Quick Clamping Apparatus for Optical Devices with Lever-Cam Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick clamping apparatuses for optical devices are complex in design, making them costly and unreliable for quick changes between different cameras in professional photography settings.
Innovation Solution
A simple mechanical quick clamping apparatus with a lever engaging a cam in a slotted link adjusts the distance between retaining elements, allowing for three positions: fixing, displacement, and removal of the quick change plate, utilizing a movable block with a spring bias and flexible cover for smooth operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex mechanism with multiple components is used for adjusting and fixing the spacing of guide rail parts, then the clamping function is reliable, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The guide rail is divided into a stationary part and a movable part, with the movable part containing the clamping mechanism. This segmentation allows the complex clamping function to be isolated in a specific module while keeping the overall structure simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded retaining device automatically engages with the cam on the lever to lock the movable part in place. The system uses its own components (spring, cam, lever) to achieve self-locking without requiring external locking mechanisms or additional complex devices.
2Productivity
If a spring-loaded retaining device with cam and lever is used, then the quick change function is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lever is designed to be pivotable, allowing it to dynamically transition between locked and unlocked positions. The spring-loaded retaining device dynamically engages and disengages from the cam, enabling quick changes while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam is designed with a curved profile that converts the rotational motion of the lever into linear motion of the movable guide part. This curved geometry enables the quick adjustment function while using a simple lever-cam mechanism rather than complex multi-component systems.
3Strength
If multiple retaining elements with adjustable spacing are used, then the quick change plate can be securely fixed, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spacing between retaining elements is adjusted by changing the position of the movable guide part along the guide surface. This parameter change is achieved through the lever-cam mechanism, which translates rotational motion into precise linear displacement, maintaining manufacturing precision while enabling adjustable spacing.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide rail has asymmetric geometry with the movable part positioned to allow spacing adjustment in one direction while maintaining secure retention in the other direction. This asymmetric design enables both adjustable spacing and strong fixing capability without requiring high precision in all dimensions.
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 apparatus provides a reliable, easy-to-handle solution with a simpler construction, ensuring secure fixing and easy release of optical devices while maintaining precise control and preventing unintentional removal.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded retaining device, which lever is pivotably mounted on the locking member and lies against the second member
Implementation Method 2
spring-biased retaining device
Implementation Method 3
a cam presser which is disposed in the receiver opposite the retaining apparatus in order to press the edge of the plate against the retaining apparatus
Implementation Method 4
a lever with a stop surface is used to move this movable retaining element against the spring tension and to lock it
Data Source
AI summary
A quick-release device for clamping a quick-change plate of an optical device in a guide on a baseplate, the quick-change plate and the guide comprising complementarily formed guide surfaces, the guide comprising first and second mounting elements adjustable relative to each other, and a device for fixing the quick-change plate in place designed for adjusting the distance of the mounting elements to each other, characterized in that the device for fixing the quick-change plate in place comprises a lever engaging with a cam in a slotted link disposed in the first mounting element, such that a motion of the lever adjusts the first mounting element relative to the second mounting element.