against the one or more magnets of one of the pieces. The first piece and the second piece may then be rotated to the closed position, such that the first piece and the second piece (e.g., the mechanism) forms a channel to receive the conduit. The mechanism is configured to magnetically couple to the conduit (due to the one or more magnets), such that the mechanism does not slide or move about the conduit while a user marks on the conduit according to the pluralities of curved openings. Marking the conduit in such a manner creates a pattern that can be cut into the conduit to form a shape (e.g., a saddle shape) that is used to make an orthogonal joint with another conduit. Because the plurality of curved openings include different shaped and sized openings, the mechanism can be used to form a saddle shape on a conduit for connecting to conduits having differing diameters.

According to one embodiment, an apparatus for forming orthogonal joints in conduits is described. The apparatus includes a first piece including a first plurality of curved openings. The apparatus includes a second piece including a second plurality of curved openings. The apparatus includes a hinge configured to couple the first piece to the second piece and to enable the first piece and the second piece to be configurable in each of a closed position and an open position, where, when in the open position, the first piece is positioned adjacent to the second piece and, when in the closed position, the first piece and the second piece are configured to define a channel for receiving a conduit and each of the first plurality of curved openings is aligned with a corresponding one of the second plurality of curved openings. The apparatus further includes one or more magnets coupled to the first piece or to the second piece.

In some of the foregoing embodiments, one or more characteristics of a first curved opening of the first plurality of curved openings corresponds to a measurement of a first receiving conduit, and one or more characteristics of a second curved opening of the first plurality of curved openings corresponds to a measurement of a second receiving conduit. In some of the foregoing embodiments, a distance from a first end of the first piece to a second end of the first piece along an edge of the first piece is greater than or equal to a distance from the first end to the second end at a position between a first edge of the first piece and a second edge of the first piece. Additionally, or alternatively, the first piece includes a first notch disposed along a first end of the first piece, the second piece includes a second notch disposed along a first end of the second piece, and the first end of the first piece and the first end of the second piece are at the same end. In some such embodiments, when the first piece and the second piece are in the closed position, the first notch is positioned approximately 180 degrees from the second notch. Additionally, or alternatively, the one or more magnets include a first magnet recessed within an inner surface of the first piece and a second magnet recessed within an inner surface of the second piece. Additionally, or alternatively, the first piece includes a first tab, the second piece includes a second tab, or a combination thereof.

According to yet another embodiment, an apparatus for forming orthogonal joints in conduits is described. The apparatus includes a first piece including a first plurality of openings. The apparatus includes a second piece including a second plurality of openings. The first piece or the second piece includes at least one tab. The apparatus further includes a hinge configured to couple the first piece to the second piece and to enable the first piece and the second piece to be configurable in each of a closed position and an open position, where, when in the open position, the first piece is positioned adjacent to the second piece and, when in the closed configuration, the first piece and the second piece are configured to define a channel for receiving a conduit.

In some of the foregoing embodiments, the at least one tab is positioned on an opposite edge of the first piece or the second piece as the hinge. Additionally, or alternatively, the at least one tab includes a first table included on the first piece and a second tab included on the second piece. In some such embodiments, the first tab is aligned with a first end of the first piece and the second tab is aligned with a second end of the second piece, the first end opposite of the second end in a longitudinal direction. Additionally, or alternatively, the apparatus includes at least one magnet recessed within an inner surface of the first piece or recessed within an inner surface of the second piece.

According to yet another embodiment, an apparatus for forming orthogonal joints in conduits is described. The apparatus includes a first piece including a first plurality of openings. The apparatus includes a first magnet recessed within an inner surface of the first piece. The apparatus further includes a hinge configured to couple the first piece to a second piece and to enable the first piece and the second piece to be configurable in each of a closed position and an open position.

In some of the foregoing embodiments, the first magnet has a circular shape. Additionally, or alternatively, a surface of the first magnet is substantially coplanar with respect to at least a portion of the inner surface of the first piece. Additionally, or alternatively, the first magnet is positioned in a longitudinal direction between a first opening of the first plurality of openings and a second opening of the first plurality of openings. In some such embodiments, a distance in the longitudinal direction between the first magnet and the first opening and a distance in the longitudinal direction between the first magnet and the second opening are less than a distance in the longitudinal direction between the first opening and the second opening.

In some of the foregoing embodiments, the apparatus further includes the second piece including a second plurality of openings, where, when in the open position, the first piece is adjacent to the second piece and, when in the closed position, the first piece and the second piece define a channel configured to receive a conduit. The apparatus also includes a second magnet recessed within an inner surface of the second piece. In some such embodiments, when in the closed position, the first magnet is aligned with the second magnet. In some such embodiments, the apparatus further includes one or more additional magnets recessed in the inner surface of the first piece and one or more additional magnets recessed in the inner surface of the second piece. Additionally, or alternatively, the first piece includes a first tab, the second piece includes a second tab, or both.

The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of the present disclosure in order that the detailed description that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the present disclosure. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific implementations disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the appended claims. The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the embodiments, both as to its organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Inventive concepts provide a mechanism that enables formation of orthogonal joints in conduits that may have differing diameters. In a particular implementation, the mechanism includes a first piece that includes a first plurality of curved openings and a second piece that includes a second plurality of curved openings. The pieces may be metal, plastic, or another material. The first piece, the second piece, or both also include one or more magnets. In some implementations, the one or more magnets may be recessed into the inner surface of the respective piece. In other implementations, the magnets may be strips or layers of magnetic material that are coupled to the respective piece. The mechanism also includes a hinge configured to couple the first piece to the second piece. The hinge enables the first piece and the second piece (e.g., the mechanism) to be configurable in an open position and a closed position.

