An Innovative Toggle Clamp with a Side-Acting Handle Mechanism and Method of Operation

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Title: An Innovative Toggle Clamp with a Side-Acting Handle Mechanism and Method of Operation The present disclosure proposes an innovative toggle clamp (100) with a side-acting handle mechanism for enhancing its usability and functionality in tight spaces, thereby improving operational efficiency and safety. The innovative toggle clamp (100) comprises a catch plate (102), a base plate (106), a latch assembly (110), a handle (120), and an actuation pin (126). The proposed innovative toggle clamp (100) comprises a handle (120) to move in a linear direction by sliding an actuation pin (126) along a guide rod (116) for engaging and disengaging operations. The proposed innovative toggle clamp (100) with a side-acting handle mechanism reduces the need for an awkward handling position. The proposed innovative toggle clamp (100) with a side-acting handle mechanism that minimizes awkward handling positions, enabling users to operate the clamp comfortably without causing strain or fatigue.

Specification

Description:DESCRIPTION:
Field of the invention:
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the technical field of mechanical clamps, and in specific, relates to an innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting handle mechanism for enhancing its usability and functionality in tight spaces, thereby improving operational efficiency and safety.
Background of the invention:
[0002] A toggle clamp is a mechanical device designed to securely hold an object in place by applying clamping force through a toggle mechanism. This mechanism features a pivoting arm connected to a handle; when the handle is moved, the arm engages the clamp onto the workpiece. A key advantage of the toggle mechanism is its ability to lock in place when fully engaged, providing a high level of stability and a strong holding force with minimal effort. Toggle clamps are widely used across various industrial applications. In welding and assembly fixtures, they hold workpieces securely during operations such as welding, drilling, or assembly.
[0003] In woodworking, toggle clamps are employed in jigs and fixtures to keep wood pieces in place during cutting, sanding, or routing. Machining and metalworking also benefit from toggle clamps, as they hold metal parts steady during milling, drilling, or grinding processes. Additionally, toggle clamps play a crucial role in inspection and testing by securing parts during quality control checks, and they are utilized in packaging and shipping to ensure that lids, doors, or other components remain securely closed during transport. A specific type of toggle clamp is the latch-type toggle clamp, which employs a latching mechanism to secure two parts together. This design is particularly useful for holding doors, lids, or panels closed.
[0004] The latch mechanism hooks onto a catch or fixed component, and when engaged, it pulls the two parts together, locking them in place. Latch-type clamps also offer a quick-release feature, enabling easy disengagement of the latch by simply moving the handle. Latch-type toggle clamps are commonly used in various applications. They are ideal for securing enclosures and doors in industrial cabinets or containers, as well as in tooling and fixtures for manufacturing processes where quick changes or adjustments are needed.
[0005] In mold and casting operations, these clamps hold mold halves together during casting or molding, ensuring a secure fit. They are also employed in packaging to keep parts or assemblies secured within crates or boxes during transport, providing an effective solution for ensuring that everything remains closed and intact. While the handle action in a toggle clamp is generally effective, it can present disadvantages in scenarios with limited space. Most toggle clamps are designed with handles that need to move in a specific arc, either upward or downward, to engage or release the clamping mechanism.
[0006] In constrained spaces, particularly vertically, this range of motion can be obstructed, making it difficult or even impossible to operate the clamp properly. A primary issue arises when the handle must tilt upward to release the clamp but lacks sufficient overhead clearance. In such cases, the user may struggle to manipulate the clamp effectively. This limitation can lead to restricted accessibility, making the handle difficult to reach or operate efficiently. Consequently, the user might find themselves in awkward positions, reducing ergonomics and potentially creating unsafe conditions, especially if excessive force is required to move the handle.
[0007] For example, consider a traditional latch-type toggle clamp used to secure boxes during transport. Several issues arise due to the limited space around the boxes, which are often packed tightly over the carrier. Traditional clamps typically require the handle to move in an upward or downward arc to engage or disengage the clamping mechanism. This vertical movement necessitates sufficient overhead clearance, which can be problematic in situations such as tightly packed shipping containers, trailers, or other transport environments.
