Adjustable Clamping Brackets for Fragile Workpiece Fixturing

Solution Overview

Problem

Current clamping systems require multiple custom-fitted forms or molds to securely fix workpieces of different sizes and types during assembly, leading to inventory management issues and increased processing time, especially for fragile or soft materials like footwear midsoles.

Innovation Solution

A clamping system comprising a first and second member that are rotatable relative to each other, with slidably movable brackets along defined paths, allowing for adjustable clamping without applying excessive force, thereby accommodating various sizes and shapes of workpieces effectively.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple custom-fitted forms or molds are used to securely fix workpieces of different sizes and types, then the workpieces can be accurately arranged and secured, but the inventory increases and processing time increases due to tooling changeover

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveworkpiece securing accuracyVSAvoidtooling changeover time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single clamping system with adjustable brackets that can accommodate multiple workpiece sizes and types. The brackets can be positioned along guided paths to adapt to different geometries, eliminating the need for multiple custom-fitted forms or molds while maintaining accurate workpiece securing across various configurations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies dynamics through movable and adjustable brackets that can change position during operation. The brackets slide along guided paths and can be repositioned to match different workpiece dimensions, allowing the system to dynamically adapt to various workpiece types without requiring tooling changeover

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If multiple custom-fitted forms or molds are used to securely fix workpieces of different sizes and types, then the workpieces can be accurately arranged and secured, but the inventory management complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveworkpiece securing accuracyVSAvoidinventory of forms and molds

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single clamping system with adjustable brackets that can accommodate multiple workpiece sizes and types. The brackets can be positioned along guided paths to adapt to different geometries, eliminating the need for multiple custom-fitted forms or molds while maintaining accurate workpiece securing across various configurations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the functions of multiple custom-fitted forms into a single integrated clamping system. By combining adjustable brackets, guided paths, and positioning mechanisms into one system, it consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate tools, thereby reducing inventory while maintaining securing accuracy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If great force is applied to clamp workpieces, then the workpieces can be securely fixed, but fragile and soft workpieces may be damaged

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveworkpiece securing strengthVSAvoidworkpiece damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by distributing the clamping force through multiple brackets positioned at different locations on the workpiece. Each bracket contacts a specific local area, spreading the force evenly across the workpiece surface rather than concentrating it at a single point, which prevents damage to fragile and soft materials while maintaining secure fixation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies dynamics through adjustable brackets that can adapt their position and contact points to match the specific geometry of the workpiece. This allows the system to dynamically optimize the distribution of clamping forces, applying sufficient force for secure fixation while avoiding excessive localized pressure that could damage fragile materials

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11571046B2Clamping system

Publication Date: 2023.02.07 ADIDAS AG

AI summary

A clamping system for a component, especially for an article of footwear or a sports article, may include: (a) a first member; (b) a second member, (c) a pivot about which the first member and the second member are rotatable relative to each other; (d) a first bracket slidably movable along a first path on the first member and a second path, by a first distance, on the second member, when the first member and the second member are rotated relative to each other from a first angle to a second angle; and (e) at least a second bracket slidably movable along a third path on the first member and a fourth path, by a second distance, on the second member, when the first member and the second member are rotated relative to each other from the first angle to the second angle.