Panel Clamping Jaw Structure With Auto-Locking Remote Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping devices require multiple operators for handling large and heavy objects, and they struggle with efficiently handling light weight and large panels, as they often require manual separation of jaws for object placement, which is cumbersome and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A clamping device with a compact design featuring two opposing jaws, one fixed and one movable, utilizing a pulling element with slanting surfaces and springs to automatically adjust the jaw distance, allowing for easy handling of thin and fragile panels, and an autolock mechanism for remote operation, enabling single-operator handling and reducing manual labor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a basic clamping device with rotatable jaw is used, then it can accommodate objects of different sizes, but it requires multiple operators and manual separation of jaws for handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the jaw spacing automatically adjustable through a spring-loaded mechanism. The movable jaw is equipped with a spring that automatically adjusts the spacing between jaws based on the size of the object being clamped, eliminating the need for manual adjustment and reducing the requirement for multiple operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping device implements self-service through its automatic locking mechanism. When the hoist lifts the clamping device, the weight of the object automatically triggers the locking mechanism to secure the jaws in place, and when lowered, it automatically releases. This self-acting mechanism eliminates the need for manual intervention during operation.
2Device complexity
If manual separation of jaws is required for object placement, then the device structure remains simple, but the operation becomes cumbersome and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic locking mechanism serves itself by using the gravitational force and weight of the object to automatically lock and unlock the jaws. During lifting, the object's weight activates the locking mechanism to secure the jaws; during lowering, gravity automatically releases the lock. This self-service operation significantly improves handling efficiency without adding complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded movable jaw performs preliminary action by pre-positioning the jaws at an appropriate spacing before the object is placed. The spring mechanism anticipates the need for jaw separation and automatically positions the movable jaw to accommodate the object, eliminating the need for manual jaw separation and improving operational efficiency.
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 enables efficient, single-operator handling of large and thin panels by automatically adjusting jaw distance and locking/unlocking mechanisms, reducing manual labor and improving safety by minimizing operator involvement during object placement and transfer.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a pulling element with slanting surfaces and springs to automatically adjust the jaw distance
Implementation Method 2
springs to automatically adjust the jaw distance
Implementation Method 3
pulling element with slanting surfaces
Implementation Method 4
autolock mechanism for remote operation
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping device configured to handle large and fragile objects can include large jaws extended outside a smaller jaw support. The extended areas of the second jaw can be up to 4× of the jaw support, and can contain reinforced ridges configured so that a force applied from the second body portion to the second jaw spreads to the extended areas of the second jaw outside the second body portion, for example, to at least 80%. The clamping device can include an automatic locking mechanism for open and close the jaws from an operator far away from the clamping device.