TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

The presently disclosed subject matter relates to clamping devices, in particular clamping devices for use in connecting two components in clamped configuration.

BACKGROUND

Clamping systems are well known, are provided in many different configurations, and have a variety of uses and applications.

Some types of clamps operate by providing a tensile force between two components; other types of clamps operate to provide a compressive force between two components.

For example, Marman clamps are commonly used for circumferentially clamping two cylindrical bodies together, for example two stages of a rocket, by providing a tensile clamping force. For example, a strap having a V-shaped cross-section is placed over the overlapping abutting flanges of the two cylindrical bodies, and nut and bolt arrangement brings the ends of the strap together under tension, thereby holding the two cylindrical bodies together. In such cases, there is often a need to apply relatively large tensile forces to the strap. Marman clamps are conventionally applied on external surfaces of two components.

Lifting jacks are commonly used for providing a compressive force between two components. However, in such cases, the relationship between the input force and the output clamping force is non-linear, and during operation the required input forces can increase significantly while providing the same output force. Particularly where there is some tolerance between components of the clamp, it can be difficult to calibrate such a clamp to provide repeatable relationship between input and output forces in the operating range.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) GENERAL DESCRIPTION

According to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a clamping device, comprising a base element, a first clamping arrangement moveably mounted with respect to the base element, and a second clamping arrangement moveably mounted with respect to the base element; wherein the first clamping arrangement is configured for providing a coupling force along a coupling axis responsive to an actuation force being applied to the first clamping arrangement along an actuation axis, said actuation axis being non-parallel with respect to said coupling axis; and the second clamping arrangement is configured for providing an output force along an output axis responsive to said coupling force being applied to the second clamping arrangement along said coupling axis, said output axis being non-parallel to said coupling axis.

According to the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is also provided a clamping device, comprising a base element, a first clamping arrangement moveably mounted with respect to the base element, and a second clamping arrangement moveably mounted with respect to the base element; wherein the first clamping arrangement is configured for providing a coupling displacement along a coupling axis responsive to an actuation displacement being applied to the first clamping arrangement along an actuation axis, said actuation axis being non-parallel with respect to said coupling axis; the second clamping arrangement configured for providing an output displacement along an output axis responsive to said coupling displacement being applied to the second clamping arrangement along said coupling axis, said output axis being non-parallel to said coupling axis.

