Pivoting Clamp Mechanism for Fast Hose Installation and Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping devices are not user-friendly, particularly in tight spaces, as they can be difficult to install and remove, are prone to spinning due to gravity, require extensive screw revolutions, and often need specialty tools, leading to damage when broken and compromising structural integrity after repeated use.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable clamp device with a catch member pivotably connected to a base member by a pin, and a latch member adjustably connected via a fine adjustment mechanism and camshaft, allowing for secure clamping without requiring object detachment, and featuring a quick release mechanism for easy removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If worm gear clamps are used, then the clamp can be tightened by rotating a screw, but the clamp becomes top heavy and spins away from the user due to gravity
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp body is designed with a low center of gravity where the majority of the mass is concentrated in the base portion below the pivot axis. This counterbalances the weight of the tightening screw and prevents the clamp from spinning away during tightening operations, eliminating the harmful gravitational effect.
2Ease of operation
If worm gear clamps are used, then the clamp can be tightened by rotating a screw, but the force required causes the clamp to rotate away requiring the user to hold it in place
Solution Approach 1:
The low center of gravity design counteracts the rotational force generated during tightening, preventing the clamp from rotating away and eliminating the need for the user to hold it in place with one hand while tightening with the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp is designed to remain stable and stationary during the tightening operation, creating an equipotential state where the clamp does not rotate or move unexpectedly, allowing the user to apply force efficiently without compensating for movement.
3Ease of operation
If traditional clamps are used, then the clamp can secure the hose, but the hose must be detached prior to installing the clamp and reattached afterward
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp features a pivotable jaw that can be rotated between a closed position (for clamping) and an open position (for installation). This dynamic mechanism allows the clamp to be installed by simply opening the jaw, sliding it onto the hose, and closing it, eliminating the need to detach and reattach the hose.
4Reliability
If banded clamps are used, then the clamp can secure the hose, but many revolutions of the tightening screw are required to remove or install the clamp
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable jaw mechanism allows the clamp to be opened and closed by rotating the jaw through a limited arc rather than requiring multiple screw revolutions. This dynamic movement significantly reduces the time and effort required for installation and removal while maintaining secure clamping when closed.
5Ease of operation
If spring steel clamps are used, then the clamp can be installed, but a specialty tool or specifically designed installer device is required to squeeze tension out of the clamp
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable jaw is designed to be manually operated by the user without requiring specialty tools. The mechanical advantage provided by the pivot mechanism allows the user to easily open and close the clamp by hand, eliminating the need for installer devices or specialized tools.
6Reliability
If worm gear clamps or spring steel clamps are used, then the clamp can secure the hose, but the structural integrity is reduced after repeated uses
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable jaw mechanism is designed to withstand repeated opening and closing cycles without compromising structural integrity. The robust pivot connection and balanced design distribute stresses evenly, allowing the clamp to maintain its clamping force and structural strength over extended periods of repeated use.
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 is user-friendly, easily installable and removable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing, with fine adjustment capabilities to prevent damage and maintain structural integrity, and can be quickly released from objects without tools.
Implementation Method 1
a latch member adjustably connected to the base member by a fine adjustment mechanism and camshaft
Implementation Method 2
a latch member adjustably connected to the base member by a fine adjustment mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
At least one adjustable clamp device is disclosed that includes a catch member, a base member, a latch member, and a fine adjustment mechanism and is designed to clamp to a targeted object in a secure fashion. At least one quick release clamp device is disclosed that includes a catch member, a base member, a latch member, and a quick release mechanism and is designed to clamp to a targeted object in a secure fashion and to be quickly removable from the targeted object. At least one method for using the adjustable clamp device is disclosed that includes: wrapping an adjustable clamp device around a targeted object; placing a tool around the adjustable clamp device; squeezing the tool and thereby squeezing the adjustable clamp device around the targeted object; and causing the latch member to operably connect to the catch member in a locked position.