Log Clamping Device with Adjustable Arms

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing log clamping devices are inefficient as they require replacement when log diameters change, making them inconvenient for handling logs of varying sizes during the cutting process.

Innovation Solution

A clamping device with moveable components, including a base plate connected to posts and arms with adjustable clamps, allows for flexible positioning and size adaptation through a cam mechanism and actuator system, enabling secure clamping of logs with different diameters without part replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a clamping device is configured for securing logs of constant size, then the clamping structure is simple and stable, but it requires replacement when log diameters change, reducing efficiency and flexibility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different log diametersVSAvoidclamping device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The clamping device employs moveable arms that can be adjusted to different positions along the base plate, allowing the device to dynamically adapt to logs of varying diameters. The arms can be repositioned and locked at different locations to maintain effective clamping force regardless of log size, eliminating the need for complete device replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The clamping device is designed with a universal base plate that accommodates multiple arm positions and configurations. This multi-functional design allows a single device to handle various log diameters through adjustable arm placements, making the device versatile for different cutting operations without requiring specialized configurations for each log size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If the clamping device uses fixed components, then the structure is stable and easy to manufacture, but it is inconvenient and inefficient to change log diameters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of adjusting for different log sizesVSAvoidtime to change device configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The clamping device is segmented into modular components including the base plate, multiple arms, and adjustable clamps. Each arm can be independently positioned and secured at different locations on the base plate, allowing rapid reconfiguration for different log diameters without affecting other parts of the device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base plate is pre-equipped with multiple positioning locations and mounting points that allow arms to be quickly repositioned. This preliminary preparation of the structure enables operators to rapidly adjust the device for different log sizes by simply moving arms to pre-defined positions rather than making custom adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 efficient and rapid adjustment to accommodate logs of various diameters, enhancing production convenience by maintaining secure clamping without the need for device replacement.

Implementation Method 1

The post can be in the form of a screw, and the base plate can be threadedly engaged with the at least one post. The base plate moves relative to the frame via the rotation of the at least one post.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Implementation Method 2

a follower can be rotatably formed or mounted on each arm. A profile can be fixed on the frame corresponding to the follower. The profile has a surface on which the follower moves along to change the distance between the arms.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCam mechanism: Cam

Data Source

PatentEP2921269B1Log clamping device and log saw comprising said clamping device
Publication Date: 2017.05.10 UNIVERSAL TISSUE TECH
  • EP2921269B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2921269B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2921269B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A clamping device (1) is described for clamping a log (100; 200) such as a log of wound material.