Project Overview
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Surgical patties are regularly pull tested to ensure that the removal string stays attached when pulled
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Old device utilized a manual toggle clamp on the patties
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Operators could clamp with varying force
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Designed a pneumatic clamp assembly for a new pull test machine
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Goal: make the clamping force consistent
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Desired Outcome: more consistent test results
SolidWorks Model of Floating Clamp Assembly
Simple SolidWorks Model of Clamp Assembly on Pull Tester
Design Overview
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Designed a SolidWorks model of the clamp assembly
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Used appropriate pneumatic cylinder from McMaster
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Made all other parts from scratch (not screws and 80/20)
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Designed clamp to fit mounting platform of new machine
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For display, modeled the full pull test machine
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Created drawings for all the components
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Sent drawings to metalwork manufacturer for production
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Ordered pneumatic cylinder and 80/20 leveling foot (not pictured)
Design Challenges & Solutions
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Clamp needed to work for all pattie sizes
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Designed single clamp to fit all pattie tolerances
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Cylinder stand can't be in way of the patties or operator hands
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Placed stand to the back and off to the sides
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Platform and clamp needed small “teeth” for added grip
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Teeth must be machinable
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Teeth must be properly aligned with one-another
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Designed teeth as pictured (right)
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Platform was only mounted on one side
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Most the weight focused at opposite end
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Added an 80/20 extrusion leg with leveling foot
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Made back of platform bent down 90 degrees for added strength
Close-up Images of Grip Teeth on Clamp & Platform
SolidWorks Drawings
Finished Product Pictures Coming Soon!
 Pull Test PLTFRM Leg |  Clamp Mount Piece |  Cylinder Stand Leg |
|---|---|---|
 Cylinder Stand Bracket |  Complete Assemlby |  Pull Test Platform |
 Clamp Leg |
Click on images for description.