When the mechanism is in the open position, the first piece is adjacent to the second piece. When the mechanism is in the open position, a conduit may be disposed against the one or more magnets of one of the pieces (and disposed within the piece). The first piece and the second piece may then be rotated to the closed position, such that the first piece and the second piece (e.g., the mechanism) forms a channel to receive the conduit. The mechanism is configured to magnetically couple to the conduit (due to the one or more magnets), such that the mechanism does not slide or move about the conduit. After closing the mechanism about the conduit, a user may mark (e.g., using a pen or marker) on the conduit according to the pluralities of curved openings. Marking the conduit in such a manner creates a pattern that can be cut into the conduit to form a shape (e.g., a saddle shape) that is used to make an orthogonal joint with another conduit. Because the pluralities of curved openings include curved openings having a slightly different size and/or shape, the mechanism can be used on conduits for forming orthogonal joints with conduits of differing diameters. Additionally, in some implementations, the first piece, the second piece, or both include tabs that make it easier for a user to transition the mechanism from the open position to the closed position or from the closed position to the open position.

As used herein, various terminology is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting of implementations. For example, as used herein, an ordinal term (e.g., “first,” “second,” “third,” etc.) used to modify an element, such as a structure, a component, an operation, etc., does not by itself indicate any priority or order of the element with respect to another element, but rather merely distinguishes the element from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term). The term “coupled” is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically; two items that are “coupled” may be unitary with each other. The terms “a” and “an” are defined as one or more unless this disclosure explicitly requires otherwise. The term “substantially” is defined as largely but not necessarily wholly what is specified (and includes what is specified; e.g., substantially 90 degrees includes 90 degrees and substantially parallel includes parallel), as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. In any disclosed embodiment, the term “substantially” may be substituted with “within [a percentage] of” what is specified, where the percentage includes 0.1, 1, or 5 percent; and the term “approximately” may be substituted with “within 10 percent of” what is specified. The phrase “and/or” means and or or. To illustrate, A, B, and/or C includes: A alone, B alone, C alone, a combination of A and B, a combination of A and C, a combination of B and C, or a combination of A, B, and C. In other words, “and/or” operates as an inclusive or. Similarly, the phrase “A, B, C, or a combination thereof” or “A, B, C, or any combination thereof” includes A alone, B alone, C alone, a combination of A and B, a combination of A and C, a combination of B and C, or a combination of A, B, and C.

The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), and “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”). As a result, an apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” or “includes” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Likewise, a method that “comprises,” “has,” or “includes” one or more steps possesses those one or more steps, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more steps.

Further, a device or system that is configured in a certain way is configured in at least that way, but it can also be configured in other ways than those specifically described. The feature or features of one embodiment may be applied to other embodiments, even though not described or illustrated, unless expressly prohibited by this disclosure or the nature of the embodiments.

Referring toFIG. 1, a front view of a mechanism for forming orthogonal joints in conduits that may have differing diameters is shown and designated100. Mechanism100includes a first piece102and a second piece104. In a particular implementation, first piece102and second piece104are formed from metal, or a metal alloy. In other implementations, first piece102and second piece104may be formed from other materials, such as plastic.

First piece102includes a first plurality of curved openings106and a first magnet108. In a particular implementation, first magnet108may be recessed within an inner surface of first piece102, as further described herein. Second piece104includes a second plurality of curved openings110and a second magnet112. In a particular implementation, second magnet112may be recessed within an inner surface of second piece104, as further described herein. In other implementations, first piece102, second piece104, or both, may include multiple magnets, as further described with reference toFIG. 5. In still other implementations, first piece102, second piece104, or both, may include one or more layers of magnetic material, as further described with reference toFIGS. 6 and 7.

First plurality of curved openings106and second plurality of curved openings110include multiple curved openings in the corresponding piece of mechanism100. As an illustrative example, first plurality of curved openings106include at least a first curved opening106a, a second curved opening106b, and a third curved opening106c, and second plurality of curved openings110include at least a fourth curved opening110a, a fifth curved opening110b, and a sixth curved opening110c. Although three curved openings are illustrated in each piece inFIG. 1, in other implementations, each of pieces102-104may include more than three curved openings or fewer than three curved openings. In some implementations, each piece may include a single curved opening. The curved openings may also be referred to herein as “cut features.” The curved openings may be formed by punching, cutting, etching, or another technique to form curved openings in first piece102and second piece104.

Mechanism100also includes a hinge121. Hinge121is configured to couple first piece102to second piece104and to enable first piece102and second piece104(e.g., mechanism100) to be configurable in each of a closed position and an open position. When in the open position, as illustrated inFIG. 1, first piece102is adjacent to second piece104. In a particular implementation, first piece102may include a portion of hinge121, second piece104may include a portion of hinge121, and hinge121may further include a rod or pin inserted into the hinge portions to enable first piece102and second piece104(e.g., mechanism100) to transition from the open position to the closed position or from the closed position to the open position. In other implementations, hinge121is a separate component that is coupled to first piece102and to second piece104, such as via screws, adhesive, other types of bonding, etc. In still other implementations, mechanism100may include a single piece (e.g., no hinge may be included), as further described with reference toFIG. 8.

