Modular Clamp With Spring-Loaded Jaw For Spear Gun Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marine vessel clamps and holders are inadequate for securing spear guns due to their smaller size, posing a safety risk as they do not fit in standard dive tank holders or clamps, and there is a need for a secure, adjustable, and versatile storage solution.
Innovation Solution
A modular spear gun storage holder with a mounting track, a support clamp member, and a pivoting clamp member that uses a pressure spring for closure, along with rubber inserts for a snug fit and an adjustable strap for additional security, allowing the clamp to be attached to a universal mounting track for enhanced stability and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard dive tank holders or clamps are used, then large items like dive tanks can be secured, but smaller items like spear guns cannot fit properly
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp features a movable jaw that can pivot between open and closed positions, allowing dynamic adjustment to accommodate different item diameters. The spring-loaded mechanism automatically adapts the clamp opening size to match the item being secured, enabling both spear guns and dive tanks to be properly retained.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp design incorporates variable parameters including adjustable clamp opening width and modifiable grip force through the spring mechanism. These parameter changes allow the same clamp to securely hold items of varying sizes by adjusting the physical dimensions and mechanical forces applied.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed clamp design is used, then manufacturing is simple, but the clamp cannot accommodate various sized items
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into distinct segments including a fixed jaw, a movable jaw, and a spring mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while collectively providing adjustable sizing capabilities without requiring an overly complex integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp design achieves multi-functionality by incorporating a spring-loaded movable jaw that can accommodate multiple item types and sizes. This universal design allows a single clamp to serve both spear gun retention and dive tank securing applications, reducing the need for multiple specialized clamps.
3Reliability
If a spring-loaded closure mechanism is used, then automatic closure and security are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism provides self-service by automatically generating the closure force needed to secure the item. When the movable jaw is released, the spring automatically pushes it into the closed position, eliminating the need for manual adjustment or additional actuation mechanisms while maintaining secure retention.
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
The solution provides a secure, adjustable, and versatile storage system for spear guns and similar-sized items, ensuring safety by preventing accidental release during vessel movement and accommodating various sizes through adjustable features.
Implementation Method 1
A pressure spring is disposed between an outside wall of the pivoting clamp member and the support block to bias the clamp in a closed mode or position
Implementation Method 2
The spring applies a force against the pivoting clamp member in order to releasably retain the spear gun body in the clamp
Implementation Method 3
The inside walls of the support clamp member and the pivoting clamp member receive rubber inserts to achieve a snug fit between the item being secured in the clamp and both of the clamp members
Data Source
AI summary
A modular clamp for storing a spear gun or other items on a marine vessel comprising a fixed clamp arm and a pivoting movable clamp arm, wherein the fixed clamp arm and the pivoting movable clamp arm define an openable clamp releasably receiving one or more items. A support block extends from the rear of the fixed clamp arm and a pressure spring is disposed between an outside wall of the pivoting movable clamp arm and the support block. The pivoting movable clamp arm pivots with respect to the fixed clamp arm and the pressure spring provides for resilient closure of the clamp. A strap is provided to lock the clamp closed.