Bricklayer Speed Lead Bracket with Adjustable Cam Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current speed lead brackets for bricklaying are limited in their ability to securely fit on either edge of the speed lead and lack versatility in positioning, particularly when used on corners of brick walls.

Innovation Solution

A bracket design featuring an adjustable cam mechanism that allows the speed lead to fit between flanges, enabling reversible placement on either edge and adjustable positioning, with a cam system for secure engagement and a rotatable bushing for alignment adjustments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional slot-type bracket is used to hold the speed lead, then the bracket structure is simple, but the bracket cannot securely fit on either edge of the speed lead and lacks positioning versatility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning versatilityVSAvoidbracket structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket employs an adjustable cam mechanism that allows dynamic repositioning and reversible placement on either edge of the speed lead. The cam can be rotated to different positions to accommodate different positioning requirements, transforming a static bracket into a dynamically adjustable one that adapts to various bricklaying scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The bracket is designed to perform multiple functions: it can securely hold the speed lead on either inside or outside edge, provide adjustable positioning, and work with reversible clips. This multi-functionality allows a single bracket design to replace multiple specialized brackets, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the bracket is designed to fit on either edge of the speed lead with adjustable positioning, then positioning versatility is improved, but the bracket structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereversible placement capabilityVSAvoidcam and flange mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket utilizes asymmetric flange design where the first and second flanges are positioned at different locations and orientations relative to the base. This asymmetry enables the bracket to engage with either edge of the speed lead differently, providing reversible placement capability. The asymmetric cam positioning further enhances this by allowing different engagement angles for inside versus outside corners.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

3Reliability

If a secure engagement mechanism is implemented using cam and flange, then the security of speed lead placement is improved, but the ease of operation is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity of placementVSAvoidease of adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket design incorporates pre-positioned flanges and cam mechanisms that are configured to automatically engage with the speed lead clips when the cam is rotated into the correct position. This preliminary configuration ensures that once the cam is set, secure engagement is achieved without requiring additional adjustment steps, balancing reliability with operational ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enhances the versatility and security of speed lead placement on brick corners, allowing for efficient and precise laying of bricks with improved ease of use and safety by ensuring the speed lead is securely held in place.

Implementation Method 1

An adjustable cam (7), which is a cylindrical shaft, is disposed vertically through an opening (11) in horizontal flange (4) and stepped block (5)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCam mechanism: Cam

Implementation Method 2

The cam (7) is rotated to tighten or loosen the bracket to allow the speed lead to be inserted or released

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS10422147B2Speed lead and bracket
Publication Date: 2019.09.24 MARV POST ENTERPRISES
  • US10422147B2 patent drawing
  • US10422147B2 patent drawing
  • US10422147B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A bracket to hold a bricklayer's speed lead in position on a wall. The bracket, which is contoured to fit the speed lead, has two vertical flanges, one of which has the same or a larger vertical dimension than the other, a horizontal flange extending perpendicularly between the vertical flanges, and a stepped block beneath part of the horizontal flange at right angles to the horizontal flange and one of the vertical flanges. The bracket is also provided with a rotatably mounted cam and a rotatably mounted bushing.