To transition first piece102and second piece104(e.g., mechanism100) to the closed configuration, first piece102may be rotated about hinge121towards second piece104.FIG. 2illustrates a front view of mechanism100in the closed position. As illustrated inFIG. 2, when in the closed position, first piece102aligns with second piece104(such that only first piece102is visible inFIG. 2). Mechanism100has a circular shape in the closed position, as illustrated byFIG. 3, which depicts a top view of mechanism100. As illustrated inFIG. 3, when semicircular first piece102and semicircular second piece104are positioned together, mechanism100has a cylindrical shape. Stated another way, when in the closed position, first piece102and second piece104(e.g., mechanism100) are configured to define a channel302for receiving a conduit (e.g., a pipe). The channel may have a substantially cylindrical shape such that the channel may receive a conduit. Mechanism100may be kept in place surrounding the conduit (e.g., may not slip or move about the conduit) due to first magnet108, second magnet112, or both. For example, first magnet108, second magnet112, or both, may magnetically couple to the conduit when first piece102and second piece104(e.g., mechanism100) are in the closed position.

Additionally, when in the closed position, each of first plurality of curved openings106is aligned with a corresponding one of second plurality of curved openings110. For example, first curved opening106ais aligned with fourth curved opening110awhen mechanism100is in the closed position. As another example, second curved opening106bis aligned with fifth curved opening110bwhen mechanism100is in the closed position. The curved openings are aligned because the curved openings may be disposed in the same locations on the different pieces. For example, one curved opening may be disposed particular distances from the ends and edges of first piece102, and another curved opening may be disposed the same particular distances from the ends and edges of second piece104. Because the curved openings of first piece102are aligned with the curved openings of second piece104, the conduit held by mechanism100may be marked to have a particular shape (e.g., based on the curved openings). In a particular implementation, the particular shape is a “saddle” shape.

To illustrate, when in the open configuration, a conduit (e.g., a pipe) may be placed against first magnet108of first piece102. Mechanism100may be transitioned to the closed position to surround the conduit and be magnetically coupled to the conduit. First plurality of curved openings106and second plurality of curved openings110enable the conduit to be marked, for example using a pen or a marker, to outline a particular shape of an end of the conduit. Once the conduit is marked, mechanism100may be transitioned to the open position and the conduit may be removed. After removing mechanism100, the conduit may be cut according to the marked lines to form a particular shape (e.g., a saddle shape) that allows the conduit to be used to form an orthogonal joint with another conduit.

Mechanism100is able to be used on a conduit to enable the conduit to be coupled (in an orthogonal joint) to conduits that may have differing diameters. For example, mechanism100may be used on a conduit having a diameter that is substantially similar, though slightly less, than the diameter of mechanism100when in the closed position. In such an example, both first magnet108and second magnet112may magnetically couple to the conduit to prevent mechanism100from moving while the conduit is being marked. Such an example is illustrated inFIG. 4A. For example,FIG. 4Aillustrates mechanism100surrounding (e.g., in the closed position) a first conduit having a substantially similar diameter. Mechanism100may have different diameters. For example, mechanism100may have diameters of 1 and ⅞ inches, 2 and ⅜ inches, 2 and ⅞ inches, 3 and ½ inches, 4 and ½ inches, or other diameters. Additionally, mechanism100may be used on conduits having smaller diameters. For example, a conduit having a smaller diameter may be magnetically coupled to one of the magnets (e.g., either first magnet108or second magnet112) and the conduit may be marked using one of the corresponding plurality of curved openings. Such an example is illustrated inFIG. 4B. For example,FIG. 4Billustrates mechanism100surrounding (e.g., in the closed position) a second conduit having a diameter that is less than the diameter of mechanism100.

Different curved openings of the pluralities of curved openings correspond to different locations for the marking of the shape on the conduit. In some implementations, first plurality of curved openings106and second plurality of curved openings110may include openings having different shapes, sizes, curvatures (e.g., radius of curves), or a combination thereof. For example, first curved opening106amay have a different size (e.g., width), a different curvature (e.g., a different radius of curve), or another different characteristic than second curved opening106band/or third curved opening106c. Additionally, fourth curved opening110amay have a different size (e.g., width), a different curvature (e.g., a different radius of curve), or another different characteristic than fifth curved opening110band sixth curved opening110c. The difference characteristics of the curved openings may correspond to different diameters of conduits for which the marked conduit is to be coupled to. For example, first curved opening106aand fourth curved opening110amay have characteristics that enable marking of a conduit such that the conduit may form an orthogonal joint with another conduit having a first diameter, second curved opening106band fifth curved opening110bmay have characteristics that enable marking of the conduit such that the conduit may form an orthogonal joint with another conduit having a second diameter, and third curved opening106cand sixth curved opening110cmay have characteristics that enable marking of the conduit such that the conduit may form an orthogonal joint with another conduit having a third diameter. To further illustrate, first curved opening106aand fourth curved opening110amay be used to mark a conduit that is to form an orthogonal joint with a 2 and ⅞ inch diameter conduit, second curved opening106band fifth curved opening110bmay be used to mark a conduit that is to form an orthogonal joint with a 3 and ½ inch conduit, and third curved opening106cand sixth curved opening110cmay be used to mark a conduit that is to form an orthogonal joint with a 4 and ½ inch diameter conduit, as non-limiting examples. In this manner, characteristics of the curved openings may be different among first plurality of curved openings106and second plurality of curved openings110, and the differences in characteristics may correspond to different diameters of receiving conduits (e.g., conduits to which the marked conduit is to be coupled to form the orthogonal joint). Although the curved openings of the pluralities of curved openings106and110are illustrated as having a first orientation inFIGS. 1 and 2(e.g., a downward-curved orientation), in other implementations, the curved openings of the pluralities of curved openings106and110may have the reverse orientation (e.g., an upward-curved orientation).

