CA1175870A - Clamp for shoring and scaffolding frames - Google Patents
Clamp for shoring and scaffolding framesInfo
- Publication number
- CA1175870A CA1175870A CA000396762A CA396762A CA1175870A CA 1175870 A CA1175870 A CA 1175870A CA 000396762 A CA000396762 A CA 000396762A CA 396762 A CA396762 A CA 396762A CA 1175870 A CA1175870 A CA 1175870A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- clamp
- clamps
- arrangement
- shoulders
- shoulder
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G7/00—Connections between parts of the scaffold
- E04G7/02—Connections between parts of the scaffold with separate coupling elements
- E04G7/06—Stiff scaffolding clamps for connecting scaffold members of common shape
- E04G7/12—Clamps or clips for crossing members
- E04G7/14—Clamps or clips for crossing members for clamping the members independently
- E04G7/16—Clamps or clips for crossing members for clamping the members independently of which the clamping parts for the different members are rotatable with respect to one another
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G7/00—Connections between parts of the scaffold
- E04G7/02—Connections between parts of the scaffold with separate coupling elements
- E04G7/06—Stiff scaffolding clamps for connecting scaffold members of common shape
- E04G7/12—Clamps or clips for crossing members
- E04G7/14—Clamps or clips for crossing members for clamping the members independently
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G7/00—Connections between parts of the scaffold
- E04G7/02—Connections between parts of the scaffold with separate coupling elements
- E04G7/26—Connections between parts of the scaffold with separate coupling elements for use with specially-shaped scaffold members
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Mutual Connection Of Rods And Tubes (AREA)
- Clamps And Clips (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
Clamp for Shoring and Scaffolding Frames A clamp arrangement for use in interconnecting structural members such as those used in scaffolding and shoring framework comprises two clamps which can be interconnected for either rotation between the clamps or fixed positioning of the clamps in at least one predetermined position. The clamps in the area of interconnection have portions which are adapted to be secured to position the clamps in the corresponding predetermined fixed relative position. A securing device cooperates with the clamp portions for securing them to fix the clamps in the corresponding predetermined relative position.
Clamp for Shoring and Scaffolding Frames A clamp arrangement for use in interconnecting structural members such as those used in scaffolding and shoring framework comprises two clamps which can be interconnected for either rotation between the clamps or fixed positioning of the clamps in at least one predetermined position. The clamps in the area of interconnection have portions which are adapted to be secured to position the clamps in the corresponding predetermined fixed relative position. A securing device cooperates with the clamp portions for securing them to fix the clamps in the corresponding predetermined relative position.
Description
~ t7 1 FIErD OF T~IE INVENTION
_________._____________ This invention relates to clamps and clamp arrangements for use in interconnecting structural members and more particularly to clamps which have the facility for either unrestricted relative rotation or one or more fixed relative positions.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
___________________________ Clamps are used in many areas for interconnecting structural members in the mechanical assembly of components. C'lamps may be used in the positionlng of light fixtures, Oll laboratory equipment and on scaffoldirl~ ancl shoring frames used in construction, to name only a few. With p~rticular reference to the construction field, several arrangi~ments o~
clamps have been developed over time which are particularly suited for clamping tubes and the like to shoring and scaffolding Erames in assembling the framework so as to support the frames in forming columns and the like.
Normally such clamps are designed to clamp one circular tube to another circular tube where the clamps are fixedly secured to one another. This is usually accomplished by having common clamp jaws integrally formed. ExampleS of such clamps are disclosed in United Sta-tes Patent 1,706,214 and United States Patent 2,194,883. These patents are representative of scaffolding clamps which are fixed to clamp one tubular member at 90 degrees or at 45 degrees relative to the other tubular member.
There are however situations where in clamping one structural member to another their angular relationship may not always be that defined by a particular fixed clamp arrangement. Thus swivel interconnections having , ~
1 unrestricted relative rotation between the clamps were devised to ~ccommodate variati~ns in angular relationship~
between the members to be clamped. The difficulty with a swivel-type clamp is that in not fixing the re}ative positions of the members, the assembled struct~re may permit some movement and is therefore somewhat weaker for supporting loads. Examples of swivel-type clamps are disclosed in United States Patent 2,945,713, Australian Patent 152,133 and Canadian Patent 369,685. The Australian Patent discloses that the swivel connection can be Eixed by simply welding the components together to provide the fixecl arrangement. Also in Canadian Patent 369,635 alternatLve configurations are shown for fixed interconnections which J~
similc~r to that disclosed in United States Patent 1,706,214.
Attempts have been raade to provide a type of clamp arrangement which has the advantages of swivelling between the clamps and provision for fixing the relative positions for the clamps. Examples of such clamps are disclosed in United States Patent 1,706,215 and Canadian Patent 356,357.
The clamp arrangement of United States Patent 1,706,215 may be swivelled to a desired position with the ratchet teeth separated and then upon meshing the teeth and tightening a bolt to secure the meshed ratchet teeth, a desired fixed positioning of the clamps is achieved. ~ith Canadian Patent 356,357 the clamps may swivel relative to one another through a distance predetermined by the arcuate slot in one clamp body portion. Upon tightening of the bolt the clamps are fixed in a desired position. In this arrangement the distribution of loads for the device in fixing the clamps' positions is offset from the central axis about which the clamps can rotate. This unequal distribution of the loads 1 does not provide for a secure clamp interfit and can result in failure oc the clamps when placecl under load. Secondly, the clamp does not offer a f~lll swivel cf the interconnected clamps without restriction.
With the ratchet tooth arran~e~ent of united States patent 1,706,215, the teeth are separated to provide for relative rotation between the clamps. The interconnectior. for the elamps has not, however, been adapted in any way to maintain separation between the teeth for rotation. Insteacl the interconnection is s~lch that the teeth of the ratchet arrangement are meshed when the clamp is in use. To withstancl the loads which may be exerted on the clalmp, the teeth shollld b~ constructed oc a harcler metal, such as steel.
Thus care in clesign must be exercised when the arrangement is made of less harclenable metals.
The clamp arrangement according to this invention overcomes the above problems in providing an interconnection for elamps which is adapted to give either rotation between the clamps or positioning of the clamps in at least one predetermined fixed relative position.
SUMMARY OF THE_INVENTION
The clamp arrangement, according to this invention, is interconnected in a manner to provide for either rotation between the clamps or positioning of the clamps in at least one predetermined fixed relative position. Such interconnection is provided by at least one portion of at least one clamp in the area of c7amp interconnection which is adapted to be secured to position the clamps in the at least one fixed relative position. Means cooperates with ~i~4~
1 and contains the clamp portion for sec~lring it in its relative position. The connection may be completed in a manner to balance the clistribution of stresses on this securing means about the axis of interconnection when the clamp arrangement is under load.
More particularly the invention is embodied in a clamp having a elamp body which is releasably closeable to s~rround and clamp a structural memher. ~he clamps in their area of interconnection have opposing portions which have a distinct relative orientation at each oE the at lea!3t one predetermined fixed relative positions for the clamE~s.
Means is provided for engaging said opposillg portionC; when they are in eaeh said distinet relative orientatioll to lock said portions and thereby provide the corresponding predetermined fixed relative positions for said clamps.
Aeeording to an embodiment of the invention the opposing portions of the elamps are matched and have external surfaees ~hieh are symmetrical about the axis of intereonneetion for the clamps.
According to another variation of the invention the matched portions for the elamps are in the form of non-circular apertures defined in eaeh clamp body. The internal surfaces of each aperture are symmetrical about the longitudinal axis of the aperture. The elamps are interconnected with the longitudinal axes of the apertures coincident. The loeking means is adapted for insertion in the apertures and bridges same to engage aligned internal surfaces to position the clamps in a corresponding fixed relative position.
7~
1 The invention is also emhodied in the securing means being integral with one or both o the clamps. One oE the clamps may have an external shoulder arrangement which is engagecl by the securing means integral with the other clamp, ~hieh may be in the form of a ridge arrangement whieh engages and eontains the shoulder arrangement. Alternatively~ the seeuring means may be formed on both clamps and arranged on eaeh elamp to eooperate with and engage a corresponding opposing portion on the other clamp. In this alternative, the seeuring means may eomprise at least one ridge integral with eaeh clamp adapted for engaging a correspol-ding shoulder portion on the other clamp.
The elamp arrangment may also be aclaptecl for intereonrlectincJ
at least two elamps all along a eommon axis about whieh the elamps can rotate relative to one another. rrhus each elamp jaw has on its exterior between its hinge point and its free end a shoulder means arrangement which is symmetrieal about the axis and which cooperates with a similar shoul~er means arrangement on an adjaeent elamp jaw. The shoulder arrangements determine when aligned, at least one fixed relative position for adjacent clamps. Means eooperates with and engages the aligned adjacent ~houlder means to seeure them and thereby provide the eorresponding fixed relative position for the adjaeent elamps.
The elamps are partieularly suitable for use with a seaffolding and shoring framework sueh as framework made of aluminum alloys as disclosed in co-pending Canadian Patent Application S.N.'s 370,086 filed February 4, 1981 and 374,624 filed March 27, 1981. The clamps may be formed of aluminum alloy where the elamps may be individ~ally formed ~t~
1 from an extruded section of aluminum allo~.
BRIEF_DESCRIPTIO~ OF T~IE DRAWINGS
Preferred embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings wherein:
Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a tubular brace connected to a tubular leg by a clamp arrangement according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a tubular brace clamped to a tubular leg in a fixed position by a clamp arr.lnqemerlt according to a preferred embodiment o~ the inv~?nt:iorl;
Figure 3 is a top plan view showing the clamp arKangement interconnecting tWO tubular members in parallel re:lat:ionship;
E'igure ~ is an e~ploded view of the clamp arranclement of Figure 3;
Figure 5 is a top plan view of the clamp arrangement of Figure 4 showing various positions in closing the clamp about a tubular member:
Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the connector of Figure 4 for interconnecting clamp members;
Figure 7 shows an alternative embodiment of the dev:ice for securing clamps in desired predetermined fixed positions;
Figure 8 shows the arrangement of Figure 7 used to interconnect adjacent clamp jaws in a 45 degree angular position;
Figure 9 shows an alternative embodiment for interconnecting adjacent clamp jaws of a clamp arrangement and for providing predetermined fixed relative positions for the clamps;
Figure 10 shows an alternative embodiment for interconnecting adjacent clamp jaws of a clamp arrangement;
Figure 11 shows the clamp jaws of a clamp arrangement interconnected by the device of Figure 10;
1 Figure 1~ shows an alternative embodiment for interconnecting adjacent clamp jaws;
Figure 13 i9 a perspective view of a clamE~ having a cam arrangement for closing the clamp:
Figure 14 is a side elevation of the clamp closure device of Eigure 13 ~igure 15 is a perspective view of a clamp having an alternative embodiment for the elamp elosure device;
Fig~lre 16 is a side elevation of the clamp closure device of Figure 15;
Figure 17 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment for the clamp elosure deviee; and Figure 18 is a top plan view of the elamp closure device of Figuse 17.
DETAII,ED_DESCRIPTION_OF_THE_PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The elamp arrangement aceording to this inven~iol~ ean be used to conneet structural members of the same or different eonfiguration at any angular relationship as provided for by rotating the clamps to the desired position or any desired angular relationship in a fixed manner. As will be learned from the description of the preferred embodiments, various approaehes may be taken in providing for such elamp intereonneetion as dependent upon the uses the clamps will have in various eonfigurations. To better understand the invention, the clamp arrangement is deseribed with respect to use in scaffolding and shoring framework, however, it is understood that the invention is also embodied in other elamp arrangements as previously defined such as laboratory elamping equipment, shelving clamping equipment, light fixture clamping equipment, ete.
