Band Clamp Latching Assembly for Fast Diameter Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing band clamps and latches, particularly in heavy-duty applications, face challenges with slow and laborious adjustment of clamping force due to the need for screwing or unscrewing threads, and manufacturing these quick-release mechanisms often compromises the strength and integrity of the clamp.
Innovation Solution
A method of assembling a latching assembly with a pivotally mounted lever and latching part, utilizing loading slots and retaining side plates to facilitate easy assembly and retention of mounting members, allowing for quick and secure adjustment of the band's diameter without compromising strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a threaded screw mechanism is used to adjust the band diameter, then the clamp can securely hold the band at different diameters, but the adjustment process becomes slow and laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional threaded screw mechanism with a cam-based mechanical system. The cam profile is designed to convert rotational motion into linear motion, enabling the band diameter to be adjusted quickly by rotating the cam rather than threading a screw. This substitution maintains secure holding through the cam's geometric locking action while dramatically reducing adjustment time and effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic adjustment mechanism where the cam can be rotated to different angular positions to quickly change the band diameter. The system transitions from a static threaded connection to a dynamic cam-follower arrangement that allows rapid repositioning. The follower rides along the cam profile, enabling smooth and quick diameter adjustment without the back-and-forth threading motion of traditional screws.
2Productivity
If a quick release latching assembly is added to enable rapid adjustment, then the adjustment speed improves, but the manufacturing complexity and potential compromise to structural strength increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the latching function and the diameter adjustment function into a single integrated cam mechanism. The cam itself serves as the quick-release latching element, eliminating the need for separate latching components. The cam profile is designed such that its rotational position simultaneously controls both the band diameter and the locked/latched state, simplifying the overall structure and reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining quick adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam component performs multiple functions: it acts as the diameter adjustment mechanism, the latching element, and the positioning device all in one. By making the cam universal, the patent avoids adding separate quick-release latching assemblies that would increase manufacturing complexity. The single cam structure achieves quick release functionality while maintaining structural integrity and simplifying the bill of materials.
3Strength
If traditional threaded fasteners are used to assemble the latching assembly, then the structural strength is maintained, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cam assembly into modular components that can be independently manufactured and then quickly assembled. The cam, follower, and mounting brackets are designed as separate but interoperable parts with standardized interfaces. This segmentation allows for simplified assembly using fewer fasteners while maintaining structural strength through precision-fit interfaces and strategic placement of high-strength fasteners only where absolutely necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces precision-machined bearing surfaces and intermediate mounting plates that act as mediators between the cam components and the main structure. These intermediary elements distribute loads and provide stable mounting points, allowing the use of simpler, fewer fasteners while maintaining or even improving structural strength. The intermediary surfaces enable rigid connection without requiring complex multi-fastener assemblies.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of assembling a latching assembly comprising providing a lever, mounting the lever, mounting a latching part to the lever, wherein at least one of the receiving spaces is a loading slot and wherein, in respect of at least one loading slot, the respective mounting member is located in a mounting position by movement of the mounting member relative to the loading slot such that the at least part of the mounting member, received in the loading slot, is moved at least part way along the length of the loading slot and, in respect of at least one loading slot, arranging a retainer the respective mounting member such that the mounting member is substantially retained, in the length-wise direction of the slot, in the mounting position.