How to make THIS simple clamp work?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around designing a quick clamp mechanism for a personal project, focusing on alternatives to traditional thumbscrews. Participants explore various fastening solutions and share ideas on how to achieve a more efficient clamping method.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • The original poster describes a need for a quick clamp that replaces thumbscrews, suggesting a design involving a notched bolt and a pin mechanism to create tension.
  • Some participants propose using Dzus fasteners as a potential solution for the clamping mechanism.
  • Another suggestion is to look into cam lever clamps, which may fulfill the requirements of the project.
  • A participant notes that cam lever clamps are commonly used in bicycles, providing a practical example of their application.
  • There is a recommendation to visit a local bicycle shop to find quick release skewers as a readily available option for testing.
  • Another participant mentions a specific company, Carr-Lane, that offers clamps similar to the design described by the original poster.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views and suggestions without reaching a consensus on the best approach. Various fastening methods are discussed, but no single solution is agreed upon.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes various assumptions about the design requirements and the effectiveness of suggested solutions, which remain unresolved. Specific details about the mechanical properties and limitations of the proposed designs are not fully explored.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in DIY projects, mechanical design, or those seeking alternatives to traditional fastening methods may find this discussion relevant.

trpastor
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Hey guys - I have personal project I'm working on. I'm NO engineer, so I apologize for my horrible terminology and ignorance in advance. But I was hoping someone here could help me.

I'm trying to create a quick clamp instead of using thumb screws on something, so make it faster and easier.

currently, in my application, object A slides onto a tube or rod (object C) which is secured to object B.

Traditionally I use thumbscrews to tighten down into the T nuts on object A, and then take them off when I'm done. Not a big deal, but I thought I could make an object that could save me some time

I was thinking instead of bolts, I could take a bolt and put a notch in it (as shown Object D). then I could make a clamp that has a pin in between the sides or frame, that could HOOK onto the notch, and then clamp down. I would have the outside arc of this clamp be further in relation to the pin (or axis) so that it forces it down and wouldn't want to go past the peak tension point of the arc

Basically like Masons jar.

What I'm thinking before I try to make this, is that i need some suspension in it, so that when the clamp is locked down there is tension or pressure between the clamp and object B, to form a tight bond.

Is this true?

are there any other simple ideas that would work to accomplish this task?
thanks!
 

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Have you looked into Dzus fasteners? I think that some variation of that might suit your purpose quite well.
 
It's called a cam lever clamp. Google that term and I think you'll probably find something that suites your needs.
 
Great! Thank you guys. I think with that keyword I can find an application I can reshape a bit
thanks!
 
Let us know how it works out. If you don't resolve it, we'll still be here.
 
Just a FYI: You will find those cam lever clamps are very commonly used on bicycles. Particularly the front and back wheels will have ones that are about 4-6" long, and the seat post clamp will have one that's about 1.5" to 2.5" long.

My advice would be to pass by your local bicycle shop, and ask the guys who do repairs if they have a bin of "Quick Release Skewers"

That's the easiest way to get your hands on some to see if they'll work for you.
 
Carr-lane has clamps similar to if not exactly like your picture.
http://www.carrlane.com/catalog/index.cfm/27225071F0B221118070C1C512D020609090C0015482013180B041D1E173C3B2853524A5C57
 

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