For example, the clamping device is configured for transitioning between an open configuration and a closed configuration responsive to said actuation displacement being applied to the device along said actuation axis. For example, in the open configuration, the clamping device defines a characteristic minimum dimension along an output axis, and wherein in the closed configuration, the clamping device defines a characteristic maximum dimension along said output axis, the maximum dimension being greater in magnitude than the minimum dimension, and wherein said output displacement equals the difference between said maximum dimension and said minimum dimension. For example, the device is configured for coupling with an external mechanism or structure in which the clamping device is required for providing a clamping operation with respect thereto. For example, the device comprises coupling interfaces configured for coupling with an external mechanism or structure in which the clamping device is required for providing a clamping operation with respect thereto, and wherein the coupling interfaces are spaced from one another along said output axis at said characteristic minimum dimension, and wherein in the closed configuration, the coupling interfaces are spaced from one another along said output axis at said characteristic maximum dimension.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said actuation axis is non-parallel to said output axis.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said actuation axis is nominally orthogonal with respect to said coupling axis.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said output axis is nominally orthogonal with respect to said coupling axis.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said actuation axis is nominally orthogonal with respect to said output axis.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said first clamping arrangement is moveably mounted with respect to the base element such as to enable reciprocal movement between said first clamping arrangement and said base element at least along said actuation axis.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said first clamping arrangement is moveably mounted with respect to the base element such as to enable reciprocal movement between said first clamping arrangement and said base element concurrently along said actuation axis and along said coupling axis.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said second clamping arrangement is moveably mounted with respect to the base element such as to enable reciprocal movement between said second clamping arrangement and said base element concurrently along said coupling axis and along said output axis. Additionally or alternatively, for example, said first clamping arrangement comprises a first wedge member movable at least along said actuation axis with respect to the base element, and wherein said second clamping arrangement comprises a second wedge member movable at least along said coupling axis with respect to said base element, wherein said second wedge member is displaced along said coupling axis by said coupling displacement responsive to said first wedge member being displaced along said actuation axis by said actuation displacement. For example, said first clamping arrangement is in abutting and load-transfer contact directly with said base element. Additionally or alternatively, for example, said first clamping arrangement is in abutting and load-transfer contact directly with said second clamping arrangement.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said first wedge member comprises at least a first wedge first face inclined with respect to said actuation axis and to said coupling axis, and wherein said base element comprises a second wedge face parallel with and in abutting contact with said first wedge first face, wherein said first wedge member is displaced along said coupling axis by said coupling displacement responsive to said first wedge member being displaced along said actuation axis by said actuation displacement, wherein concurrently said second wedge face remains in abutting contact with said first wedge first face.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said first wedge member comprises at least a first wedge second face inclined with respect to said actuation axis and to said coupling axis, and wherein said second wedge member comprises a second wedge first face parallel with and in abutting contact with said first wedge second face, wherein said second wedge member is displaced along said coupling axis by said coupling displacement responsive to said first wedge member being displaced along said actuation axis by said actuation displacement.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said first clamping arrangement comprises a first auxiliary wedge element movable at least along said actuation axis with respect to the base element and with respect to said first wedge member, said first auxiliary wedge element comprising at least a first auxiliary wedge first face inclined with respect to said actuation axis and to said coupling axis, and wherein said wherein said base element comprises a third wedge face parallel with and in abutting contact with a respective said first auxiliary wedge first face, wherein said first wedge member is displaced along said coupling axis by said coupling displacement responsive to said first wedge member being displaced along said actuation axis by said actuation displacement, wherein concurrently said third wedge face remains in abutting contact with said first auxiliary wedge first face.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said first clamping arrangement comprises a first auxiliary wedge element movable at least along said actuation axis with respect to the base element and with respect to said first wedge member, said first auxiliary wedge element comprising at least a first auxiliary wedge second face inclined with respect to said actuation axis and to said coupling axis, and wherein said second wedge member comprises at least a second wedge second face parallel with and in abutting contact with said first auxiliary wedge second face, wherein said first wedge member and said first auxiliary wedge member are displaced along said coupling axis towards one another responsive to said first wedge member being displaced along said actuation axis by said actuation displacement.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the device comprises a screw actuator rotatably mounted with respect to said first clamping arrangement, such that said actuation displacement is provided responsive to a rotation of the screw actuator.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said second clamping arrangement comprises a third wedge member coupled with respect to said second wedge member.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said second clamping arrangement comprises a fourth wedge member coupled with respect to said second wedge member.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said second wedge member comprises a second wedge third face, and wherein said third wedge element is movable at least along said output axis with respect to the base element and with respect to said second wedge member, and wherein said third wedge element comprises at least a third wedge first face inclined with respect to said output axis and to said coupling axis, and wherein said third wedge first face is parallel with and in abutting contact with said second wedge third face, wherein said third wedge member is displaced along said output axis by said output displacement responsive to said second wedge member being displaced along said coupling axis by said coupling displacement.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said second wedge member comprises a second wedge fourth face, and wherein said fourth wedge element is movable at least along said output axis with respect to the base element and with respect to said second wedge member, and wherein said fourth wedge element comprises at least a fourth wedge first face inclined with respect to said output axis and to said coupling axis, and wherein said fourth wedge first face is parallel with and in abutting contact with said second wedge fourth face, wherein said fourth wedge member is displaced along said output axis by said output displacement responsive to said second wedge member being displaced along said coupling axis by said coupling displacement.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said third wedge member comprises at least one third wedge second face inclined with respect to said output axis and to said coupling axis, and wherein said base element comprises at least a respective first wedge third face, wherein said third wedge second face is parallel with and in abutting contact with said first wedge third face.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said fourth wedge member comprises at least one fourth wedge second face inclined with respect to said output axis and to said coupling axis, and wherein said base element comprises at least a respective first wedge fourth face, wherein said fourth wedge second face is parallel with and in abutting contact with said first wedge fourth face.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said third wedge member comprises a third wedge member interface, configured for coupling with an external mechanism or structure in which the clamping device is required for providing a clamping operation with respect thereto.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said fourth wedge member comprises a fourth wedge member interface, configured for coupling with an external mechanism or structure in which the clamping device is required for providing a clamping operation with respect thereto. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the device further comprises a biasing spring coupled to said third wedge element and to said fourth wedge element.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said first wedge first face is inclined with respect to said actuation axis and to said coupling axis at an angle of about 45°.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first wedge second face is inclined with respect to said actuation axis and to said coupling axis at an angle of about 45°.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said first auxiliary wedge first face is inclined with respect to said actuation axis and to said coupling axis at an angle of about 45°.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said first auxiliary wedge second face inclined with respect to said actuation axis and to said coupling axis at an angle of about 45°.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said third wedge first face is inclined with respect to said output axis and to said coupling axis at an angle of about 45°.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said fourth wedge first face is inclined with respect to said output axis and to said coupling axis at an angle of about 45°.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said third wedge second face is inclined with respect to said output axis and to said coupling axis at an angle of about 45°.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said fourth wedge second face is inclined with respect to said output axis and to said coupling axis at an angle of about 45°.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said device comprises a first plurality of alignment features configured for ensuring that relative motion between the first clamping arrangement and each one of the base element and the second clamping arrangement occurs in a direction having a component at least along the actuation axis, and prevents such relative motion having a component at least in a direction parallel to the output axis. Additionally or alternatively, for example, said device comprises a first plurality of alignment features configured for ensuring that relative motion between the first clamping arrangement and each one of the base element and the second clamping arrangement occurs in a direction having a component along the coupling axis and a component along the actuation axis, and prevents such relative motion having a component in a direction parallel to the output axis.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said device comprises a second plurality of alignment features, configured for ensuring that relative motion between the second clamping arrangement and each one of the base element and the first clamping arrangement occurs in a direction having a component along the coupling axis and a component along the output axis, and prevents such relative motion having a component in a direction parallel to the actuation axis.

