Spring-Loaded Probe Holder for Single-Handed Force Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional holding structures require the use of two hands to adjust the holding force on an object, making it inconvenient for single-handed operation, especially when dealing with objects of different dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A holder system with a movable clip secured by a spring mechanism, allowing single-handed adjustment of the holding force using a cap at one end of the tube, which adjusts the number of turns of a helical coil spring to vary the spring force exerted on the clip, accommodating objects of varying dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional holder with a fastener is used to adjust holding force, then the holding force can be adjusted, but two hands are required for operation (one to secure the holder and another to twist the fastener)
Solution Approach 1:
The cap and movable clip are merged into a single integrated component, allowing the user to adjust holding force and secure the object simultaneously with one hand. The cap acts as both the adjustment mechanism and the securing element, eliminating the need for separate fastener manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism automatically adjusts the holding force when the cap is rotated, and the movable clip self-secures the object when released. The system uses the spring's elastic recovery to provide consistent holding force without requiring manual intervention after the initial adjustment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable opening holder is used to accommodate objects of different dimensions, then versatility is improved, but the holder requires two hands to adjust and secure
Solution Approach 1:
The movable clip can be dynamically positioned along the tube by rotating the cap, which adjusts the spring compression and consequently changes the effective opening size. This dynamic adjustment allows the holder to adapt to different object dimensions while maintaining single-handed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding force and opening size are controlled by changing the spring compression parameter through cap rotation. By adjusting the number of spring turns, the system simultaneously modifies both the force applied and the effective opening dimension, providing versatility with simplified operation.
3Ease of operation
If a spring mechanism is used to provide adjustable holding force, then single-handed operation is enabled, but the device requires a more complex internal structure with retainers and helical coil
Solution Approach 1:
The helical coil spring is nested within the tube, with the movable clip and cap positioned at opposite ends. The retainers are integrated into the tube structure, creating a compact nested arrangement that minimizes external complexity while maintaining internal functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring acts as an intermediary element that translates the rotational adjustment of the cap into linear movement of the movable clip. This mechanical mediation allows complex force adjustment to be achieved through a simple rotational motion of the cap.
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
Enables single-handed operation with adjustable holding force, ensuring consistent retention of objects regardless of their dimensions, suitable for use in environments like high-temperature or toxic conditions, and can be automated for precise force adjustment.
Implementation Method 1
The cap is coupled to the movable clip by a spring inside the tube. The spring may be a helical coil that is coupled to the movable clip by a first retainer and is coupled to the cap by a second retainer.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
A holder secured to a vertical column by a cross support holds an object in a fixed position. The holder includes a tube that can be secured to the cross support. A movable clip at a first end of the tube is configured to hold the object, e.g., a probe held in a calibration bath. The movable clip includes an aperture. When the movable clip is in an extended position, an object can be inserted into the aperture. When the movable clip moves toward a retracted position, the object is held within the aperture. A cap at the second end of the tube is coupled to the movable clip by a spring inside the tube. The movable clip exerts an adjustable holding force on the object by adjusting a number of turns of the spring between the cap and the movable clip. A central holding device may support multiple holders.