Quick Connector for Straight Edge Clamp Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing straight edge clamps require cumbersome and insecure connectors to join sections, lacking a quick and secure method to adjust the length of the clamp, which complicates operation and storage.
Innovation Solution
A quick connector system featuring a body member with a locking mechanism that engages and disengages sections securely, allowing for rapid assembly and disassembly by pivoting or rotating a locking handle, ensuring a positive lock and unlock position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional connectors are used to join sections, then the sections can be connected, but the connection process is cumbersome and insecure
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to move between locked and unlocked positions, transforming a static connector into a dynamic system that can quickly transition between states. This movement capability enables both secure locking and rapid release, resolving the contradiction between connection security and connection speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and lock sections together without requiring additional fastening steps. Once the body member is inserted into the channel, the locking member secures the connection automatically, providing both security and speed without cumbersome manual operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple straight edge clamps are purchased for different lengths, then different length requirements are met, but storage needs increase and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The straight edge clamp is divided into multiple detachable sections that can be connected in different combinations. The body member with locking mechanism allows sections to be easily attached and detached, enabling a single clamp to provide multiple length configurations instead of requiring multiple separate clamps.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design with body member and locking member creates a universal joining system that works across all sections regardless of their individual lengths. This multi-functional connector enables the same clamp assembly to serve multiple length requirements, replacing the need for multiple specialized clamps.
3Loss of energy
If sections are packaged separately for shipping, then shipping cost decreases, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating, where the natural insertion of the body member into the channel triggers the locking action. This eliminates the need for complex assembly instructions or additional fastening steps, keeping the assembly process simple despite the modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is extracted as a separate, dedicated component (locking member) that operates independently from the body member. This separation allows each component to be simple in design while the combination provides secure locking, maintaining assembly simplicity while enabling modular shipping.
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connector for connecting two sections together. The sections have a first end and a second end. A body member is configured to be mounted to the first section at the first end. The body member partially extends from the first end and is configured for insertion into the second end of the second section. A locking member is mounted for movement with respect to the body member between a locked and unlocked position. The locking member engages the second section when in the locked position locking the first and second sections together, the locking member disengages from the second section when in the unlocked position unlocking the first and second sections.