[0008] In aircraft maintenance, particularly in confined spaces like engine compartments or avionics bays, toggle clamps may be used to hold components in place. The limited space in these areas can make it challenging to operate the clamps, especially when quick access or release is needed. Furthermore, when the handle's movement is restricted, the clamp may not fully engage or release, leading to insufficient clamping force. This can cause the workpiece to shift or move during operation, resulting in defects or safety risks.
[0009] Therefore, there is a need for an innovative toggle clamp in situations with limited space. There is also a need for an innovative toggle clamp that minimizes awkward handling positions, enabling users to operate the clamp comfortably without causing strain or fatigue. There is also a need for an innovative toggle clamp that ensures complete engagement and releases, as restricted handle movement can prevent proper clamping, risking the workpiece shifting during operation. Further, there is also a need for an innovative toggle clamp that offers versatility across diverse applications, allowing for adaptability in various industrial contexts without being limited by specific design requirements.
Objectives of the invention:
[0010] The primary objective of the invention is to provide an innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting handle mechanism for enhancing its usability and functionality in tight spaces, thereby improving operational efficiency and safety.
[0011] Another objective of the invention is to provide an innovative toggle clamp that comprises a handle to move in a linear direction by sliding an actuation pin along a guide rod for engaging and disengaging operations.
[0012] The other objective of the invention is to provide an innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting handle mechanism that reduces the need for an awkward handling position.
[0013] The other objective of the invention is to provide an innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting handle mechanism that minimizes awkward handling positions, enabling users to operate the clamp comfortably without causing strain or fatigue.
[0014] The other objective of the invention is to provide an innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting handle mechanism that ensures complete engagement and releases, as restricted handle movement can prevent proper clamping, risking the workpiece shifting during operation.
[0015] Yet another objective of the invention is to provide an innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting handle mechanism that eliminates the requirement for vertical clearance, thereby minimizing the risk of accidental disengagement or incomplete clamping.
[0016] Further objective of the invention is to provide an innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting handle mechanism to function effectively in environments with limited vertical space.
Summary of the invention:
[0017] The present disclosure proposes an innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting handle mechanism and method of operation. The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
[0018] In order to overcome the above deficiencies of the prior art, the present disclosure is to solve the technical problem to provide an innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting handle mechanism for enhancing its usability and functionality in tight spaces, thereby improving operational efficiency and safety.
[0019] According to an aspect, the invention provides an innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting mechanism. In one embodiment herein, the innovative toggle clamp comprises a catch plate, a base plate, a latch assembly, a handle, and an actuation pin. In one embodiment herein, the catch plate having a hook is adapted to be securely mounted on a workpiece. In one embodiment herein, the base plate having a latch holder is positioned below the catch plate. The base plate is adapted to be securely mounted on an external surface.
[0020] In one embodiment herein, the latch assembly is movably connected to the latch holder of the base plate. The latch assembly comprises a first section and a second section. In one embodiment herein, the first section is configured to engage and disengage with the hook of the catch plate. In one embodiment herein, the second section having a guide rod is pivotably connected to the first section through locking pins.
[0021] In one embodiment herein, the handle having a fulcrum slot is rotatably connected to the latch holder. The fulcrum slot is configured to accommodate a fulcrum pin, which is positioned on the latch holder. The handle is configured to enable the user to rotate it sideways rather than vertically, reducing the overhead clearance required for operation and making the innovative toggle clamp particularly suitable for use in tight spaces or applications with restricted vertical movement.
[0022] In one embodiment herein, the actuation pin is slidably positioned on the guide rod of the second section. The actuation pin is configured to be inserted in a slider pin insert of the handle, thereby enabling a user to move the handle in at least one sideways direction for moving the latch assembly in a linear direction so as to engage and disengage the first section of the latch assembly. The actuation pin is configured to move along the guide rod of the second section, thereby facilitating the smooth vertical movement of the latch assembly.
[0023] The innovative toggle clamp securely locks and releases by raising and lowering the latch assembly, thereby allowing the first section to engage and disengage with the hook of the catch plate. The handle is equipped with a hand grip to facilitate ease of use for enabling radial movement around the fulcrum pin, which in turn converts the radial action into linear vertical movement of the latch assembly.
