Self-locking clamp bracket for structural mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bushing systems for protecting electrical cables and other components in structural members are cumbersome, difficult to install, and lack versatility in accommodating varying structural member thicknesses, often requiring multiple parts and tools.
Innovation Solution
A self-locking clamp and bracket system with a latching mechanism that allows tool-free, hardware-free attachment to structural members, featuring a clamp with a mounting portion and clamping portion that securely engages with a bracket projection, accommodating different thicknesses and ensuring easy installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional one-piece bushings are used to protect components, then protection is provided, but they are difficult to insert into openings and resist dislodgment
Solution Approach 1:
The bushing is divided into two separate parts: an insert portion that fits into the opening and a clamp portion that secures the insert. This segmentation allows the insert to be easily inserted into the opening while the clamp provides secure retention, resolving the contradiction between ease of insertion and resistance to dislodgment.
2Ease of operation
If multiple piece bushings are used, then ease of insertion is improved, but the need to make and store multiple parts increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The retention function is extracted from the traditional single-piece bushing and implemented through a separate clamp mechanism that engages with the insert portion. This allows the insert to be simple and easy to insert, while the clamp provides the necessary retention, reducing the complexity of the insert itself while maintaining security.
3Reliability
If conventional bushings are designed for specific thicknesses, then secure mounting is achieved, but versatility across different structural member thicknesses is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp portion is designed with movable clamping arms that can adjust their position to accommodate different thicknesses of structural members. The clamping arms can be positioned at various locations along the insert portion, allowing the same bushing assembly to securely mount to structural members of varying thicknesses while maintaining reliable retention.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting system, a clamp and method for mounting to a structural component. The mounting system includes a bracket with a mounting projection, the mounting projection has a mounting opening which extends between side walls of the mounting projection. A clamp has a mounting portion and a clamping portion, the mounting portion has a projection receiving opening which receives the mounting projection therein. A latching mechanism extends from the clamping portion, the latching mechanism has a securing which is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position.