Magnetic Flashlight Clamp With Multi-Position Light Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional flashlights and light clamps lack versatility in attaching and directing light sources to various locations and orientations without requiring user intervention, limiting their application in diverse settings.
Innovation Solution
A light clamp apparatus with a slide bar, jaws, and a drive assembly that allows the light assembly to be removably attached at multiple positions, featuring a magnet for ferromagnetic surfaces and a hinge/rotation mechanism for adjustable light direction, enabling one-handed operation and secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the light assembly is fixed at a single position on the clamp, then the structure is simple, but the versatility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp structure is divided into multiple discrete mounting positions along the clamp body, allowing the light assembly to be selectively attached at different locations. This segmentation enables versatile light placement while maintaining a relatively simple overall clamp structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp is designed with multiple mounting positions that can accommodate the light assembly in various orientations and locations. This multi-functional design allows the same clamp structure to serve different lighting needs without requiring multiple specialized clamps.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the light assembly is permanently fixed to the clamp, then the attachment is secure, but the ability to reposition or remove the light is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism transitions between locked and unlocked states, allowing the light assembly to be securely fixed during use but easily repositioned or removed when needed. This dynamic capability provides both secure attachment and repositioning flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic mounting system allows the light assembly to be easily attached and detached by the user without requiring tools or complex mechanisms. The magnetic force provides secure holding while allowing simple manual manipulation for repositioning.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the light assembly can be attached to ferromagnetic surfaces, then the mounting options expand, but the requirement for magnetic components increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic mounting system replaces traditional mechanical fastening methods (screws, clips, adhesives) with magnetic attraction. This substitution enables attachment to ferromagnetic surfaces without complex mechanical structures, reducing overall system complexity while expanding surface compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic force provides adjustable holding strength that can accommodate different surface types and lighting conditions. By utilizing the magnetic field parameter, the system achieves versatile surface attachment without requiring multiple specialized mounting mechanisms.
4Ease of operation
If the clamp requires two-handed operation for secure attachment, then the attachment is more reliable, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger-operated mechanism allows the user to secure the clamp with one hand by simply pulling the trigger. The mechanism automatically engages the locking action, providing reliable attachment without requiring two-handed operation or complex manual adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger mechanism replaces traditional two-handed tightening operations with a single-handed actuation system. The mechanical advantage provided by the trigger mechanism converts a simple pulling motion into secure clamp engagement, maintaining reliability while improving ease of 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
Enables flexible light placement and direction without user holding, enhancing usability in various settings by allowing secure attachment to different objects and surfaces, facilitating easy adjustment and operation.
Implementation Method 1
the light assembly including a magnet, whereby the light assembly is removably attachable to a surface including a ferromagnetic metal
Data Source
AI summary
A light clamp apparatus includes a clamp configured to affix the light clamp apparatus to an object. The light clamp apparatus also includes a light assembly configured to removably attach to the clamp at least at two different positions on the clamp, the light assembly including a magnet, whereby the light assembly is removably attachable to a surface comprising a ferromagnetic metal. The clamp includes a slide bar comprising a first end and a second end, a first jaw coupled to the first end, and a body slidably receiving the slide bar having a second jaw opposing the first jaw. The clamp further includes a drive assembly for moving the slide bar in a first direction.