Multi-Directional Equalizer Clamp With Single-Point Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clamps require multiple forcing mechanisms to secure components with different orientations, increasing complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A clamp assembly using a single fastener and forcing mechanism to simultaneously lock multiple components in different orientations, reducing the number of components and simplifying the manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional clamps use individual forcing mechanisms for each component, then each component can be securely locked, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple forcing mechanisms into a single integrated forcing mechanism that can simultaneously apply clamping forces in multiple directions. The clamp body includes multiple clamping surfaces and a single forcing mechanism that acts on all surfaces through mechanical linkages, reducing the number of components while maintaining reliable clamping of multiple components with different orientations.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly is designed with multi-functionality where a single forcing mechanism performs the work of multiple individual forcing mechanisms. The clamp body incorporates multiple openings and clamping surfaces that can accommodate components in different orientations (x-direction, y-direction, and intermediate directions), allowing one forcing mechanism to secure multiple components simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional clamps use separate mechanisms for each direction, then each opening can be independently adjusted, but the number of components and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp body is designed as a universal structure with multiple openings and clamping surfaces that can accommodate components in various directions. A single forcing mechanism is configured to apply force through mechanical linkages to multiple clamping surfaces simultaneously, enabling the clamp to secure components in x-direction, y-direction, and intermediate directions without requiring separate mechanisms for each direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional clamping approach to a multi-dimensional clamping capability. The clamp body includes openings and clamping surfaces oriented in multiple dimensions (x-direction, y-direction, and intermediate directions), allowing a single forcing mechanism to achieve multi-directional adaptability by distributing force across multiple dimensional planes through mechanical linkages.
3Reliability
If multiple forcing mechanisms are used, then each component can be independently secured, but the operation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple forcing mechanisms into a single forcing mechanism that can simultaneously secure multiple components. When the single forcing mechanism is activated, it applies clamping forces through mechanical linkages to multiple clamping surfaces at the same time, securing all components in a single operation rather than requiring sequential adjustment of multiple independent mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly enables continuous useful action by securing multiple components simultaneously through a single forcing mechanism. The mechanical linkages transmit the forcing action continuously to all clamping surfaces, allowing all components to be secured in one continuous operation without interruption or sequential steps, thereby reducing operation time while maintaining reliable securing.
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 single-action clamp assembly simplifies operation, reduces manufacturing costs, and enhances sterilization capabilities, making it suitable for surgical and construction applications.
Implementation Method 1
A clamp assembly for surgical procedures and methods thereof using a single action fastener and/or forcing mechanism to lock multiple components disposed in different orientations
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-directional, equalizer clamp device is disclosed, the clamp device being configured to attach and secure objects, such as posts, rails and the like, for a multiplicity of clamping applications that benefit from single-point clamping operation. The clamp device comprises upper and lower body portions which may be configured to clamp to a side rail of a support table, while further configured to receive objects and clamp them along a secondary clamping direction. The clamp device further comprises a control assembly, such as a knob, to facilitate and achieve simultaneous clamping along both primary and secondary clamping directions at a single point of control. A jogging clamp for clamping to variable sized objects in a primary direction comprises a plurality of spherical, indexing recesses disposed in the lower jaw and matching spherical washer disposed on the control assembly configured to allow large, indexed vertical variation in the clamping range.