1 The clamp 10 as shown in ~igure 1 i5 intel COnlleCted 50 as to provide for swivel or relative rotation between the interconnectecl clamp bodies 12 and 14~ ~rhe clamps interconnect round tubular member 16 to a somewhat square or rectangular member 18. In the scaffoLding and shoring field member 18 may be a leg of a frame and structural member 16 may be a length of tube used to interconnect and steady a frame leg. Each clamp 12 and 14 is provided respectively with clamp closure devices 20 and 22 which squeeze the clamps around the respective structural member 16 and 18 so as to grip the structural members to efEect a secure c1amped interconnection. To prevent crushillg or over cla~ping of the structural members the clamp jaws 24 and 26 o c:lamp L2 may be provided with opposing abutmellts 2B and 30 wtlich prevent overtightenintJ in clamping the tube 16. Sirnilarly with clamp 14, clamp jaws 32 and 34 have opposing abutment portions 36 and 38 which also prevent overclamping and crushing of the frame leg 18. This is advantageous in instances where the structural members 16 and 18 are made of materials which can be crushed such as tubing of plastic or reinEorced plastic or fiberglass or thin wall metal tubing for both the members 16 and 18.
As shown in Figure 1, the clamps 12 anà 14 are free to rotate relative to one another to allow positioning of the brace member 16 at any desired angular relationship relative to the frame leg 18. Once the clamps are secured to the leg and the brace is secured at the other end, the clamp position remains relatively unchanged.
In the area 40 of interconnection, matched portions are provided in the form of shoulders 42 and 44 of the adjacent , ~ ~ '7~3~
1 clamp body jaws 26 and 34. Although the shouLders 42 and 44 are shown as being planar, it is appreciated that the shoulders may take on other shapes, particularly between the corners, as will be apparen~ when the locking device for the shoulders is discussed in respect of the other embodiments.
As is more clearly shown on the clamp jaw body 24, the shoulders 42 oppose one another and shoulders 44 oppose one another as symmetrically distributed about the aperture 46 of clamp jaw 24, whose axis is coincident with the axis oE
rotation of the clamps 12 and 14. As can be appreciated from Figure 1, upon relative rotation oE the clamps 12 ancl l4l the shoulders oE the matched portions in the area Oe interconnection become aligned to define in this in~stance two dlstinct relative positions of the clamps 12 and 14.
These two distinct positions are at 0 degrees, that is the tubular members would be parallel to one another and 90 de~rees where member lÇ would be at right angles relative to the frame leg 18.
Turning to Figure 2, the clamp arrangement 10 is in one of its fixed relative positions where the tubular brace member 16 is at 90 degrees to the frame leg 18. The shoulclers 42 and 44 of the area of interconnection 40 are alignecl and a locking means or securement device 48 is provided to engage amd contain the aligned shoulders and secure them in the position shown to fix the relative positions of clamps 12 and 14. This arrangement of the abutment portions may be useful in the field to visually indicate to the workman by a narrow space or no space between the abutments the degree of tightness of the clamp on a member. In using the locking device 48, the position of tubular member 16 is fixed relative to the leg 18 within the limits of load that the 1 locking device 48 will withstand when the entire franlework is under load. The particular arrangement of the securement device 48 relative to the matched aligne~ shoulder portions will be discussed in more detail with respect to Figure 3.
As can be seen from Figure 2, the closure devices 20 and 22 are firmly secured such that the abuting portions 28 and 30 of clamp 12 and abuting portions 36 and 38 of clamp 14 are proximate so as to provide a secure clamping of the tubular member 16 relative to the frame leg 18.
Turning to Fiqure 3, the clamps 12 ancl lg are securecl by the securement device 48 in the 0 degree position where the frame leg 18 is parallel to the tubular brace 16. 1n khis arrangement the opposing matched poctions in the area o~
interconnection 40 are aligned as shown by the arr~ngement of shoulders 42 and 44. The locking or securement device 48 is, according to this embodiment, a collar having an interior outline corresponding to the shape of the shoulders when aligned. Since in this embodiment the shoulders 42 and 44 are all of equal length, the interior configuration of the collar 48 is that of a square and dimensioned so as to snugly receive and engage the shoulders 42 and 44 as sho~n.
In the area of interconnection 40 the adjacent clamp jaws 26 and 34 of interconnected clamps 12 and 14 are secured together by a bolt and nut arrangement shown generally in dot at 50. The longitudinal axis of the bolt and nut arrangement 50 is coincident with the axis of relative rotation of the two clamps 12 and 14. The bolt arrangement 50 holds the adjacent clamp jaws together and with the collar snugly engaging the aligned shoulders 42 and 44, the clamps 12 and 14 are not permitted to rotate relative to one another thus providing the fixed relative position of the ~ ~JJ~3 1 clamps 12 and 14~
As is apparent from Figure 3, when the frame leg 1~ and the cross bracing 16 are under load, forces would be exertecl to attempt to rotate one clamp relative to the other about the axis of the bolt 50. This is resisted by the locking collar 48 which would be placed principally under tension as the shoulders attempt to stretch and deform the locking collar 48. Because the shoulders 42 and 44 are symmetrical or lQ evenly distributed about the axis of rotation, then the loads applied to the interconnection are ~hus evenly distributed about the axis of rotation. Therefore, there are no high stresses exerted on the locking dev.ice irl any one area of~set ~:rom the axis o-E rotatlon~ Instead they are evenly distributed about the axis of rotation as counteracted by the locking collar 48 to provide for a more secure interconnection of the clamps when providing for the corresponding fixed relative position for the clamps 12 and 14.
Clamp 12 has clamp jaw portions 24 and 26 which at one end are pivotally interconnected by hinge 52 about pivot pin 54. The free ends 56 and 58 of the clamp jaws are adapted to cooperate with the closure device 20. Closure device 20 consists of a bolt portion 60 which is pivotally connected to clamp jaw free end 56 at 62. The other end of the bolt is threaded at 64 to receive nut 66. With the nut sufficiently out on the bolt thread, the bolt can be swung so as to clear free end 58. With the bolt removed from the free end 58, the clamp jaw 24 may lay open relative to clamp iaw 26 to permit positioning of the structural support or cross member 16 in the clamp 12. The hinge 52 may be adapted 1 to hold jaw 24 at 90 degree.s relative to jaw 26 when the clamp is open to permit placement o~ brace 16 on the open jaw. By moving the clamp jaw 2-1 toward the closed position, the bolt 60 may be swung inwardly with the nut 66 ancl washer 68 clearing the free end 58 and thereby permitting tightening of the nut 66 against the face 70 of free end 58 to clamp the tubular member 16 in the clamp 12. The free end 58 is provided with a lip 59 to prevent the washer slipping off the flat 70 as the nut is tightened. ~s previously explained, abutment portions 28 arld 30 :Li~it the extent to which the clamp may be closed to avoid crushing oE
the tubular member.
Similarly wlth clamp 1~, it comprises two clamp jaws 32 and 34 which are hinged at 72 about a hinge pin 74. ~he free ends 76 and 78 are adapted to cooperate with the securement means 22 which has a bolt 80 pivotally connected to free end 76 at 82 and threaded at its other end at 84 to recieve a nut 86. As with clamp 12 and the leg member 18 within the clamp, the connector device 22 may be swung inwardly and the nut 86 tightened with washer 88 against face 90 of free end 78 and clamp jaw 34. Faces 36 and 38 abut to limit t:he extent to which the clamp may be closed to avoid crusning of the tubular leg 18.
As can be seen, the interior faces of the clamp jaws oE
clamps 12 and 14 are adapted to mate or surround and engage the faces of the respective tubular members. With clamp 12, its internal clamp faces 92 are rounded to correspond with the configuration of the circular tubular brace member 16.
On the other hand with the clamp 14, its internal faces 94 are irregular, however, designed to engage various portions 1 of the leg exterior to clamp and grip s~lch leg. The shaping of the clamp faces wi]l be discussed in more detail with respect to Figure 5.
Turning to Figure 4, the exploded view of the clamps 12 and 14 show the component parts of the clamp arrangement.
Referring to the component parts of clamp 14, the clamp jaws 32 and 34 are hinged by way of hinge pin 74. The clamp jaws have formed lug portions 96 and 98 which are offset from one another on clamp jaws 32 and 34 so as to provide a hinge connection when the pin ls positioned through alignecl apertures 100 and 102 of the respective lug portions.
The bolt 80 is connected to lug portions 104 of the free end 76 of clam~ jaw 34 by pin 106 extending through the aperture 108 in the yolk portion 110 of the bolt. ~rhis permits the bolt 80 to swing or pivot freely oE the free end. Similarly clamp jaw 32 is provided with lugs 112 which provide the faces 90 against which the nut 86 and its washer abut in closing the clamp 14.
With clamp 12, clamp jaws 24 and 26 are interconnected by hinge pin 54. Jaw 24 has lug portions 114 which are offset from lug portions 116 of jaw 26 so as to provide the hinge interconnection where the pin is inserted through the apertures 118 and 120 to be aligned. On the free ends of the clamp jaws 24 and 26 lug portions 122 and 124 are provided to cooperate with the closure device 20 in the manner discussed in respect of Figure 3.
As can be appreciated from the shapes of the clamp jaws of clamps 12 and 14 there are certain similarities which enable ., 1 the jaws to be made from extruded sections, particuarly o aluminum alloy. A5 can be seen with clamp jaws 32 and 3~, they are o~ identical cross sect;on when positionecl adjacent:
one another, where the cross-section is sheared to provide offset lugs 96 and 9~ for hinge interconnection. With the lugs 104 and 112, each is provided by removing a central area 126 to define the slot 128 into which the bolt 80 is moved in effecting clamp closure. Similarly with jaw 34, area 130 is cut out to provide space to receive the yoke portion 110 oE the bolt 80 for pivotally connecting it to the lugs 104 of the free end 76. Similarly with clamp 12 the clamp jaws 24 and 26 may be fabricatecl fronl a lenyth oL
extruded aluminum alloy having the particular cros.-sectior shown.
Accordjng to this preferred embvdlment the shoulder faces 42 and 44 are provided between the hinge area ancl the free end of each clamp jaw. In providing each clamp jaw with these shoulders 42 and 44 and locating them so as to be symmetrical about the axis that each clamp arrangement rotates, then two or more clamps may be interconnected regardless of the configuration for which the particular clamp is configured to engage. Thus for clamp 14 which clamps a frame leg, when it is desired to secure the leg by using two tubular cross braces on each side of the leg, identical clamps 12 may be used one on each side of clamp 14. Thus each clamp jaw is provided with the same matching portions between the jaw's hinge point and free end to facilitate interconnection of two or more clamps. To interconnect adjacent clamp jaws 26 and 34 a connector device generally designated at 50 is used which consists of a threaded bolt 132 having bevPlled head 134. A bevelled 1 nut 136 is used to engage the threacled portion of bolt 132.
The apertures 46 ancl 138 of clamp jaws 26 and 3~l have their faces bevellecl at 140 as shown on apert:ure 46 to mate wit~l the slopes of bevelled head portion 134 and bevelled nut 136.
S
The bolt an~ nut arrangement is shown in more detail in Figure 6. The threaded portion 132 has an arcuate groove 140 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bolt 50. The bevelled nut 136 has threaded interior portion 142 with four spaced apart arcuate grooves 146. The grc)oves 140 and 1~l6 adapt the nut and bolt arrallgelllent to provide for locking of the relative position6 oE the nut alld bolt. To lock the relative positions when the nut 136 ;Ls threaded on to the bolt to the clesirecl e~te~lt, one o~ arc~late glooves lS 146 is a:Ligned with groove 140 to define a circular channe:l into which circular pin 148 is inserted to lock the relative positions of the nut and bolt. ~rhe pin 148 may be of the type which is slightly compressed upon insertion into the circular channel so as to frictionally engage surfaces and remain within the nut. The pin can be knocked out by use of a nail or the like as driven through aperture 150 in the bevelled head 134. This nut and bolt arrangement permits interconnection of adjacent clamp jaws 26 and 34 to provide a swivel interconnection without the nut unthreading from the bolt during use of the clamp. The desired degree of frictional engagement between the clamp jaw faces is provided by selecting the appropriate position for the nut on the bolt.
