Interchangeable Cable Clamping Jaws for Tool-Free Changeover
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping devices for cables require laborious replacement of clamping jaws, especially in automated systems, due to the need for tools to loosen and retighten fasteners.
Innovation Solution
A clamping device with two-part clamping jaws, where one part is a base attached to the actuator half and another part is an interchangeable component with a support section and a contact section, allowing tool-free replacement and adaptation to different cable diameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If clamping jaws are fastened to actuator halves by means of additional fasteners (e.g., screws), then the clamping jaw can be securely fixed, but replacing the clamping jaw requires additional tools and labor
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping jaw is divided into a base part (attached to the actuator half) and an interchangeable part (with receiving contour). This segmentation allows the interchangeable part to be easily replaced without affecting the base part, eliminating the need for additional fasteners and tools during replacement while maintaining secure fixation through the integrated design.
2Strength
If clamping jaws are made as single integrated pieces, then structural integrity is maintained, but adaptation to different cable diameters requires replacing entire clamping jaws with additional tools
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping jaw is segmented into a base part and an interchangeable part. The base part maintains the structural integrity and connection to the actuator, while the interchangeable part (with different receiving contours for different cable diameters) can be easily swapped without tools, achieving both strength and adaptability.
3Productivity
If multiple clamping jaws are replaced in automated cable processing plants, then processing capability is maintained, but the laborious replacement process reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the clamping jaw into replaceable interchangeable parts with different receiving contours, the system enables rapid tool-free replacement during automated processing. This eliminates downtime associated with tool-based replacement and maintains high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static, permanently fixed clamping jaws to dynamic, easily interchangeable parts. This allows the clamping device to adapt quickly to different cable specifications during automated processing without manual intervention, maintaining continuous high-speed operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping device includes an actuatable actuator with two actuator halves, each having a clamping jaw disposed thereon. When the actuator is actuated, a cable can be releasably clamped between receiving contours of the clamping jaws. At least one clamping jaw is formed in two parts and has a base part attached to the respective actuator half and an interchangeable part disposed on the base part. The interchangeable part has a support section with a support surface resting on the base part and a contact section resting against the base part. The respective receiving contour is formed on the contact section on an outer side facing the other clamping jaw. A contact surface formed on the contact section on an inner side facing away from the other clamping jaw rests against a contact surface of the base part, and forms an acute angle with the support surface.