Straight Edge Clamp Sections for Adjustable Length Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional straight edge clamps require multiple units for different job lengths, are heavy, costly, and difficult to ship and display, as they cannot easily be adjusted in length.
Innovation Solution
A modular straight edge clamp system with interchangeable sections and a unique clamping mechanism that allows for easy length adjustment by connecting or removing sections, reducing weight and cost, and enabling flexible length configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional straight edge clamps are made in fixed lengths, then they provide stable clamping performance, but multiple units are required for different job lengths increasing cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The straight edge clamp body is divided into multiple detachable sections that can be connected together using connectors. Each section has standardized connection interfaces allowing users to assemble different lengths by connecting the required number of sections, eliminating the need for multiple separate clamp units for different job lengths.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp sections are designed with universal connection interfaces and standardized dimensions, allowing the same section design to be used across different clamp configurations. The connectors provide universal attachment capability, enabling a single set of modular components to serve multiple length requirements and applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If straight edge clamps are made in various lengths, then they can accommodate different job requirements, but weight and shipping costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the clamp into standardized sections, users only assemble and transport the specific number of sections needed for each job. This reduces the weight of individual clamp units that need to be shipped and stored, while still providing access to various lengths through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows users to disassemble clamps into individual sections after use, enabling compact storage and reducing the weight of transported materials. Sections can be selectively assembled based on project requirements, avoiding the need to transport entire long-clamp assemblies when shorter lengths suffice.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular sections are introduced for length adjustment, then versatility improves, but connector reliability and structural integrity become critical concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates multiple functions including mechanical attachment, alignment features, and locking mechanisms into a single unified component. This merging of functions ensures that the connection interface provides reliable structural integrity while maintaining ease of assembly and disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates pre-designed alignment features and engagement mechanisms that ensure proper positioning and secure connection before the clamp is put into service. The preliminary design of the connection interface guarantees reliable structural integrity through built-in alignment pins, engagement surfaces, and locking features.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a straight edge clamp that has a clamping head assembly and a stop assembly mounted upon the body of the straight edge. The head and stop are not connected together and the stop assembly is free to move with respect to the head assembly. The stop assembly has a locking assembly that allows it to be locked to the straight edge. The straight edge clamp body can include sections that are adapted to be connected together to form the overall length of the straight edge clamp.