Prior to assembly of clamp jaws 26 and 34, if it is desired to provide for one of the two fixed predetermined positions of the clamps, the collar 48 is placed between the clamp 1 jaws 26 and 34. The collar 48 is placed over the shoulders 42 and 44 of one of the clamp jaws. The remaining clamp jaw is then placed within collar 48 at eit:her the desired 0 or 90 degree relative positions for the clamps. The internal surfaces 152 are all of equal length so as to snugly engage and thereby contain the square outline of shoulders 42 and 44. With the collar in place engaging the matched shoulder portions, the bolt is inserted through aligned apertures 46 and 138 to complete with nut 136 the interconnection of clamp jaws 34 and 26 in the desired fixed relative position.
Turning to Figure 5, the frame leg 18 has a particular cross section which enhances its structural strength from a load carrying aspect and also facllitates mechanical connectio of cross bracing etc. to the leg. Further details oE the leg shape and its purpose are disclosed in co-pending Canadian patent application S.~. 374,~24. The clamp lg has its internal surfaces 94 adapted to engage selected portions of the leg exterior about its corner portions 154 and sidewall portions at 156~ With clamp jaw 32 positioned against one side of leg 18 the other clamp jaw 34 is pivoted about pivot point 72 where the free end 76 of the clamp jaw clears the leg so that the clamp may be moved towards its closed position and engage all faces of the legs in the areas 154 and 156. To accomplish this the $ree end 76 is sloped slightly outwardly as indicated at surface 158 so as to clear corner area 154 of the leg as the clamp is being closed.
It can be appreciated, based on the above description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, that several other approaches become apparen;t` in providing for clamp 1 interconnection which give~. either unrestricted relative rotation he~ween the clc-~mpx or Ol~e or ~nore predetermined fixed relatlve positions. The embocliments oE E~iyure!, 7 through ~2 demonstrate variations of the embodiment of Figure 4 and alternate approaches for the interconnection.
Figure 7 shows the clamp jaws 24 and 34 of the embodiment of Figure 4, however~ a different locking device 160 is used.
This configuration Eor the locking device 160 provides for Eour distinct fixed relative positions for the clamps, namely 0 degrees, 45 degrees, 90 degrees and 135 clegreef;.
The 180 degree positions etc. arourld to 360 beinq dupllcntes of the above unless distinctioll should be rnade with resp~ct to which way the clamp opens relative to the oth~r cLamp.
I~o provide Eor the ~our clistinct positions anc1 ~Ising the lS same matching shoulder con~igurations 44 and 42, the locking device 160 has a somewhat star-shaped interior. The interior is made up of sets of surfaces 162 and 164 which are of equal length and are at 90 degrees relatlve to one another. Adjacent surfaces 166 and 168 are of the same length only at 135 degrees relative to respective surfaces 162 and ~64.
According to the embodiment of Figure 7 the 0 and 90 degree positions are defined by aligning the shoulders 42 and 44.
The collar 160 engages the so aligned surfaces to secure them in position. ~lowever, to define the 45 degree and 135 degree relative positions for the clamps the shoulders 42 and 44 are not aligned. Instead their overall outline defines the interior shape for collar 160. Considering this embodiment and the embodiment of Figure 1 it is appa~ent that either the aligned shoulders in cooperation with the collar define the desired fixed relative positions or the 1 collar in combination with either aligned or misaligned shoulder positions define other or the same predetermined fixed relative positions for the clamps. Therefore according to this form of interconnection there is a wide variety of fixed relative positions which may be provided by this connection. In situations where it is desired to provide interconnection where the fixed positions are determined by aligned shoulders~ it is appreciated that one can begin with three shoulders which are preferably of equal length to deEine a triangular arrangement for shoulders.
The next shoulder arrangements woulc1 be a square, pentagon, hexagon, etc. to define respectively, the varions relative fixed position for the clamps. Iro add variation to these basic conEigurations by misalignecl shoulder orientations, a new outline for the collar is provided to secure the desired predeterminecl fixed position. When misaligning the shoulders a particular collar arrangement can ~e provided to determine only one fixed position for the arrangement and at all other shoulder relative positions, the collar will not cooperate with the shoulders to define another position.
Figure 8 shows the clamp jaw 24 rotated 45 degrees from the 9~ degree position of Figure 7 where the collar 160 is fitted over the now misaligned shoulders 42 and 44 to define the desired 45 or 135 degree relative positioning of the shoulders depending upon which side of the clamp arrangement is viewed. Further with the collar arrangement 160, it is apparent that the 0-45-gO and 135 degree positions are all provided without having to rotate the clamp about the axis of the leg to which the tubular member is to be joined by clamp jaw 24.
1 Figure 9 shows an alternative form of interconnection for the clamp jaws of adjacent cla~ps. In terms ol the cross section for each clamp jaw it can be s,een that it is the same as the section for the clamp jaws of the embodiment o~
Figure 1. In Figure 9, clamp jaw 170 has lug portions 174 for the hinge area and lug portions 176 are provided foe the closure device. Similarly with clamp jaw 172 it is provided with lugs 178 for the clamp hinge and with lugs 178 for the closure device. The body portions 182 and 184 of each clamp ~aw have apertures 186 and 188 formed thereir1. The apertures constitute the matched portions in the area o~
interconnection o~ the clamp jaws to provide for the ~`ixecl predetermined relative positions for the clamps, In the instance whe~ it is de~ired that the clamps be free to swivel relative to one another, a standard bolt and nut may be used for insertion through apertures 186 and 188 along axis 190 to interconnect the clamp jaws for relative rotation. However, when it is desired to secure or lock the jaws in a fixed position relative to one another a special form of nut 192 is used with bolt 194. Each of aperture 186 and 188 has an interior star configuration within each clamp jaw body portion 182 and 189. The interior star configuration in terms of shape is similar to that of the internal shape of collar 160 of the embodiment of Figure 7.
It contains 16 sides all of equal width where the sides are at the angles relative to one another as shown. It can be appreciated that inserting the nut 192 into aperture 186, clamp jaw 172 can be moved relative to nut 192 until the desired angular relâtionship of 0, 45, 90 or 135 degrees is obtained. Then with the aperture 188 so aligned with nut 192 the nut is slid into aperture 188. To secure the 1 interconnections, bolt 194 is threaded into the internal thread lg6 of the nut to make the connection where the bolt head includes apertures 198 in~o which a special tool is in~erted to tighten the bolt in the nut. Bolt 192 also S includes a flange portion 200 which abuts the in-ternal surface of the clamp jaw to complete the connection.
Another form of connector for the clamps i5 shown in Figure 10. The locking device generally designated 300 is used to fix the positions between the clamp jaws. With this arrangement the locking clevice is inserted between the clamp jaw faces 302. The locking de~ice comprises twv interlocking blocks 304 and 30~. The interlocking blocks are identical in cross section and are somewhat l-shaped.
The interconnecting web 308 of each block has an aperture 310 through which the connector bolt extends and which is coincident with aperture 138 in clamp jaw 34. Each block 30~ and 306 has spaced apart parallel ridges 312 and 314.
The spacing between ridges 312 and 314 is essentially equal to the spacing between faces 316 and 318 of the web 308.
This spacing is also equal to the spacing bet~een opposing shoulders 44 of clamp jaw 34. Thus, the internal surfaces of ridges 312 and 314 fit over the surfaces 316 and 318 and also over the opposing shoulders 44 of clamp jaw 3A.
With the locking device 300 in interlocked assembled form, and both clamp jaws 26 and 34 connected, the arrangement is shown in Figure 11. The ridges 312 and 314, as they extend to each side of the web 308, overlap the corresponding shoulders of the interconnected clamps. This arrangement can, therefore, provide two fixed relative positions for S~3`~3 1 the clamps. The reason that the ridges 312 and 314 extend further to one side o the web 308 than to the other side is that the thicknesses of the webs must be accommodated, as the ridges overlap the corresponding shoulders of the interconnected clamp jaws~
From this arrangement, it is appreciated that the locking device insert 300 may consist of a single insert which may be similar to block 304 where the ridges 312 and 314, as they extend to each side of the web 308, overlap the corresponding opposite shoulders, either ~l2 or 44 of the interconnected clamp jaws.
A variation of this arrangement is shown in Figure 12 where the locking insert 320 comprises a plate 322 having two sets of ridges 324, 326 and 328, 330. The plate 322 has an aperture 332 which is aligned with aperture 138 in clamp jaw 34. The spacing between parallel ridges 324, 326 is equal to the distance between opposite shoulders 42 of clamp jaw 26. Similarly, the spacing between ridges 328 and 330 is essentially equal to the distance between opposite shoulders 42 of clamp jaw 34. Thus with the clamp jaws interconnected and the insert therebetween, the two sets of parallel ridges overlap and contain the corresponding clamp shoulders to fix the shoulders in one of two possible positions.
In view of the embodiments shown in Figures 1, 7, 9, 10 and 12, it can be appreciated that the invention can be carried out in several forms. The embodiments of Figures 1 and 7 rely on a collar or the like which engages the shoulders in the desired relationship to fix their position. In so doing 1 the collar is placed in tension when the clamp is under load. Alternatively ~ith the embodiment of Figure 9, the nut 192 is placed in shear as lo~atecl in apertures 186 and 188 when the clamp arrangement is ~Inder load.
With either of the embodiments of Figures 10 and 12, it is appreciated that the two sets of parallel ridges, such as shown in Figure 12, may be integrally formed on clamp jaws 26 and 34. As could be appreciated, on shoulders 44 of clamp jaw 34, ridges 324 and 326 could be integralLy molded to extend Erom those surfaces. With cLamp jaw 26, ridges 328 and 330 could be Eormed to extend Erom the same shoulders 44. Thus, the portions on each clamp jawt whi~l are to be secured, would be the shoulders 42. This would eliminate the need ~or locking insert 320. When it is desired to provide for a swivel interconnection between these clamp jaws, a sufficiently thick washer would be placed between the jaws so that the ridges integrally formed on clamp jaws 26 and 34 would not interfere and permit them to bypass one another as the jaws are swivelled relative to one another. This arrangement could also be similarly envisaged with the embodiment of Figure 10, where the blocks 304 and 306 could be integraly cast or extruded on the respective jaws 26 and 34, so that the ridges would engage in the manner shown. It is appreciated that this arrangement lends itself nicely to extruded forms of clamp jaws, since the parallel ridges on each clamp jaw could be included in the section which is extruded.
A further alternative is that with the embodiment of Figure
_________._____________ This invention relates to clamps and clamp arrangements for use in interconnecting structural members and more particularly to clamps which have the facility for either unrestricted relative rotation or one or more fixed relative positions.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
___________________________ Clamps are used in many areas for interconnecting structural members in the mechanical assembly of components. C'lamps may be used in the positionlng of light fixtures, Oll laboratory equipment and on scaffoldirl~ ancl shoring frames used in construction, to name only a few. With p~rticular reference to the construction field, several arrangi~ments o~
clamps have been developed over time which are particularly suited for clamping tubes and the like to shoring and scaffolding Erames in assembling the framework so as to support the frames in forming columns and the like.
Normally such clamps are designed to clamp one circular tube to another circular tube where the clamps are fixedly secured to one another. This is usually accomplished by having common clamp jaws integrally formed. ExampleS of such clamps are disclosed in United Sta-tes Patent 1,706,214 and United States Patent 2,194,883. These patents are representative of scaffolding clamps which are fixed to clamp one tubular member at 90 degrees or at 45 degrees relative to the other tubular member.
