Clamp Locking Mechanism With Magnetic Shaft Securing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamps for securing devices like laser levels to work pieces often require complex mechanisms for locking and unlocking, and their functionality is compromised when the clamp is oriented in different positions.
Innovation Solution
A clamp mechanism with a sliding shaft, movable jaw, and a locking component that uses a biasing element (such as a magnet) to secure the shaft in place, allowing easy locking and unlocking regardless of orientation, and featuring a threaded interface for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism is used to secure the clamp, then the reliability of attachment is improved, but the device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional complex mechanical locking systems with a magnetic field-based locking mechanism. The biasing element generates magnetic force that automatically secures the shaft in the locked position, eliminating the need for complex mechanical interlocks while maintaining reliable attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-securing through the biasing element that automatically engages the shaft in the locked position when the movable jaw is actuated. The system self-regulates through magnetic attraction without requiring additional locking components or complex user intervention.
2Ease of operation
If a simple locking mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of attachment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simple but unreliable mechanical locking with a magnetic field-based system that provides both ease of operation and high reliability. The magnetic biasing element ensures consistent engagement force while allowing simple actuation through the movable jaw mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of locking force from mechanical contact force to magnetic field force. This parameter change enables both simple operation (through magnetic attraction) and high reliability (through controllable magnetic field strength and distribution).
3Manufacturing precision
If the clamp mechanism is designed for precise positioning, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning systems with a magnetic field-based positioning mechanism. The biasing element provides precise control over the shaft position through magnetic force distribution, achieving high positioning precision without complex mechanical guides or adjustment mechanisms.
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 mechanism ensures secure attachment of devices to work pieces in any orientation with ease of use and stability, enhancing operational efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing element that biases the securing component towards the shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp release mechanism is provided. The clamp includes a body, a shaft slideably coupled to the body, a fixed jaw, and a moveable jaw coupled to the shaft. A locking component actuates between a locked position and an unlocked position. When in the locked position, the locking component biases the shaft to remain stationary with respect to the body. The clamp includes a securing component pivotally coupled to the locking component, and a biasing element that biases the securing components towards the shaft.