Quick Clamp Pipe Vise with Pivoting Handle and Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe vises lack versatility and ease of use in accommodating different pipe sizes and objects, with limited adjustability and secure clamping mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A clamp design featuring a pivoting handle connected to a movable jaw via a cam mechanism, with a latch system for secure clamping and adjustable jaw positioning, supported by a beam in a base, allowing for various pipe sizes and objects to be held securely, and optionally mounted on a tripod for enhanced stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional chain vise or yoke vise mechanism is used, then the pipe clamp can hold pipes securely, but the device lacks versatility and ease of use in accommodating different pipe sizes and objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the jaw positioning system adjustable rather than fixed. The movable jaw can be repositioned along the beam to accommodate different pipe diameters, and the handle can be positioned at various locations to provide mechanical advantage for different clamping forces needed for different pipe sizes and materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a clamp that can hold various types of objects (pipes, conduits, tubes, beams, cylindrical and oblong materials, flat materials) using the same basic mechanism. The adjustable jaw positions and interchangeable fixtures enable one device to perform multiple functions across different applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed jaw positioning system is used, then the structure is simple, but the device cannot accommodate different sizes of pipes or objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the jaw positioning system into discrete adjustable components. The beam is equipped with multiple positioning holes or notches that allow the movable jaw to be positioned at specific intervals, providing adjustability without requiring a completely continuous and complex adjustment mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable jaw is designed to be repositionable along the beam through simple mechanical means such as sliding to different positions and securing with latches or set screws, enabling adaptation to different pipe sizes without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
3Reliability
If a simple latch mechanism is used, then the device is easy to operate, but it cannot provide secure and reliable clamping force
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage and lock the handle in position once the clamping force is applied, eliminating the need for separate locking actions. The self-latching feature maintains secure clamping without requiring continuous user intervention, while still allowing quick release when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch acts as an intermediary between the handle and the jaw, transferring and maintaining the clamping force securely. It serves as a mechanical mediator that holds the system in the clamped state without requiring constant user input, yet can be quickly released when the clamp needs to be opened.
4Productivity
If a cam mechanism is used to connect the handle to the movable jaw, then quick clamping action is achieved, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is pre-configured in the movable jaw assembly, so that when the handle is simply pivoted or pushed, the cam automatically converts this simple motion into the rapid movement needed to close the jaw quickly. The preliminary positioning of the cam eliminates the need for complex multi-step clamping procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism replaces what would otherwise require a more complex threaded or lever-based system to achieve quick clamping. By using the cam's geometric shape to convert simple handle motion into rapid jaw closure, the patent achieves quick action with relatively simple mechanical components.
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 clamp provides secure and adjustable holding of pipes and objects, accommodating different sizes and shapes with ease, and allows for quick release and repositioning, enhancing user convenience and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
The handle is connected to the movable jaw by a cam so that movement of the handle may exert pressure on the pipe or other object via the movable jaw
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe clamp has a base with a fixed jaw and a beam extending from the base. A movable jaw member is slidably mounted on the beam. The movable jaw member includes a movable jaw disposed opposite the fixed jaw. A pivotable handle is mounted to the movable jaw member and a clamping mechanism is connected to the pivotable handle and operated by the pivotable handle to move the movable jaw relative to the fixed jaw. A latch secures the pivotable handle in any of a plurality of positions. A tripod stand may be provided for supporting the pipe clamp, the tripod having a multi-compartment storage spreader.