U-Shaped Fastener for One-Handed Caliper Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing caliper fastening systems in harvesters require complex multi-hand operations for secure attachment and detachment, which complicates the calibration and measurement processes, especially in the context of tree trunk diameter and length measurements.
Innovation Solution
A fastening system comprising three U-shaped fastening means, where the third U-shaped fastening means is perpendicular to the first and second, allowing for easy one-handed attachment and detachment by pivoting the caliper's ruler into position, with spring-loaded balls facilitating the abutment and secure holding, and integrated electrical connections for seamless system integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex multi-hand fastening system is used, then the caliper can be securely attached, but the operation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into three separate U-shaped fastening means (7, 8, 9) that independently engage with corresponding features on the caliper ruler. This segmentation allows each fastening element to be simple and easy to operate, while collectively providing secure attachment. The operator can easily engage or disengage each U-shaped component individually with one hand.
Solution Approach 2:
The three U-shaped fastening means are arranged in a nested configuration where they work together in sequence to secure the caliper. The fastening means engage with each other and the caliper in a nested manner, creating a compact and secure attachment system that is simple to operate.
2Ease of operation
If a simple fastening system is used, then the operation is easy, but the attachment may not be secure
Solution Approach 1:
Three simple U-shaped fastening means are combined to work together as a unified system. Each individual fastening means is simple to operate, but when merged together they provide redundant security and reliable attachment. The combined action of all three fastening means ensures the caliper is securely held during measurement operations.
3Reliability
If multiple fastening means are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each U-shaped fastening means is designed with specific local qualities - they are positioned at different locations (first and second arranged at a distance, third perpendicular and beyond the line) and have specific inner dimensions matched to the caliper features. This localized design allows each component to be simple while the overall system provides secure attachment.
4Measurement precision
If complex fastening procedures are used, then calibration accuracy can be ensured, but time is lost during calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening means are pre-configured with inner dimensions that correspond to the outer dimensions of the caliper ruler, and the third fastening means is positioned perpendicular to the others. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when the caliper is inserted, it automatically aligns and engages correctly, ensuring calibration accuracy while minimizing the time required for the operation.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2a~3
Figure 4
AI summary
Fastener in a harvester for a measurement caliper for measuring of the diameter of trees, which caliper (2) comprises a ruler (3) with a fixed and a movable shank (4,5) and a housing (6) arranged by the fixed shank, which housing (6) contains electronics for a measurement system belonging to the caliper as well as a display. The invention is characterized in that the fastener (1) comprises a first (7) and a second (8) U-shaped respective fastening means, arranged at a distance from each other, as well as a third (9) U-shaped fastening means in which the U is located perpendicularly to the U:s of the first (7) and second (8) fastening means, respectively, in that the third fastening means (9) is located outside a line through the first and second fastening means and beyond one of the first and second fastening means, in that the first (7) and second (8) fastening means have respective inner dimensions that correspond to the outer dimensions of the caliper's ruler (3), and are arranged so that the caliper's ruler (3) can abut against the respective bottom (15) of the first (7) and second (8) fastening means, in that the third fastening means (9) has an inner width that corresponds to the total width of the shanks (4,5), or their fastening arrangement, when these are translated into abutment against one another.