Patent Description:
This disclosure relates generally to v-clamps for joining tubular bodies.

V-clamps are typically used to join tubular bodies that have end flanges extending outwardly from the main structures of the tubular bodies. These types of tubular bodies are employed in a wide range of applications including, but not limited to, automotive, aerospace, agriculture, and oil and gas. Previous end flanges have angled and planar walls, and previous v-clamps have bands that exhibit a cross-sectional profile configuration that remains unchanged along the band's extent. When the v-clamps are tightened on the tubular bodies, the bands receive the end flanges and radial and axial forces exerted on the end flanges establish a fluid-tight joint at the end flanges. Documents <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT> relate to clamps of the prior art.

The above disadvantages are solved by a v-clamp, a joint assembly, and an end flange assembly as claimed herein. Main features of the v-clamp are specified in claim <NUM>. Special embodiments or beneficial variants of the v-clamp are presented in claims <NUM>-<NUM>. Main features of the joint assembly are specified in claim <NUM>. Special embodiments or beneficial variants of the joint assembly are presented in claims <NUM>-<NUM>. Main features of the end flange assembly are specified by claim <NUM>.

According to an implementation, a v-clamp may include a band. The band extends in a circumferential direction from a first end to a second end. The band has a first side wall and a second side wall. The first and second side walls establish a v-angle therebetween in sectional profile. The v-angle has a first value at a first circumferential position of the band and has a second value at a second circumferential position of the band. The first circumferential position is nearer to a closure mechanism of the v-clamp than the second circumferential position. The first value is greater than the second value.

According to another implementation, a joint assembly may include a first tubular body end flange, a second tubular body end flange, and a v-clamp. The v-clamp can be placed over the first and second tubular body end flanges. The v-clamp may include a band. The band extends in a circumferential direction from a first end to a second end. The band has a first side wall and a second side wall. The first and second side walls establish a v-angle therebetween in sectional profile. One or more of the first tubular body end flange, second tubular body end flange, and/or v-clamp has a change in shape over a portion or more of a circumferential extent thereof. The change in shape effects a generally even application of axial load to the first and second tubular body end flanges from the v-clamp over the portion or more of the circumferential extent.

According to yet another implementation, an end flange assembly may include a first tubular body end flange and a second tubular body end flange. The first tubular body end flange has a generally partially spherical shape. And the second tubular body end flange has a generally partially spherical shape.

One or more embodiments will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings, wherein like designations denote like elements, and wherein:.

With reference to <FIG>, a first embodiment of a v-clamp <NUM> is presented that furnishes an improved axial load applied to a first and a second tubular body end flange <NUM>, <NUM> in order to establish a fluid-tight joint therebetween. The improved axial load is more evenly and uniformly applied around a circumference of the v-clamp <NUM> and to the first and second tubular body end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> than previously demonstrated. In this embodiment, sliding frictional effects experienced amid a tightening action are accommodated via a v-angle of the v-clamp <NUM> that varies in value over a section or more of the v-clamp's band, via the end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> exhibiting a partially spherical profile, or a combination of both. The varied v-angle and partially spherical end flanges, when taken individually or together, provide a level of control and management-lacking in past v-clamps-over an orientation of the force ultimately applied to the underlying end flanges <NUM>, <NUM>. The v-clamp <NUM> hence converts contact forces between the v-clamp <NUM> and the underlying end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> more efficiently and effectively than previously shown. Moreover, a tightening force needed to effect the improved force and establish the fluid-tight joint is minimized compared to past tightening forces. The v-clamp <NUM> is suitable for use in a wide range of applications including, but not limited to, automotive (e.g., joints adjacent a turbocharger, exhaust components, etc.), aerospace, agriculture, and oil and gas applications, and is particularly suitable in applications involving high temperatures, stringent leak requirements, and tight packaging demands.

Furthermore, as used herein, the words axially, radially, and circumferentially, and their related grammatical forms, are used in reference to the generally circular and cylindrical shape of the shown v-clamp. In this sense, axially refers to a direction that is generally along or parallel to a central axis of the circular and cylindrical shape, radially refers to a direction that is generally along or parallel to a radius of the circular and cylindrical shape, and circumferentially refers to a direction that is generally along or in a similar direction as a circumference of the circular and cylindrical shape.

