Pivoting Mounting Clamp for Consistent Multi-Size Clamping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional mounting clamps are size-specific, requiring multiple types to accommodate different structures and can apply inconsistent clamping forces, leading to unsafe or damaging attachments, and are often time-consuming to connect and disconnect.

Innovation Solution

A mounting clamp with a body, jaw, and actuator that adjusts between open and closed positions, using pivots and an actuator to accommodate different structure sizes with a consistent clamping force, allowing tool-free adjustment and optimal clamping conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional size-specific mounting clamps are used, then the clamp can be simple in design, but multiple types are required to accommodate different structure sizes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to accommodate different structure sizesVSAvoidnumber of different clamp types required

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting clamp is designed with a single device that can accommodate multiple structure sizes through adjustable jaw positioning. The jaw can be selectively positioned at different locations along the body, allowing one clamp to replace multiple size-specific clamps while maintaining simplicity in individual device design

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable mounting clamps are used to accommodate different sizes, then versatility is improved, but the clamping force becomes inconsistent and unsafe

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to clamp different structure sizesVSAvoidconsistency of clamping force

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The body includes specifically positioned pivots at predetermined locations that create distinct jaw positions. Each pivot position is engineered to provide the optimal clamping force for specific structure sizes, ensuring consistent and reliable clamping across different sizes rather than arbitrary adjustment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp mechanism changes the position parameter of the jaw relative to the body through discrete pivot points. This controlled parameter change allows the same clamp to adapt to different structure sizes while maintaining appropriate clamping force through the mechanical geometry of each pivot position

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If conventional mounting clamps are used, then the design can be simple, but the connection and disconnection process is time-consuming and requires tools

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespeed of connection and disconnectionVSAvoidtime required for installation and removal

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The actuator is designed to automatically position the jaw when moved between extended and retracted positions. The mechanical linkage self-adjusts the jaw position based on the actuator position, eliminating the need for manual adjustment or tools during installation and removal

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The jaw is connected to the actuator through a pivot that allows dynamic positioning. As the actuator moves, the jaw automatically adjusts its position through the pivot mechanism, enabling quick transition between different clamping configurations without manual intervention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 consistent clamping force across varying structure sizes, ensuring secure attachment without damage and simplifying installation and removal processes.

Implementation Method 1

The jaw is selectively adjustable between an open position and a closed position. The first member is pivotally connected to the body by a first pivot selectively movable between a first position and a second position.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRotation:

Implementation Method 2

The actuator is pivotally connected to the second member of the jaw by a third pivot, and is pivotally connected to the body by a fourth pivot. The jaw is configured to clamp one of the first portion of the first structure and the second portion of the second structure in response to being adjusted to the closed position.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS20250346191A1Mounting clamp, accessory for vehicle having mounting clamp and accessory kit

Publication Date: 2025.11.13 SOUCY INTERNATIONAL INC

AI summary

Mounting clamps for coupling an accessory to a structure are disclosed. The mounting clamp includes a body having a mounting interface configured to engage the accessory, the body being pivotally connected to an actuator about a first pivot, and a jaw selectively adjustable between an open position and a closed position, the jaw being pivotally connected to the body about a second pivot and being pivotally connected to the actuator about a third pivot.