In at least one example, said device is configured for coupling together a Marman clamp.

According to a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a clamping arrangement comprising at least one clamping device as defined herein regarding the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, and configured for clamping together two components.

For example, the clamping arrangement comprises a strap element coupled to said at least one clamping device, and wherein said two components are each generally cylindrical or frustoconical and comprise respective flanges in mutually abutting contact and over which the strap element is overlaid on.

According to a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a method for coupling together two components, comprising:

(a) providing a clamping arrangement as defined regarding the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter,

(b) clamping the two components via said clamping arrangement. For example, the clamping arrangement comprises a strap element coupled to said at least one clamping device, and wherein said two components are each generally cylindrical or frustoconical and comprise respective flanges, the method comprising:

(i) aligning the two elements such that the respective flanges are in mutually abutting contact;

(ii) overlying the strap element over the flanges;

(iii) actuating the at least one clamping device such as to cause the respective first clamping arrangement to be displaced by the respective said actuation displacement along the respective actuation axis.

A feature of at least one example of the presently disclosed subject matter is that such a device can be provided comprising a linear relationship between input force/displacement and output force/displacement.

Another feature of at least one example of the presently disclosed subject matter is that such a device can provide an offset between the actuation axis and the output axis, enabling an access port to be provided in one of the two components (for example, that are being clamped together via abutting flanges) for enabling actuating the device therethrough, wherein the access port is spaced from the coupling flanges, and enabling such an access port to be to sealed in a simple manner.

Another feature of at least one example of the presently disclosed subject matter is that such a device can be designed having particular respective wedge angles such as to provide a desired magnification between an actuation force and an output force. For example such a device can be designed with magnification factors of unity, or less than 1, or greater than 1. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, examples will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1(a) is an isometric view of a clamping device according to an example of the presently disclosed abject matter, in which the clamping device is in the open configuration; Fig. 1(b) is an isometric view of the clamping device of the example of Fig. 1(a), in which the clamping device is in the closed configuration

Fig- 2 is an isometric exploded view of the clamping device of the example of Fig. 1(a).

Fig- 3 is an isometric view of the base element of the example of Fig. 1(a).

