Rotatable Panel Clamp for Tight-Clearance Frameless Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional support structures and clamping mechanisms face difficulties in securely installing components due to small clearances and complex hardware connections, making the process time-consuming and challenging.
Innovation Solution
A clamp design with cushioned surfaces and a rotatable head that can be pre-installed on a framing structure, allowing for easy installation of panels without damaging them, and providing adequate clamping force without requiring specialized tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional hardware connections (bolts, nuts, washers) are used to secure clamps to support structures, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the installation process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp integrates the clamping function and support structure attachment function into a single component. The clamp directly engages with the support structure through its design, eliminating the need for separate bolts, nuts, and washers, thereby reducing installation time while maintaining connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp is divided into functional segments: the clamping jaws for securing panels and the attachment mechanism for the support structure. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently, with the attachment mechanism designed for quick engagement without requiring complex hardware assembly
2Force
If conventional clamping mechanisms are used, then the clamping force is sufficient, but the clearances for installing components are too small
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp incorporates a rotatable head that can be rotated to different positions during installation. This dynamic adjustment allows the installer to create adequate clearance by rotating the head away from the panel, facilitating easier installation while maintaining sufficient clamping force when positioned correctly
3Force
If rigid clamping surfaces are used, then the clamping force is effective, but the panels may be damaged during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is equipped with cushioned surfaces on the clamping jaws before the clamping action is applied. These cushioned surfaces protect the panel from damage during installation and when subjected to wind loads, while still providing sufficient friction and normal force to maintain secure clamping of the panel
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
Facilitates quick and secure installation of panels, ensuring structural integrity while preventing damage to frameless panels through cushioned surfaces and a tiltable/rotatable head for improved clearance during installation.
Implementation Method 1
The lower surface of the upper portion and the upper surface of the lower portion may each include a cushioned surface for contacting a panel that is to be secured by the clamp
Implementation Method 2
providing adequate clamping force using a combination of downward and upward forces from screw and nut mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp includes an upper portion, lower portion, screw and nut. The upper portion may include first and second rectangular shaped members, a first projection extending from the first and second members, and a first central opening located between the first and second members. The lower portion may include third and fourth rectangular shaped members, a second projection extending from the third and fourth members, and a second central opening located between the third and fourth members. The screw may extend from the upper portion through the first and second central openings. The nut may be integrally connected to the lower portion and includes threads to receive corresponding threads from the screw. Lower surfaces of the first and second members and upper surfaces of the third and fourth members define an opening located adjacent the first and second projections in which a component to be clamped is placed.