String Groove Masonry Clamp Apex Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing spring clamps fail to precisely locate a masonry string adjacent to the apex of a block, leading to limited utilization and potential string damage due to frictional wear and pinch failure.

Innovation Solution

A string groove masonry clamp with a two-sided clamp body and axial coil spring, featuring a planar side jaw and end jaw defining a string groove, along with a string cleat made from a large washer and rivet, to consistently position and protect the string.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing spring clamps are used to hold a masonry string, then the clamp can secure the string, but the string cannot be precisely located adjacent to the apex of the block and is subject to frictional wear and pinch failure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestring positioning precisionVSAvoidstring durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A groove is introduced as an intermediary structure between the clamp jaws and the string. This groove precisely locates the string adjacent to the block apex while protecting it from frictional wear and pinch failure by providing a dedicated channel that guides and secures the string in the correct position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Force

If the clamp applies sufficient force to secure the string, then the string is held firmly, but the string may suffer from pinch failure due to excessive pressure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclamping forceVSAvoidstring integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The groove creates a localized region where the string contacts the clamp structure. This concentrates the clamping force in a controlled manner within the groove rather than allowing direct pinching of the string between jaws, maintaining sufficient holding force while preventing string damage through localized force application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 clamp ensures precise string placement and minimizes frictional wear, providing consistent positioning and protection against pinch failure, enhancing the usability and durability of the string in masonry applications.

Implementation Method 1

The clamp can be made as a biasing clamp using an axial coil spring with extending ends contacting the opposing sides of the clamp

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The present invention protects the string by holding it in a groove to minimize frictional wear and pinch failure of the string

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS10458132B1String groove masonry clamp
Publication Date: 2019.10.29 BON TOOL CO
  • US10458132B1 patent drawing
  • US10458132B1 patent drawing
  • US10458132B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A string groove masonry clamp having a clamp body with first and second clamp sides pivotally connected together and biased to clamp onto a masonry block to align a string positioning guide having a string groove at the edge of the apex of the corner of the block.