Force Adjustment Mechanism for Band Clamp Tools
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools for tightening and securing band clamps lack the ability to consistently apply a predetermined amount of force, leading to variability in clamping pressure and potential over-tightening.
Innovation Solution
A hand tool with a force adjustment mechanism that allows users to select and apply a predetermined force level using a rotatable adjustment member and biasing members, preventing excessive force application by rotating relative to the arm when the set force is reached, with tactile feedback and indicia for user guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hand tool is used to tighten band clamps, then the clamp can be secured to the conduit, but the clamping force varies depending on installer application and cannot be predetermined
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by incorporating a force adjustment mechanism with a biasing member that can be set to different force levels. The mechanism changes the physical parameter of applied force from variable (dependent on operator) to controlled (predetermined by adjustment mechanism), allowing consistent clamping force regardless of operator skill level.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool implements self-service by automatically limiting the clamping force through the force adjustment mechanism. Once the predetermined force is reached, the mechanism self-regulates to prevent over-tightening, eliminating the need for operator judgment or skill to control the force level.
2Reliability
If existing clamp tools are used, then clamps can be tightened, but over-tightening may occur due to lack of force control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary force adjustment mechanism between the operator's manual force and the clamp. This intermediary component (comprising biasing members and adjustment elements) mediates the force transmission, allowing simple manual operation while providing complex force control functionality to prevent over-tightening.
3Ease of operation
If manual force application is used, then the tool is simple to operate, but the amount of force applied cannot be predetermined or controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The tool implements dynamics by combining simple manual operation with a dynamic force adjustment mechanism. The mechanism allows the tool to adapt its force output based on the predetermined setting, transitioning from static manual force application to dynamic controlled force application while maintaining ease of manual operation.
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
Ensures consistent and user-selectable clamping force, preventing over-tightening and providing reliable securement of clamps at a predetermined force level.
Implementation Method 1
A tool, having pincher jaws is used to grab the raised portion and deform the raised portion by displacing the outer sides of the raised portion inward. This deformation reduces the diameter of the band to secure the conduit to the fitting.
Implementation Method 2
the amount of force applied by the installer may vary depending on the amount of force applied by the installer on the tool
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A tool and method of securing a clamp is provided. The tool includes a first handle having a first jaw portion on one end. An arm is pivotally coupled to the first handle, the having a second jaw portion on one end. A second handle is adjacent the first handle. A force adjustment mechanism is rotatably coupled between the arm and the second handle. The force adjustment mechanism has a biasing member operably coupled between the arm and an adjustment member, the force adjustment mechanism further having at least one bearing member disposed between the arm and the adjustment member. The second handle is arranged to rotate relative to the arm based at least in part on a force applied on the second handle by the biasing member via the at least one bearing member.