There are however situations where in clamping one structural member to another their angular relationship may not always be that defined by a particular fixed clamp arrangement. Thus swivel interconnections having , ~
1 unrestricted relative rotation between the clamps were devised to ~ccommodate variati~ns in angular relationship~
between the members to be clamped. The difficulty with a swivel-type clamp is that in not fixing the re}ative positions of the members, the assembled struct~re may permit some movement and is therefore somewhat weaker for supporting loads. Examples of swivel-type clamps are disclosed in United States Patent 2,945,713, Australian Patent 152,133 and Canadian Patent 369,685. The Australian Patent discloses that the swivel connection can be Eixed by simply welding the components together to provide the fixecl arrangement. Also in Canadian Patent 369,635 alternatLve configurations are shown for fixed interconnections which J~
similc~r to that disclosed in United States Patent 1,706,214.
Attempts have been raade to provide a type of clamp arrangement which has the advantages of swivelling between the clamps and provision for fixing the relative positions for the clamps. Examples of such clamps are disclosed in United States Patent 1,706,215 and Canadian Patent 356,357.
The clamp arrangement of United States Patent 1,706,215 may be swivelled to a desired position with the ratchet teeth separated and then upon meshing the teeth and tightening a bolt to secure the meshed ratchet teeth, a desired fixed positioning of the clamps is achieved. ~ith Canadian Patent 356,357 the clamps may swivel relative to one another through a distance predetermined by the arcuate slot in one clamp body portion. Upon tightening of the bolt the clamps are fixed in a desired position. In this arrangement the distribution of loads for the device in fixing the clamps' positions is offset from the central axis about which the clamps can rotate. This unequal distribution of the loads 1 does not provide for a secure clamp interfit and can result in failure oc the clamps when placecl under load. Secondly, the clamp does not offer a f~lll swivel cf the interconnected clamps without restriction.
With the ratchet tooth arran~e~ent of united States patent 1,706,215, the teeth are separated to provide for relative rotation between the clamps. The interconnectior. for the elamps has not, however, been adapted in any way to maintain separation between the teeth for rotation. Insteacl the interconnection is s~lch that the teeth of the ratchet arrangement are meshed when the clamp is in use. To withstancl the loads which may be exerted on the clalmp, the teeth shollld b~ constructed oc a harcler metal, such as steel.
Thus care in clesign must be exercised when the arrangement is made of less harclenable metals.
The clamp arrangement according to this invention overcomes the above problems in providing an interconnection for elamps which is adapted to give either rotation between the clamps or positioning of the clamps in at least one predetermined fixed relative position.
SUMMARY OF THE_INVENTION
The clamp arrangement, according to this invention, is interconnected in a manner to provide for either rotation between the clamps or positioning of the clamps in at least one predetermined fixed relative position. Such interconnection is provided by at least one portion of at least one clamp in the area of c7amp interconnection which is adapted to be secured to position the clamps in the at least one fixed relative position. Means cooperates with ~i~4~
1 and contains the clamp portion for sec~lring it in its relative position. The connection may be completed in a manner to balance the clistribution of stresses on this securing means about the axis of interconnection when the clamp arrangement is under load.
More particularly the invention is embodied in a clamp having a elamp body which is releasably closeable to s~rround and clamp a structural memher. ~he clamps in their area of interconnection have opposing portions which have a distinct relative orientation at each oE the at lea!3t one predetermined fixed relative positions for the clamE~s.
Means is provided for engaging said opposillg portionC; when they are in eaeh said distinet relative orientatioll to lock said portions and thereby provide the corresponding predetermined fixed relative positions for said clamps.
Aeeording to an embodiment of the invention the opposing portions of the elamps are matched and have external surfaees ~hieh are symmetrical about the axis of intereonneetion for the clamps.
According to another variation of the invention the matched portions for the elamps are in the form of non-circular apertures defined in eaeh clamp body. The internal surfaces of each aperture are symmetrical about the longitudinal axis of the aperture. The elamps are interconnected with the longitudinal axes of the apertures coincident. The loeking means is adapted for insertion in the apertures and bridges same to engage aligned internal surfaces to position the clamps in a corresponding fixed relative position.
7~
1 The invention is also emhodied in the securing means being integral with one or both o the clamps. One oE the clamps may have an external shoulder arrangement which is engagecl by the securing means integral with the other clamp, ~hieh may be in the form of a ridge arrangement whieh engages and eontains the shoulder arrangement. Alternatively~ the seeuring means may be formed on both clamps and arranged on eaeh elamp to eooperate with and engage a corresponding opposing portion on the other clamp. In this alternative, the seeuring means may eomprise at least one ridge integral with eaeh clamp adapted for engaging a correspol-ding shoulder portion on the other clamp.
The elamp arrangment may also be aclaptecl for intereonrlectincJ
at least two elamps all along a eommon axis about whieh the elamps can rotate relative to one another. rrhus each elamp jaw has on its exterior between its hinge point and its free end a shoulder means arrangement which is symmetrieal about the axis and which cooperates with a similar shoul~er means arrangement on an adjaeent elamp jaw. The shoulder arrangements determine when aligned, at least one fixed relative position for adjacent clamps. Means eooperates with and engages the aligned adjacent ~houlder means to seeure them and thereby provide the eorresponding fixed relative position for the adjaeent elamps.
The elamps are partieularly suitable for use with a seaffolding and shoring framework sueh as framework made of aluminum alloys as disclosed in co-pending Canadian Patent Application S.N.'s 370,086 filed February 4, 1981 and 374,624 filed March 27, 1981. The clamps may be formed of aluminum alloy where the elamps may be individ~ally formed ~t~
1 from an extruded section of aluminum allo~.
BRIEF_DESCRIPTIO~ OF T~IE DRAWINGS
Preferred embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings wherein:
Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a tubular brace connected to a tubular leg by a clamp arrangement according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a tubular brace clamped to a tubular leg in a fixed position by a clamp arr.lnqemerlt according to a preferred embodiment o~ the inv~?nt:iorl;
Figure 3 is a top plan view showing the clamp arKangement interconnecting tWO tubular members in parallel re:lat:ionship;
E'igure ~ is an e~ploded view of the clamp arranclement of Figure 3;
Figure 5 is a top plan view of the clamp arrangement of Figure 4 showing various positions in closing the clamp about a tubular member:
Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the connector of Figure 4 for interconnecting clamp members;
Figure 7 shows an alternative embodiment of the dev:ice for securing clamps in desired predetermined fixed positions;
Figure 8 shows the arrangement of Figure 7 used to interconnect adjacent clamp jaws in a 45 degree angular position;
Figure 9 shows an alternative embodiment for interconnecting adjacent clamp jaws of a clamp arrangement and for providing predetermined fixed relative positions for the clamps;
Figure 10 shows an alternative embodiment for interconnecting adjacent clamp jaws of a clamp arrangement;
Figure 11 shows the clamp jaws of a clamp arrangement interconnected by the device of Figure 10;
1 Figure 1~ shows an alternative embodiment for interconnecting adjacent clamp jaws;
Figure 13 i9 a perspective view of a clamE~ having a cam arrangement for closing the clamp:
Figure 14 is a side elevation of the clamp closure device of Eigure 13 ~igure 15 is a perspective view of a clamp having an alternative embodiment for the elamp elosure device;
Fig~lre 16 is a side elevation of the clamp closure device of Figure 15;
Figure 17 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment for the clamp elosure deviee; and Figure 18 is a top plan view of the elamp closure device of Figuse 17.
DETAII,ED_DESCRIPTION_OF_THE_PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The elamp arrangement aceording to this inven~iol~ ean be used to conneet structural members of the same or different eonfiguration at any angular relationship as provided for by rotating the clamps to the desired position or any desired angular relationship in a fixed manner. As will be learned from the description of the preferred embodiments, various approaehes may be taken in providing for such elamp intereonneetion as dependent upon the uses the clamps will have in various eonfigurations. To better understand the invention, the clamp arrangement is deseribed with respect to use in scaffolding and shoring framework, however, it is understood that the invention is also embodied in other elamp arrangements as previously defined such as laboratory elamping equipment, shelving clamping equipment, light fixture clamping equipment, ete.
1 The clamp 10 as shown in ~igure 1 i5 intel COnlleCted 50 as to provide for swivel or relative rotation between the interconnectecl clamp bodies 12 and 14~ ~rhe clamps interconnect round tubular member 16 to a somewhat square or rectangular member 18. In the scaffoLding and shoring field member 18 may be a leg of a frame and structural member 16 may be a length of tube used to interconnect and steady a frame leg. Each clamp 12 and 14 is provided respectively with clamp closure devices 20 and 22 which squeeze the clamps around the respective structural member 16 and 18 so as to grip the structural members to efEect a secure c1amped interconnection. To prevent crushillg or over cla~ping of the structural members the clamp jaws 24 and 26 o c:lamp L2 may be provided with opposing abutmellts 2B and 30 wtlich prevent overtightenintJ in clamping the tube 16. Sirnilarly with clamp 14, clamp jaws 32 and 34 have opposing abutment portions 36 and 38 which also prevent overclamping and crushing of the frame leg 18. This is advantageous in instances where the structural members 16 and 18 are made of materials which can be crushed such as tubing of plastic or reinEorced plastic or fiberglass or thin wall metal tubing for both the members 16 and 18.
As shown in Figure 1, the clamps 12 anà 14 are free to rotate relative to one another to allow positioning of the brace member 16 at any desired angular relationship relative to the frame leg 18. Once the clamps are secured to the leg and the brace is secured at the other end, the clamp position remains relatively unchanged.
In the area 40 of interconnection, matched portions are provided in the form of shoulders 42 and 44 of the adjacent , ~ ~ '7~3~
1 clamp body jaws 26 and 34. Although the shouLders 42 and 44 are shown as being planar, it is appreciated that the shoulders may take on other shapes, particularly between the corners, as will be apparen~ when the locking device for the shoulders is discussed in respect of the other embodiments.
As is more clearly shown on the clamp jaw body 24, the shoulders 42 oppose one another and shoulders 44 oppose one another as symmetrically distributed about the aperture 46 of clamp jaw 24, whose axis is coincident with the axis oE
rotation of the clamps 12 and 14. As can be appreciated from Figure 1, upon relative rotation oE the clamps 12 ancl l4l the shoulders oE the matched portions in the area Oe interconnection become aligned to define in this in~stance two dlstinct relative positions of the clamps 12 and 14.
These two distinct positions are at 0 degrees, that is the tubular members would be parallel to one another and 90 de~rees where member lÇ would be at right angles relative to the frame leg 18.
Turning to Figure 2, the clamp arrangement 10 is in one of its fixed relative positions where the tubular brace member 16 is at 90 degrees to the frame leg 18. The shoulclers 42 and 44 of the area of interconnection 40 are alignecl and a locking means or securement device 48 is provided to engage amd contain the aligned shoulders and secure them in the position shown to fix the relative positions of clamps 12 and 14. This arrangement of the abutment portions may be useful in the field to visually indicate to the workman by a narrow space or no space between the abutments the degree of tightness of the clamp on a member. In using the locking device 48, the position of tubular member 16 is fixed relative to the leg 18 within the limits of load that the 1 locking device 48 will withstand when the entire franlework is under load. The particular arrangement of the securement device 48 relative to the matched aligne~ shoulder portions will be discussed in more detail with respect to Figure 3.
As can be seen from Figure 2, the closure devices 20 and 22 are firmly secured such that the abuting portions 28 and 30 of clamp 12 and abuting portions 36 and 38 of clamp 14 are proximate so as to provide a secure clamping of the tubular member 16 relative to the frame leg 18.
Turning to Fiqure 3, the clamps 12 ancl lg are securecl by the securement device 48 in the 0 degree position where the frame leg 18 is parallel to the tubular brace 16. 1n khis arrangement the opposing matched poctions in the area o~
interconnection 40 are aligned as shown by the arr~ngement of shoulders 42 and 44. The locking or securement device 48 is, according to this embodiment, a collar having an interior outline corresponding to the shape of the shoulders when aligned. Since in this embodiment the shoulders 42 and 44 are all of equal length, the interior configuration of the collar 48 is that of a square and dimensioned so as to snugly receive and engage the shoulders 42 and 44 as sho~n.
