Bar Connecting Apparatus Clip Feed Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for connecting reinforcing bars in concrete reinforcement are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and prone to worker injury due to the need for manual bending and handling, which does not efficiently address the need for rapid and safe connection of bars before concrete pouring.
Innovation Solution
A bar connecting apparatus that uses a clip string and a hammer mechanism to rapidly attach plastic clips to intersecting bars, with a clip feed assembly that advances new clips into position with each hammer stroke, allowing for quick and efficient connection of multiple bar pairs while minimizing manual labor and bending.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual bending and handling methods are used to connect reinforcing bars, then workers can connect the bars, but the process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The clip feed assembly automatically feeds clips to the hammer mechanism without requiring manual intervention for each clip placement. The system serves itself by automatically advancing clips from the container through the feed mechanism to the application point, eliminating the need for workers to manually handle and position each clip while maintaining high connection speed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of bending and tying bars with an automated mechanical system consisting of a hammer that drives clips onto the reinforcing bars. This substitution eliminates manual bending operations and uses a controlled mechanical impact system to secure the bars, dramatically improving productivity while reducing labor intensity
2Reliability
If manual connection methods are used, then workers can connect the bars, but worker injury risk increases due to repeated bending
Solution Approach 1:
The automated clip feeding and application system performs the connection task without requiring workers to be in hazardous positions or perform repetitive bending motions. The system serves itself by automatically positioning and applying clips, removing workers from the injury-prone manual handling and bending operations entirely
3Productivity
If clips are applied one at a time manually, then each connection can be made, but the time required to connect multiple bar pairs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clip feed assembly maintains continuous operation by constantly advancing clips from the container through the feed mechanism to the hammer application point. This continuous flow of clips eliminates idle time between connections, allowing multiple bar pairs to be connected in rapid succession without the setup time required for manual clip-by-clip application
Solution Approach 2:
The automated hammer and feed mechanism replaces the slow manual process of picking, positioning, and applying individual clips. The mechanical system operates at high speed with consistent timing, connecting multiple bar pairs per minute compared to the much slower manual process, thereby reducing total time loss and increasing productivity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The apparatus significantly reduces the time and labor required to connect reinforcing bars, minimizing worker exposure to injury and enabling faster preparation of stable rebar grids for concrete pouring.
Implementation Method 1
A hammer reciprocates longitudinally within the barrel and strikes the clip. The hammer propels the clip out of the distal end of the barrel
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for connecting bars includes a clip string, a barrel having a clip receiving cavity, with a terminal clip of the clip string received in the clip receiving cavity. A drive is received in the barrel and extends proximally from the barrel. The drive includes a hammer received in the barrel. The hammer reciprocates longitudinally within the barrel for contacting and expelling the terminal clip from the barrel. A cam guide is connected to the drive. A cam plate having a cam track is pivotally connected to the barrel. The cam guide engages the cam track such that the cam plate pivots back and forth as the drive is moved distally and proximally relative to the barrel. At least one finger is connected to the cam plate such that the finger engages and advances the clip string end of the clip receiving cavity as the cam plate pivots back.