Turning now to <FIG>, the v-clamp <NUM> can be employed in applications involving fluid-flow through a first tubular body <NUM> and a second tubular body <NUM>. The first tubular body <NUM> has the first end flange <NUM>, and the second tubular body <NUM> has the second end flange <NUM>. The first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> can be unitary extensions of their respective tubular bodies, or can be initially discrete components that are subsequently fixed to the tubular bodies. The first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> span circumferentially around the respective first and second tubular bodies <NUM>, <NUM>, and span radially outboard of the respective tubular body <NUM>, <NUM>. In assembly and installation, the first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> come together for abutment and could have a gasket seated therebetween. In the example of the gasket, one or both of the end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> could have a circumferential channel residing in a confronting face <NUM> (<FIG>) thereof in which the gasket would be seated; the gasket would establish a seal against potential leakage at the surface-to-surface confrontation of the first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM>.

The first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> can have different configurations in different embodiments. In the embodiment of <FIG> and <FIG>, the first and second end flange <NUM>, <NUM> have a configuration that accounts for a v-angle that varies and an accompanying contact angle between the v-clamp's band and the end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> that correspondingly varies; in this regard, the configuration of the end flanges can differ according to differing v-angles in other embodiments. With particular reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, here, the first end flange <NUM> has a generally partially spherical shape. An exterior surface <NUM> of the first end flange <NUM> is correspondingly partially circular in shape, and lacks the angled and planar surfaces of previous end flanges. A sectional profile of the first end flange <NUM> of <FIG> is depicted in <FIG> and demonstrates a partially spherical profile of the first end flange <NUM>. Similarly, the second end flange <NUM> has a generally partially spherical shape. An exterior surface <NUM> of the second end flange <NUM> is correspondingly partially circular in shape, and lacks the angled and planar surfaces of previous end flanges. As before, the sectional profile of the second end flange <NUM> demonstrates a partially spherical profile of the second end flange <NUM>. The sectional profiles of the first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM>, presented in <FIG> is similar to those presented in <FIG>, but have somewhat planar base portions <NUM>, <NUM> transitioning from the first and second tubular bodies <NUM>, <NUM> to their partially spherical portions; their partially spherical portions provide similar effects to those of <FIG>. Moreover, other embodiments of flanges could have partially spherical portions only at the locations of the flanges that are engaged by the v-clamp. Still, in other embodiments that lack specific depiction in the figures, the end flanges could exhibit other configurations, as set forth below. In certain embodiments, the first and second end flanges could have angled and planar walls. This is depicted in <FIG>. First and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> have first and second planar walls <NUM>, <NUM>. The first and second planar walls <NUM>, <NUM> are angled at about forty degrees (<NUM>°) with respect to the vertical direction of <FIG> (i.e., the radial direction). The first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM>, together with the v-clamp <NUM>, constitute a joint assembly.

The v-clamp <NUM> is set in place over and around the first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> and is tightened to assist in the establishment of a fluid-tight joint therebetween. The v-clamp <NUM> can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments; its exact design, construction, and components can be dictated in part or more by the application in which the v-clamp will be employed and the design and construction of the end flanges in which it will be tightened down upon. In the embodiment presented by <FIG>, the v-clamp <NUM> includes a band <NUM> and a closure mechanism (not depicted). Still, in other embodiments, the v-clamp <NUM> could include more, less, and/or different components than those of the figures.

The band <NUM> constitutes the main structure of the v-clamp <NUM>. The band <NUM> can be made from a metal material such as stainless steel. The band <NUM> can take different forms in different embodiments. With reference to <FIG>, the band <NUM> has a first end <NUM> at one of its circumferential terminations, and has a second end <NUM> at its other and opposite circumferential termination. The band <NUM> can extend circumferentially continuously from the first end <NUM> to the second end <NUM>, and/or can have a hinged structure or some other discontinuity in its circumferential extent between the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM>. In one example, the band <NUM> has a pair of band segments bridged together at a circumferential position that lies <NUM>° from the closure mechanism. At its axial boundaries, the band <NUM> has a first axial end <NUM> and a second axial end <NUM>. On a radially-inboard facing side, the band <NUM> has an inner surface <NUM> (<FIG>). On the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM>, the band <NUM> can have various formations dictated in part or more by the design and construction and components of the closure mechanism. In <FIG>, for example, the band <NUM> has first and second band flanges <NUM>, <NUM> extending radially-outboard of the main circular body of the band <NUM>. The first and second band flanges <NUM>, <NUM> can each have a hole for receiving insertion of a fastener of the closure mechanism. In other embodiments, the band <NUM> could have first and second loops on the respective first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> that are formed by the band <NUM> being folded back onto itself and spot-welded in place; this type of end formation can be used with a T-bolt type tightening assembly; still, other formations are possible.

