Clevis Pin Lever Mechanism for Quick Jaw Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing crimping and cutting tools face challenges in efficiently removing and installing different sets of jaws, which are necessary for various tasks or replacing damaged jaws, due to the lack of a reliable mechanism for securing and releasing the jaws.
Innovation Solution
A clevis pin arrangement that includes a clevis with apertures, a clevis pin with a stop pin recess, and a lever mechanism with detents and a spring, allowing the clevis pin to move between closed and open positions for securing and releasing jaws on a crimping or cutting tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional fixed jaw mechanism is used in crimping and cutting tools, then the tool structure is simple, but the tool cannot perform multiple tasks or replace damaged jaws efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw attachment mechanism is segmented into modular components: a clevis pin with aperture, a clevis with first and second legs, and a lever mechanism. This segmentation allows the jaws to be easily detached and replaced while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. The clevis pin can be independently removed from the first leg, enabling jaw replacement without disassembling the entire tool.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism transitions from a static fixed-jaw design to a dynamic removable-jaw design. The lever mechanism provides controlled motion to move the clevis pin between engaged and disengaged positions, enabling the jaws to be securely attached during operation and easily removed when task changes or replacement is needed.
2Reliability
If a simple pin mechanism is used to secure jaws, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of jaw securing is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The lever mechanism is designed to move the clevis pin into a precisely positioned engaged state before operation begins. The aperture in the clevis pin aligns with the slot in the clevis, and the lever applies preliminary securing force to ensure the jaws are firmly attached and cannot shift during crimping or cutting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The lever mechanism acts as an intermediary between the operator and the clevis pin. Instead of directly manipulating the pin, the operator activates the lever, which translates the activation force into controlled pin movement. This intermediary mechanism ensures reliable engagement and disengagement while providing mechanical advantage and precise control.
3Productivity
If jaws are securely fixed during operation, then operational reliability is high, but jaw removal and installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clevis pin is designed with an aperture that allows it to be extracted from the first leg of the clevis when the lever is activated. This extraction mechanism enables rapid jaw removal without requiring tools or complex disassembly procedures. The pin can be completely removed from the first leg, allowing quick jaw replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The lever mechanism is self-actuating through its connection to the clevis pin. When the lever is moved, it automatically drives the pin into or out of the engaged position without requiring additional actuators or manual manipulation of the pin itself. This self-service mechanism reduces the time and effort needed for jaw attachment and detachment.
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 easy installation and removal of jaws on crimping and cutting tools, facilitating task versatility and jaw replacement by securely holding jaws in place during operation and allowing for simple axial displacement to open or close the jaw attachment mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
The second end can include a stop pin recess. The clevis pin arrangement can also include a clevis lever coupled to the clevis pin that engages a spring. The inner surface can include a first detent and a second detent. In some embodiments, the spring can bias the second end, the first detent, and the second detent toward the second leg.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention provide a clevis pin arrangement for use in a tool. The clevis pin arrangement can include a clevis that includes a first and second leg with first and second apertures, respectively, a clevis pin that extends between the first and second apertures when in a closed position, and an actuator. The actuator can move the clevis pin arrangement between the closed position and an open position.