Pipe Clamp With Quick-Release Lever for Reversible Tension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional pipe clamps are cumbersome and difficult to reverse, making it challenging to efficiently clamp objects together or spread them apart without risking damage or marring the materials.
Innovation Solution
A pipe clamp design featuring a first and second slide, a handle, and clamps with a slide supporting element and retaining ring, allowing for easy adjustment between clamping and spreading functions through a combination of sliding and angular mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional pipe clamp is used to clamp objects together, then the clamping function is achieved, but the process for reversing the tension is complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by enabling the pipe clamp to perform opposite functions (clamping and spreading) through a simple mechanism reversal. The quick-release lever allows the user to invert the tension direction by disengaging and re-engaging the clamp in the opposite orientation, transforming a previously complicated multi-step reversal process into a simple one-action operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the clamp mechanism adjustable and reversible on-demand. The quick-release lever system allows the clamp to transition dynamically between clamping and spreading states, enabling the user to change the function instantly rather than being locked into a single static mode.
2Reliability
If traditional pipe clamps are used, then clamping capability is provided, but the process is cumbersome and risky for damaging materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables safe reversal by allowing the clamp to be easily repositioned in the opposite orientation using the quick-release lever. This inversion capability eliminates the need for forceful manipulation or complex disassembly, reducing the risk of damaging workpieces while maintaining the same clamping capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick-release lever system allows the clamp to be easily repositioned and reversed without requiring additional tools or complex procedures. The mechanism serves itself by providing an intuitive, tool-free method for reversing tension, improving safety and reducing operational complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single pipe clamp is used for both clamping and spreading, then versatility is improved, but the mechanism for reversing tension becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves universality by designing the pipe clamp to perform both clamping and spreading functions through a single device. The quick-release lever mechanism enables the clamp to be easily repositioned for opposite-direction application, allowing one clamp to replace what would traditionally require separate clamping and spreading tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves the complexity issue by using inversion through the quick-release lever system. Instead of requiring separate mechanisms for clamping and spreading, the same clamp structure can be inverted or repositioned to perform the opposite function, maintaining simplicity while achieving multi-functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe clamp includes a length of tubing having a pair of polygonal clamps moveably secured about the tube through an aperture located at a proximal end of each clamp. At a distal end of the tubing projects a nut which is perpendicularly secured thereto. A rod is engaged within the nut and in mechanical communication with the distal exterior end of the closest clamp. A handle is secured to the distal end of the rod.