It has been found that certain past v-clamps applied an axial load to underlying end flanges in an uneven and non-uniform way. The axial load applied, testing has shown, was much higher at the tightening hardware and much lower at a location of the v-clamp's band opposite the tightening hardware. The graph of <FIG> evidences this somewhat poorly distributed axial load around the v-clamp's circumference. Line <NUM> represents a past v-clamp having a band with a cross-sectional profile configuration that remains unchanged along the extent of its band. A point <NUM> on the line <NUM> is a location of the v-clamp's band next to the tightening hardware, and a point <NUM>, on the other hand, is a location of the v-clamp's band opposite the tightening hardware and about one-hundred-and-eighty degrees (<NUM>°) from the tightening hardware relative to the full circumference of the v-clamp's band (for demonstrative purposes, the points <NUM>, <NUM> and their related locations are indicated in <FIG>). Points on the line <NUM> in-between the points <NUM> and <NUM> represent respective locations along the v-clamp's band. In the graph, the axial load applied at the point <NUM> is greater than three-hundred-and-fifty newtons (<NUM> N), while the axial load applied at the point <NUM> is below one-hundred-and-fifty newtons (<NUM> N), evidencing a loss of more than one-half of the axial load applied from the tightening hardware to opposite the tightening hardware. And the axial load applied progressively decreases from the point <NUM> to the point <NUM>. As a consequence, these past v-clamps and their established joints might be more vulnerable to leakage at locations farther away from the tightening hardware. Furthermore, it has been found that the loss of axial load is due in large part to sliding frictional effects generated amid tightening and rundown actions between the v-clamp's band and underlying end flanges. The sliding frictional effects work to dissipate band tension at increased amounts farther from the tightening hardware. The axial load that would otherwise be applied is lost through friction and the attendant reduction in band tension. To counteract the axial load losses, past tightening forces have been increased. This also often meant a larger-sized fastener and thicker band needed to withstand the increased tightening force. Skilled artisans should appreciate that the graph of <FIG> is the result of analytical modeling, and that similar modeling may yield differing results.

The band <NUM> presented by the figures has been designed and constructed to resolve the drawbacks of the past v-clamps. In this embodiment, and referring now to the sectional profiles of <FIG>, the band <NUM> has a shape that changes along a circumferential extent taken between the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM>. The precise change in shape itself can differ in different embodiments. Here, the change in shape is mirrored and symmetrical about a diametric centerline <NUM> (<FIG>). The band <NUM> has a base wall <NUM>, a first side wall <NUM> extending from the base wall <NUM>, and a second side wall <NUM> extending from the base wall <NUM>. Because of the change in shape, the base wall <NUM> transitions from a somewhat planar configuration (<FIG>) at a location farthest away from the closure mechanism, to a more rounded and more pointed configuration (<FIG>) at a location nearest to the closure mechanism. The transitional configuration at the base wall <NUM> occurs gradually, as can be observed from <FIG>. As it transitions, the base wall <NUM> gradually grows in size and axially widens from the location at <FIG> to the location at <FIG>, as can be observed by a review of <FIG>. As but one non-limiting example, the base wall <NUM> can widen in size from the location at <FIG> to the location at <FIG> by approximately <NUM> millimeters (mm); in other examples, the widening can be more or less than this value. The first side wall <NUM> depends radially-inboard and axially-outward of the base wall <NUM>, and likewise the second side wall <NUM> depends radially-inboard and axially-outward of the base wall <NUM>. Together, the base wall <NUM> and first and second side walls <NUM>, <NUM> establish a generally concave shape when viewed from the interior of the v-clamp <NUM>. A channel <NUM> (<FIG>) is defined at the underside of the band <NUM> by the base wall <NUM> and first and second side walls <NUM>, <NUM> and receives the first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> in assembly and installation.