[0024] The innovative toggle clamp comprises a supporting member that is connected to the latch holder through a fastener for accommodating the latch assembly. The hook ensures a secure engagement with the first section of the latch assembly, thereby providing reliable clamping. The innovative toggle clamp is configured to enable the user to turn the handle sideways for moving the latch assembly in the linear direction, thereby disengaging the first section of the latch assembly with the hook of the catch plate and adjusting the first section of the latch assembly for unlocking the innovative toggle clamp.
[0025] The innovative toggle clamp is configured to adjust the first section of the latch assembly and enable the user to turn the handle to an initial position for moving the latch assembly in the linear direction, thereby engaging the first section of the latch assembly with the hook of the catch plate for unlocking the innovative toggle clamp.
[0026] According to another aspect, the invention provides a method for operating the innovative toggle clamp. At one step, the user rotates the handle in at least one sideways direction around the fulcrum pin for initiating a radial movement. At one step, the actuation pin moves along the guide rod towards one end, thereby moving the latch assembly in an upward direction. At one step, the first section of the latch assembly disengages from the hook of the catch plate, thereby detaching the first section of the latch assembly for performing an unclamping operation.
[0027] At one step, the user rotates the handle in at least one sideways direction, i.e., to an initial position around the fulcrum pin. At one step, the actuation pin moves towards the center of the guide rod, thereby moving the latch assembly in a downward direction. At one step, the first section of the latch assembly engages with the hook of the catch plate for performing a clamping operation.
[0028] Further, objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from a study of the following portion of the specification, the claims, and the attached drawings.
Detailed description of drawings:
[0029] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate an embodiment of the invention, and, together with the description, explain the principles of the invention.
[0030] FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of an innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting mechanism, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0031] FIG. 1B illustrates an isometric view of the innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting mechanism, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0032] FIG. 1C illustrates an exploded view of the innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting mechanism, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0033] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of a latch assembly of the innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting mechanism, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0034] FIG. 3A illustrates a front view of the innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting mechanism at the initial position, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0035] FIG. 3B illustrates a front view of the innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting mechanism upon rotating a handle, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0036] FIG. 3C illustrates a front view of the innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting mechanism while raising the latch assembly, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0037] FIG. 3D illustrates an isometric view of the innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting mechanism upon performing an unlock operation, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0038] FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a method for operating the innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting mechanism, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
Detailed invention disclosure:
[0039] Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps.
[0040] The present disclosure has been made with a view towards solving the problem with the prior art described above, and it is an object of the present invention to provide an innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting handle mechanism for enhancing its usability and functionality in tight spaces, thereby improving operational efficiency and safety.
[0041] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIGs. 1A-1C refer to an innovative toggle clamp 100 with a side-acting mechanism. In one embodiment herein, the innovative toggle clamp 100 comprises a catch plate 102, a base plate 106, a latch assembly 110, a handle 120, and an actuation pin 126. In one embodiment herein, the catch plate 102, having a hook 104, is adapted to be securely mounted on a workpiece. The catch plate 102 is also known as a latch plate, which serves as the anchoring point for the latch mechanism. The catch plate 102 is mounted on the part of the workpiece or enclosure that the latch will secure.
[0042] In one embodiment herein, the base plate 106, which has a latch holder 108, is positioned below the catch plate 102. The base plate 106 is adapted to be securely mounted on an external surface. The base plate 106 is the foundational component of the innovative toggle clamp 100. It is typically a flat, sturdy platform designed to provide a stable point of attachment for the innovative toggle clamp 100. The base plate 106 is mounted on an external surface, such as a workbench, fixture, or other stable structures, thereby ensuring that the innovative toggle clamp 100 remains securely anchored during operation and prevents any unwanted movement or shifting.
[0043] The base plate 106 often includes pre-drilled holes or slots to accommodate screws or bolts for mounting on the external surface. The latch holder 108 secures the latch assembly 110 using a supporting member 130 and allows only linear sliding motion of the latch assembly 110. In one embodiment herein, the latch assembly 110 is movably connected to the latch holder 108 of the base plate 106. The latch assembly 110 is the main clamping component that interacts with the catch plate 102 to secure the workpiece.
