Single-Handed Clamp With Detent Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clamps require two hands for operation, making it difficult to secure or release objects, especially in situations where only one hand is available, and they lack a locking mechanism to prevent accidental fallout, especially in applications like overhead use or securing heavy objects on vehicles or spacecraft.
Innovation Solution
A clamp design with pivotable arms and a locking mechanism, including a detent mechanism and elastic components, allowing single-handed operation, secure object holding, and easy release, with the ability to transition between open and closed states without losing the object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional clamp mechanisms are used, then the clamp can securely hold objects, but two hands are required for operation making it difficult to use when only one hand is available
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp mechanism automatically transitions from open to closed state when the object is inserted, and the detent mechanism automatically engages to lock the object in place. The spring mechanism provides automatic return to closed position, eliminating the need for manual operation with both hands.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp uses a dynamic detent mechanism that can be easily engaged and disengaged with one hand. The mechanism transitions between locked and unlocked states through simple manual input, allowing single-handed operation while maintaining secure holding when locked.
2Reliability
If conventional single-handed clamps are used, then one hand can operate the clamp, but they lack locking mechanisms causing objects to fall out in overhead applications or when jarred
Solution Approach 1:
The detent mechanism is pre-positioned to automatically engage with the arm when the clamp closes, securing the object before any external forces (such as jarring or gravity in overhead positions) can cause it to fall. This preliminary locking action ensures reliability without requiring complex additional operations.
3Ease of operation
If the clamp completely releases the object when opened, then the clamp mechanism can be reset, but the object may fall out when the same hand must release the clamp
Solution Approach 1:
The detent mechanism allows controlled transition between locked and unlocked states. When opening, the user can selectively disengage the detent to release the object while maintaining the ability to quickly re-engage it, providing dynamic control that maintains both safety and operational flexibility with one hand.
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 secure single-handed operation, maintaining control of objects during transition between open and closed states, preventing accidental fallout, and accommodating various object shapes and sizes, suitable for applications requiring secure overhead attachment.
Implementation Method 1
At least one spring that is supported by the frame inserts a force against the first or second arms for moving the front end to the closed position
Implementation Method 2
A locking mechanism locks the clamp to the closed state when the front end reaches the closed position. In one embodiment, the detent mechanism is pull-able to allow the front end to move along the range of motion to reach the open position
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp has an open state for inserting an object from a front end and a closed state for holding the inserted object relative to a back end. The clamp includes a frame as well as a first arm and a second arm that is positioned within the frame. At least one of the first or second arms is pivotable relative to the other along a range of motion that traverses an open position corresponding to the open state of the clamp and a closed position corresponding to the closed state of the clamp. In one embodiment, at least one of the first and second arms are shaped to position the object between a front end and a back end when the clamp is in the closed state such that a pressure exerted by insertion of the object to the backend causes the front end to move along the range of motion to the closed position. A locking mechanism locks the clamp to the closed state when the front end reaches the closed position and unlocks the clamp to the open state by allowing the front end to move along the range of motion to reach the open position.