Still referring to <FIG>, the change in shape of the band <NUM> in this embodiment is a v-angle <NUM> that varies along the circumferential extent of the band <NUM>. The v-angle <NUM> is established between the first and second side walls <NUM>, <NUM> and defined thereby. In general, the side walls <NUM>, <NUM> spread apart and the v-angle <NUM> grows wider closer to the closure mechanism, and the side walls <NUM>, <NUM> come together and the v-angle <NUM> grows narrower and sharper farther away from the closure mechanism. The v-angle <NUM> steadily and continuously increases over the band's extent from the location denoted by the point <NUM> in <FIG> and to the first end <NUM> and closure mechanism. Conversely, the v-angle <NUM> steadily and continuously decreases over the band's extent from the first end <NUM> and closure mechanism and to the location denoted by the point <NUM> in <FIG>. For demonstrative purposes, the sectional view of <FIG> can constitute a first circumferential position of the band <NUM>. The v-angle <NUM> at the first circumferential position in this example has a value of approximately seventy-eight degrees (<NUM>°); of course, other values of the v-angle are possible in other examples. The sectional view of <FIG> can constitute a second circumferential position of the band <NUM>, and the v-angle <NUM> at the second circumferential position in this example has a value of approximately sixty-nine degrees (<NUM>°); of course, other values of the v-angle are possible at this circumferential position in other examples. The sectional view of <FIG> can constitute a third circumferential position of the band <NUM>, and the v-angle <NUM> at the third circumferential position in this example has a value of approximately fifty-six degrees (<NUM>°); of course, other values of the v-angle are possible at this circumferential position in other examples. The sectional view of <FIG> can constitute a fourth circumferential position of the band <NUM>, and the v-angle <NUM> at the fourth circumferential position in this example has a value of approximately forty-three degrees (<NUM>°); of course, other values of the v-angle are possible at this circumferential position in other examples. Still further, the sectional view of <FIG> can constitute a fifth circumferential position of the band <NUM>, and the v-angle <NUM> at the fifth circumferential position in this example has a value of approximately thirty-one degrees (<NUM>°); of course, other values of the v-angle are possible at this circumferential position in other examples. The precise rate-of-change of the change in shape of the band <NUM> can vary in different embodiments and can be dictated by the coefficient of friction experienced between the band <NUM> and the end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> and by the tightening force of the closure mechanism.

The closure mechanism is used to tighten and loosen the v-clamp <NUM> and bring the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> toward and away from each other. The closure mechanism is situated at the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> and can be held by the first and second band flanges <NUM>, <NUM>. The closure mechanism can take different forms in different embodiments. In one example, the closure mechanism includes a fastener or screw and a nut. The screw is inserted through the holes in the first and second band flanges <NUM>, <NUM> and the nut is threaded over the end of screw for tightening. In an example of a T-bolt type tightening assembly, the closure mechanism includes a trunnion and a fastener with a T-bolt and a nut. One example of a T-bolt type closure mechanism can be found in <CIT> owned by the applicant of this disclosure.

The varying v-angle <NUM> of the band <NUM>, as described, furnishes an improved axial load that is more evenly and uniformly applied fully around the circumferential extents of the v-clamp <NUM> and to the first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM>. The improved axial load is the result of a force applied via clamping with radial and axial force components. The sliding frictional effects generated at locations closer to the closure mechanism, such as at the first and second circumferential positions, are decreased due to the wider v-angle thereat, resulting in a lower and more tepid dissipation in band tension thereat and hence at locations farther from the closure mechanism such as at the fourth and fifth circumferential positions. Increased band tension, it has been found, produces increased conversion to axial load. Moreover, because the v-angle <NUM> is sharper farther from the closure mechanism, the resulting normal force (Fn) exerted by the band <NUM> thereat is orientated and directed more in the axial direction relative to the circular shape of the v-clamp <NUM> than closer to the closure mechanism-this means that a greater proportion of the forces applied to the first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> is employed to impart axial loading. In other words, a sharper v-angle <NUM> has been found to exert an increased axial load.

With reference again to the graph of <FIG>, a line <NUM> evidences the improved axial load. The line <NUM> represents a v-clamp such as the v-clamp <NUM> described and depicted herein with the band <NUM> having the varying v-angle <NUM>. As before, the point <NUM> is a location of the band <NUM> next to the closure mechanism, and the point <NUM> is a location of the band <NUM> opposite the closure mechanism. In the graph, and unlike the line <NUM> of past v-clamps, the axial load applied at the point <NUM> is approximately the same as the axial load applied at the point <NUM>, evidencing no measurable loss in the axial load applied from the tightening hardware to opposite the tightening hardware. And the axial load applied remains substantially steady between the points <NUM> and <NUM>. The line <NUM> demonstrates an example of a more evenly and uniformly applied axial load and a generally even application of axial load, as described herein; still, other examples apart from the line <NUM> can exist. In the example presented in the graph, the axial load applied at the point <NUM> (e.g., a first axial load) has a value that is within about ten percent (%) of a value of the axial load applied at the point <NUM> (e.g., a second axial load). Satisfying this relationship, it is thought, in at least an embodiment brings about an improved axial load; still, an improved axial load can arise even absent the relationship. Moreover, because of this improved axial load of the v-clamp <NUM>, the tightening and screw force of the closure mechanism employed to tighten the band <NUM> around the end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> can be reduced. Indeed, in the example of <FIG>, the tightening force used for the past v-clamp of the line <NUM> was approximately five Kilonewtons (<NUM> kN), and the tightening force used for the v-clamp <NUM> of the line <NUM> was approximately three-and-one-half Kilonewtons (<NUM> kN). Even with the reduced tightening force, the v-clamp <NUM> can furnish a suitable axial load that establishes a fluid-tight joint. By reducing the tightening force, a smaller-sized fastener of the closure mechanism and a thinner band can be used for the v-clamp <NUM> than would otherwise be possible. Indeed, testing has shown that the v-clamp <NUM> may facilitate the use of a fastener of the closure mechanism that exhibits about <NUM>% lower strength than that of past fasteners commonly employed.