[0044] The latch assembly 110 comprises a first section 112 and a second section 114. In one embodiment herein, the first section 112 is configured to engage and disengage with the hook 104 of the catch plate 102. In one embodiment herein, the second section 114, having a guide rod 116, is pivotably connected to the first section 112 through locking pins 118. The latch assembly 110 is designed to provide a strong, reliable connection that resists forces attempting to separate the two components. The hook 104 is a critical component that provides a secure hold on the latch without allowing any movement or play, ensuring a tight and reliable closure. The catch plate 102 works in conjunction with the latch assembly 110 to maintain a firm grip on the workpiece during operation.
[0045] In one embodiment herein, the handle 120, having a fulcrum slot 122, is rotatably connected to the latch holder 108. The fulcrum slot 122 is configured to accommodate a fulcrum pin 124, which is positioned on the latch holder 108. The fulcrum pin 124 serves to secure both the handle 120 and the supporting member 130 to the base plate 106 with the assistance of a fastener 132. The handle 120 is configured to enable the user to rotate it sideways rather than vertically, reducing the overhead clearance required for operation and making the innovative toggle clamp 100 particularly suitable for use in tight spaces or applications with restricted vertical movement.
[0046] The handle 120 is the user-operated component of the innovative toggle clamp 100. Its design is important for ergonomics and ease of use, ensuring that the user can apply the necessary force without excessive effort. The handle 120 is often shaped or coated for a comfortable grip and is connected to the latch assembly 110. In particular, the latch assembly 110 moves in response to the handle's operation. When the handle 120 is actuated, the latch assembly 110 moves into position, engaging with the catch plate 102 to lock the two parts securely.
[0047] In one embodiment herein, the actuation pin 126 is slidably positioned on the guide rod 116 of the second section 114. The actuation pin 126 is configured to be inserted into a slider pin insert 128 of the handle 120, thereby enabling the user to move the handle 120 in at least one sideways direction for moving the latch assembly 110 in a linear direction to engage and disengage the first section 112 of the latch assembly 110. The actuation pin 126 is configured to move along the guide rod 116 of the second section 114, thereby facilitating the smooth vertical movement of the latch assembly 110.
[0048] The actuation pin 126 is inserted into the slider pin insert 128 of the handle 120 for transferring the relative movement of the handle 120 to the latch assembly 110. The radial movement of the handle 120 is converted into linear vertical movement of the latch assembly 110. The guide rod 116 serves as a track over which the actuation pin 126 reciprocates, allowing for smooth linear motion. The innovative toggle clamp 100 securely locks and releases by raising and lowering the latch assembly 110, thereby allowing the first section 112 to engage and disengage with the hook 104 of the catch plate 102.
[0049] The handle 120 is equipped with a hand grip 131 to facilitate ease of use, enabling radial movement around the fulcrum pin 124, which in turn converts the radial action into linear vertical movement of the latch assembly 110. The innovative toggle clamp 100 comprises a supporting member 130 that is connected to the latch holder 108 through the fastener 132 for accommodating the latch assembly 110. The hook 104 ensures a secure engagement with the first section 112 of the latch assembly 110, thereby providing reliable clamping.
[0050] The innovative toggle clamp 100 is configured to enable the user to turn the handle 120 sideways to move the latch assembly 110 in the linear direction, thereby disengaging the first section 112 of the latch assembly 110 from the hook 104 of the catch plate 102 and adjusting the first section 112 of the latch assembly 110 to unlock the innovative toggle clamp 100. The innovative toggle clamp 100 is also configured to adjust the first section 112 of the latch assembly 110, enabling the user to turn the handle 120 to an initial position for moving the latch assembly 110 in the linear direction, thereby engaging the first section 112 of the latch assembly 110 with the hook 104 of the catch plate 102 to unlock the innovative toggle clamp 100.
[0051] According to another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2 refers to an exploded view of the latch assembly 110 of the innovative toggle clamp 100 with a side-acting mechanism. In one embodiment herein, the latch assembly 110 serves as the primary clamping mechanism in the innovative toggle clamp 100, interacting directly with the catch plate to secure the workpiece effectively. In one embodiment herein, the first section 112 is configured to engage and disengage with the hook 104 of the catch plate 102. This engagement is essential for locking the two parts together when the innovative toggle clamp 100 is in use. Its design ensures a reliable connection that can withstand forces attempting to separate the workpiece from the innovative toggle clamp 100.