Returning toFIG. 1, first magnet108may be recessed within an inner surface of first piece102, second magnet112may be recessed within an inner surface of second piece104, or both. For example, first magnet108may be disposed within a recess within the inner surface of first piece102, and second magnet112may be disposed within a recess within the inner surface of second piece104. A surface of first magnet108may be substantially coplanar with respect to at least a portion of the inner surface of first piece102. For example, the surface of first magnet108may be located within the same plane as a portion of the inner surface of first piece102that surrounds first magnet108. Similarly, a surface of second magnet112may be substantially coplanar with respect to at least a portion of the inner surface of the second piece104.

In a particular implementation, first magnet108and second magnet112have a circular shape. In other implementations, first magnet108and second magnet112may have different shapes, such as an elliptical shape, a square shape, a rectangular shape, etc. In some implementations, first magnet108and second magnet112have the same shape, as illustrated inFIG. 1. In other implementations, first magnet108and second magnet112have different shapes. In a particular implementation, first magnet108and second magnet112have diameters of 0.5 inches. In other implementations, first magnet108and second magnet112have a different diameter. In some implementations, first magnet108and second magnet112have the same diameter. In other implementations, first magnet108and second magnet112have different diameters.

In a particular implementation, first magnet108is positioned in a longitudinal direction between first curved opening106a(e.g., a first neighboring curved opening) of first plurality of curved openings106and second curved opening106b(e.g., a second neighboring curved opening) of first plurality of curved openings106. For example, in the orientation illustrated inFIG. 1, first curved opening106ais above first magnet108and second curved opening106bis below first magnet108. In the implementation ofFIG. 1, a distance d1in the longitudinal direction between first magnet108and first curved opening106aand a distance d2in the longitudinal direction between first magnet108and second curved opening106bare less than a distance d3in the longitudinal direction between first curved opening106aand second curved opening106b. In some implementations, first magnet108is centered with respect to first curved opening106aand/or second curved opening106b. In some implementations, a radial distance (e.g., a radius) of first magnet108is less than a radial distance of second curved opening106b. Second magnet112may have similar properties as first magnet108with respect to curved openings of second plurality of curved openings110.

When first piece102and second piece104(e.g., mechanism100) is in the closed position, first magnet108is aligned with second magnet112. For example, first magnet108and second magnet112may be disposed the same distances from the ends and edges of the respective pieces. In an alternate implementation, first magnet108and second magnet112do not align when mechanism100is in the closed position (e.g., first magnet108is disposed between different curved openings than second magnet112).

Although illustrated as a single magnet disposed in each piece inFIG. 1, in other implementations, multiple magnets may be disposed in each piece. For example, one or more additional magnets may be recessed in the inner surface of first piece102, one or more additional magnets may be recessed in the inner surface of second piece104, or both, as further described with reference toFIG. 5. Alternatively, only one of first piece102or second piece104may include a magnet.

In some implementations, first piece102includes a first tab122. First tab122may be configured to make it easier for a user to transition first piece102and second piece104(e.g., mechanism100) from the closed position to the open position. For example, first tab may extend beyond the circumference of mechanism100when in the closed position (as illustrated inFIG. 3) and may provide a target for the application of force by a user to transition mechanism100from the closed position to the open position. In some implementations, second piece104includes second tab124, similar to first tab122.

The tabs122-124may be disposed on opposite edges of the respective pieces than hinge121. For example, first tab122may be positioned on an opposite edge (e.g., a left edge, in the orientation illustrated inFIG. 1) of first piece102as hinge121. As another example, second tab124may be positioned on an opposite edge (e.g., a right edge, in the orientation illustrated inFIG. 1) of second piece104as hinge121.

Tabs122-124may be aligned with opposite ends of the respective pieces. To illustrate, first piece102may have a first end126(e.g., a “top” end in the orientation illustrated inFIG. 1) and a second end128(e.g., a “bottom” end in the orientation illustrated inFIG. 1). Similarly, second piece104may have a first end130(e.g., a “top” end in the orientation illustrated inFIG. 1) and a second end132(e.g., a “bottom” end in the orientation illustrated inFIG. 1). First tab122may be aligned with second end128of first piece102, and second tab124may be aligned with first end130of second piece104. Thus, tabs122-124may be aligned with opposite ends of the respective pieces.

In addition to having a plurality of curved openings for use in marking a conduit, one or more of the ends of first piece102and second piece104may be used to mark the conduit. For example, first end126of first piece102and first end130of second piece104may be curved similar (but not exactly the same) as first plurality of curved openings106and second plurality of curved openings110such that a user may mark along the first ends126and130to mark the curved shape for cutting on a conduit. In some implementations, first end126and second end128may be sized and shaped such that the marked conduit forms an orthogonal joint with another conduit having the same diameter as the marked conduit. Second end128of first piece102and second end132of second piece104may be substantially perpendicular to the conduit (when the conduit is received in channel302), and thus, marking along second ends128and132may enable marking a perpendicular cut on the conduit. Additionally, first ends126and130may curve downward (in the orientation illustrated inFIG. 1) from the edges of the respective piece to be the same as first plurality of curved openings106and second plurality of curved openings110. Stated another way, a distance d4from first end126to second end128along an edge of first piece102is greater than or equal to a distance d5from first end126to second end128at a position between a first edge (e.g., a left edge) and a second edge (e.g., a right edge) of first piece102. Because first ends126and130have such shapes, a saddle shape may be marked on a conduit by tracing first ends126and130, which enables the conduit to be cut into a shape used to form an orthogonal joint with another conduit. Forming first ends126and130to have the downward curve may result in mechanism100using less material than if first ends126and130have an upward curve.