Moreover, testing was conducted in order to prove the efficacy of a v-clamp with a varying v-angle, as set forth. The testing involved v-clamps with bands of two styles: i) a band with a varying v-angle, and ii) a standard band with an invariable or constant v-angle. The band with the varying v-angle had similarities to that described with reference to <FIG>. The v-angle grew wider closer to its closure mechanism, and grew narrower farther away from the closure mechanism and closer to the <NUM>° circumferential position of the band. The v-angle steadily and continuously increased over the band's extent from the <NUM>° circumferential position and to the closure mechanism. At a circumferential position approximating that taken at <FIG>, the v-angle had a value of approximately <NUM>°. Also, at this circumferential position, the band's base wall had a planar configuration with an axial width of approximately <NUM>. At a circumferential position approximating that taken at <FIG>, the v-angle had a value of approximately <NUM>° and the band's base wall had an axial width of approximately <NUM>. Lastly, at a circumferential position approximating that taken at <FIG>, the v-angle had a value of approximately <NUM>° and the band's base wall had an axial width of approximately <NUM>. Further, the band had a first foot and a second foot, described below, that remain mostly constant and unchanged in shape. The standard band with the invariable v-angle, on the other hand, had a v-angle with a value of approximately <NUM>° and a base wall with an axial width of approximately <NUM>. The testing also involved end flanges of two styles: i) end flanges with a partially spherical profile, and ii) standard end flanges with planar walls angled at <NUM>°. The end flanges with the partially spherical profile resembled that depicted in <FIG>, and the standard end flanges with planar walls angled at <NUM>° resembled those depicted in <FIG>.

A total of four groups were tested: <NUM>) a standard band and standard end flanges, <NUM>) a varying v-angle band and standard end flanges, <NUM>) a standard band and partially spherical end flanges, and <NUM>) a varying v-angle band and partially spherical end flanges. Three samples in each of the four groups were tested. The graphs of <FIG> present certain testing results. Skilled artisans should appreciate that similar testing may yield differing results. Axial load in newtons (N) is plotted on the y-axis, and torque in newton-meters (Nm) is plotted on the x-axis. Testing results for group <NUM>) are presented in the graph residing in the upper-lefthand quadrant; testing results for group <NUM>) are presented in the graph residing in the upper-righthand quadrant; testing results for group <NUM>) are presented in the graph residing in the lower-lefthand quadrant; and testing results for group <NUM>) are presented in the graph residing in the lower-righthand quadrant. Dashed line A in <FIG> represents measurements of axial load at a circumferential position approximating that taken at <FIG>. Solid line B represents measurements of axial load at the circumferential position of <FIG>, but on an opposite side of the full v-clamp band and on the other side of the closure mechanism. And dashed line C represents axial load measurements at a circumferential position approximating that taken at <FIG> and that lies <NUM>° from the closure mechanism. As can be observed from the graphs, results for groups <NUM>) and <NUM>) involving the standard band show a measurable and not insignificant loss in axial load among lines A and B closer to the closure mechanism, compared to line C farther from the closure mechanism. The results for groups <NUM>) and <NUM>), on the other hand, involving the varying v-angle band show minimal-to-no loss in axial load among lines A and B compared to line C. The bar graphs of <FIG> also present certain testing results. Skilled artisans should appreciate that similar testing may yield differing results. Total axial load in kilonewtons (kN) is plotted on the y-axis, and a screw force of <NUM> of torque was applied. Testing results for group <NUM>) are presented in the upper-lefthand bar graph D; testing results for group <NUM>) are presented in the upper-righthand bar graph E; testing results for group <NUM>) are presented in the lower-lefthand bar graph D; and testing results for group <NUM>) are presented in the lower-righthand bar graph E. As can be observed from the bar graphs, there was a loss of total axial load of about <NUM> kN between groups <NUM>) and <NUM>), and there was a loss of total axial load of about <NUM> kN between groups <NUM>) and <NUM>). These losses of total axial load were deemed suitable.

