Clasp-and-Lug Gate Mechanism for Fast, Secure Lifting Connection

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for safely and efficiently connecting and disconnecting structural frame components from lifting machinery at construction sites are time-consuming, necessitating improved approaches for mechanical handling.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a lug mounted to a component and a clasp with a gate mechanism that moves between open and closed positions to secure and release the lug, allowing for easy attachment and detachment using lifting machinery, featuring a rotatable lever to lock and unlock the lug in place.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional connecting and disconnecting methods are used for structural frame components, then safety and reliability are maintained, but the process becomes time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesafety and reliability of component connectionVSAvoidtime required for connecting and disconnecting components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The gate mechanism transitions between static locked and dynamic unlocked states through rotation, enabling rapid connection and disconnection while maintaining security during lifting operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses self-latching through the gate mechanism that automatically secures the lug when closed, eliminating the need for additional fastening operations and reducing connection time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If a secure locking mechanism is implemented to prevent lug removal during lifting, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprevention of lug removal during liftingVSAvoidcomplexity of clasp and gate mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The clasp is divided into distinct functional elements (body, gate mechanism, lug receiving portion) that work together to provide secure locking without requiring a monolithic complex structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The gate mechanism serves as an intermediary element between the lifting machinery and the lug, providing a simple rotational interface that enables secure connection without complex locking systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 faster and safer handling of structural components by securely attaching them to lifting machinery for vertical positioning and easy release, reducing the time required for component placement and disconnection.

Implementation Method 1

a gate mechanism configured to support the body when the clasp is supported by lifting machinery and to move with respect to the body between (a) an open position that allows removal of the lug from the body when the gate mechanism is not supporting the body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentEP3094588B1Clasp-and-lug system
Publication Date: 2022.05.04 CONXTECH INC
  • EP3094588B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3094588B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3094588B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

System, including methods and apparatus, for mechanically moving components with lifting machinery. In some embodiments, the system may comprise a lug mounted to a component, and a clasp. The clasp may include a body configured to receive the lug. The clasp also may include a gate mechanism configured to support the body when the clasp is supported by lifting machinery, and to move with respect to the body between (a) an open position that allows removal of the lug from the body when the gate mechanism is not supporting the body and (b) a closed position that prevents removal of the lug from the body when the gate mechanism is supporting the body.