Modular Snap-Lock Clamp for Variable Barrier Thickness

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional clamps for technical structures require multiple types to accommodate varying barrier thicknesses, leading to inefficiencies in production, increased complexity in managing finished products, and safety concerns due to screws that can unscrew over time.

Innovation Solution

A modular clamp design featuring an upper jaw, a lower jaw, and a snap-locking system without screws, allowing for easy adjustment and secure locking across different barrier thicknesses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple types of clamps are produced to accommodate varying barrier thicknesses, then the adaptability to different barrier thicknesses is improved, but the device complexity and production efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different barrier thicknessesVSAvoidnumber of different clamp types

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The clamp is designed with a universal adjustment mechanism that allows a single clamp type to accommodate multiple barrier thicknesses. The lower jaw can be positioned at different locations along the upper jaw using the adjustment mechanism, enabling the same clamp to securely hold barriers of varying thicknesses without requiring multiple specialized clamp types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp incorporates an adjustable lower jaw that can be dynamically repositioned along the upper jaw to adapt to different barrier thicknesses. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the clamp to maintain secure holding force across various barrier dimensions, eliminating the need for static, thickness-specific clamp designs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple types of clamps are produced to accommodate varying barrier thicknesses, then the adaptability to different barrier thicknesses is improved, but the productivity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different barrier thicknessesVSAvoidproduction efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The clamp is designed with a universal adjustment mechanism that allows a single clamp type to accommodate multiple barrier thicknesses. The lower jaw can be positioned at different locations along the upper jaw using the adjustment mechanism, enabling the same clamp to securely hold barriers of varying thicknesses without requiring multiple specialized clamp types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of manufacture

If screws are used for fixing the clamp, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the reliability and safety deteriorate due to screw loosening

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of clamp assemblyVSAvoidlocking force stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces the traditional screw-based fastening system with a snap-fit locking mechanism. The lower jaw features a protrusion that engages with a corresponding recess in the upper jaw, creating a secure mechanical interlock without requiring screws. This substitution eliminates the reliability issues associated with screw loosening while maintaining ease of assembly through the simple snap-together action.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Ease of manufacture

If screws are used for fixing the clamp, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the aesthetic appeal deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of clamp assemblyVSAvoidaesthetic appeal

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces the traditional screw-based fastening system with a snap-fit locking mechanism. The lower jaw features a protrusion that engages with a corresponding recess in the upper jaw, creating a secure mechanical interlock without requiring screws. This substitution eliminates the reliability issues associated with screw loosening while maintaining ease of assembly through the simple snap-together action.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 modular clamp design enhances production efficiency, simplifies installation, improves safety by eliminating screw-related issues, and maintains aesthetic appeal by hiding fastening elements.

Implementation Method 1

the locking system is spring-loaded so as to be spring-loaded in the extension direction of the thrust means

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12292069B2Clamp for the composition of a technical structure for furniture, protection and/or delimitation

Publication Date: 2025.05.06 IND I A

AI summary

A clamp (10) for the composition of a technical structure for furniture, protection and/or delimitation provided with vertical elements, the clamp (10) includes an upper jaw (1), a lower jaw (2) and a locking system (3) fixed to said upper jaw (1). The locking system (3) includes thrust means (33) and at least one pin (32). The lower jaw (2) has at least one hole (7) in a position corresponding to at least one pin (32) adapted to be inserted into said at least one hole (7) when the thrust means (33) are in an extended position, in order to lock and close the clamp (10).