With reference now to <FIG>, a second embodiment of a v-clamp <NUM> is presented that, like the previous embodiment, furnishes an improved axial load applied to the first and second tubular body end flanges <NUM>, <NUM>. The second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment in some respects, and not all of the similarities will be repeated here in this description of the second embodiment. As before, the improved axial load provided by the v-clamp <NUM> is more evenly and uniformly applied around a circumference of the v-clamp <NUM>. The first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> each exhibit a partially spherical profile in cross-section, as depicted in the sectional views of <FIG> but could have another configuration, as previously set forth, such as the angled and planar walls of <FIG>.

The v-clamp <NUM> includes a band <NUM> and the closure mechanism as described with reference to the first embodiment. The band <NUM> has a base wall <NUM>, a first side wall <NUM> extending from the base wall <NUM>, and a second side wall <NUM> extending from the base wall <NUM>. A channel <NUM> (<FIG>) is defined at the underside of the band <NUM> by the base wall <NUM> and first and second side walls <NUM>, <NUM> and receives the first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> in assembly and installation. Similar to the first embodiment, the band <NUM> of this second embodiment has a shape that changes along a circumferential extent, and the change in shape is constituted in part by a v-angle <NUM> that varies over the band's circumferential extent. As before, the v-angle <NUM> grows wider closer to the closure mechanism and, conversely, the v-angle <NUM> grows narrower and sharper farther away from the closure mechanism. The v-angle <NUM> steadily and continuously increases over the band's extent from the location denoted by the point <NUM> in <FIG> and to the closure mechanism. Conversely, the v-angle <NUM> steadily and continuously decreases over the band's extent from the closure mechanism and to the location denoted by the point <NUM> in <FIG>. The v-angle <NUM> at a first circumferential position of <FIG> in this example has a value of approximately seventy-seven degrees (<NUM>°). The v-angle <NUM> at a second circumferential position of <FIG> in the example has a value of approximately sixty-nine degrees (<NUM>°). Further, the v-angle <NUM> at a third circumferential position of <FIG> in the example has a value of approximately fifty-six degrees (<NUM>°), and the v-angle <NUM> at a fourth circumferential position of <FIG> in the example has a value of approximately forty-three degrees (<NUM>°). Lastly, the v-angle <NUM> at a fifth circumferential position of <FIG> in the example has a value of approximately thirty-two degrees (<NUM>°). Of course, other values of the v-angle are possible at these circumferential positions in other examples.

Dissimilar to the first embodiment, the band <NUM> in this second embodiment has a pair of feet residing at its first and second axial ends <NUM>, <NUM> in order to augment stiffness properties of the band <NUM>. Turning now to all of <FIG>, a first foot <NUM> spans from the first side wall <NUM> and constitutes a terminal extremity thereof. Indeed, the first axial end <NUM> of the band <NUM> is located at the first foot <NUM>. Since the feet undergo a change in shape along with the band <NUM>, as subsequently set forth, the first foot <NUM> depends somewhat radially-inboard of the first side wall <NUM> at certain locations, and depends somewhat radially-outboard of the first side wall <NUM> at other locations. And the first foot <NUM> depends somewhat axially-outward of the first side wall <NUM>. Further, a second foot <NUM> spans from the second side wall <NUM> and constitutes a terminal extremity thereof. Indeed, the second axial end <NUM> of the band <NUM> is located at the second foot <NUM>. Like the first foot <NUM>, the second foot <NUM> depends somewhat radially-inboard of the second side wall <NUM> at certain locations, and depends somewhat radially-outboard of the second side wall <NUM> at other locations. The second foot <NUM> depends somewhat axially-outward of the second side wall <NUM>.