Fig. 4(a) is an isometric exploded view of the first clamping arrangement of the example of Fig. 1(a); Fig. 4(b) is an isometric view of the example of Fig. 4(a) in the open configuration; Fig. 4(c) is an isometric view of the example of Fig. 4(a) in the closed configuration.

Fig. 5(a) is an isometric exploded view of the second clamping arrangement of the example of Fig. 1(a); Fig. 5(b) is an isometric view of the example of Fig. 5(a) in the open configuration; Fig. 5(c) is an isometric view of the example of Fig. 5(a) in the closed configuration.

Fig- 6 is an isometric exploded view of the clamping device of the example of Fig. 1(a).

Fig. 7(a) is a front view of the clamping device of the example of Fig. 1(a) in open configuration; Fig. 7(b) is a cross-sectional view of the example of Fig. 7(a) taken along M-M; Fig. 7(c) is a front view of the clamping device of the example of Fig. 1(a) in closed configuration; Fig. 7(d) is a cross- sectional view of the example of Fig. 7(c) taken along S-S. Fig. 8(a) is a front view of the clamping device of the example of Fig. 1(a) in open configuration; Fig. 8(b) is a cross-sectional view of the example of Fig. 8(a) taken along J- J.

Fig. 9(a) is a front view of the clamping device of the example of Fig. 1(a) in closed configuration; Fig. 9(b) is a cross-sectional view of the example of Fig. 9(a) taken along N-N.

Fig. 10(a) is a side view of the clamping device of the example of Fig. 1(a) in open configuration; Fig. 10(b) is a cross-sectional view of the example of Fig. 10(a) taken along L-L.

Fig. 11(a) is a side view of the clamping device of the example of Fig. 1(a) in open configuration; Fig. 11(b) is a cross-sectional view of the example of Fig. 11(a) taken along K-K.

Fig. 12(a) is a side view of the clamping device of the example of Fig. 1(a) in closed configuration; Fig. 12(b) is a cross-sectional view of the example of Fig. 12(a) taken along P-P.

Fig. 13(a) is a top view of a clamping arrangement according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter, in which the respective clamping devices are in the open configuration; Fig. 13(b) is a cross-sectional view of the example of Fig. 13(a) taken along A-A.

Fig. 14(a) is a top view of a clamping arrangement according to the example of Fig. 13(a), in which the respective clamping devices are in the closed configuration; Fig. 14(b) is a cross-sectional view of the example of Fig. 14(a) taken along B-B. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

According to an aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a device for applying a force between two components via applying a change in spacing between the two components. Such a force can be a compressive force or a tensile force. In general, a compressive force is applied by increasing the spacing between the components via the device, while a tensile force is applied by decreasing the spacing between the components via the device. Such a device can be used inter alia as a clamping device or as a device for assisting aiding in clamping, and is in any case is referred to herein interchangeably as a "clamping device" or "clamping aid device".

Referring to Figs. 1(a) and 1(b), such a clamping device according to a first example of the presently disclosed subject matter, generally designated 100, comprises abase element 200, a first clamping arrangement 400 moveably mounted with respect to the base element 200, and a second clamping arrangement 600 moveably mounted with respect to the base element 200.

As will become clearer herein the first clamping arrangement 400 is configured for providing a coupling displacement (and a corresponding coupling force) along a coupling axis CA responsive to an actuation displacement (and a corresponding actuation force) being applied to the first clamping arrangement 400 along an actuation axis AA, said actuation axis AA being non-parallel with respect to said coupling axis CA. Furthermore, the second clamping arrangement 600 is configured for providing an output displacement (and a corresponding output force) along an output axis OA responsive to said coupling displacement (and said corresponding coupling force) being applied to the second clamping arrangement 600 along said coupling axis CA, said output axis OA being non-parallel to said coupling axis CA.