In some implementations, pieces102-104include one or more stencil features (e.g., notches) along the end of the respective piece. For example, first piece102may include a first notch134disposed along second end128. Second piece104may similarly include second notch136disposed along second end132. As illustrated inFIG. 1, notches134-136may be disposed along the same end (e.g., second ends128and132) of the respective piece. When first piece102and second piece104(e.g., mechanism100) is in the closed position, first notch134is aligned with second notch136such that first notch134is positioned approximately 180 degrees from second notch136. Notches134-136may be used to mark the position of mechanism100on a conduit when mechanism100is in the closed position to center mechanism100on the conduit. Thus, if mechanism100is opened before marking is completed, mechanism100can be re-aligned in the same position and the marking can be completed.

In a particular implementation, an apparatus (e.g.,100) for forming orthogonal joints in conduits is disclosed. The apparatus includes a first piece (e.g.,102) including a first plurality of curved openings (e.g.,106). The apparatus includes a second piece (e.g.,104) including a second plurality of curved openings (e.g.,110). The apparatus includes a hinge (e.g.,121) configured to couple the first piece to the second piece and to enable the first piece and the second piece to be configurable in each of a closed position and an open position, where, when in the open position, the first piece is positioned adjacent to the second piece and, when in the closed position, the first piece and the second piece are configured to define a channel (e.g.,302) for receiving a conduit and each of the first plurality of curved openings is aligned with a corresponding one of the second plurality of curved openings. The apparatus further includes one or more magnets (e.g.,108,112) coupled to the first piece or to the second piece.

In a particular implementation, an apparatus (e.g.,100) for forming orthogonal joints in conduits is disclosed. The apparatus includes a first piece (e.g.,102) including a first plurality of openings (e.g.,106). The apparatus includes a second piece (e.g.,104) including a second plurality of openings (e.g.,110). The first piece or the second piece includes at least one tab (e.g.,122,124). The apparatus further includes a hinge (e.g.,121) configured to couple the first piece to the second piece and to enable the first piece and the second piece to be configurable in each of a closed position and an open position, where, when in the open position, the first piece is positioned adjacent to the second piece and, when in the closed configuration, the first piece and the second piece are configured to define a channel (e.g.,302) for receiving a conduit.

In a particular implementation, an apparatus (e.g.,100) for forming orthogonal joints in conduits is disclosed. The apparatus includes a first piece (e.g.,102) including a first plurality of openings (e.g.,106). The apparatus includes a first magnet (e.g.,108) recessed within an inner surface of the first piece. The apparatus further includes a hinge (e.g.,121) configured to couple the first piece to a second piece (e.g.,104) and to enable the first piece and the second piece to be configurable in each of a closed position and an open position.

Thus,FIGS. 1-3, 4A, and 4Bdescribe mechanism100that may be used to mark a conduit (e.g., a pipe). For example, after closing mechanism100about the conduit, a user may mark (e.g., using a pen or marker) on the conduit according to the pluralities of curved openings106and110. Marking the conduit in such a manner creates a pattern that can be cut into the conduit to form a shape (e.g., a saddle shape) that is used to make an orthogonal joint with another conduit. Because mechanism100includes curved openings with different shapes and/or sizes, mechanism100can be used on to mark a conduit for forming an orthogonal joint with conduits of differing diameters. Additionally, in some implementations, first piece102, second piece104, or both include tabs122-124that make it easier for a user to transition mechanism100from the open position to the closed position or from the closed position to the open position.

Referring toFIG. 5, a second implementation of a mechanism for forming orthogonal joints in conduits that may have differing diameters is depicted and designated500.FIG. 5illustrates a front view of mechanism500in the open position. Mechanism500is similar to mechanism100ofFIG. 1, except that mechanism500includes multiple magnets in each piece.

To illustrate, mechanism500includes a first piece502and a second piece504. First piece502may include a first plurality of magnets, and second piece504may include a second plurality of magnets. For example, first piece502may include a first magnet506, a second magnet508, and a third magnet510, and second piece504may include a fourth magnet512, a fifth magnet514, and a sixth magnet516. Although three magnets per piece are illustrated, in other implementations, each piece may include fewer than three or more than three magnets.

Each magnet may be recessed into an inner surface of a respective piece. For example, magnets506-510may be recessed into the inner surface of first piece502, and magnets512-516may be recessed into the inner surface of second piece504. In some implementations, magnets506-510may be coplanar with portions of the inner surface of first piece502, and magnets512-516may be coplanar with portions of the inner surface of second piece504.

In a particular implementation, magnets on each piece may be different sizes. For example, magnets506-510may be different sizes, and magnets512-516may be different sizes. Alternatively, magnets506-510may be the same size, and magnets512-516may be the same size. In some implementations, magnets506-510are the same size as corresponding magnets of magnets512-516. In other implementations, magnets506-510are different sizes than corresponding magnets of magnets512-516.

Magnets506-516may be disposed in various positions of the respective piece. For example, magnets506-516may be disposed between curved openings, or between curved openings and ends of the respective piece. Additionally, magnets506-516may be centered with respect to the curved openings. In other implementations, magnets506-516may be disposed in other positions.

