"F" Clamp - spring loaded

Started by LewZ

2 updates 17 likes 2 comments 0 followers
LewZ Opening post 77

"F" Clamp - spring loaded

I just had a need to clamp some parts together in a tight space and none of my other clamps would work. I came up with the spring loaded clamp and thought that if any of you need one I can email (PM me) you the OBJ (for 3D Printer) file. Similar clamps use a little wedge but often slip. The pressure is applied to the moving jaw and is adjustable for varying work thickness. The hole in the adjustable ferrule is .05inch (1.27mm) and can be drilled out and tapped for a screw. The screw only needs to be finger tight to avoid slipping. The spring is about .31inch (7.8mm) ID and the length can be about 1inch (25mm)
After I printed these I saw the need for making this a one hand operation, so I added the "L" shape trigger to pull the sliding jaw back. It will be cemented to the sliding jaw as seen in the assembly CAD drawing. (I will upgrade mine tomorrow.)
Lew
Liked by Northernflotsam and Rookysailor and
2 comments
  1. chugalone100Silver
    Commodore
    Lew:

    Very clever design. I really like how the spring-loaded jaw keeps constant pressure in tight spaces where standard clamps just won’t fit. The adjustable ferrule and one-hand “L” trigger upgrade make it even more practical and user-friendly.

    A simple idea, but very well thought out and engineered.

    Thanks for offering the OBJ files to the community too — I can see a lot of fellows from this forum finding this extremely useful.
    Liked by Hsailer and LewZ and

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LewZ #2 of 3 40

Gripping surfaces

Ronald, adding a gripping surface can be done if needed. These clamps are small and the spring's (that I used) pressure is not that great. An alternative would be to make some pads using thin rubber and cement them in place.
Lew
Liked by Ronald and Rookysailor and

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