In the area of interconnection 40 the adjacent clamp jaws 26 and 34 of interconnected clamps 12 and 14 are secured together by a bolt and nut arrangement shown generally in dot at 50. The longitudinal axis of the bolt and nut arrangement 50 is coincident with the axis of relative rotation of the two clamps 12 and 14. The bolt arrangement 50 holds the adjacent clamp jaws together and with the collar snugly engaging the aligned shoulders 42 and 44, the clamps 12 and 14 are not permitted to rotate relative to one another thus providing the fixed relative position of the ~ ~JJ~3 1 clamps 12 and 14~
As is apparent from Figure 3, when the frame leg 1~ and the cross bracing 16 are under load, forces would be exertecl to attempt to rotate one clamp relative to the other about the axis of the bolt 50. This is resisted by the locking collar 48 which would be placed principally under tension as the shoulders attempt to stretch and deform the locking collar 48. Because the shoulders 42 and 44 are symmetrical or lQ evenly distributed about the axis of rotation, then the loads applied to the interconnection are ~hus evenly distributed about the axis of rotation. Therefore, there are no high stresses exerted on the locking dev.ice irl any one area of~set ~:rom the axis o-E rotatlon~ Instead they are evenly distributed about the axis of rotation as counteracted by the locking collar 48 to provide for a more secure interconnection of the clamps when providing for the corresponding fixed relative position for the clamps 12 and 14.
Clamp 12 has clamp jaw portions 24 and 26 which at one end are pivotally interconnected by hinge 52 about pivot pin 54. The free ends 56 and 58 of the clamp jaws are adapted to cooperate with the closure device 20. Closure device 20 consists of a bolt portion 60 which is pivotally connected to clamp jaw free end 56 at 62. The other end of the bolt is threaded at 64 to receive nut 66. With the nut sufficiently out on the bolt thread, the bolt can be swung so as to clear free end 58. With the bolt removed from the free end 58, the clamp jaw 24 may lay open relative to clamp iaw 26 to permit positioning of the structural support or cross member 16 in the clamp 12. The hinge 52 may be adapted 1 to hold jaw 24 at 90 degree.s relative to jaw 26 when the clamp is open to permit placement o~ brace 16 on the open jaw. By moving the clamp jaw 2-1 toward the closed position, the bolt 60 may be swung inwardly with the nut 66 ancl washer 68 clearing the free end 58 and thereby permitting tightening of the nut 66 against the face 70 of free end 58 to clamp the tubular member 16 in the clamp 12. The free end 58 is provided with a lip 59 to prevent the washer slipping off the flat 70 as the nut is tightened. ~s previously explained, abutment portions 28 arld 30 :Li~it the extent to which the clamp may be closed to avoid crushing oE
the tubular member.
Similarly wlth clamp 1~, it comprises two clamp jaws 32 and 34 which are hinged at 72 about a hinge pin 74. ~he free ends 76 and 78 are adapted to cooperate with the securement means 22 which has a bolt 80 pivotally connected to free end 76 at 82 and threaded at its other end at 84 to recieve a nut 86. As with clamp 12 and the leg member 18 within the clamp, the connector device 22 may be swung inwardly and the nut 86 tightened with washer 88 against face 90 of free end 78 and clamp jaw 34. Faces 36 and 38 abut to limit t:he extent to which the clamp may be closed to avoid crusning of the tubular leg 18.
As can be seen, the interior faces of the clamp jaws oE
clamps 12 and 14 are adapted to mate or surround and engage the faces of the respective tubular members. With clamp 12, its internal clamp faces 92 are rounded to correspond with the configuration of the circular tubular brace member 16.
On the other hand with the clamp 14, its internal faces 94 are irregular, however, designed to engage various portions 1 of the leg exterior to clamp and grip s~lch leg. The shaping of the clamp faces wi]l be discussed in more detail with respect to Figure 5.
Turning to Figure 4, the exploded view of the clamps 12 and 14 show the component parts of the clamp arrangement.
Referring to the component parts of clamp 14, the clamp jaws 32 and 34 are hinged by way of hinge pin 74. The clamp jaws have formed lug portions 96 and 98 which are offset from one another on clamp jaws 32 and 34 so as to provide a hinge connection when the pin ls positioned through alignecl apertures 100 and 102 of the respective lug portions.
The bolt 80 is connected to lug portions 104 of the free end 76 of clam~ jaw 34 by pin 106 extending through the aperture 108 in the yolk portion 110 of the bolt. ~rhis permits the bolt 80 to swing or pivot freely oE the free end. Similarly clamp jaw 32 is provided with lugs 112 which provide the faces 90 against which the nut 86 and its washer abut in closing the clamp 14.
With clamp 12, clamp jaws 24 and 26 are interconnected by hinge pin 54. Jaw 24 has lug portions 114 which are offset from lug portions 116 of jaw 26 so as to provide the hinge interconnection where the pin is inserted through the apertures 118 and 120 to be aligned. On the free ends of the clamp jaws 24 and 26 lug portions 122 and 124 are provided to cooperate with the closure device 20 in the manner discussed in respect of Figure 3.
As can be appreciated from the shapes of the clamp jaws of clamps 12 and 14 there are certain similarities which enable ., 1 the jaws to be made from extruded sections, particuarly o aluminum alloy. A5 can be seen with clamp jaws 32 and 3~, they are o~ identical cross sect;on when positionecl adjacent:
one another, where the cross-section is sheared to provide offset lugs 96 and 9~ for hinge interconnection. With the lugs 104 and 112, each is provided by removing a central area 126 to define the slot 128 into which the bolt 80 is moved in effecting clamp closure. Similarly with jaw 34, area 130 is cut out to provide space to receive the yoke portion 110 oE the bolt 80 for pivotally connecting it to the lugs 104 of the free end 76. Similarly with clamp 12 the clamp jaws 24 and 26 may be fabricatecl fronl a lenyth oL
extruded aluminum alloy having the particular cros.-sectior shown.
Accordjng to this preferred embvdlment the shoulder faces 42 and 44 are provided between the hinge area ancl the free end of each clamp jaw. In providing each clamp jaw with these shoulders 42 and 44 and locating them so as to be symmetrical about the axis that each clamp arrangement rotates, then two or more clamps may be interconnected regardless of the configuration for which the particular clamp is configured to engage. Thus for clamp 14 which clamps a frame leg, when it is desired to secure the leg by using two tubular cross braces on each side of the leg, identical clamps 12 may be used one on each side of clamp 14. Thus each clamp jaw is provided with the same matching portions between the jaw's hinge point and free end to facilitate interconnection of two or more clamps. To interconnect adjacent clamp jaws 26 and 34 a connector device generally designated at 50 is used which consists of a threaded bolt 132 having bevPlled head 134. A bevelled 1 nut 136 is used to engage the threacled portion of bolt 132.
The apertures 46 ancl 138 of clamp jaws 26 and 3~l have their faces bevellecl at 140 as shown on apert:ure 46 to mate wit~l the slopes of bevelled head portion 134 and bevelled nut 136.
S
The bolt an~ nut arrangement is shown in more detail in Figure 6. The threaded portion 132 has an arcuate groove 140 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bolt 50. The bevelled nut 136 has threaded interior portion 142 with four spaced apart arcuate grooves 146. The grc)oves 140 and 1~l6 adapt the nut and bolt arrallgelllent to provide for locking of the relative position6 oE the nut alld bolt. To lock the relative positions when the nut 136 ;Ls threaded on to the bolt to the clesirecl e~te~lt, one o~ arc~late glooves lS 146 is a:Ligned with groove 140 to define a circular channe:l into which circular pin 148 is inserted to lock the relative positions of the nut and bolt. ~rhe pin 148 may be of the type which is slightly compressed upon insertion into the circular channel so as to frictionally engage surfaces and remain within the nut. The pin can be knocked out by use of a nail or the like as driven through aperture 150 in the bevelled head 134. This nut and bolt arrangement permits interconnection of adjacent clamp jaws 26 and 34 to provide a swivel interconnection without the nut unthreading from the bolt during use of the clamp. The desired degree of frictional engagement between the clamp jaw faces is provided by selecting the appropriate position for the nut on the bolt.
Prior to assembly of clamp jaws 26 and 34, if it is desired to provide for one of the two fixed predetermined positions of the clamps, the collar 48 is placed between the clamp 1 jaws 26 and 34. The collar 48 is placed over the shoulders 42 and 44 of one of the clamp jaws. The remaining clamp jaw is then placed within collar 48 at eit:her the desired 0 or 90 degree relative positions for the clamps. The internal surfaces 152 are all of equal length so as to snugly engage and thereby contain the square outline of shoulders 42 and 44. With the collar in place engaging the matched shoulder portions, the bolt is inserted through aligned apertures 46 and 138 to complete with nut 136 the interconnection of clamp jaws 34 and 26 in the desired fixed relative position.
Turning to Figure 5, the frame leg 18 has a particular cross section which enhances its structural strength from a load carrying aspect and also facllitates mechanical connectio of cross bracing etc. to the leg. Further details oE the leg shape and its purpose are disclosed in co-pending Canadian patent application S.~. 374,~24. The clamp lg has its internal surfaces 94 adapted to engage selected portions of the leg exterior about its corner portions 154 and sidewall portions at 156~ With clamp jaw 32 positioned against one side of leg 18 the other clamp jaw 34 is pivoted about pivot point 72 where the free end 76 of the clamp jaw clears the leg so that the clamp may be moved towards its closed position and engage all faces of the legs in the areas 154 and 156. To accomplish this the $ree end 76 is sloped slightly outwardly as indicated at surface 158 so as to clear corner area 154 of the leg as the clamp is being closed.
It can be appreciated, based on the above description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, that several other approaches become apparen;t` in providing for clamp 1 interconnection which give~. either unrestricted relative rotation he~ween the clc-~mpx or Ol~e or ~nore predetermined fixed relatlve positions. The embocliments oE E~iyure!, 7 through ~2 demonstrate variations of the embodiment of Figure 4 and alternate approaches for the interconnection.
Figure 7 shows the clamp jaws 24 and 34 of the embodiment of Figure 4, however~ a different locking device 160 is used.
This configuration Eor the locking device 160 provides for Eour distinct fixed relative positions for the clamps, namely 0 degrees, 45 degrees, 90 degrees and 135 clegreef;.
The 180 degree positions etc. arourld to 360 beinq dupllcntes of the above unless distinctioll should be rnade with resp~ct to which way the clamp opens relative to the oth~r cLamp.
I~o provide Eor the ~our clistinct positions anc1 ~Ising the lS same matching shoulder con~igurations 44 and 42, the locking device 160 has a somewhat star-shaped interior. The interior is made up of sets of surfaces 162 and 164 which are of equal length and are at 90 degrees relatlve to one another. Adjacent surfaces 166 and 168 are of the same length only at 135 degrees relative to respective surfaces 162 and ~64.
According to the embodiment of Figure 7 the 0 and 90 degree positions are defined by aligning the shoulders 42 and 44.
The collar 160 engages the so aligned surfaces to secure them in position. ~lowever, to define the 45 degree and 135 degree relative positions for the clamps the shoulders 42 and 44 are not aligned. Instead their overall outline defines the interior shape for collar 160. Considering this embodiment and the embodiment of Figure 1 it is appa~ent that either the aligned shoulders in cooperation with the collar define the desired fixed relative positions or the 1 collar in combination with either aligned or misaligned shoulder positions define other or the same predetermined fixed relative positions for the clamps. Therefore according to this form of interconnection there is a wide variety of fixed relative positions which may be provided by this connection. In situations where it is desired to provide interconnection where the fixed positions are determined by aligned shoulders~ it is appreciated that one can begin with three shoulders which are preferably of equal length to deEine a triangular arrangement for shoulders.
The next shoulder arrangements woulc1 be a square, pentagon, hexagon, etc. to define respectively, the varions relative fixed position for the clamps. Iro add variation to these basic conEigurations by misalignecl shoulder orientations, a new outline for the collar is provided to secure the desired predeterminecl fixed position. When misaligning the shoulders a particular collar arrangement can ~e provided to determine only one fixed position for the arrangement and at all other shoulder relative positions, the collar will not cooperate with the shoulders to define another position.