In the second embodiment, the first and second feet <NUM>, <NUM> have shapes that change along the entire circumferential extent of the band <NUM> between the band's first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM>. The precise change in shape can differ in different embodiments. Here, the change in shape is mirrored and symmetrical about a diametric centerline <NUM> (<FIG>). In general, the first and second feet <NUM>, <NUM> grow and become more pronounced farther away from the closure mechanism, and the feet <NUM>, <NUM> recede and become less pronounced closer to the closure mechanism. With more specificity, the first and second feet <NUM>, <NUM> project radially outboard to an increased degree over the band's extent from the first end <NUM> and closure mechanism and to the location denoted by the point <NUM> in <FIG>. Also, the first and second feet <NUM>, <NUM> steadily and continuously increase in length in general axially-outward directions F, G (<FIG>) over the band's extent from the first end <NUM> and closure mechanism and to the location denoted by the point <NUM> in <FIG>. The axially-outward direction F is with respect to the first side wall <NUM>, and the axially-outward direction G is with respect to the second side wall <NUM>. These changes in shapes, as described, can be observed in part from the sectional views taken from <FIG>.

In this second embodiment, the more pronounced feet <NUM>, <NUM> furnish greater stiffness to the band <NUM>. For instance, the band <NUM> exhibits a greater stiffness at its first and second side walls <NUM>, <NUM> at the circumferential position marked by the sectional view of <FIG> than at the circumferential position marked by the sectional view of <FIG>. In other words, the stiffness of the band <NUM> varies over the band's circumferential extent. It has been found that bending moments experienced by the band <NUM> at the first and second side walls <NUM>, <NUM> become greater as the v-angle <NUM> grows narrower. The bending moment experienced at <FIG>, for example, is greater than that experienced at <FIG>. The side walls <NUM>, <NUM> are urged apart (i.e., axially-outwardly) by a larger extent at circumferential positions farther away from the closure mechanism due in part to the accompanying narrowing v-angle <NUM>. Furthermore, a moment arm established by a loading point of contact between the end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> and side walls <NUM>, <NUM> can be longer at circumferential positions farther away from the closure mechanism-this is demonstrated in the example by loading points H in <FIG> and H' in <FIG>. And, material stresses experienced by the band <NUM> at the first and second side walls <NUM>, <NUM> become greater as the v-angle <NUM> grows narrower. As a consequence, in some cases the side walls <NUM>, <NUM> can be urged apart by a larger extent than wanted farther from the closure mechanism, potentially thwarting the intended control and management over the orientation of the applied force. The feet <NUM>, <NUM> and their attendant stiffness work to counteract these unwanted consequences and help maintain the intended orientation of the applied force.

As an alternative to the second embodiment, the band <NUM> could have the feet <NUM>, <NUM> that grow and become more pronounced farther away from the closure mechanism and as presented in <FIG> and <FIG>, but the band <NUM> could have a v-angle <NUM> that does not vary over the band's circumferential extent and instead maintains a constant and unchanged angle value over the band's circumferential extent. In this alternative, the first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> would still each exhibit a partially spherical profile in cross-section, as previously described. Here, the control and management over the orientation of the applied force is established via the varying feet <NUM>, <NUM> and the attendant varying stiffness. The band's side walls <NUM>, <NUM> are urged apart and deflect in response to the tightening actions from the closure mechanism by varying amounts according to the varying stiffness. For instance, deflection can be greater at circumferential locations of the band <NUM> having less stiffness, and can be less at circumferential locations of the band <NUM> having more stiffness. Since the v-angle <NUM> is unchanged, having the feet <NUM>, <NUM> recede and become less pronounced closer to the closure mechanism provides greater deflection of the band <NUM> closer to the closure mechanism. And conversely, having the feet <NUM>, <NUM> grow and become more pronounced farther away from the closure mechanism provides less deflection of the band <NUM> farther from the closure mechanism. Accordingly, as with previous embodiments, sliding frictional effects are decreased closer to the closure mechanism, resulting in a lower and more tepid reduction in band tension at locations farther from the closure mechanism. Still, in yet another embodiment, the feet <NUM>, <NUM> could reside on the band <NUM> with the v-angle <NUM> that varies over the band's circumferential extent, as described, but the feet <NUM>, <NUM> could themselves lack a change in shape and instead could remain constant and unchanged in shape over the band's circumferential extent.

In a third embodiment, an improved axial load applied to the first and second tubular body end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> is furnished in larger part by the end flanges themselves. The first and second tubular body end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> in this embodiment each have a shape that changes over their circumferential extents, while the v-clamp's band has a v-angle that does not vary and instead maintains a constant and unchanged angle value over the band's circumferential extent. In this third embodiment, the band also lacks the changing feet of the second embodiment. Here, the control and management over the orientation of the applied force is established via the varying shape of the first and second tubular body end flanges <NUM>, <NUM>. In this third embodiment, instead of the first and second tubular body end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> exhibiting partially spherical profiles in cross-section, in order to effect the change in shape each of the first and second tubular body end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> has an exterior wall and surface that is planar like that shown in <FIG>. The planar exterior walls and surfaces vary their orientation with respect to a center axis of the respective first and second tubular body <NUM>, <NUM>. As in previous embodiments, the varying orientation is mirrored and symmetrical about the diametric centerline (<NUM>, <NUM>).

