Scale Clamping Element With Two-Direction Spring Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for clamping a scale to a support often face challenges in consistently applying a clamping force perpendicular to the attachment face, leading to potential assembly errors and variability in securing the scale.
Innovation Solution
A clamping element with two resilient spring elements, one acting in the direction of the attachment face and the other perpendicular to it, is used to apply clamping forces in both directions, ensuring secure attachment by screwing the element onto the support, thus replicably securing the scale with predetermined forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If resilient clamps with spring elements are used to force the scale against the attachment face, then the scale can be secured in the first direction, but it is difficult to exert clamping force in the second perpendicular direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two spring elements (first spring element for first direction, second spring element for second direction) into a single clamping element that is screwed onto the support. This merging allows both clamping forces to be applied simultaneously through one assembly operation, eliminating the need for separate assembly devices for each direction and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from single-direction clamping to two-dimensional clamping by incorporating a second spring element oriented perpendicular to the first spring element. This dimensional expansion enables the scale to be securely fastened in both the first direction (against the attachment face) and the second direction (perpendicular to the attachment face), solving the limitation of conventional single-direction clamping.
2Manufacturing precision
If assembly devices are used to apply clamping force in the second direction, then perpendicular clamping can be achieved, but the assembly process becomes more complex and less replicable
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping element is designed to automatically generate and apply both clamping forces through its own structure. When screwed onto the support, the first spring element automatically forces the scale against the attachment face, while the second spring element simultaneously applies perpendicular clamping force. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex external assembly devices and ensures consistent, replicable clamping without requiring sophisticated assembly procedures.
3Reliability
If multiple spring elements are used to achieve two-directional clamping, then clamping effectiveness is improved, but the number of parts and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two spring elements into a single integrated clamping element that can be manufactured as one piece. This combining approach maintains the reliability benefits of dual-directional clamping while reducing manufacturing complexity and cost compared to producing and assembling separate spring elements and assembly devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping element is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides both first-direction and second-direction clamping forces. This universal design allows a single part to perform multiple functions (applying clamping force in two perpendicular directions), reducing the total number of parts needed and simplifying manufacturing while maintaining high clamping reliability.
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
This solution allows for reliable and consistent clamping of the scale in two perpendicular directions, reducing assembly errors and enabling precise attachment by utilizing the clamping forces introduced by the spring elements, which can be adjusted through varying shim dimensions.
Implementation Method 1
the clamping element (1) has a first spring element (11), which is resilient in a first direction toward the attachment face (31) and upon engagement exerts the first clamping force F1 on the scale (2)
Implementation Method 2
the clamping element (1) has a second spring element (12), which is resilient in a second direction toward the stop face (32) oriented perpendicular to the attachment face (31) and upon engagement exerts the second clamping force F2 on the scale (2)
Data Source
AI summary
A device for clamping a scale to an attachment face of a support, the device including a securing element and a clamping element that is secured to a support by the securing element. The clamping element includes a first spring element that is resilient in a first direction toward an attachment face of the support, wherein the first spring element introduces a first clamping force on a scale in a direction of the attachment face. The clamping element further includes a second spring element that is resilient in a second direction that extends perpendicular to the first direction and wherein the second spring element introduces a second clamping force onto the scale in the second direction.