Thus,FIG. 5illustrates mechanism500including pieces with multiple magnets recessed in each piece. Including multiple magnets in each piece may improve the magnetic coupling of mechanism500to a conduit when mechanism500is in the closed position, and may further prevent mechanism500from sliding about the conduit when a user is marking the conduit according to one or more of the curved openings (or ends of mechanism500).

Referring toFIG. 6, a third implementation of a mechanism for forming orthogonal joints in conduits that may have differing diameters is depicted and designated600.FIG. 6illustrates a front view of mechanism600in the open position. Mechanism600is similar to mechanism500ofFIG. 5, except that mechanism600includes multiple strips of magnetic material instead of multiple magnets.

To illustrate, mechanism600includes a first piece602and a second piece604. First piece602may include a first plurality of strips of magnetic material, and second piece604may include a second plurality of strips of magnetic material. For example, first piece602may include a first strip of magnetic material606, a second strip of magnetic material608, and a third strip of magnetic material610, and second piece604may include a fourth strip of magnetic material612, a fifth strip of magnetic material614, and a sixth strip of magnetic material616. Although three strips of magnetic material per piece are illustrated, in other implementations, each piece may include fewer than three or more than three strips of magnetic material. Although illustrated as rectangular shapes, in other implementations, strips of magnetic material606-616may be other shapes, such as curved shapes, circular shapes, etc. Strips of magnetic material606-616may be coupled to the respective piece using adhesive or another coupling technique.

Thus,FIG. 6illustrates mechanism600including pieces with multiple strips of magnetic material coupled in each piece. Including multiple strips of magnetic material coupled to each piece may improve the magnetic coupling of mechanism600to a conduit when mechanism600is in the closed position, and may further prevent mechanism600from sliding about the conduit when a user is marking the conduit according to one or more of the curved openings (or ends of mechanism600). Additionally, using strips of magnetic material instead of magnets (as inFIG. 5) may simplify the fabrication process because recesses in the inner surfaces of the pieces are not required.

Referring toFIG. 7, a fourth implementation of a mechanism for forming orthogonal joints in conduits that may have differing diameters is depicted and designated700.FIG. 7illustrates a top view of mechanism700in the closed position. Mechanism700is similar to mechanism600ofFIG. 6, except that mechanism700includes layers of magnetic material instead of multiple strips of magnetic material.

To illustrate, mechanism700includes a first piece702and a second piece704. First piece702may include a first layer of magnetic material706coupled thereto, and second piece704may include a second layer of magnetic material708coupled thereto. Each of the layers of magnetic material may have a shape similar to the respective piece, including a respective plurality of openings. Layers of magnetic material706-708may be coupled to the respective piece using adhesive or another coupling technique.

Thus,FIG. 7illustrates mechanism700including pieces each with a layer of magnetic material coupled to the respective piece. Including layers of magnetic material coupled to each piece may improve the magnetic coupling of mechanism700to a conduit when mechanism700is in the closed position, and may further prevent mechanism700from sliding about the conduit when a user is marking the conduit according to one or more of the curved openings (or ends of mechanism700). Additionally, using layers of magnetic material instead of magnets (as inFIG. 5) may simplify the fabrication process because recesses in the inner surfaces of the pieces are not required.

Referring toFIG. 8, a fifth implementation of a mechanism for forming orthogonal joints in conduits that may have differing diameters is depicted and designated800.FIG. 8illustrates a top view of mechanism800in the closed position.

Mechanism800differs from the mechanisms ofFIGS. 1-7in that mechanism800includes a single piece802. The single piece802is cylindrical in shape, similar to when the two pieces of the other mechanisms are in the closed position. However, mechanism800does not have an open position. For example, no hinge is included in mechanism800. Additionally, mechanism800does not include tabs (since there is not transitioning to an open position). Instead, mechanism800may be slid onto a conduit and held in place using one or more magnets that are recessed into an inner surface of single piece802. In other implementations, strips of magnetic material or a layer of magnetic material may be used, as described with reference toFIGS. 6-7.

Referring toFIG. 9, mechanism100ofFIG. 1is shown in a closed configuration. InFIG. 9, mechanism100surrounds a conduit900(e.g., a pipe). Conduit900is held in place such that mechanism100does not move with respect to conduit900by first magnet108and second magnet112(not shown). For example, first magnet108and second magnet112may be magnetically coupled to conduit900.

Because mechanism100surrounds conduit900, a user is able to mark conduit900in accordance with one of the first plurality of curved openings106. For example, a user may user a marking instrument902(e.g., a pencil, a pen, a marker, etc.) in accordance with one of the curved openings. In the example illustrated inFIG. 9, marking instrument902creates a marking904on conduit900in accordance with (e.g., around the shape defined by) first curved opening106a. By marking conduit900in such a manner, a user may know where to cut conduit900to form an orthogonal connection with another conduit. Although marking in accordance with first curved opening106ais illustrated, any of first plurality of curved openings106(or second plurality of curved openings110) may be used to mark conduit900.

Referring toFIG. 10, a flow diagram of a method of operating a mechanism for forming orthogonal joints in conduits that may have differing diameters is shown as a method1000. At1002, method1000includes transitioning a mechanism to an open position. The mechanism includes a first piece including a first plurality of curved openings, a second piece including a second plurality of curved openings, and a hinge that couples the first piece to the second piece and enables the mechanism to be configurable in each of the open position and a closed position. For example, mechanism100(e.g., first piece102and second piece104) may be transitioned to the open position illustrated inFIG. 1.

At1004, the method1000includes disposing a conduit against a magnet included in the first piece. For example, a conduit (e.g., a pipe) may be disposed against first magnet108(and first piece102) or against second magnet112(and second piece104).

