Modular Straight Edge Clamp for Adjustable Length Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional straight edge clamps are inflexible in terms of length adjustment and incur higher costs and weight due to their fixed designs, requiring multiple clamps for different job requirements and being cumbersome to ship and display.
Innovation Solution
A modular straight edge clamp design featuring interchangeable sections connected via a unique connector and a clamping system with a movable locking mechanism, allowing for adjustable length and reduced weight and cost, with a clamping head and end stop assembly that can be easily positioned and locked onto a work surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a fixed-length straight edge clamp design is used, then the structural simplicity and manufacturing ease are improved, but the adaptability and versatility are worsened because multiple clamps are needed for different job requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The straight edge clamp body is divided into multiple interchangeable sections that can be connected in different combinations. Each section has standardized connection interfaces (slots and connectors) that allow them to be assembled into various lengths, enabling a single clamp design to serve multiple length requirements while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized components
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp design incorporates universal connection features and standardized interfaces that allow the same basic clamp sections to be used in different configurations and applications. The end stop and clamping head assemblies can be positioned at different locations along the modular sections, making the clamp adaptable to various job requirements without needing entirely different designs
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed-length clamps are manufactured to meet different length requirements, then the adaptability is improved, but the weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing and storing multiple complete clamps of different lengths, the system segments the clamp into reusable sections that can be combined in different quantities. A user needs only one set of standardized sections to create various lengths, significantly reducing the total weight of clamp equipment needed compared to maintaining multiple fixed-length clamps
Solution Approach 2:
The modular sections are designed to be easily disconnected and recovered for reuse in different configurations. After completing a job with a specific length configuration, the sections can be quickly separated and reused for the next job, eliminating the need to transport and store multiple different clamp units
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed-length clamps are manufactured to meet different length requirements, then the adaptability is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp system is segmented into standardized sections that can be manufactured using the same processes and materials. This standardization reduces tooling costs, simplifies inventory management, and allows for more economical production compared to manufacturing multiple unique fixed-length clamp designs, while still providing diverse length options
Solution Approach 2:
By designing universal connection interfaces and standardized components that can be used across different length configurations, the manufacturing cost per unit is reduced through economies of scale. The same basic sections serve multiple functions across different assembled lengths, reducing the total number of unique parts that need to be manufactured
4Adaptability or versatility
If a modular section design with connectors is used, then the adaptability and ease of shipping are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
While segmentation into modular sections does introduce connection interfaces, these are designed as simple, straightforward mechanical connectors with basic slot-and-engage geometry. The simplicity of each individual connector is offset by the versatility gained from being able to combine sections in different configurations, and the standardized design actually reduces overall system complexity compared to multiple unique clamp designs
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a straight edge clamp that has a clamping head assembly and a stop assembly mounted upon the body of the straight edge. The head and stop are not connected together and the stop assembly is free to move with respect to the head assembly. The stop assembly has a locking assembly that allows it to be locked to the straight edge. The straight edge clamp body can include sections that are adapted to be connected together to form the overall length of the straight edge clamp.