Clamping Tool Detachable Blocking Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping tools face challenges in providing a releasable blocking mechanism that allows for controlled movement of a rod in both clamping and release directions without significant friction, especially when transitioning from a braking to a sliding position.
Innovation Solution
A braking element is introduced that, in its braking position, exerts a force on the rod to inhibit movement, which can be overcome by physically moving the braking element into a sliding position, eliminating the braking force and allowing the rod to move freely, often by gravity, using a brake lever and spring-loaded mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a blocking element is used to prevent rod movement in the release direction, then the rod is securely held in position, but friction and resistance to rod movement increase when transitioning to the release position
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element is designed to dynamically change its position and function. In the blocking position, it securely holds the rod through engagement with the rod surface. When transitioning to the release position, the blocking element moves away from the rod surface, dynamically reducing friction and allowing smooth rod movement. This dynamic transformation resolves the contradiction between secure holding and smooth operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The release mechanism is segmented into distinct functional zones: a blocking position where the blocking element engages the rod, and a release position where it disengages. The blocking element itself is segmented in function, acting as a blocking surface in one position and a clear passage in another. This segmentation allows the system to achieve both secure holding and frictionless movement at different operational stages.
2Reliability
If the blocking element is tilted to block rod movement, then the rod is held firmly, but additional force is required to move the rod when transitioning to release position
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element dynamically transforms from a tilted blocking configuration that requires significant force to overcome, to a retracted configuration where no additional force is needed. The spring mechanism provides dynamic assistance, automatically pushing the blocking element into the rod surface during blocking and pulling it away during release, eliminating the need for excessive manual force in either state.
Solution Approach 2:
A spring mechanism acts as an intermediary between the blocking element and the rod. The spring stores and releases energy to automatically position the blocking element, mediating the force interaction. During blocking, the spring pushes the element into the rod; during release, it pulls the element away, reducing the force required for transitions and maintaining reliable blocking without excessive force requirements.
3Extent of automation
If a spring-loaded blocking mechanism is used to hold the rod, then automatic resetting is achieved, but the braking force may prevent gravity-assisted rod movement
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking mechanism dynamically adjusts its engagement level based on operational state. In the blocking position, the spring-loaded element provides strong engagement for automatic resetting. In the release position, the element is pulled away from the rod, dynamically reducing the braking force to allow gravity-assisted movement. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between automated resetting and gravity-assisted operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring force is locally applied only where needed - when the blocking element is in the blocking position. When the element moves to the release position, the spring force is no longer applied to the rod surface, allowing local reduction of braking force. This localized application of spring force enables automatic resetting while permitting gravity-assisted movement during release.
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 gradual displacement of the rod in both clamping and release directions through multiple actuations of the drive or release lever, ensuring smooth operation and reduced frictional resistance.
Implementation Method 1
The braking force is then a frictional force that is exerted by the preferably spring-loaded braking flank on the surface section of the rod
Implementation Method 2
The braking element is preferably held in the braking position by a spring, in particular a compression spring
Implementation Method 3
In the sliding position, the additional braking force does not have to be overcome. When the braking element is in the sliding position, the braking force is not effective. The braking force is canceled here. It can be provided that in the sliding position the rod can be displaced solely by the action of gravity
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention firstly relates to a detachable blocking device, in particular on a clamping tool, e.g. on a clamp, comprising a blocking element (10), which inhibits the displacement capability of a rod (1) in at least one detachment direction (L) in a blocking position, and a detachment member (7), which displaces the blocking element (10) into a release position when moved from a default position into a detachment position, in which release position the rod (1) can be displaced at least in detachment direction. A braking element (25) is disclosed, which acts upon the rod (1) in a braking position such that the rod (1) can be displaced only after a braking force acting against the direction of displacement of the rod (1) has been neutralised, which braking force may not be neutralised in a sliding position of the braking element (25), wherein the braking element (25) has a braking lever, and/or the braking element can be brought into its sliding position by pivoting an arm (11) of the detachment member (7) which has a detachment lever.