At1006, the method1000includes transitioning the mechanism to the closed position. The closed position defines a channel to receive the conduit. For example, mechanism100may be transitioned to the closed position illustrated inFIGS. 2 and 3. When in the closed position, mechanism100includes channel302configured to receive the conduit.

At1008, the method1000includes marking the conduit based on the first plurality of curved openings and the second plurality of curved openings. For example, a user, using a pen or marker, may mark on the conduit according to first plurality of curved openings106and second plurality of curved openings110(or ends of mechanism100). The shape marked using first plurality of curved openings106and second plurality of curved openings110is the shape used to form an orthogonal joint with another conduit.

In a particular implementation, the mechanism includes a first magnet recessed into an inner surface of the first piece or the second piece. For example, mechanism100includes first magnet108, second magnet112, or both, recessed into the inner surfaces of the respective pieces.

In a particular implementation, the first piece includes a first tab, the second piece includes a second tab, or both. For example, first piece102may include first tab122and second piece104may include second tab124. Tabs122-124may make it easier for a user to transition mechanism100from the open position to the closed position or from the closed position to the open position.

Thus, method1000describes operation of a mechanism that enables a user to mark a conduit with shapes that can be used to cut the conduit into a shape to be used as an orthogonal joint with another conduit. For example, after closing the mechanism about the conduit, the mechanism is held in place by a magnet (or multiple magnets) such that the user may mark the conduit (e.g., using a pen or marker) without the mechanism sliding or moving about the conduit.

The foregoing disclosed pieces (and mechanisms) may be designed and configured into computer files stored on a computer readable media. Some or all of such files may be provided to fabrication handlers who fabricate the pieces (and/or mechanisms) based on such files. The mechanisms may then be used to mark conduits for forming orthogonal joints, as described above.FIG. 11depicts an example of a system1100for fabricating mechanisms for forming orthogonal joints in conduits having differing diameters.

Mechanism information1102is received at a research/design computer1106. Mechanism information1102may include design information representing at least one physical property of a mechanism, such as mechanisms100,500,600,700, or800. For example, mechanism information1102may include shapes of pieces, locations of curved openings, locations of hinges, locations of recesses and magnets or magnetic material, locations of tabs, locations of notches, etc. that are entered via a user interface1104coupled to research/design computer1106. Research/design computer1106includes a processor1108, such as one or more processing cores, coupled to a computer readable medium such as a memory1110. Memory1110may store computer readable instructions that are executable to cause processor1108to transform mechanism information1102into a design file1112. Design file1112may include information indicating a design for a mechanism, such as shapes of pieces, locations of curved openings, locations of hinges, locations of recesses and magnets or magnetic material, locations of tabs, locations of notches, etc. Design file1112may be in a format that is usable by other systems to perform fabrication, as further described herein.

Design file1112is provided to a fabrication computer1114to control fabrication equipment during a fabrication process for a metal pieces1120(e.g., pieces that have not been shaped, had curved holes formed, etc.). Although described as metal pieces, in other implementations, the pieces may be plastic or other materials. Fabrication computer1114includes a processor1116(e.g., one or more processors), such as one or more processing cores, and a memory1118. Memory1118may include executable instructions such as computer-readable instructions or processor-readable instructions that are executable by a computer, such as processor1116. The executable instructions may enable processor1116to control fabrication equipment, such as by sending one or more control signals or data, during a fabrication process for metal pieces1120(e.g., pieces that have not been shaped, had curved holes formed, etc.). In some implementations, the fabrication system (e.g., an automated system that performs the fabrication process) may have a distributed architecture. For example, a high-level system (e.g., processor1116) may issue instructions to be executed by controllers of one or more lower-level systems (e.g., individual pieces of fabrication equipment). The lower-level systems may receive the instructions, may issue sub-commands to subordinate modules or process tools, and may communicate status back to the high-level system. Thus, multiple processors (e.g., processor1116and one or more controllers) may be distributed in the fabrication system.

The fabrication equipment includes first piece fabrication equipment1122, second piece fabrication equipment1124, optional painting equipment1126, magnet insertion equipment1128, and assembly equipment1130. First piece fabrication equipment1122is configured to form a first piece of the mechanism, such as first piece102of mechanism100. For example, first piece fabrication equipment1122may include cutting equipment, an etcher, or other equipment configured to form the shape of the first piece, including the respective tab and notch. Additionally, first piece fabrication equipment1122may include an etching device, a punching device, a drill, or other equipment configured to form a first plurality of curved openings, such as first plurality of curved openings106. Second piece fabrication equipment1124is configured to form a second piece of the mechanism, such as second piece104of mechanism100. For example, second piece fabrication equipment1124may include cutting equipment, an etcher, or other equipment configured to form the shape of the second piece, including the respective tab and notch. Additionally, second piece fabrication equipment1124may include an etching device, a punching device, a drill, or other equipment configured to form a second plurality of curved openings, such as second plurality of curved openings110. Although described as two distinct pieces of fabrication equipment, in other implementations, first piece fabrication equipment1122(or second piece fabrication equipment1124) may be used to form both the first piece and the second piece.

Painting equipment1126is configured to paint the first piece and the second piece. For example, painting equipment1126may paint the first piece and the second piece a selected color. In a particular implementation, the color corresponds to the diameter of the mechanism formed by the first piece and the second piece when the mechanism is in the closed position.

