Removable Clamp for Non-Circular Structural Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching accessories to watercraft, such as sailboats, often require permanent modifications, are limited to specific locations, and cannot securely hold larger items like anchors or coolers without damaging the craft.
Innovation Solution
A removable clamp system that utilizes constrictive force to attach accessories to elongated structural members of sailboats, employing a mechanism that applies pressure transversely and tangentially across multiple points, allowing for secure attachment without damaging the original equipment and enabling quick detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If permanent modifications are made to attach accessories to watercraft, then attachment security is improved, but damage to the craft occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate components: a clamp that attaches to the craft's structural members and an accessory that attaches to the clamp. This segmentation allows the craft to remain unmodified while providing secure attachment through the removable clamp mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp utilizes constrictive force applied transversely and tangentially to the structural member, creating multiple contact points that distribute pressure. This changes the attachment parameter from point-contact piercing to distributed surface contact, achieving security without damage.
2Reliability
If accessories are attached to specific locations on watercraft, then attachment security is improved, but versatility is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is designed with a universal interface that can attach to various elongated structural members throughout the craft, including mast sections, boom sections, and other tubular components. This allows the same clamp design to be used at multiple locations for different accessories.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp features a dynamic quick-release mechanism that allows rapid attachment and detachment. This dynamic capability enables users to reposition accessories between locations and swap different accessories on the same structural member.
3Reliability
If constrictive force is applied to attach accessories, then attachment security is improved, but ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-release mechanism operates through periodic action: a squeezing motion engages the release, and a pulling motion detaches the clamp. This periodic operation allows secure attachment during normal use with rapid release when needed, balancing security and ease of operation.
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 system provides secure, versatile, and damage-free attachment of various accessories to sailboats, including larger items, without requiring permanent modifications, allowing for easy installation and removal, and can be used in multiple locations on the craft.
Implementation Method 1
The present invention uses constrictive force and is designed for accessories to be attached
Implementation Method 2
the present invention is designed to hold an object by use of radial set screws
Implementation Method 3
The vise grips are pliers that utilize linear compression on the object to be held
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping system which holds fast to a rigid elongated structure that is tubular in nature, but not circular in circumference. The clamping system achieves stability by compressive forces generally in a constrictive fashion. However, the clamp does not completely encircle the rigid elongated structure. Further, this clamping system utilizes the striations and/or noncircular nature of the elongated structure to hold fast. The clamping system is temporary and requires no modification to original hardware. The clamping system provides at least one mounting point for accessories. This clamp is installed and removed by hand or with common hand tools, depending on the style of clamp.