Foot-Actuated Clamping Apparatus with Integrated Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping apparatuses require separate foot and hand operations for jaw movement and locking, making them difficult and hazardous to use, especially when handling accessories, as they can be time-consuming to fit and remove, leading to potential misuse.
Innovation Solution
A lever-operated clamping apparatus with a foot-actuated locking mechanism integrated into the pedal, allowing hands-free operation of the movable jaw and easy accessory fitting, where the locking actuator is pivotally movable to lock or unlock the jaw with toe and heel contact, respectively, and a ratchet mechanism for stepwise jaw movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate foot and hand operations are used for jaw movement and locking, then the clamping apparatus can be operated with distinct controls, but the operation becomes difficult and hazardous, especially when handling accessories
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking actuator with the foot pedal, integrating two previously separate functions (jaw movement control and locking) into a single foot-operated device. The locking actuator is pivotally movable with respect to the lever assembly, allowing the operator to lock or unlock the jaw using the same foot that operates the pedal, eliminating the need for separate hand operation of the locking mechanism.
2Reliability
If a separate locking mechanism is used, then the jaw position can be secured, but the operator may forget to operate the lock and requires free hand and foot for operation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated with the foot pedal assembly, combining the functions of jaw positioning and locking into a single coordinated operation. The locking actuator is positioned and configured to be operated by the same foot that controls the lever assembly, ensuring that locking is performed as part of the same operational sequence as jaw movement, thereby reducing the likelihood of forgetting to lock.
3Adaptability or versatility
If accessories are fitted and removed frequently, then the apparatus can be adapted to different tasks, but the process becomes time-consuming and leads to frustration
Solution Approach 1:
The locating means is designed to pre-align and guide accessories into their correct positions on the support body. The male and female engagement means are configured to automatically locate and secure accessories when brought into engagement, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual alignment and fitting operations.
4Reliability
If multiple engagement means are provided for accessories, then accessories can be securely located, but the fitting process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory engagement system is segmented into separate male and female engagement means, with the male engagement means provided on the accessory and the female engagement means provided on the support body. This segmentation allows for simple, modular connection without requiring complex integrated mechanisms, as each part has a dedicated engagement interface.
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 safe, efficient, and hands-free operation of the clamping apparatus, allowing operators to focus on work without maintaining the clamping force, and simplifies the fitting and removal of accessories, enhancing usability and safety.
Implementation Method 1
The locking means actuator is pivotally movable with respect to the lever assembly so as to allow the selective locking of the position of the at least one moveable jaw when the actuator is moved in a first direction and the unlocking of the position of the at least one moveable jaw when the actuator is moved in a second direction
Implementation Method 2
a lever assembly pivotally connected to the support structure and provided to be pivotally moved by the operator for engaging and driving the movement of the said moveable jaw to apply a clamping force to the workpiece positioned between the jaws
Implementation Method 3
A lever-operated clamping apparatus with a foot-actuated locking mechanism integrated into the pedal, allowing hands-free operation of the movable jaw and easy accessory fitting, where the locking actuator is pivotally movable to lock or unlock the jaw with toe and heel contact, respectively, and a ratchet mechanism for stepwise jaw movement
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 2a
AI summary
The invention relates to clamping apparatus for a workpiece. The apparatus includes first and second jaws, one of which is movable by operator operation of a lever assembly and locking means are provided to selectively lock the movable jaw in position. The locking means can be actuated by the operator's foot thereby leaving the operator's hands free to perform work on the workpiece. An engagement system is also provided in order to allow additional accessory components to be selectively fitted to the apparatus for use in particular work operations.