Magnet insertion equipment1128may be configured to insert a magnet into a recess of an inner surface of the first piece or the second piece (or both). For example, magnet insertion equipment1128may deposit an adhesive in the recess(es) prior to depositing the magnet(s). In other implementations, the magnets may be attached to the pieces in a different way.

Assembly equipment1130may be configured to assemble the mechanism from the various pieces. For example, assembly equipment1130may be configured to couple the first piece to the second piece (if each piece includes a respective portion of a hinge) and to insert a rod (or a pin) into the hinge to assemble the device. Alternatively, if the hinge is a separate component, assembly equipment1130may be configured to attach the hinge to the first piece and the second piece.

Fabrication computer1114may be configured to initiate one or more operations of first piece fabrication equipment1122, second piece fabrication equipment1124, painting equipment1126, magnet insertion equipment1128, and assembly equipment1130. For example, processor1116may execute instructions stored at memory1118to perform operations including initiating formation of a first piece including a first plurality of curved openings, a first recess, and a first tab. The operations include initiating formation of a second piece including a second plurality of curved openings, a second recess, and a second tab. In a particular implementation, formation of the first piece and the second piece is initiated at least partially concurrently. In an alternate implementation, formation of the second piece is initiated after formation of the first piece. In some implementations, the operations include initiating painting of the first piece and the second piece. The operations also include initiating attachment of the one or more magnets to the first piece and/or the second piece. The operations further include initiating assembly of the mechanism.

Performing the fabrication operations on metal pieces1120operates to form mechanism1132. Mechanism1132includes a first piece, a second piece, and in some implementations, a hinge coupling the first piece to the second piece. For example, mechanism1132may include or correspond to mechanisms100,500,600,700, or800.

System1100enables fabrication of mechanism1132for forming orthogonal joints in conduits that may have differing diameters. For example, after closing mechanism1132about the conduit, a user may mark (e.g., using a pen or marker) on the conduit according to the pluralities of curved openings in mechanism1132. Marking the conduit in such a manner creates a pattern that can be cut into the conduit to form a shape (e.g., a saddle shape) that is used to make an orthogonal joint with another conduit. Because mechanism1132includes curved openings having different shapes and/or sizes, mechanism1132can be used to mark a conduit for use in forming an orthogonal joint with conduits of differing diameters. Additionally, in some implementations, the first piece, the second piece, or both include tabs that make it easier for a user to transition mechanism1132from the open position to the closed position or from the closed position to the open position.

Referring toFIG. 12, a kit1200for a mechanism for forming orthogonal joints in conduits of that may have diameters, such as mechanism100ofFIG. 1, is shown. Kit1200includes a first piece1204, a second piece1206, and a rod1208(or a pin). First piece1204includes a plurality of curved openings. For example, first piece1204may include or correspond to first piece102which includes first plurality of curved openings106. Second piece1206includes a plurality of curved openings. For example, second piece1206may include or correspond to second piece104which includes second plurality of curved openings110.

In a particular implementation, first piece1204, second piece1206, or both include a magnet recessed within an inner surface of the respective piece, as described with reference toFIG. 1. In other implementations, first piece1204, second piece1206, or both include multiple magnets recessed within the inner surface of the respective piece. In still other implementations, first piece1204, second piece1206, or both include strips of magnetic material or layers of magnetic material. Additionally, or alternatively, first piece1204, second piece1206, or both include a tab as part of the respective piece. For example, first piece1204may include first tab122, second piece1206may include second tab124, or both.

Rod1208may be included to be inserted into hinge portions to form a hinge that couples first piece1204to second piece1206. For example, first piece1204may include a portion of a hinge, second piece1206may include a portion of a hinge, and rod1208may be inserted into the portions of the hinge to form the hinge that couples first piece1204to second piece1206. Alternatively, the hinge may be a separate component that is included in kit1200.

In some implementations, kit1200may include a package1202. For example, package1202may include a box, a bag, a container, or the like. Additionally, or alternatively, package1202may include a packaging medium (e.g., packaging material), such as foam, paper, or the like. Package1202may also include first piece1204, second piece1206, and rod1208. In some implementations, package1202may also include one or more additional elements, as further described herein.

In some implementations, kit1200may include a third piece1210, a fourth piece1212, and a second rod1214. Although four pieces are shown as being included in kit1200, in other implementations, more than four pieces may be included in kit1200. Third piece1210and fourth piece1212may include pluralities of curved openings, magnets, and tabs, as described with reference to first piece1204and second piece1206. Additionally, third piece1210may include a portion of a hinge, fourth piece1212may include a portion of a hinge, and second rod1214may be inserted in the portions of the hinge to form the hinge the couples third piece1210to fourth piece1212. When in the closed position, the mechanism formed by third piece1210and fourth piece1212may have a different diameter than the mechanism formed by first piece1204and second piece1206, when in the closed position.

Thus,FIG. 12describes a kit for a mechanism for forming orthogonal joints in conduits that may have differing diameters. Kit1200may include the disassembled pieces of the mechanism, which may take up less volume and thus save money on shipping costs to the consumer. Additionally, kit1200may include pieces of multiple mechanisms having different diameters when in the closed position.

Although one or more of the disclosed figures may illustrate systems, apparatuses, methods, or a combination thereof, according to the teachings of the disclosure, the disclosure is not limited to these illustrated systems, apparatuses, methods, or a combination thereof. One or more functions or components of any of the disclosed figures as illustrated or described herein may be combined with one or more other portions of another function or component of the disclosed figures. Accordingly, no single implementation described herein should be construed as limiting and implementations of the disclosure may be suitably combined without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.