[0052] In one embodiment herein, the second section 114 comprises the guide rod 116 that is pivotably connected to the first section 112 through locking pins 118. This pivoting connection allows for smooth movement between the two sections, enabling the latch assembly 110 to operate effectively. The guide rod 116 acts as a bridge, providing stability during clamping and facilitating the linear motion required for engaging and disengaging the latch assembly 110. In one embodiment herein, the locking pins 118 serve to connect the first and second sections (112, 114) of the latch assembly 110 pivotally. This connection is essential for facilitating movement while maintaining the integrity and reliability of the assembly during operation.
[0053] In one embodiment herein, the actuation pin 126 is inserted into the pin insert 128 of the handle 120, transferring the relative motion of the handle 120 to the latch assembly 110. This mechanism converts the radial movement of the handle 120 into linear vertical movement of the latch assembly 110, allowing for precise control over the clamping action. The latch assembly 110 operates by moving into position to engage with the catch plate 102 when the handle 120 is actuated.
[0054] When the handle 120 is rotated, it triggers the latch assembly 110 to move vertically, enabling the first section 112 to securely hook onto the catch plate 102. This interaction ensures a firm grip on the workpiece, preventing any slippage during operation. The latch assembly 110 is designed to provide a strong and reliable connection that resists external forces, maintaining a tight closure to secure the workpiece throughout the clamping process. As the actuation pin 126 moves along the guide rod 116, it promotes smooth and controlled operation of the latch assembly 110, allowing for easy engagement and disengagement with the catch plate 102.
[0055] According to another embodiment herein, FIG. 3A refers to a front view of the innovative toggle clamp 100 with a side-acting mechanism at the initial position. Initially, the innovative toggle clamp 100 is in a locked position. Here, the clamp 100 securely fastens the components to the base plate 106 and the catch plate 102. If there is limited space around the components to which the clamp is attached, it is impossible to turn or raise the handle as in traditional toggle clamps. So, the innovative toggle clamp 100 is innovative; it does not require clearance for handle 120 orientation. Instead, the handle 120 operates by turning sideways, allowing the clamp 100 to function effectively in confined spaces.
[0056] According to another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 3B refers to a front view of the innovative toggle clamp 100 with a side-acting mechanism upon rotating the handle 120. In one embodiment herein, the handle 120 is pivotally connected to the clamp 100 via the fulcrum pin 124. To initiate the unclamping process, the user turns the handle 120 either to the left or right. For example, if the handle 120 is turned to the right then the handle 120 pivots radially around the axis of the fulcrum pin 124. In particular, the innovative toggle clamp 100 allows the handle 120 to move sideways instead of requiring the traditional upward or downward motion, making it ideal for situations with limited vertical space.
[0057] As the handle 120 turns the actuation pin 126 moves along the guide rod 116. Specifically, the guide rod 116 provides a path for the actuation pin 126, directing its motion as the handle 120 turns. As the actuation pin 126 shifts along the guide rod 116, it causes the guide rod 116 to move linearly upward. In particular, this linear upward movement is critical for disengaging the latch assembly 110. The guide rod 116 is directly coupled to the latch assembly 110. Therefore, as the guide rod 116 moves upward, it raises the entire latch assembly 110 with it, thereby disengaging the first section 112 of the latch assembly 110 from the hook 104 of the catch plate 102 so as to unlock the clamp 100 effectively.
[0058] According to another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 3C refers to a front view of the innovative toggle clamp 100 with a side-acting mechanism while raising the latch assembly 110. At the locked position, the actuation pin 126 is positioned at an intermediate point on the guide rod 116. When the handle is turned to the right, the actuation pin 126 shifts to the right, initiating the unlocking process. As the latch assembly 110 is raised, the first section 112, which is responsible for securing the clamp 100, disengages from the hook 104 of the catch plate 102. Once the first section 112 is fully disengaged, the clamp 100 releases the previously secured components.