Thus, the actuation axis AA is non-parallel with respect to the coupling axis CA. Additionally the output axis OA is non-parallel with respect to the coupling axis CA. Furthermore, the actuation axis AA is non-parallel with respect to the output axis OA. In other words, in at least this example, the actuation axis AA, the coupling axis CA, and the output axis OA are non-parallel with respect to one another. For convenience, a cartesian orthogonal axes system C can be defined with respect to the clamping device 100, including three mutually orthogonal axes X, Y and Z. As will become clearer herein, in at least this example the actuation axis AA for the clamping device is parallel to the Z-axis (also referred to herein as the longitudinal axis), the coupling axis CA for the clamping device is parallel to the X-axis (also referred to herein as the transverse axis), and the output axis OA for the clamping device is parallel to the Y-axis (also referred to herein as the lateral axis).

In the example illustrated in Figs. 1(a) to 14(b) the actuation axis AA is nominally orthogonal with respect to the coupling axis CA. Additionally the output axis OA is nominally orthogonal with respect to the coupling axis CA. Furthermore, the actuation axis AA is nominally orthogonal with respect to the output axis OA. In other words, in at least this example, the actuation axis AA, the coupling axis CA, and the output axis OA are nominally orthogonal with respect to one another.

The clamping device 100 is in particular configured for transitioning between an open configuration OC (Fig. 1(a)) and a closed configuration CC (Fig. 1(b)), responsive to an actuation force AF (and corresponding actuation displacement) being applied along actuation axis AA. When the actuation force AF (and corresponding actuation displacement) is applied in one direction along the actuation axis AA, the clamping device 100 transitions from the open configuration OC to the closed configuration CC. Conversely, when the actuation force AF (and corresponding actuation displacement) is applied in the opposite direction along the actuation axis AA, the clamping device 100 transitions from the closed configuration CC to the open configuration OC.

In the open configuration OC, the clamping device 100 defines a characteristic minimum dimension DI along an output axis OA, and in the closed configuration CC, the clamping device 100 defines a characteristic maximum dimension D2 along an output axis OA, the maximum dimension D2 being greater in magnitude than the minimum dimension DI. As will become clearer herein, the output displacement corresponds to the difference between the maximum dimension D2 and the minimum dimension DI

For example, and referring to Figs. 13(a) to 14(b), the clamping device 100 can be operated to apply a force via a change in spacing between two components. In at least the example of Figs. 13(a) to 14(b), such a force is a compressive force, and the compressive force is applied by increasing the spacing between the components.

In at least the example of Figs. 13(a) to 14(b), the clamping device 100 is incorporated in a clamping arrangement 900, for example a Marman clamp, for example for clamping together two components 940, 950. For example, the two components 940, 950 are each generally cylindrical or generally frustoconical, and have respective flanges 942, 952 in abutting contact and over which the clamping arrangement 900 is configured to be overlaid on. In at least this example, the flanges 942, 952 are provided in the respective internal surfaces of the two components 940, 950.

While in this example two clamping devices 100 are used in diametrically opposed positions, in alternative variations of this example, a single device 100 can be used, or more than two such devices 100 can be used. In each case, the respective clamping device 100 is used for clamping together two adjacent circumferential ends 920 of respective portions of the strap elements 910 of the clamping arrangement 900.

In the unclamped position of the clamping arrangement 900, and referring to Figs. 13(a) and 13(b), each clamping device 100 is in the respective open configuration OC, while in the clamped configuration of the clamping arrangement 900, and referring to Figs. 14(a) and 14(b), each the clamping device 100 is in the respective closed configuration CC.

For example, the two components 940, 950 are aligned with one another such that the respective flanges 942, 952 are in mutually abutting contact. The clamping arrangement 900 comprises strap elements 910, which are overlaid over the flanges 942, 952. The clamping device(s) 100 can then be actuated such as to cause the respective first clamping arrangement to be displaced by the respective said actuation displacement along the respective actuation axis from the open configuration OC to the closed configuration CC. In this manner each such clamping device 100 provides an output displacement causing the strap elements 910 to displace circumferentially from one another, and thus to push radially outwardly towards the flanges 942, 952, and the strap elements 910 abut against the flanges 942, 952. Typically, in examples in which the clamping arrangement 900 comprises a plurality of clamping devices 100, all the clamping devices 100 can be concurrently actuated to concurrently transit between the respective open configuration OC and the respective closed configuration CC. It is also to be noted that the clamping device 100 can also be operated to apply a force via a change in spacing between two components, and in which such a force is a tensile force. In such cases the tensile force is applied by decreasing the spacing between the components. Thus, for example, the flanges 942, 952 of the example of Figs. 13(a) to 14(b) can instead be provided on the external surfaces of the two components, and the straps are overlaid over the flanges. In the unclamped position of this clamping arrangement, each clamping device 100 is in the respective closed configuration CC, while in the clamped configuration of the clamping arrangement, each the clamping device 100 is in the respective open configuration OC. By operating each the clamping device 100 to transit from the closed configuration CC to the respective open configuration OC, thereby causing the strap elements to displace circumferentially towards one another, and thus to push radially inwards towards the flanges 942, 952, and the strap elements 910 abut against the flanges 942, 952

