Modular Profile Clamping Device Prevents Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular support profiles for sliding gates and fences face issues with clamping devices that either rotate and loosen or require special tools for tensioning, leading to insecure connections and operational challenges.
Innovation Solution
A modular support profile design featuring locking elements connected to clamping elements via screw connections, with receptacles in the basic profile segments to prevent rotation and ensure secure tensioning without special tools, using commercially available tools for assembly and providing stiffening against transverse loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ropes or wires are used as clamping devices with screwing systems, then the connection can be tensioned, but the ropes can rotate and stretch leading to loosening
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping device is divided into separate functional elements: a locking element that prevents rotation and clamping elements that provide tension. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function effectively - the locking element maintains positional stability while clamping elements apply and maintain tension without rotating.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element acts as an intermediary between the clamping elements and the basic profile segments. It receives the clamping elements and prevents their rotation, thereby mediating the tension force and preventing loosening while allowing the clamping elements to perform their tensioning function.
2Force
If threaded rods are used as clamping devices, then tension can be applied, but the threaded rods can rotate in the profile during assembly preventing secure tension
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping device separates the tensioning function (clamping elements) from the positioning function (locking element). The locking element is specifically designed to engage with the receptacle in a way that prevents rotation during assembly, while the clamping elements apply the necessary tension force independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element serves as an intermediary that interfaces between the clamping elements and the basic profile segments. It prevents rotation during assembly by engaging with the rotationally resistant receptacle, thereby enabling secure tension application without the rotation problems experienced with threaded rods.
3Ease of manufacture
If wires are used as clamping elements, then connection can be made, but special tools are required for tensioning
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping elements are designed with multi-functionality - they can be tensioned using standard commercially available tools rather than specialized equipment. The locking element's design with a receptacle that accepts common tools allows the same tool to both install and maintain the clamping device throughout its service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed to be self-servicing through its receptacle design that accommodates standard tools. This allows the clamping device to be tensioned and maintained using universally available tools without requiring special equipment, enabling easy operation and maintenance by end users.
4Strength
If locking elements are positioned at facing end faces of assembled basic profile segments, then the segments are stiffened against transverse loads, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element combines multiple functions into a single component: it prevents rotation of the clamping elements, provides a receptacle for tool engagement, and positions the clamping elements at the optimal location for stiffening against transverse loads. This merging reduces overall device complexity while achieving the desired structural reinforcement.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs rotation prevention, tool engagement, and structural stiffening. By consolidating these functions into one element rather than using separate components, the overall device complexity is minimized while still providing enhanced transverse load resistance.
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
Ensures secure and stable connection of basic profile segments with reliable tensile stress and easy tool-based assembly, preventing loosening and enhancing structural stability against loads.
Implementation Method 1
the locking element can not rotate through the rotatable receptacle in the basic profile segment when screwing and tensioning the clamping elements
Implementation Method 2
the clamping elements can be connected to the locking element by means of screw connections
Implementation Method 3
the at least two clamping elements are connected to the two exposed end faces of the at least two basic profile segments
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
Modular support profile (1) consisting of at least two base profile segments (2) arranged in a longitudinal direction and clamped together at their mutually facing end faces by at least one clamping device for fastening rods (8) at a substantially normal angle to the longitudinal direction of the base profile segments (2) in the base profile segments (2), wherein the at least one clamping device (3) is formed from at least one locking element (5) and at least two clamping elements (4) which are connected to the at least one locking element (5) by screw connections, and the base profile segments (2) have receptacles (6) which receive the at least one locking element (5) in a rotationally secure manner, wherein the at least two clamping elements (4) are connected to the two exposed end faces of the at least two base profile segments (2).