Torque Limiting Clamp Actuator With Spring-Loaded Shear Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamp actuators often face issues with applying the correct torque level, leading to either unsafe looseness or over-tightening, and may be bulky or cumbersome, making them unsuitable for space-limited applications.
Innovation Solution
A torque limiting clamp actuator device with a rotatable handle and a spring-biased mechanism that engages teeth on a driver shaft until a threshold torque is reached, allowing for adjustable torque limits and removable design for enhanced usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a manual clamp actuator applies high torque to secure the clamp, then the clamp reliability improves, but the threads may be stripped or deformed causing harmful effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using a spring mechanism with adjustable preload force to limit the maximum torque transmitted to the threaded shaft. The spring constant and preload can be tuned to ensure the torque remains within a safe range that prevents thread damage while maintaining adequate clamping force.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element acts as a cushioning mechanism that absorbs excess torque before it can damage the threads. The spring is pre-compressed to provide a maximum force limit, cushioning against overtightening before harmful effects occur.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a manual clamp actuator applies low torque to avoid over-tightening, then thread damage is prevented, but the clamp becomes loose or susceptible to unwanted release
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism parameters (spring constant, preload force, initial compression) are carefully selected to establish a torque window that prevents both under-tightening and over-tightening. The spring force is tuned to maintain optimal clamping torque throughout the adjustment range.
3Reliability
If a bulky handle or mechanism is used to provide sufficient torque control, then torque limiting capability improves, but the device becomes cumbersome and creates drag in space-limited compartments
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is nested within the compact actuator housing, with the spring compressed between the housing end and the threaded shaft. This nested arrangement provides effective torque limiting while maintaining a low-profile, space-efficient design suitable for cargo box compartments.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque-limiting function is extracted from a bulky external handle mechanism and integrated into a compact spring-based system within the actuator body, eliminating the need for large external components while maintaining torque control capability.
4Strength
If a non-removable actuator design is used to ensure structural integrity, then device strength improves, but the actuator creates permanent drag and occupies space when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is designed as a separable component that can be removed from the clamp assembly. The clamp body and jaw assembly remain permanently attached, while the actuator mechanism can be detached when not in use, eliminating drag and freeing up space in the cargo box.
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 solution ensures safe and effective clamping without overtightening, while being compact and adaptable for various clamp configurations, including those used in cargo boxes on vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
A spring may be used to urge the first set of teeth into the second set of teeth until a threshold level of torque is applied to the threaded shaft
Implementation Method 2
The spring may include a plate in a plane perpendicular to the long axis of the threaded shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp includes a jaw assembly, and an actuator device for moving the jaw assembly between clamped and unclamped positions. The actuator device includes a handle, and a keyed shaft coupled to the handle via a spring biased releasable torque transfer mechanism.