Figure 8 shows the clamp jaw 24 rotated 45 degrees from the 9~ degree position of Figure 7 where the collar 160 is fitted over the now misaligned shoulders 42 and 44 to define the desired 45 or 135 degree relative positioning of the shoulders depending upon which side of the clamp arrangement is viewed. Further with the collar arrangement 160, it is apparent that the 0-45-gO and 135 degree positions are all provided without having to rotate the clamp about the axis of the leg to which the tubular member is to be joined by clamp jaw 24.
1 Figure 9 shows an alternative form of interconnection for the clamp jaws of adjacent cla~ps. In terms ol the cross section for each clamp jaw it can be s,een that it is the same as the section for the clamp jaws of the embodiment o~
Figure 1. In Figure 9, clamp jaw 170 has lug portions 174 for the hinge area and lug portions 176 are provided foe the closure device. Similarly with clamp jaw 172 it is provided with lugs 178 for the clamp hinge and with lugs 178 for the closure device. The body portions 182 and 184 of each clamp ~aw have apertures 186 and 188 formed thereir1. The apertures constitute the matched portions in the area o~
interconnection o~ the clamp jaws to provide for the ~`ixecl predetermined relative positions for the clamps, In the instance whe~ it is de~ired that the clamps be free to swivel relative to one another, a standard bolt and nut may be used for insertion through apertures 186 and 188 along axis 190 to interconnect the clamp jaws for relative rotation. However, when it is desired to secure or lock the jaws in a fixed position relative to one another a special form of nut 192 is used with bolt 194. Each of aperture 186 and 188 has an interior star configuration within each clamp jaw body portion 182 and 189. The interior star configuration in terms of shape is similar to that of the internal shape of collar 160 of the embodiment of Figure 7.
It contains 16 sides all of equal width where the sides are at the angles relative to one another as shown. It can be appreciated that inserting the nut 192 into aperture 186, clamp jaw 172 can be moved relative to nut 192 until the desired angular relâtionship of 0, 45, 90 or 135 degrees is obtained. Then with the aperture 188 so aligned with nut 192 the nut is slid into aperture 188. To secure the 1 interconnections, bolt 194 is threaded into the internal thread lg6 of the nut to make the connection where the bolt head includes apertures 198 in~o which a special tool is in~erted to tighten the bolt in the nut. Bolt 192 also S includes a flange portion 200 which abuts the in-ternal surface of the clamp jaw to complete the connection.
Another form of connector for the clamps i5 shown in Figure 10. The locking device generally designated 300 is used to fix the positions between the clamp jaws. With this arrangement the locking clevice is inserted between the clamp jaw faces 302. The locking de~ice comprises twv interlocking blocks 304 and 30~. The interlocking blocks are identical in cross section and are somewhat l-shaped.
The interconnecting web 308 of each block has an aperture 310 through which the connector bolt extends and which is coincident with aperture 138 in clamp jaw 34. Each block 30~ and 306 has spaced apart parallel ridges 312 and 314.
The spacing between ridges 312 and 314 is essentially equal to the spacing between faces 316 and 318 of the web 308.
This spacing is also equal to the spacing bet~een opposing shoulders 44 of clamp jaw 34. Thus, the internal surfaces of ridges 312 and 314 fit over the surfaces 316 and 318 and also over the opposing shoulders 44 of clamp jaw 3A.
With the locking device 300 in interlocked assembled form, and both clamp jaws 26 and 34 connected, the arrangement is shown in Figure 11. The ridges 312 and 314, as they extend to each side of the web 308, overlap the corresponding shoulders of the interconnected clamps. This arrangement can, therefore, provide two fixed relative positions for S~3`~3 1 the clamps. The reason that the ridges 312 and 314 extend further to one side o the web 308 than to the other side is that the thicknesses of the webs must be accommodated, as the ridges overlap the corresponding shoulders of the interconnected clamp jaws~
From this arrangement, it is appreciated that the locking device insert 300 may consist of a single insert which may be similar to block 304 where the ridges 312 and 314, as they extend to each side of the web 308, overlap the corresponding opposite shoulders, either ~l2 or 44 of the interconnected clamp jaws.
A variation of this arrangement is shown in Figure 12 where the locking insert 320 comprises a plate 322 having two sets of ridges 324, 326 and 328, 330. The plate 322 has an aperture 332 which is aligned with aperture 138 in clamp jaw 34. The spacing between parallel ridges 324, 326 is equal to the distance between opposite shoulders 42 of clamp jaw 26. Similarly, the spacing between ridges 328 and 330 is essentially equal to the distance between opposite shoulders 42 of clamp jaw 34. Thus with the clamp jaws interconnected and the insert therebetween, the two sets of parallel ridges overlap and contain the corresponding clamp shoulders to fix the shoulders in one of two possible positions.
In view of the embodiments shown in Figures 1, 7, 9, 10 and 12, it can be appreciated that the invention can be carried out in several forms. The embodiments of Figures 1 and 7 rely on a collar or the like which engages the shoulders in the desired relationship to fix their position. In so doing 1 the collar is placed in tension when the clamp is under load. Alternatively ~ith the embodiment of Figure 9, the nut 192 is placed in shear as lo~atecl in apertures 186 and 188 when the clamp arrangement is ~Inder load.
With either of the embodiments of Figures 10 and 12, it is appreciated that the two sets of parallel ridges, such as shown in Figure 12, may be integrally formed on clamp jaws 26 and 34. As could be appreciated, on shoulders 44 of clamp jaw 34, ridges 324 and 326 could be integralLy molded to extend Erom those surfaces. With cLamp jaw 26, ridges 328 and 330 could be Eormed to extend Erom the same shoulders 44. Thus, the portions on each clamp jawt whi~l are to be secured, would be the shoulders 42. This would eliminate the need ~or locking insert 320. When it is desired to provide for a swivel interconnection between these clamp jaws, a sufficiently thick washer would be placed between the jaws so that the ridges integrally formed on clamp jaws 26 and 34 would not interfere and permit them to bypass one another as the jaws are swivelled relative to one another. This arrangement could also be similarly envisaged with the embodiment of Figure 10, where the blocks 304 and 306 could be integraly cast or extruded on the respective jaws 26 and 34, so that the ridges would engage in the manner shown. It is appreciated that this arrangement lends itself nicely to extruded forms of clamp jaws, since the parallel ridges on each clamp jaw could be included in the section which is extruded.
A further alternative is that with the embodiment of Figure
2 and as shown in more detail in Figure 3. The collar 40 could be integrally cast on either of these clamp jaws 26 or 1 34. This would define a recess having wall portions of a square outline. These walls would then engage the square outline of the shoulder arrangement provided by shoulders 42 and 44 to make the interconnection. rro provide for swivel intereonnection, a sufEieiently thick washer or spacer would be provided between the elamp jaw faces to ensure that the integrally east eollar or ridge arrangement on one of the elamp jaws is spaced from the shoulders on the other clamp jaw to allow relative rotation of the clamp jaws.
The arrangements are SUC~l that, particlllarLy wittl Eligures 1, 7 and 10, the stresses exerted on the connecting device are equally distributed about the axis of interconnection of the elamps. ~his ~reatly enhanees the strencJth oE the clamp intercnnnection and provides a superior form ~E clamp for use in heavy-duty applieation, such as, in shoring frames.
The configuration used for a particular clamp application will depend on the material seleetion, the number of fixed relative positions desired and the flexibility in changing from a eonneetion which provides for unrestrieted rotation to a eonneetion whieh provides for a predetermined number of fixed relative positions. In addition, the antieipated loads will also determine the eonfiguration used and the thieknesses of the materials for making the intereonneetion of the clamps.
Figures 13 through 18 show various configurations for alternative forms of elosure deviees used in elosing the elamps to engage and elamp a structural member. Figure 13 shows elamp 14 with hinge 72 and elosure deviee 202. The free ends 76 ana 78 of the elamp jaws 32 and 34 remain the 2~
1 same. A pin 204 is usec1 to pivotally connect the first end 206 of the arm 20~ to clamp jaw free en~l 76. As stlown in Figure 14, arm 208 of the closure device 202 is ~wisteci ~0 degrees so that its free end 210 lies in a plane at 90 degrees relative to the plane in which end 206 lies.
Pivotally eonnected to the end 210 of -the arm 208 is a manuaily operable eam 212 which is pivotally connected at pin 214. The cam 212 eomprises a lever 214 and cam faces 216 and 218. Also provided on the arm 208 is a washer 220 whieh abuts the lugs 112 oE elamp jaw 34. With the cal~ 2l2 in the position shown in Figure 13, the washeL 220 mc~y b~
pulled against eam faee 216 and the arm 20B pivotet} to cLeaL
the free end 78 of the clamp jaw. Whether it is desired to elose the clamp aroulld a str~letural member, the arm is lS pivoted withill the slot area 128 ~etween lugs 112 with the washer on the outer surfaces of lugs 112. The cam 212 is then rotated downwardly so as to engage face 218 which is spaced further from pin 214 so as to squeeze the clamp jaws together around the article to be clamped.
An alternative form for the closure device is shown in Figure 15 whieh involves a wedged arrangement. Again the elamp 14 has clamp jaws 32 and 34. The clamp jaws pivot about hinge 72. In this instance the elamp 1~ is used to elamp a pieee of wood 222. The closure deviee 224 eomprises an arm 226 pivotally conneeted to jaw free end 76 by pin 228 whieh passes through yoke portion 230 of bolt 226. On the other end of the arm 226, a wedge 228 is mounted in the split end 230 of the arm and secured in position by a pin 232 which extends through sloped slot 234 of the wedge. As shown in Figure 16 the wec;ge in its dotted position 228a is spaeed outwardly of the lugs 112 of elamp jaw 34 to permit 1 outward swinging of the arm 226 which permits the clamp to be opened or closed. With the clamp cLosed ~bout ~he wood, the arm 226 i5 swung inwardly with the wedge in the upper position 228a. With a hammer or the like the wedge is driven downardly in the direction of arrow 236 whereby the sloped slot 234 moves the wedge face 238 inwardly to effect a closure of the clamp. As with the other clamps abutments 36 and 38 are provided to limit the extent to which the clamps are closed. This is particularly helpful with material such as wood because it pre~vellts cruc:hincl oE the wood when the clamp is connected. Normally the clamps are used so that the wedye 228 is Qriented in ttle Illatlller S~lOWn in Figure 16 thereby relying on gravity to always keep the wedge in its lowermost positioll~ 5hould the frame to which the clamp is attached be subjected to vibration such orientation prevents accidental loosening of the wedye.
Figure 17 shows another form of closure device where the clamp 240 has internal face 242 adapted to clamp a circular member. The clamp has jaw portions 244 and 246 which are hinged in area 248. At the free ends 250 and 252 of the clamp jaws, the securement device generally designation at 254 is provided. The securement device operates on the principle of "over~centre" latching of the clamp jaws. The securement or closure device comprises a first U-shaped arm 256 which is pivotally connected at 258 to lug portion 260 of the free end 250 of clamp jaw 246. The closure device also includes a secured arm 262 which is pivotally connected at 264 to the arm 256 in the manner shown and has a rod 266 at the free end of arm 262. The rod 266 mates with lug portion 268. To effect closure of the clamp as shown in Figure 18, the closure device 254 has the rod portion 266 l located in lu9 268 with the arm 256 in the position shown.
The first arm 2~1 is moved in the direction of arrow 270 so that the pivot point 26~ passes by the alignmel1t of pivot points of rod 266 and of the first arm at 25~. As it passes by this centre position, the pivot point 26~ moves against stop 272 whereby out~ard pressure exerted by the structure member clamped, retains the pivot point ~4 in its over-centre position against stop 272. This over-centre clamping mechanism can be very effective in applications with require snap action quick closure and quick release.
