Variable Angle Clamp Assembly for Non-Planar Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional angle clamps are limited in their ability to clamp non-planar surfaces and large or unusual shapes due to their rigid design, requiring access to opposing parallel surfaces which is not always feasible.
Innovation Solution
A variable angle clamp assembly with pivoting and rotatable support arms, adjustable clamp mechanisms, and a coupling mechanism that allows for multiple angle and radial adjustments, enabling clamping of surfaces at various angles and distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional angle clamps with rigid design are used, then structural stability is maintained, but adaptability to non-planar surfaces and unusual shapes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into multiple independent segments: support arms, clamp assemblies, and adjustment mechanisms. Each segment can move and adjust independently, allowing the clamp to adapt to non-planar surfaces while maintaining overall structural stability through modular connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp transitions from a rigid static structure to a dynamic adjustable structure. Support arms can pivot at unions, clamp assemblies can slide along elongate openings, and angles can be adjusted using coupling mechanisms. This dynamic capability enables adaptation to various surface geometries while maintaining stability through lockable positions.
2Ease of operation
If conventional clamps with fixed jaw positions are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but ease of operation for different workpiece sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assemblies are designed with movable jaws that can slide along the support arms and be positioned at different locations using elongate openings and lock stops. This dynamic positioning capability allows easy adjustment for different workpiece sizes while maintaining operational simplicity through intuitive sliding and locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp allows continuous variation of critical parameters including jaw position, clamp angle, and radial distance from the pivot point. These parameter changes are achieved through mechanical adjustments that enable the clamp to accommodate workpieces of varying sizes and shapes while maintaining ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If clamps requiring access to opposing parallel surfaces are used, then clamping force stability is maintained, but adaptability to limited access situations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp extends beyond the traditional single-plane operation by allowing support arms to pivot in multiple directions and clamp assemblies to position themselves at different radial distances. This multi-dimensional adjustment capability enables access to workpieces in limited space while maintaining clamping force stability through proper mechanical engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The separation of support arms from clamp assemblies allows independent positioning and adjustment. This segmentation enables the clamp to navigate around obstructions and access workpieces in confined spaces while maintaining reliable clamping force through the independent adjustment and locking of each component.
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 effective clamping of surfaces with non-planar shapes and unusual sizes by allowing adjustable angles and radial positions, overcoming the limitations of traditional clamps and providing versatility in clamping configurations.
Implementation Method 1
The movable jaw is tightened towards the fixed jaw by way of a threaded screw and a handle
Implementation Method 2
a first support arm that may be pivoted relative to a second support arm
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and methods are provided for a variable angle clamp assembly. The variable angle clamp assembly comprises a first support arm that may be pivoted relative to a second support arm. A coupling mechanism enables fixating an angle between the first and second support arms. A clamp assembly is mounted onto an elongate opening disposed along each of the first and second support arms. Each clamp assembly includes a fixed jaw and a movable jaw that may be tightened by way of a threaded screw and a handle. The clamp assemblies are slidable and rotatable along the elongate openings. A lock stop enables the clamp assembly to be fixated relative to each of the first and second support arms. The clamping assemblies may be manipulated into a variety of angles and radial distances along the support arms to provide a variety of clamping solutions.