Toggle Rail Clamp for Secure Grip and Quick Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanisms for securing objects like firearms are not secure and difficult to disengage, making unauthorized removal possible.
Innovation Solution
A gripping system comprising a clamp base, clamp, toggle, and latch, which uses pivoting mechanisms and resilient members to securely mount objects to a surface and allow easy access by unlocking with a lever.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing securing mechanisms are used, then objects can be mounted to a surface, but they are not secure and difficult to disengage
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism employs a toggle switch that can dynamically transition between locked and unlocked states. The toggle connects the clamp to the base, and its position determines whether the clamp is securely fastened or easily removable. This dynamic state change resolves the contradiction by providing both secure mounting when locked and easy disengagement when unlocked.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient member changes the mechanical state of the system by applying force to move the toggle between positions. When activated, it changes the parameter of clamp tension from high (secured) to low (released), enabling easy disengagement while maintaining secure mounting during the locked state.
2Reliability
If a secure grip is maintained, then unauthorized removal is prevented, but the mechanism becomes difficult to disengage
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a clamp for gripping, a toggle for state control, and a resilient member for actuation. This segmentation allows the secure gripping function to be separated from the disengagement function, enabling simple one-handed operation to switch between states without complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient member provides self-service by automatically returning the toggle to its default position after actuation. This eliminates the need for additional springs, motors, or complex resetting mechanisms, simplifying the overall device while maintaining reliable secure mounting and easy release functionality.
3Reliability
If a tight grip is applied to secure the object, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation for release deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The toggle mechanism dynamically controls the grip tension. In the locked position, the toggle maintains high tension for secure gripping. When the lever is actuated, the toggle pivots to release the tension, allowing easy one-handed operation to release the grip while maintaining tight security during normal operation.
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 system provides secure mounting and easy access to firearms, preventing unauthorized removal by ensuring a tight grip when locked and easy release when unlocked.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient member configured to move the toggle from a first position in which the clamp is secured to a support surface to a second position in which the clamp is released from the support surface
Implementation Method 2
The toggle is coupled with the clamp so as to pivot about a first axis
Data Source
AI summary
A gripping system includes a clamp base, a clamp, a toggle and a latch. The clamp base has a flange and a web extending from a proximal end at the foot to a distal end. The clamp is coupled with the clamp base for limited translation relative thereto. The toggle has a central, forked portion, a seat and one or more camming pivots and is coupled with the clamp so as to pivot about a first axis. The latch is coupled with the toggle so as to pivot about a second axis spaced apart from the first axis and has one or more feet contacting the clamp and a tongue received through the forked portion for selective placement against the seat of the toggle.