Adjustable Slab Securement Tool for Single-Operator Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing slabs, particularly stone slabs, during storage and transportation lack efficiency and security, as they often require multiple operators and are not adaptable to varying slab sizes and orientations.
Innovation Solution
A slab securement tool with a bracket and adjustable arm that extends from the bracket to secure slabs in an upright position, featuring a channel for connection to a support frame and a fastener system for locking, allowing single-operator, single-handed operation and securement of various slab sizes and quantities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing methods for securing slabs are used, then multiple operators are required for securement, but this increases device complexity and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The securement tool is divided into distinct functional segments: a bracket portion that attaches to the support frame, an arm portion that extends to contact the slab, and a fastening mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling single-operator control while maintaining securement effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The arm acts as an intermediary element between the bracket (attached to the support frame) and the slab. It extends from the bracket to contact and secure the slab, allowing the operator to control the securement process from a safe distance without directly handling the heavy slab, thus improving productivity while keeping the system manageable in complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed securement tools are used, then they work for specific slab sizes, but they lack adaptability to varying slab sizes and orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The arm is designed to be adjustable in length and/or angle relative to the bracket, allowing it to dynamically adapt to different slab sizes and orientations. This dynamic adjustability enables the same tool to securely hold various slab configurations without requiring multiple specialized tools, thereby improving versatility while maintaining reasonable device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The securement tool allows changes in geometric parameters such as arm extension distance and arm angle to accommodate different slab dimensions. By adjusting these parameters, the tool can adapt to various slab sizes and orientations, providing versatility without requiring a completely different tool for each slab type.
3Speed
If manual securement methods are used, then operators must manually position and secure slabs, but this reduces speed and increases physical effort
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening mechanism is designed to automatically secure the arm to the bracket when the arm is positioned against the slab. The fastener may engage automatically or require minimal manual input, allowing the operator to quickly secure the slab without complex manual positioning or multiple steps, thereby increasing securement speed while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Tools, systems, and methods of securing slabs, are described. Some example tools include a tool frame, a bracket, and an arm. The arm is adjustable relative to the tool frame and bracket into a slab-securing configuration in which an end portion of the arm is non-parallel with the bracket.