Locking Pliers Mount Connector for Rigid Multi-Mount Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of general-purpose devices for quickly and simply connecting and disconnecting locking pliers to various mounts, limiting their utility and safety in work holding applications.
Innovation Solution
A locking plier connector that provides standard attachment features, allowing easy mounting and dismounting of locking pliers to a variety of mounts, using a pointed protuberance for insertion and clamping, and multiple connection points for rigidity, including threaded and dovetail connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing locking plier clamping solutions are used, then clamping function is provided, but general purpose mounting options are not available
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates multiple standard mounting interfaces (1/4-20 UNC threaded holes, dovetail slots) that enable the same device to connect to various mounts including bench tops, vises, and dexterous arms, making it universally applicable across different workholding scenarios without requiring plier-specific connection features
2Strength
If locking pliers made from hardened material are used, then strength and durability are improved, but grip difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector acts as an intermediary between the operator and the hardened locking pliers, providing a comfortable handgrip interface that does not require direct contact with the hard plier body. The connector's softer or more compliant material allows easy gripping while the rigid connector shaft transmits force to the hardened pliers
3Extent of automation
If existing dexterous work holding solutions are used, then automation is provided, but fine adjustment capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector enables dynamic adjustment of locking pliers position and orientation on dexterous workholding systems through standard mounting interfaces that allow repositioning. The over-center locking mechanism provides stable positioning at adjusted locations while maintaining the ability to make fine adjustments to plier orientation and workpiece position
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus with single part body plus fastener for rigidly connecting locking pliers to commonly available mounts to afford simple, highly versatile and capable work holding solutions. A method for attaching mounts to locking pliers by clamping the handle with an adjustable spike inserted in the hole commonly present on plier handles on one side and a hooked feature on the other. The method discloses the spike best mode orientation to the hook to afford clamping of multiple sizes of locking pliers. Mounting thread angle axes relative to the locking plier handle are disclosed that accommodate both clearance between the mount and locking plier jaw tightening features for jaw adjustment and for aligning the fixed jaw with mount axes, for varying sizes of locking pliers. A best mode angle to align the fixed jaw axis with the mount axis is given to suit all sizes of locking pliers in scope.