The clamp arrangement according to this inventio11 providt?s for many dlfferent types of interconnectit)n whiLe retainirlc the features oE unrestricted rotation o~` the connecte-l lS clamps or connection in predetermined fixed relative positions for the clamps. The clamps rnay be formed from extruded aluminum alloy sections to reduce the cost of manufacture and provide for uniformity in making the mating portions in the area of interconnection.
It is also appreciated that in the use of collars and shoulders to define the fixed predetermined positions, the collar need not be formed of a unitary structure. It may be desirable to have a permanent swivel interconnection and when desired to fix them, a collar is used which is openable to surround the aligned shoulders and then closeable to secure them in position. It is also appreciated that other forms of interconnection may be used in providing for relative rotation such as a bearing arrangement which ~ould be symmetrical about the central axis of the interconnected clamp jaws.
~ ~7~ ~t~
1 The clamps are particularly useable on sca~folding and shoring arrangements and with aluminum structures the clamp jaws may be extruded from aluminum alloy As explained, this is particularly useful ~ith the arrangements where the S locking devices are integrally formed on the clamp jaw, such as, the parallel ridges which function in the manner exemplified in Figure 12. The jaws may, however, be cast when it is desired to provide irregular surfaces for the matching portions of the clamp jaws.
A further advantage to extruding the clamp jaws is that the length of the jaw can be readily varied dependent upon design considerations. This is use~ul, for example, when different lengths of jaws are required as determined by the lS load ~xerted on the clamp. To prevent slippage of the tightened clamp along the member for a given load, the length of the jaw is selected to provide sufficient clamp surface area to resist slippage of a loaded clamp by way of the frictional engagement of the tightened clamp on the member. In addition, the size of the shoulder arrangement or the like on each clamp jaw may remain the same for each length of clamp jaw to facilitate interchangeability of the clamp jaws.
Although various preferred embodiments of the invention have been described herein in detail it will be understood by those skilled in the art that variations may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention or the scope of the appended claims.
The arrangements are SUC~l that, particlllarLy wittl Eligures 1, 7 and 10, the stresses exerted on the connecting device are equally distributed about the axis of interconnection of the elamps. ~his ~reatly enhanees the strencJth oE the clamp intercnnnection and provides a superior form ~E clamp for use in heavy-duty applieation, such as, in shoring frames.
The configuration used for a particular clamp application will depend on the material seleetion, the number of fixed relative positions desired and the flexibility in changing from a eonneetion which provides for unrestrieted rotation to a eonneetion whieh provides for a predetermined number of fixed relative positions. In addition, the antieipated loads will also determine the eonfiguration used and the thieknesses of the materials for making the intereonneetion of the clamps.
Figures 13 through 18 show various configurations for alternative forms of elosure deviees used in elosing the elamps to engage and elamp a structural member. Figure 13 shows elamp 14 with hinge 72 and elosure deviee 202. The free ends 76 ana 78 of the elamp jaws 32 and 34 remain the 2~
1 same. A pin 204 is usec1 to pivotally connect the first end 206 of the arm 20~ to clamp jaw free en~l 76. As stlown in Figure 14, arm 208 of the closure device 202 is ~wisteci ~0 degrees so that its free end 210 lies in a plane at 90 degrees relative to the plane in which end 206 lies.
Pivotally eonnected to the end 210 of -the arm 208 is a manuaily operable eam 212 which is pivotally connected at pin 214. The cam 212 eomprises a lever 214 and cam faces 216 and 218. Also provided on the arm 208 is a washer 220 whieh abuts the lugs 112 oE elamp jaw 34. With the cal~ 2l2 in the position shown in Figure 13, the washeL 220 mc~y b~
pulled against eam faee 216 and the arm 20B pivotet} to cLeaL
the free end 78 of the clamp jaw. Whether it is desired to elose the clamp aroulld a str~letural member, the arm is lS pivoted withill the slot area 128 ~etween lugs 112 with the washer on the outer surfaces of lugs 112. The cam 212 is then rotated downwardly so as to engage face 218 which is spaced further from pin 214 so as to squeeze the clamp jaws together around the article to be clamped.
An alternative form for the closure device is shown in Figure 15 whieh involves a wedged arrangement. Again the elamp 14 has clamp jaws 32 and 34. The clamp jaws pivot about hinge 72. In this instance the elamp 1~ is used to elamp a pieee of wood 222. The closure deviee 224 eomprises an arm 226 pivotally conneeted to jaw free end 76 by pin 228 whieh passes through yoke portion 230 of bolt 226. On the other end of the arm 226, a wedge 228 is mounted in the split end 230 of the arm and secured in position by a pin 232 which extends through sloped slot 234 of the wedge. As shown in Figure 16 the wec;ge in its dotted position 228a is spaeed outwardly of the lugs 112 of elamp jaw 34 to permit 1 outward swinging of the arm 226 which permits the clamp to be opened or closed. With the clamp cLosed ~bout ~he wood, the arm 226 i5 swung inwardly with the wedge in the upper position 228a. With a hammer or the like the wedge is driven downardly in the direction of arrow 236 whereby the sloped slot 234 moves the wedge face 238 inwardly to effect a closure of the clamp. As with the other clamps abutments 36 and 38 are provided to limit the extent to which the clamps are closed. This is particularly helpful with material such as wood because it pre~vellts cruc:hincl oE the wood when the clamp is connected. Normally the clamps are used so that the wedye 228 is Qriented in ttle Illatlller S~lOWn in Figure 16 thereby relying on gravity to always keep the wedge in its lowermost positioll~ 5hould the frame to which the clamp is attached be subjected to vibration such orientation prevents accidental loosening of the wedye.
Figure 17 shows another form of closure device where the clamp 240 has internal face 242 adapted to clamp a circular member. The clamp has jaw portions 244 and 246 which are hinged in area 248. At the free ends 250 and 252 of the clamp jaws, the securement device generally designation at 254 is provided. The securement device operates on the principle of "over~centre" latching of the clamp jaws. The securement or closure device comprises a first U-shaped arm 256 which is pivotally connected at 258 to lug portion 260 of the free end 250 of clamp jaw 246. The closure device also includes a secured arm 262 which is pivotally connected at 264 to the arm 256 in the manner shown and has a rod 266 at the free end of arm 262. The rod 266 mates with lug portion 268. To effect closure of the clamp as shown in Figure 18, the closure device 254 has the rod portion 266 l located in lu9 268 with the arm 256 in the position shown.
The first arm 2~1 is moved in the direction of arrow 270 so that the pivot point 26~ passes by the alignmel1t of pivot points of rod 266 and of the first arm at 25~. As it passes by this centre position, the pivot point 26~ moves against stop 272 whereby out~ard pressure exerted by the structure member clamped, retains the pivot point ~4 in its over-centre position against stop 272. This over-centre clamping mechanism can be very effective in applications with require snap action quick closure and quick release.
The clamp arrangement according to this inventio11 providt?s for many dlfferent types of interconnectit)n whiLe retainirlc the features oE unrestricted rotation o~` the connecte-l lS clamps or connection in predetermined fixed relative positions for the clamps. The clamps rnay be formed from extruded aluminum alloy sections to reduce the cost of manufacture and provide for uniformity in making the mating portions in the area of interconnection.
It is also appreciated that in the use of collars and shoulders to define the fixed predetermined positions, the collar need not be formed of a unitary structure. It may be desirable to have a permanent swivel interconnection and when desired to fix them, a collar is used which is openable to surround the aligned shoulders and then closeable to secure them in position. It is also appreciated that other forms of interconnection may be used in providing for relative rotation such as a bearing arrangement which ~ould be symmetrical about the central axis of the interconnected clamp jaws.
~ ~7~ ~t~
1 The clamps are particularly useable on sca~folding and shoring arrangements and with aluminum structures the clamp jaws may be extruded from aluminum alloy As explained, this is particularly useful ~ith the arrangements where the S locking devices are integrally formed on the clamp jaw, such as, the parallel ridges which function in the manner exemplified in Figure 12. The jaws may, however, be cast when it is desired to provide irregular surfaces for the matching portions of the clamp jaws.
A further advantage to extruding the clamp jaws is that the length of the jaw can be readily varied dependent upon design considerations. This is use~ul, for example, when different lengths of jaws are required as determined by the lS load ~xerted on the clamp. To prevent slippage of the tightened clamp along the member for a given load, the length of the jaw is selected to provide sufficient clamp surface area to resist slippage of a loaded clamp by way of the frictional engagement of the tightened clamp on the member. In addition, the size of the shoulder arrangement or the like on each clamp jaw may remain the same for each length of clamp jaw to facilitate interchangeability of the clamp jaws.
Although various preferred embodiments of the invention have been described herein in detail it will be understood by those skilled in the art that variations may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention or the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (55)
1. A clamp arrangement for connecting elongate rigid structural elements comprising two clamps which are capable of being interconnected either for rotation between the two clamps or for positioning of the clamps in at least one predetermined fixed relative position, each clamp having a clamp body which is releasably closeable to surround and clamp a respective structural member, at least one of said clamps in the area of interconnection having at least one portion which is adapted to he secured to position said clamps in said at least one predetermined fixed relative position, and means cooperating with and containing said at least one portion for securing said clamps in said at least one position.
2. A clamp arrangement of claim 1, said clamps in the area of interconnection having opposing portions which are adapted to be secured to position said clamps in said at least one predetermined fixed relative positions, said means being adapted to engage and contain thereby said opposing portions for securing said opposing portions relative to one another at said at least one position.
3. A clamp arrangement of claim 2, wherein said securing means is adapted to balance the distribution of stresses on said securing means about said axis of interconnection when the clamp arrangement is under load.
4. A clamp arrangement of claim 2, wherein said securing means is predominantly under shear when said clamp arrangement is under load and there are forces attempting to rotate the clamps relative to one another.
5. A clamp arrangement of claim 2, wherein said securing means is predominantly under tension when said clamp arrangement is under load and there are forces attempting to rotate the clamps relative to one another
6. A clamp arrangement of claim 4, wherein said opposing portions have aligned apertures which are symmetrical about said axis, said apertures and said securing means which is adapted for insertion in said apertures having a mating configuration which provides for securing said clamps in the various said predetermined positions.
7. A clamp arrangement of claim 5, wherein said clamps are interconnected along said axis for swivel interconnection, said opposing portions presently external proximate surfaces, said securing means cooperating with said external proximate surfaces to provide for securing said clamps in the various said predetermined positions, said securing means being placed predominantly under tension by the counter rotation of said external surfaces when said clamp arrangement is pliced under load
8. A clamp arrangement of claim 1, wherein said securing means is integral with said clamps and arranged on each clamp to cooperate with and engage the corresponding opposing portion on the other clamp.
9. A clamp arrangement for connecting elongate rigid structural members comprising two clamps which are capable of being interconnected for either rotation between the two clamps or for positioning of the clamps in at least one predetermined fixed relative position, each clamp having a clamp body which is releasably closeable to surround and clamp a respective structural member, said clamps in the area of their interconnection having opposing portions which have a distinct relative orientation for each said predetermined fixed relative position for said clamps, and means for engaging said opposing portions when they are in each said distinct relative orientation to lock said portions and thereby provide the corresponding fixed relative positions for said clamps.
10. A clamp arrangement of claim 8, wherein said clamps are interconnected for relative rotation about an axis which extends through the longitudinal axes of two elongate structural members connected by said clamp arrangement.
11. A clamp arrangement of claim 8, wherein said clamp opposing portions are matched and which have said distinct relative orientation for each said predetermined fixed relative position, said locking means engaging said opposing portions at each distinct relative orientation to secure said clamps in the corresponding fixed relative position.
12. A clamp arrangement of claim 11, wherein said matched portions of the clamps have external surfaces which are symmetrical about said axis, said locking means engaging said surfaces to position said clamps in said corresponding fixed relative position.
