Adjustable Strap Clamp with Movable Clutch Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamps are not adaptable to clamp a wide variety of items with varying geometries and dimensions, particularly odd-shaped objects, as they lack a secure and adjustable mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A strap clamp with a movable clutch assembly and a strap fastener that allows for adjustable strap length, featuring a clutch mechanism to secure the strap around objects and an actuator to adjust the clamp's position, enabling secure gripping of different shapes and sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing clamps are used, then they work well for their intended purpose, but they cannot adapt to clamp a wide variety of items with varying geometries and dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp incorporates a movable clutch assembly that can slide along the bar, allowing the clamp to dynamically adjust its configuration. The clutch assembly includes a clutch mechanism with movable components that enable the strap length to be changed by sliding the clutch assembly along the bar, providing adaptability to various object geometries and dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp is divided into distinct functional segments: a bar, a movable clutch assembly with clutch mechanism, a strap, and a strap fastener. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while contributing to the overall adaptability of the system for different object shapes and sizes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the strap length is fixed, then the clamp structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate objects with unique geometries and dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch assembly is designed to be movable along the bar, enabling dynamic adjustment of the strap length. The clutch mechanism includes movable components that, when actuated, allow the clutch assembly to slide to different positions on the bar, thereby adjusting the effective strap length to accommodate various object dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch mechanism is designed to maintain engagement automatically once positioned, reducing the need for continuous manual adjustment. The actuator provides a simple means to initiate movement, and the clutch mechanism itself maintains the adjusted position without requiring constant intervention.
3Reliability
If the clutch assembly is fixed, then the mechanism is simpler, but it cannot provide secure cinching of the strap around objects
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism incorporates movable components that engage with the bar to secure the clutch assembly in position. The movable elements include clutch members that can lock into place on the bar, providing secure retention of the adjusted strap length while maintaining the ability to move when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch assembly acts as an intermediary between the movable strap fastener and the fixed bar. It provides a mechanism that translates simple actuator movement into secure positional locking, mediating between the need for easy adjustment and the need for reliable securement.
Data Source
AI summary
A strap clamp arranged to securely cinch a strap around a target object is described. The strap clamp includes a bar and a clutch assembly slideably mounted on the bar. A strap is carried by the clutch assembly and a strap fastener is attached to the bar. The strap fastener is arranged to releasably engage the strap. When the strap fastener is engaged, the strap is held fixed relative to the bar thereby forming a loop between the fastener and the clutch assembly. When the strap fastener is released, the strap may be pulled through the fastener to adjust the length of the loop. The clutch assembly may include a clutch mechanism, an actuator and a clutch release. The clutch mechanism prevents the clutch assembly from moving away from the strap fastener when engaged. The actuator is arranged to move the clutch assembly towards the strap fastener when actuated.