Interlocked Two-Part Clamp With T-Shaped Slot And Finger Retention
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tube clamps lack the strength and durability to securely anchor tubes in demanding applications and often require reassembly during assembly operations due to disassembly issues with preassembled two-part clamps.
Innovation Solution
A two-part clamp design featuring a first clamp portion with an elongated slot and a second clamp portion with a T-shaped end that interlocks within the slot, along with a finger mechanism to prevent disassembly, ensuring secure attachment to a supporting surface without the need for reassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If two-part clamps are preassembled to minimize labor expense, then assembly efficiency is improved, but the clamps tend to become separated and require reassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp parts are preassembled with the interlocking mechanism engaged before final installation, allowing preparation in advance while maintaining connection integrity through the interlocking design that prevents separation during handling and shipping
Solution Approach 2:
The two separate clamp parts are merged into a single functional unit through the interlocking mechanism, where the T-shaped end of one part fits into the slot of the other part, creating a unified structure that resists separation while maintaining the benefits of two-part construction
2Ease of manufacture
If simple strap clamps are used to minimize cost, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the clamps lack the strength and durability required for demanding applications
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into two separate parts that can be manufactured using simple, inexpensive processes such as progressive sheet metal dies and roll forming tooling, then joined through an interlocking mechanism to achieve the required strength and durability without requiring complex manufacturing for each component
Data Source
AI summary
An interlocked clamp for an elongated member such as a pipe, tube cable, or the like is provided. The two-part clamp is interlocked on one end and is secured by a fastener to a supporting surface on an opposite end. The two parts are interlocked by a T-shaped distal end of one of the clamp members that is received in an elongated slot formed in the other clamp member. A finger is provided that extends across the slot and secures the T-shaped distal end within the slot.