However, it is to be noted that use of the clamping device according to the presently disclosed subject matter is not necessarily limited to Marman clamps, and the clamping device according to the presently disclosed subject matter can be used in a variety of applications in which two elements are to be connected together, particularly where large mechanical forces are to be applied between the two elements via the clamping device.

For example, the clamping device 100 can also be used in a similar manner as a car jack, mutatis mutandis, in order to lift a load away from a surface, or to separate two components via a gap therebetween, and so on.

Referring also to Figs. 2, 3 and 6, the base element 200 is in the form of a frame member 210, having un upper frame member 220 connected to a pair of bottom frame members 240 via two spaced side members 260, defining an open space OS (along a longitudinal direction, i.e., parallel to the Z-axis) at the center of the frame member 210.

The base element 200 has a forward face 201 and an aft face 202. The forward face 201 is spaced from aft face 202 along a longitudinal direction parallel to the Z-axis, by a longitudinal spacing defining a nominal main body thickness T of the base element 200.

The inner walls 225 of the two side members 220 are nominally parallel to one another (along transverse X-axis). The outer walls 226 of the two side members 220 are sloping outwardly towards the bottom end 224, defining respective pairs of first wedge third faces W13 and respective pairs of first wedge fourth faces W14 on the respective flanges 229.

The side members 260 are laterally spaced from one another (i.e., along the Y-axis) by a lateral spacing LSI. Each side member 260 has an open bottom end 224 and a closed top end 222. Each bottom end 224 comprises a respective pair of longitudinally spaced flanges 229 (i.e., spaced along the Z-axis) defining therebetween a through slot 223 extending downwards from the top end 222 and extending transversely through the bottom end 224, as well as laterally between the respective inner wall 225 and the respective outer wall 226.

The upper frame member 220 defines an internal second wedge face W2 facing the open space OS and an outer direction along the Z-axis, and two adjacent third wedge faces W3, facing the open space OS and an outer direction along the Z-axis opposite to the second wedge face W2. Each third wedge face W3 is on a different lateral side of the second wedge face W2.

Referring to Fig. 7(b), the pair of bottom frame members 240 are spaced from one another by a longitudinal spacing ZS1 (parallel to the Z-axis) to provide, together with the two slots 223, and open bottom and open sides for the open space OS. One bottom frame member 240 is fixed to the respective flanges 229 of side members 260 on the forward face 201, and the other bottom frame member 240 is fixed to the respective flanges 229 of side members 260 on the aft face 202.

As will become clearer herein, the first clamping arrangement 400 is in abutting and load-transferring contact directly with the base element 200, at least in this example.

As already mentioned, and referring in particular to Figs. 2, 4(a), 4(b), 4(c) and 6, the first clamping arrangement 400 is moveably mounted with respect to the base element 200., such as to enable reciprocal movement between the first clamping arrangement 400 and the base element 200 concurrently along the actuation axis AA and along the coupling axis CA In at least this example, the first clamping arrangement 400 comprises a first wedge element 420 and a first auxiliary wedge element 440, coupled to one another via actuator screw 500. The actuator screw 500 has a first actuation end 520, configured for coupling with an external tool or driver to selectively enable the actuator screw 500 to be turned about the actuation axis AA. For example, the first actuation end 520 is in the form of a bolt head having an internal hexagonal recess configured for coupling with an Allen key of complementary size. Alternatively, or additionally, the first actuation end 520 can have an external hexagonal shape, or an internal or external polygonal shape, or can be configured in a different manner for enabling coupling with a turning tool or driver (for example a powered screwdriver tool). The actuator screw 500 has a second end 540, at an opposite longitudinal end of the actuator screw 500 from that of the outer actuation end 520

