NASA Challenge: CAM Action Pull Clamp

grabcad

-----Update 02/16/2014----- We have uploaded two slightly different designs. The original design is named complex and the 2nd design is named simplified. We feel like both designs are 3D printable but since we do not know exactly how the printing would perform with NASA’s printer and on board the ISS, we wanted to give a simplified model as an option. … Complex design: After 3D printing the complex model a few times we have updated the model for optimum latching. … Simplified design: The 3 parts of the simplified version are printed separately and assembled together with a snap action. Once the parts are assembled it should remain together as one unit keeping the functionality of the original design. One positive of the simplified design over the complex design is since each of the 3 parts are printed separately they can be printed in an orientation that decreases the risk of delamination. … -----Original Entry----- Our entry into the NASA handrail clamp assembly challenge is a CAM design that converts rotational movement from the handle into linear movement of latch. When the handle is in the closed position the loop/latch applies force to the main body allowing it to clamp the metal rail. ... Our design has several nice features including: 1. Ability to attach with one hand 2. Ability to slide the clamp up and down rail until latched (for positioning) 3. No small pieces to lose or handle due to its single piece design 4. No assembly required due to its single piece design 5. Maximum 3D printing efficiency (one nested print) 6. Physically clamp to the rail to avoid movement along the rail when clamped. ... Compared to other manufacturing methods, 3D printing has the unique benefit of being able to print nested parts. By capitalizing on this unique capability we are able to avoid having multiple parts that would need to be assembled. For example no looking for hours for the other half of the clamp. ... Also by using this design we feel like it will create a squeezing force that will keep the table from moving along that axis of the rail. So if someone was to put their elbows on the chessboard it wouldn't move into their lap. Design submitted by Team RevPart and PDX Effects