Non-slip Spacer with Elastomer Coating for Secure Workpiece Holding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Woodworking hand tools face challenges in securely holding workpieces without damaging them, as clamps interfere with access, non-slip mats inhibit tool access, and adhesives can damage the workpiece, while existing solutions fail to provide sufficient resistance and durability.

Innovation Solution

A spacer system with planar, opposed major surfaces coated with a non-slip elastomer layer, allowing for adjustable elevation and minimal contact with the workpiece, featuring a core sandwiched between elastomer layers and optional threaded receivers for interconnection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a clamp is used to hold the workpiece, then the workpiece is securely held in place, but the clamp interferes with access to the workpiece and may mar the workpiece surface

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveworkpiece holding securityVSAvoidtool access to workpiece

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The non-slip spacer acts as an intermediary between the workpiece and the work surface, providing secure holding through friction without requiring direct contact with the workpiece. The spacer's textured surface and compliant material grip the workpiece while allowing tool access from all sides, eliminating the interference problem caused by clamps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If a soft non-skid pad or mat is used to constrain the workpiece, then the workpiece is held from moving, but the workpiece rests on the pad surface which inhibits access to the workpiece sides, lower edges and bottom

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveworkpiece constraintVSAvoidtool access to workpiece

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The non-slip spacer is designed as a discrete, localized support element rather than a continuous pad or mat. This segmentation allows the workpiece to be held securely at specific points while maintaining open access to all surfaces, including sides, edges, and bottom, enabling tools to work from any angle.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If a simple interposing block is used to elevate the workpiece, then tool access is improved, but slippage occurs because insufficient friction is provided

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool access to workpieceVSAvoidworkpiece holding security

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The non-slip spacer incorporates a textured surface with increased friction characteristics specifically at the contact interfaces. This local quality enhancement provides high friction where needed for gripping the workpiece and work surface, while maintaining a simple block structure for elevation and tool access.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

4Reliability

If adhesives are used to hold the workpiece, then the workpiece is securely held, but the adhesives damage the workpiece

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveworkpiece holding securityVSAvoidworkpiece damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces the chemical bonding mechanism of adhesives with a mechanical friction-based holding system. The non-slip spacer uses textured surfaces and compliant material to create high friction mechanical grip, securing the workpiece without any chemical substances that could damage or contaminate the workpiece surface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

5Reliability

If soft materials are used to support the workpiece, then the workpiece is held securely, but the soft materials shred due to lateral shear force from tools

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveworkpiece holding securityVSAvoidspacer durability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The non-slip spacer utilizes composite construction combining a rigid structural core with a compliant non-slip outer layer. This composite structure provides the durability and shear strength of rigid materials while maintaining the high friction and conformability of soft materials, preventing both shredding and loss of grip.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

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 spacer system effectively holds workpieces in place without damaging them, allowing full access for tools and enabling easy finishing, while providing durability and versatility in configuration.

Implementation Method 1

each of the two opposed major surfaces includes a continuous, non-slip layer

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

said elastomer being unitary resiliently compressible

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9061399B2Non-slip spacer support system

Publication Date: 2015.06.23 ROCKLER

AI summary

A non-slip removable spacer for holding a workpiece in place relative to a work surface when interposed therebetween without permanent bonding therebetween. The spacer has a core with generally planar surfaces, with a pair elastomeric coverings applied to the surfaces. Further disclosed is a recessed attachment member in the spacer to receive a spindle element which permits spacers to be connected in a spaced part relationship. The spindle further includes a shelf. Also disclosed is cone adapter engagable atop a spacer. The cone has an apex for supporting a work surface with minimum surface contact.