Cam Lock Clamp Arrangement for Quick Equipment Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamp arrangements for angler's seat boxes and chair legs lack a quick and convenient method for attaching and detaching equipment, making it difficult to interchange items and store the clamp arrangement efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A clamp arrangement with a releasable locking mechanism featuring a cam lock assembly, including a locking plate and lever, which allows for easy attachment and detachment of equipment with a polygonal insert portion, preventing rotation and allowing for one-handed operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional clamping arrangement is used, then the equipment can be securely attached to the seat box or chair leg, but the attachment and detachment process is time-consuming and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The locking plate is designed to move from a retracted position (allowing insertion) to a locked position (securing the equipment). This dynamic movement enables the transition between easy insertion and secure locking, resolving the contradiction between quick attachment and secure fastening.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping arrangement is divided into separate functional components: the clamp body, the locking plate, and the cam mechanism. This segmentation allows the locking plate to independently move and engage, enabling quick attachment while maintaining secure locking.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the clamp arrangement is removed for storage, then it can be stored safely, but it cannot be left on the seat box or chair leg after use
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism can be dynamically adjusted between locked and unlocked states. After use, the locking plate can be moved to the unlocked position, allowing the equipment to be quickly removed while leaving the clamp securely attached to the seat box or chair leg, eliminating the need to remove the clamp for storage.
3Ease of operation
If a simple locking mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of one-handed operation is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism acts as an intermediary that amplifies the small movement of the locking plate into a strong locking force. This allows the locking plate to be operated easily with one hand while still providing secure locking, as the cam does the heavy work of engaging and securing the equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism is designed to automatically engage and lock when the locking plate is moved into position, without requiring additional manual intervention. This self-locking feature enables one-handed operation while maintaining secure attachment.
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
Enables quick and convenient attachment and detachment of equipment, allowing the clamp arrangement to be left on the seat box or chair leg, facilitating easy storage and reducing the risk of damage during transportation.
Implementation Method 1
a cam lock assembly comprising: a locking plate mounted for linear movement selectively into and out of said channel; and a lever pivotally mounted externally of said channel for rotational movement about an axis substantially parallel to said longitudinal axis defined by said channel, said lever being communicably coupled to said locking plate
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
A clamp arrangement for being clamped, in use, on an elongate element, and comprising a first clamp portion (10) for clamping said clamp arrangement to said elongate element, and a second clamp portion (20), connected thereto or formed integrally therewith, having a releasable locking mechanism for selectively attaching and detaching a further item of equipment thereon, in use, wherein said further item of equipment includes an elongate insert portion, and said locking mechanism comprises an open-ended channel (22) for receiving said insert portion, said channel (22) defining a longitudinal axis, and a cam lock assembly comprising: - a locking plate (24) mounted for linear movement selectively into and out of said channel (22); and - a lever (25) pivotally mounted externally of said channel (22) for rotational movement about an axis substantially parallel to said longitudinal axis defined by said channel, said lever being communicably coupled to said locking plate (24) and rotatable between a closed configuration in which said locking plate (24) projects into said channel (22) and movement thereof is prevented, and an open configuration in which said locking plate (24) is released.