Non-protrusive expandable clamping device
US6357960B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 24, 2001 |
| Grant date | Mar 19, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 24, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T403/7064
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A Non-Protrusive Expandable Clamping Device fastens together two bodies when conventional fastening devices cannot be used because of the unique space constraints and/or the shape of the joining surfaces of the bodies. The expandable clamping device, which has two tenons on opposite sides of its housing, can be slid into the bodies that have corresponding mortises on their joining surfaces to accommodate the tenons. The clamping device connects the bodies in one linear plane using motion in an orthogonal plane. When the clamping process is completed, facilitated by the rotational motion of a threaded bolt within the cavity inside the housing, what results is a joint that is strong in all directions as well as flush and airtight between the surfaces when an appropriate gasket or O-ring is utilized. Such a joint ensures proper alignment of the bodies while providing fixity in six degrees of freedom.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.