The planar exterior walls and surfaces define an acute angle with respect to the center axis of the respective first and second tubular body <NUM>, <NUM>. The acute angle narrows and becomes smaller closer to the closure mechanism with respect to the installation position of the v-clamp on the end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> and, conversely, widens and becomes larger farther away from the closure mechanism. The acute angle steadily and continuously decreases over the flanges' extent from the location denoted by the point <NUM> in <FIG> and to the closure mechanism, again relative to the installation position of the v-clamp on the end flanges <NUM>, <NUM>. Conversely, the acute angle steadily and continuously increases over the flanges' extent from the closure mechanism and to the location denoted by the point <NUM>, again relative to the installation position of the v-clamp on the end flanges <NUM>, <NUM>. While the v-clamp's band has an unchanged v-angle in this third embodiment prior to installation and tightening, the v-angle does indeed vary upon installation and tightening of the v-clamp due to the varying acute angle of the planar exterior walls and surfaces of the first and second tubular body end flanges <NUM>, <NUM>. In this embodiment, the v-angle varies in a manner that is akin to the varying v-angle of the first embodiment. The v-angle grows wider closer to the closure mechanism and, conversely, grows narrower farther away from the closure mechanism. And as before, because the acute angle is larger farther from the closure mechanism and the v-angle concomitantly sharper farther from the closure mechanism, the resulting normal force (Fn) exerted by the v-clamp's band thereat is oriented and directed more in the axial direction than closer to the closure mechanism. Accordingly, a greater proportion of the forces applied to the first and second end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> is employed to impart axial loading.

In yet another embodiment, the band <NUM> has the v-angle <NUM> that varies along the circumferential extent of the band <NUM>, and the tubular body end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> have the planar exterior walls and surfaces that vary their orientation with respect to the center axis of the respective tubular body <NUM>, <NUM>. In essence, this embodiment combines and incorporates the designs and constructions of the first and third embodiments. The varying v-angle <NUM> and varying acute angle, as previously described, work together to furnish the improved axial load applied to the first and second tubular body end flanges <NUM>, <NUM>. The control and management over the orientation of the applied force is hence established via the combined varying v-angle <NUM> and varying acute angle of the tubular body end flanges <NUM>, <NUM>. Upon installation and tightening, the band's v-angle <NUM> grows wider closer to the closure mechanism and, conversely, grows narrower farther from the closure mechanism. As before, the resulting normal force (Fn) exerted by the v-clamp's band <NUM> is oriented and directed more in the axial direction farther from the closure mechanism than closer to the closure mechanism, and hence a greater proportion of the forces applied to the end flanges <NUM>, <NUM> is employed to impart axial loading.

It is to be understood that the foregoing is a description of one or more preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention. The invention is not limited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed herein, but rather is defined solely by the claims below. Furthermore, the statements contained in the foregoing description relate to particular embodiments and are not to be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention or on the definition of terms used in the claims, except where a term or phrase is expressly defined above. Various other embodiments and various changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiment(s) will become apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claim 1:
A v-clamp (<NUM>, <NUM>), comprising:
a band (<NUM>, <NUM>) extending circumferentially from a first end (<NUM>) to a second end (<NUM>), said band (<NUM>, <NUM>) having a first side wall (<NUM>, <NUM>) and a second side wall (<NUM>, <NUM>), said first side wall (<NUM>, <NUM>) and second side wall (<NUM>, <NUM>) establishing a v-angle (<NUM>, <NUM>) therebetween in sectional profile;
wherein said v-angle (<NUM>, <NUM>) has a first value at a first circumferential position of said band (<NUM>, <NUM>) and has a second value at a second circumferential position of said band (<NUM>, <NUM>), wherein said first circumferential position resides adjacent a closure mechanism and said second circumferential position resides at a location that is diametrically opposite the closure mechanism, characterized in that
said first value being greater than said second value, and a value of said v-angle (<NUM>, <NUM>) steadily increases along a circumferential extent of said band (<NUM>, <NUM>) from said second circumferential position to said first circumferential position.