PVDF Sleeve Fastener With Reversible Clamping Force Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening elements for elongated objects, such as cables and rods, suffer from excessive clamping forces that can damage the objects, limited durability due to environmental factors like UV radiation, and require destruction for release, leading to high consumption and rapid wear.
Innovation Solution
A cuff-like fastening element made of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) with a reversible locking mechanism and a spring section that allows for adjustable clamping force, enabling tool-free assembly and disassembly, and resistance to environmental degradation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If known fasteners are used to clamp objects, then clamping force is generated to secure the object, but excessive clamping forces can damage the objects and the fasteners require destruction for release
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening element incorporates a spring section that provides dynamic elasticity, allowing the clamping force to be adjustable and responsive to the object being clamped. This prevents excessive force that could damage the object while maintaining secure fastening. The spring section enables the fastener to adapt to different object sizes and geometries without causing harm.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter by using polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) instead of conventional materials. PVDF provides optimal balance between flexibility and strength, allowing the fastener to generate sufficient clamping force while remaining gentle on clamped objects. The material's inherent properties enable reversible deformation without damage.
2Reliability
If known fasteners are used, then they can secure objects, but they require destruction for release which increases consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The spring section enables the fastening element to be repeatedly deformed and recovered without permanent damage. This dynamic capability allows the fastener to be released and reused multiple times, eliminating the need for destruction and reducing consumption. The elastic properties ensure the fastener maintains its integrity through repeated use cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables recovery and reuse of the fastening element through its reversible locking mechanism and elastic spring section. Instead of discarding the fastener after single use, it can be released, recovered, and reused, significantly reducing material consumption and waste.
3Force
If known fasteners are used, then they provide initial clamping, but they suffer from rapid wear due to environmental factors like UV radiation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) as the material for the fastening element. PVDF is a high-performance polymer known for its exceptional resistance to UV radiation, chemicals, and environmental degradation. This material choice provides both the necessary mechanical properties for clamping and long-term durability in harsh environments, preventing rapid wear and extending service life.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If fasteners are made more durable against environmental factors, then wear resistance improves, but the complexity of achieving both durability and reversibility increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking function and the elastic recovery function into a single integrated fastening element. The spring section is incorporated directly into the fastener body, eliminating the need for separate components. This integration simplifies the overall structure while achieving both reversibility and environmental durability through the use of PVDF material.
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 fastening element provides durable, reusable clamping without damaging objects, withstands environmental stress, and allows for easy adjustment and re-use, reducing the need for frequent replacement.
Implementation Method 1
the basic element between the locking unit and the locking means comprises a spring section that is elastically deformable along an extension length of the extension axis
Data Source
Figure 1a~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a cuff-like fastening element (1) for circumferentially clamping, preferably elongated, objects, in particular cables, pipes and/or plant parts, comprising: - a band-shaped base element (2) formed in a basic state along an extension axis (E) for at least partially circumferentially bearing against a surface of an object to be clamped in a closed or clamped state; - locking means (4) with a locking unit (5) arranged at a first end (6) of the base element (2); and locking means (7) formed on or at the base element and enabling locking with the locking unit (5), wherein the fastening element is made of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF).According to the invention, the locking unit (5) is designed such that the locking mechanism with the locking means (7) comprises a spring section (10) that is elastically deformable along an extension length of the extension axis (E) and is designed to be reversible, in particular releasable.