Workspace Partition Clamp Mechanism for Variable Desk Thickness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for attaching workspace dividing partitions to office work surfaces, such as clamping collets and legs, are cumbersome and limited to specific work surface thicknesses, often requiring tools and being difficult to install.
Innovation Solution
A device featuring a mobile branch and control mechanism that allows the partition to be easily attached to any work surface thickness without tools, using a clamp-type mechanism where the branch moves between attachment and release positions, driven by an actuating member that transforms horizontal movement into vertical displacement of a flange, ensuring secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If clamping collets are used to attach partitions to work surfaces, then the attachment is tool-free and simple to install, but the solution is limited to certain work surface thicknesses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the attachment mechanism from a direct vertical clamping action to a horizontal actuation that drives a cam mechanism, converting horizontal movement into vertical clamping force. This dimensional transformation allows the same mechanism to adapt to various work surface thicknesses by adjusting the cam profile and actuation distance, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses adjustable parameters including the cam profile geometry, actuating member travel distance, and flange position to accommodate different work surface thicknesses. By changing these parameters, the same attachment device can securely attach partitions to work surfaces of varying thicknesses while maintaining tool-free installation.
2Ease of operation
If clamping collets are used to attach partitions, then installation does not require tools, but the installation process is sometimes awkward
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic cam mechanism that converts a simple horizontal pulling motion into a controlled vertical clamping action. The cam profile is designed to provide progressive engagement, making the installation process intuitive and eliminating the awkwardness associated with traditional clamping collets while maintaining tool-free operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user's horizontal pulling action and the vertical clamping force required to secure the partition. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the user's task to a single horizontal motion while the cam does the complex work of transforming that motion into secure attachment, reducing installation complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a clamp type mechanism with mobile branch is used for attachment, then the device can adapt to any work surface thickness, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment device is segmented into distinct functional modules: the cam mechanism for thickness adaptation, the flange for clamping, the actuating member for user interaction, and the return spring for automatic resetting. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall complexity by making the system modular and easier to manufacture and maintain.
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
Enables quick, tool-free, and secure attachment of partitions to any work surface thickness, allowing for easy installation and adjustment by a single person, enhancing usability and stability.
Implementation Method 1
The transformation means consist of a ramp belonging to the actuating member, inclined at an angle of α=]0; π/2[ with respect to the horizontal, and inserted in the interior of an opening made in the flange, the horizontal displacement of the ramp causing the vertical displacement of the flange.
Implementation Method 2
means for returning the actuating member from the actuating position to the release position
Data Source
AI summary
Workspace dividing partition resting via a lower edge on the top face of a wall forming a work surface and incorporating a device for attaching the partition to the work surface. The partition includes placement means comprising a translationary mobile branch which with the lower edge of the partition forms a clamp type mechanism situated on either side of an external overhang of the work surface, wherein the branch is able to move between a position in which it presses with contact against the underside of the work surface in order to attach the partition, and a position distant from the underside in order to release the partition. The partition also includes placement control means, situated near the overhang and reproducing, in a direction appearing parallel to the work surface, the movement and positioning of the mobile branch with respect to the work surface.