[0059] According to another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 3D refers to an isometric view of the innovative toggle clamp 100 with a side-acting mechanism upon performing an unlock operation. Finally, the unclamping process involves rotating the first section 112 around the pivot joint that connects it to the second section 114 of the latch assembly 110. This rotational movement fully repositions the first section 112 away from the catch plate 102. At this point, both components connected to the catch plate 102 and the base plate 106 are released, freeing them from the clamp's hold.
[0060] In one example embodiment herein, after the clamp 100 is released, the first step is to align the first section 112 with the hook 104 of the catch plate 102. Now, the handle 120 needs to be turned back to its original position, which, in this case, means rotating it to the left. This reverses the sideways movement that initially disengaged the clamp 100. As the handle 120 pivots radially around the axis of the actuation pin 126, it initiates the re-engagement process by driving the subsequent movements of the internal components of the clamp 100.
[0061] The turning of the handle 120 causes the actuation pin 126 to move along the guide rod 116 in the opposite direction of the previous movement. As the handle 120 pivots, the actuation pin 126 slides back along the guide rod 116 so that the guide rod moves linearly downward. In addition, this downward motion pulls the entire latch assembly 110 with it. As the guide rod 116 moves downward, the latch assembly 110 follows, thereby moving in a controlled linear motion. This downward movement is essential for realigning the first section 112 with the hook 104 of the catch plate 102.
[0062] As the latch assembly 110 continues downward, the first section 112 makes contact with the hook 104 of the catch plate 102. The guide rod's controlled motion ensures the first section 112 of the latch assembly 110 is precisely guided into position. Once aligned, the first section 112 of the latch assembly 110 engages with the hook 104 on the catch plate 102, thereby re-establishing a secure connection between the components.
[0063] Finally, the first section 112 securely engages with the hook 104 of the catch plate 102, thereby completing the locking process by fully turning the handle 120 into its final position. This final movement locks the clamp mechanism, ensuring the latch assembly 110 is firmly secured. The innovative toggle clamp 100, which allows the handle 120 to operate sideways, offers enhanced functionality, especially in confined spaces, while maintaining the robust clamping force required to hold components securely together.
[0064] According to another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 4 refers to a flowchart 400 of a method for operating the innovative toggle clamp with the side-acting mechanism. At step 402, the user rotates the handle 120 in at least one sideways direction around the fulcrum pin 124 to initiate a radial movement. At step 404, the actuation pin 126 moves along the guide rod 116 towards one end, thereby moving the latch assembly 110 in an upward direction. At step 406, the first section 112 of the latch assembly 110 disengages from the hook 104 of the catch plate 102, thereby detaching the first section (112) of the latch assembly (110) to perform an unclamping operation.
[0065] At step 408, the user rotates the handle 120 in at least one sideways direction, i.e., to an initial position around the fulcrum pin 124. At step 410, the actuation pin 126 moves towards the center of the guide rod 116, thereby moving the latch assembly 110 in a downward direction. At step 412, the first section 112 of the latch assembly 110 engages with the hook 104 of the catch plate 102 to perform a clamping operation.
[0066] Numerous advantages of the present disclosure may be apparent from the discussion above. In accordance with the present disclosure, an innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting handle mechanism is disclosed. The proposed innovative toggle clamp 100 with a side-acting handle mechanism for enhancing its usability and functionality in tight spaces, thereby improving operational efficiency and safety.
[0067] The proposed innovative toggle clamp comprises a handle 120 to move in a linear direction by sliding an actuation pin 126 along a guide rod 116 for engaging and disengaging operations. The proposed innovative toggle clamp 100 with a side-acting handle mechanism reduces the need for an awkward handling position. The proposed innovative toggle clamp 100 with a side-acting handle mechanism that minimizes awkward handling positions, enabling users to operate the clamp comfortably without causing strain or fatigue.
[0068] The proposed innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting handle mechanism that ensures complete engagement and releases, as restricted handle movement can prevent proper clamping, risking the workpiece shifting during operation. The proposed innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting handle mechanism eliminates the requirement for vertical clearance, thereby minimizing the risk of accidental disengagement or incomplete clamping. The proposed innovative toggle clamp with a side-acting handle mechanism to function effectively in environments with limited vertical space.
