Interchangeable Half-Clamp Assembly for Perpendicular Beam Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to connect two elongated members in a perpendicular relationship, particularly in industries like roofing, where standing seam roofs require clamps to secure devices like solar panels, and existing solutions are not efficient or cost-effective.
Innovation Solution
The design of interchangeable half clamps with channels and jaws that can be tightened using a bolt and nut system, allowing for secure perpendicular connection of beams to ridges or other beams, accommodating varying widths and facilitating easy installation and manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional clamping means are used to connect beams to ridges, then the connection is secure, but manufacturing costs increase and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into two identical half clamps that can be independently positioned and secured to opposite sides of the ridge. Each half clamp has its own channel for receiving the beam flange and jaw for engaging the ridge side, allowing simplified installation from either side of the ridge without requiring complex assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Both half clamps are made identical with the same form, fit, and function, making them universally interchangeable. This universal design simplifies manufacturing by using a single component type and simplifies installation by allowing the same half clamp to be used on either side of the ridge, reducing the need for multiple specialized components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized clamp types are used for different beam-flange configurations, then various beam types can be accommodated, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The identical half clamps provide universal adaptability to accommodate different beam types and flange configurations. By positioning the channels and jaws appropriately on each half clamp, the same component can engage with various beam-flange combinations, eliminating the need to manufacture multiple specialized clamp variants for different beam types.
Solution Approach 2:
While the half clamps themselves are symmetric and identical, their installation orientation can be asymmetrically arranged to accommodate different beam configurations. The channels and jaws are positioned to receive beam flanges from opposite sides, allowing the same symmetric component to adapt to asymmetric beam arrangements through proper positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp for perpendicularly connecting two elongated members includes first and second interchangeable half clamps. The half clamps are placed in opposing relationship and tightened around the perpendicular junction of the two elongated members. In one embodiment, the clamp is designed to connect a beam (such as an I-beam) to a ridge (such as that found on a standing seam roof). In another embodiment the clamp is designed to connect two beams together.