Universal Wedge Clamp for Shoring Posts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shoring apparatuses lack versatility in interconnecting various components of scaffolding and shoring posts due to limited adaptability to different sizes and shapes of concrete structures, hindering efficient configuration and stability.
Innovation Solution
A universal wedge clamp system comprising a clamp with angled arms and a wedge mechanism that securely engages both cylindrical and rectangular shoring posts, allowing for adjustable beam positioning and retention through a combination of fingers, slots, and raised surfaces to prevent disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional clamp design is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot adapt to different sizes and shapes of shoring posts
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is designed with a universal configuration that can accommodate both circular and non-circular shoring posts through its angled arms and finger engagement mechanism, allowing a single device to perform multiple functions across different post geometries
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp incorporates movable components including adjustable fingers that can engage different surfaces of the shoring post, and a wedge mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment of the clamp's grip, enabling adaptation to various post sizes and shapes
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed clamp configuration is used, then the manufacturing is simple, but it lacks flexibility in beam positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into separate functional segments including arms, fingers, and a wedge mechanism that can move independently, allowing flexible beam positioning while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular construction
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge acts as an intermediary element between the clamp arms and the beam, enabling adjustable beam positioning through a simple mechanical insertion and leverage mechanism that does not require complex manufacturing
3Ease of operation
If a loose wedge configuration is used, then the assembly is easy, but the wedge can come out of engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge includes a raised surface that preemptively prevents disengagement by creating a mechanical interference fit with the clamp slot, countering any forces that might cause the wedge to come out while maintaining easy assembly through the same slot insertion mechanism
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
Enables flexible and secure interconnection of shoring components across various configurations, providing stability and adaptability to diverse concrete structure geometries, thereby enhancing the structural integrity and ease of use in construction settings.
Implementation Method 1
the wedge has a raised surface that prevents the wedge from coming out of engagement with the clamp
Implementation Method 2
each arm having at least one finger that curves inwardly, which allows it to engage a shoring post
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp and universal wedge clamp system is provided. The system includes a rigid clamp that is formed to define first and second arms that extend from opposite ends of a central member. The first and second arms each comprise a finger that extends inwardly toward the finger extending inwardly from the opposite arm, and at least one of the first and second arms comprising a slot defined through the arm along a portion of a length of the arm. A wedge extends through the slot, wherein the clamp and the wedge are collectively configured to removably retain a beam upon either one of a substantially cylindrical shoring post, or a substantially rectangular shoring post.