13. A clamp arrangement of claim 12, wherein said external surfaces of said matched portions comprise a shoulder arrangement on each clamp body, the shoulder arrangements of interconnected clamps oppose and are similar to one another, said locking means engaging said opposing shoulders when in each distinct relative orientation to position said clamps in a corresponding fixed relative position.
14. A clamp arrangement of claim 13, wherein said shoulder arrangement comprises at least three shoulders all of equal length and are symmetrically arranged about said axis.
15. A elamp arrangement of claim 14, wherein said locking means comprises a collar having an internal shaft identical to each clamp shoulder arrangement and dimensioned to snugly receive and overlap opposing clamp shoulders when aligned to position said clamps in the corresponding fixed relative position.
16. A clamp arrangement of claims 14 and 15, wherein said shoulder arrangements comprises four shoulders, said collar having a corresponding square internal shape to provide for two distinct predetermined fixed relative positions for the clamps.
17. A clamp arrangement of claims 14 and 15, wherein said shoulder arrangement comprises four shoulders and said collar has sixteen internal faces all of equal length to provide eight pairs of adjacent faces which are at ninety degrees to one another, such arrangement providing for four distinct predetermined fixed relative positions for the clamps wherein two of those positions said matched portions are aligned and at the remaining two of those positions, said matched portions are not aligned.
18. A clamp arrangement of claim 13, wherein said locking means has an open position to permit placement of said locking means around the adjacent aligned shoulders of interconnected clamps and a closed position for engaging said aligned shoulders of said interconnected clamps to fix them in the corresponding predetermined position.
19. A clamp arrangement of claim 13, wherein connector means releasably interconnects said clamps for relative rotation about an axis, said locking means having a unitary body portion which is engaged with the aligned shoulder arrangements of the clamps prior to completion of clamp interconnection by said releasable connector means.
20. A clamp arrangement of claim 19, wherein said locking means is a collar of unitary structure and having an internal surface configuration to engage the various aligned shoulder arrangements to provide said predetermined fixed relative positions for the clamps.
21. A clamp arrangement of claim 18 wherein each shoulder arrangement comprises four planar surfaces, all of equal length symmetrically arranged about said axis, said collar having a corresponding square internal surface configuration.
22. A clamp arrangement of claim 8, wherein each clamp body has a non-circular aperture therein defined by internal surfaces of said clamp body, such internal surfaces being symmetrical about the longitudinal axis of said aperture, said clamps being interconnected with the longitudinal axes of the apertures coincident, said locking means being adapted for insertion in said apertures and bridging same to engage aligned internal surfaces to position said clamps in a corresponding fixed relative position.
23. A clamp arrangement of claim 22, wherein said aperture is defined by at least three internal shoulders all of equal width, said locking means having a cross section with mates with aligned shoulders to fix the relative positions of the clamps.
24. A clamp arrangement of claim 23, wherein said aperture is defined by sixteen shoulders all of equal width and symmetrically arranged about the longitudinal axis of said aperture, said locking means comprising an elongate insert to bridge said apertures, said insert having an external configuration the same as and for engaging the internal configuration of said aperture.
25. A clamp arrangement of claim 11, wherein connector means releasably interconnects said clamps for relative rotation, said connector means comprising means to prevent release of said connector means at least while said clamp arrangement is in use.
26. A clamp arrangement of claim 9, wherein said locking means is integral with said clamps and arranged on each clamp to cooperate with and engage the corresponding opposing portion on the other clamp.
27. A clamp arrangement of claim 26, wherein said locking means comprises at least one ridge integral with each clamp adapted for engaging and thereby containing a corresponding shoulder portion on the other clamp body.
28. A clamp arrangement of claim 27, wherein each clamp comprises parallel external shoulders and parallel external ridges, the spacing between said ridges being essentially equal to the spacing between said shoulders, said ridges being essentially at right angles to said shoulders, said ridges of one clamp engaging the shoulders of the other clamp with the clamps interconnected to provide the corresponding fixed reltaive position for the clamps.
29. A clamp arrangement of claim 28, wherein said clamps are individually formed from an extruded section of aluminum alloy.
30. A clamp arrangement of claim 141 wherein said locking means comprises an insert for positioning between said clamps, said insert having a ridge arrangement adapted to engage said shoulder arrangement of each clamp when in a distinct relative orientation to fix said clamps in the correponding position.
31. A clamp arrangement of claim 30, wherein said insert comprises a plate having two parallel ridges extending in a first direction and two parallel ridges extending in the opposite direction, said shoulder arrangement on each clamp having four shoulders of equal length, the spacing between each set of parallel ridged being essentially equal to the spacing between opposite shoulders of said arrangement.
32. A clamp arrangement of claim 31, wherein the first set of parallel ridges extend essentially at right angles to the second set of parallel ridges.
33. A clamp arrangement of claim 30, wherein said insert comprises two interlocking blocks, each block having means for securing it to a respective clamp and two parallel ridges and two parallel shoulders, the spacing between said shoulders being essentially equal to the spacing between said ridges, said ridges being at essentially right angles to said shoulders, said ridges of one block engaging the shoulders of the other block with said clamps interconnected to provide the corresponding fixed relative position for said clamps.
34. A clamp arrangement of claim 33, wherein connector means for interconnecting said clamps extends along the axis about which the clamps are adapted to rotate, said blocks having apertures through which said connector means extends.
35. A clamp arrangement of claim 1, wherein one of said clamps has at least two portions in the form of an external shoulder arrangement which is adapted to be secured, said securing means being integral with the other of said clamps for cooperating with and containing said shoulder arrangement to secure same.
36. A clamp arrangement of claim 35, wherein said securing means comprises a ridge arrangement adapted to engage and contain said shoulder arrangement.
37. A clamp arrangement of claim 36, wherein said shoulder arrangement comprises four shoulders of equal length to define a square shoulder arrangement, said ridge arrangement defining a square recess having four walls adapted to overlappingly engage said square shoulder arrangement and thereby contain same to provide the corresponding fixed relative position for the clamps.
38. A clamp arrangement of claims 1, 2 or 3 wherein said clamps are adapted to clamp structural members used in bracing scaffolding and shoring frames.
39. A clamp arrangement of claims 9, 26 or 30 wherein said clamps are adapted to clamp structural members used in bracing scaffolding and shoring frames.
40. A clamp arrangement for use with scaffolding and shoring frames comprising at least two clamps, each clamp comprising two clamp jaws pivotally connected together about a hinge point so as to hinge from an open to a closed position for clamping a structural member used in assembling scaffolding and shoring frames, adjacent clamp jaws of said at least two clamps being interconnected for rotation relative to one another about an axis common to all clamp jaws of said arrangement each clamp jaw having on its exterior between its hinge point and its free end a shoulder arrangement means which is symmetrical about said axis and which cooperates with similar shoulder means arrangement on an adjacent clamp jaw for determining when aligned at least one fixed relative position of adjacent clamps and means for cooperating with and engaging aligned adjacent shoulder means to secure them and thereby provide the corresponding fixed relative position for adjacent clamps.
41. A clamp arrangement of claim 40, wherein connector means symmetrical about said axis interconnects adjacent clamp jaws for relative rotation with said shoulder means arrangements beside each other.
42. A clamp arrangement of claim 40 wherein each shoulder means arrangement comprises at least three shoulders, all of equal length.
43. A clamp arrangement of claim 22, wherein said shoulder means arrangement has four shoulders, each having a planar surface, said securement means being a collar having a square internal shape for bridging aligned shoulders and snugly receiving the shoulders to secure them.
44. A clamp arrangement of claim 43, wherein a connector means is provided for releasably interconnecting adjacent clamp jaws of at least two interconnected clamps, said collar being a unitary structure.
45. A clamp arrangement of claim 40, wherein means is provided for closing said clamp jaws of each clamp to secure a structural member, said closure means cooperating with the free ends of the clamp jaws to effect clamp closure.
46. A clamp arrangement of claim 45, wherein said closure means comprises a bolt pivotally connected to a clamp jaw free end, the mating clamp jaw free end having a slot to receive a portion of said bolt, a nut for threaded engagement with said bolt to secure said clamp on a structural member.
47. A clamp arrangement of claim 45, wherein said closure means comprises an arm pivotally connected to a free end of a clamp jaw, said arm being received by a slot in the free end of the mating clamp jaw, said arm having rotatable cam means for engaging when rotated said mating clamp jaw to effect clamp closure.
48. A clamp arrangement of claim 45, wherein said closure means comprises an arm pivotally connected to a free end of a clamp jaw, said arm being received by a slot in the free end of the mating clamp jaw, said arm having a slidable wedge means for engaging when slid, said mating clamp jaw to effect clamp closure.
49. A clamp arrangement of claim 45, wherein said closure means comprises an over-centre action closure device having a first link arm pivotally connected to a free end of a clamp jaw and a second link arm pivotally connected to said first link arm and for engaging the free end of the mating clamp jaw, the engagement being such that on pivoting said first link arm towards said mating clamp jaw free end with said second link arm engaged therewith, the axis between the pivot points of the first link arm with the clamp jaw and the second link arm pass beyond the point of contact of said second link arm with said mating clamp free end to effect over-centre closure of said clamp.
50. A clamp arrangement of claims 46 and 48, wherein the free ends of mating clamp jaws have opposing abutment portions to limit the extent to which said closure means closes the clamp and thereby precludes crushing a structural member being clamped.
51. A clamp arrangement of claims 1, 9 or 23, wherein said clamps are of aluminum alloy.
52. A clamp arrangement of claim 26, 30 or 40, wherein said clamps are of aluminum alloy.
53. A clamp arrangement of claims 1, 9 or 23, wherein said clamps are individually formed from an extruded section of aluminum alloy.
54. A clamp arrangement of claim 27, 30 or 40, wherein said clamp jaws are individually formed from the same extruded section of aluminum alloy.
55. A clamp arrangement of claim 9, wherein said locking means balances the distribution of stresses on said locking means about said axis when said clamp arrangement is under load and such stresses attempt to rotate said clamps relative to one another.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000396762A CA1175870A (en) | 1982-02-22 | 1982-02-22 | Clamp for shoring and scaffolding frames |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000396762A CA1175870A (en) | 1982-02-22 | 1982-02-22 | Clamp for shoring and scaffolding frames |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1175870A true CA1175870A (en) | 1984-10-09 |
Family
ID=4122135
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000396762A Expired CA1175870A (en) | 1982-02-22 | 1982-02-22 | Clamp for shoring and scaffolding frames |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1175870A (en) |
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2000011284A1 (en) * | 1998-08-21 | 2000-03-02 | Mieden Johannes Albert | Scaffold coupling element with a secure-sitting head bolt |
| WO2015040012A1 (en) * | 2013-09-18 | 2015-03-26 | Atom Prod | Combination of at least one tube and at least one means for gripping the tube |
| CN106948482A (en) * | 2017-04-27 | 2017-07-14 | 苏州天地彩钢制造有限公司 | Assembling type steel structure is built |
| CN112443156A (en) * | 2020-12-14 | 2021-03-05 | 余北京 | Scaffold joint equipment for building engineering |
-
1982
- 1982-02-22 CA CA000396762A patent/CA1175870A/en not_active Expired
Cited By (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2000011284A1 (en) * | 1998-08-21 | 2000-03-02 | Mieden Johannes Albert | Scaffold coupling element with a secure-sitting head bolt |
| WO2015040012A1 (en) * | 2013-09-18 | 2015-03-26 | Atom Prod | Combination of at least one tube and at least one means for gripping the tube |
| CN106948482A (en) * | 2017-04-27 | 2017-07-14 | 苏州天地彩钢制造有限公司 | Assembling type steel structure is built |
| CN112443156A (en) * | 2020-12-14 | 2021-03-05 | 余北京 | Scaffold joint equipment for building engineering |
| CN112443156B (en) * | 2020-12-14 | 2022-10-25 | 余北京 | Scaffold joint equipment for building engineering |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEC | Expiry (correction) | ||
| MKEX | Expiry |