[0069] It will readily be apparent that numerous modifications and alterations can be made to the processes described in the foregoing examples without departing from the principles underlying the invention, and all such modifications and alterations are intended to be embraced by this application.
, Claims:CLAIMS:
I / We Claim:
1. An innovative toggle clamp (100), comprising:
a catch plate (102) having a hook (104) adapted to be securely mounted on a workpiece;
a base plate (106) having a latch holder (108) positioned below the catch plate (102) at a distance, wherein the base plate (106) is adapted to be securely mounted on an external surface;
a latch assembly (110) movably connected to the latch holder (108) of the base plate (106), wherein the latch assembly (110) comprises:
a first section (112) configured to engage and disengage with the hook (104) of the catch plate (102);
a second section (114) having a guide rod (116) pivotably connected to the first section (112) through locking pins (118); and
a handle (120) having a fulcrum slot (122) rotatably connected to the latch holder (108), wherein the fulcrum slot (122) is configured to accommodate a fulcrum pin (124), which is positioned on the latch holder (108); and
an actuation pin (126) slidably positioned on the guide rod (116) of the second section (114), wherein the actuation pin (126) is configured to be inserted in a slider pin insert (128) of the handle (120), thereby enabling a user to move the handle (120) in at least one sideways direction for moving the latch assembly in a linear direction so as to engage and disengage the first section (112) of the latch assembly (110),
whereby the innovative toggle clamp (100) securely locks and releases by raising and lowering the latch assembly (110), thereby allowing the first section (112) to engage and disengage with the hook (104) of the catch plate (102).
2. The innovative toggle clamp (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the innovative toggle clamp (100) comprises a supporting member (130) that is connected to the latch holder (108) through a fastener (132) for accommodating the latch assembly (110).
3. The innovative toggle clamp (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the handle (120) is equipped with a hand grip (131) to facilitate ease of use for enabling radial movement around the fulcrum pin (124), which in turn converts the radial action into linear vertical movement of the latch assembly (110).
4. The innovative toggle clamp (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the actuation pin (126) is configured to move along the guide rod (116) of the second section (114), thereby facilitating the smooth vertical movement of the latch assembly (110).
5. The innovative toggle clamp (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the handle (120) is configured to enable the user to rotate it sideways rather than vertically for reducing the overhead clearance required for operation and making the innovative toggle clamp (100) particularly suitable for use in tight spaces or applications with restricted vertical movement.
6. The innovative toggle clamp (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the innovative toggle clamp (100) is configured to enable the user to turn the handle (120) sideways for moving the latch assembly (110) in the linear direction, thereby disengaging the first section (112) of the latch assembly (110) with the hook (104) of the catch plate (102) and adjusting the first section (112) of the latch assembly (110) for unlocking the innovative toggle clamp (100).
7. The innovative toggle clamp (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the innovative toggle clamp (100) is configured to adjust the first section (112) of the latch assembly (110) and enable the user to turn the handle (120) to an initial position for moving the latch assembly (110) in the linear direction, thereby engaging the first section (112) of the latch assembly (110) with the hook (104) of the catch plate (102) for unlocking the innovative toggle clamp (100).
8. The innovative toggle clamp (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hook (104) ensures a secure engagement with the first section (112) of the latch assembly (110), thereby providing a reliable clamping.
9. A method for operating an innovative toggle clamp (100), comprising:
rotating, by a user, a handle (120) in at least one sideways around a fulcrum pin (124) for initiating a radial movement;
moving, an actuation pin (126) along a guide rod (116) towards one end, thereby moving a latch assembly (110) in an upward direction;
disengaging, a first section (112) of the latch assembly (110) from a hook (104) of a catch plate (102), thereby detaching the first section (112) of the latch assembly (110) for performing an unclamping operation;
rotating, by the user, the handle (120) in the at least one sideway i.e., an initial position around the fulcrum pin (124);
moving, the actuation pin (126) towards the center of the guide rod (116), thereby moving the latch assembly (110) in a downward direction; and
engaging, the first section (112) of the latch assembly (110) from the hook (104) of the catch plate (102) for performing a clamping operation.

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