The first external end 520 of the actuator screw 500 is rotatably mounted to the first wedge element 420. The actuator screw 500 comprises an external screw thread 510, complementary to an internal screw thread 530 provided in through hole 430 of first auxiliary wedge element 440. In operation of the clamping device 100, the external screw thread 510 is engaged with the internal screw thread 530, such that turning the actuator screw 500 in one rotational direction (for example, clockwise) about the actuation axis AA translates the first auxiliary wedge element 440 in a direction along a coupling axis CA (in at least this example, parallel to the Z-axis) towards the first wedge element 420, while turning the actuator screw 500 in the opposite rotational direction (for example, counter clock wise) about the actuation axis AA translates the first auxiliary wedge element 440 in an opposite direction along the Z-axis away from the first wedge element 420.

However, in alternative variations of this example, the second end 540 of the actuator screw 500 is instead rotatably mounted to the first auxiliary wedge element 440, and the external screw thread 510 is complementary to an internal screw thread 530 provided instead in through hole of first wedge element 420. In operation, the external screw thread 510 is engaged with the internal screw thread 530, such that turning the actuator screw 500 in one rotational direction (for example, clockwise) about the actuation axis AA translates the first wedge element 420 in a direction along the Z-axis towards the first auxiliary wedge element 440, while turning the actuator screw 500 in the opposite rotational direction (for example, counter clock wise) about the actuation axis AA translates the first wedge element 420 in an opposite direction along the Z-axis away from the first auxiliary wedge element 440. Referring again to Figs. 2, 4(a), 4(b), 4(c) and 6, the first wedge element 420 is generally C-shaped when viewed in a lateral direction parallel to the Y-axis, in the form of a first wedge base member 425 extending in a transverse direction parallel to the X-axis, and having at each end thereof a respective arm 426, 427. In at least this example, the upper arm 426 comprises first wedge first face Wil, and the lower arm 427 comprises first wedge second face W 12. The second end 540 of the actuator screw 500 is rotatably mounted to the first wedge element 420 at a central portion of the first wedge base member 425 via through- hole 435. In at least this example the first wedge element 420 has uniform lateral width SI, and the first wedge element sides 429 of the first wedge element 420 are nominally flat and parallel to one another. In operation of the clamping device 100, the first wedge element sides 429 are nominally parallel to an X-Z plane.

The first auxiliary wedge element 440 is also generally C-shaped, but when viewed in a transverse direction parallel to the X-axis, in the form of a first auxiliary wedge base member 445 extending in a lateral direction parallel to the Y-axis, and having at each end thereof a respective arm 446, 447. In the example as seen in 2, 4(a), 4(b), 4(c) and 6, the two arms 426, 427 each comprises at an upper part thereof a respective first auxiliary wedge first face W101, and the two arms 426, 427 each comprises at a lower part thereof a respective first auxiliary wedge second face W102. The internally threaded through hole 430 is centrally provided in the first auxiliary wedge base member 445. In at least this example the first auxiliary wedge element 440 has uniform lateral width S2, and the respective arms 446, 447 are nominally flat and parallel to one another, defining an internal lateral spacing S3. Lateral spacing S3 is just greater than lateral spacing SI, enabling part of the first wedge element 420 to nest within the first auxiliary wedge element 440 (in particular in-between the two arms 446, 447) when the first wedge element 420 and the first auxiliary wedge element 440 are brought into close proximity to one another via action of the actuator screw 500 (Fig. 4(c)). In operation of the clamping device 100, the outer facing lateral sides 449 of the first auxiliary wedge element 440 are nominally parallel to an X-Z plane.

As will become clearer herein, the first clamping arrangement 400 is in abutting and load-transferring contact directly with the second clamping arrangement 600, at least in this example. As already mentioned, the second clamping arrangement 600 is moveably mounted with respect to the base element 200 such as to enable reciprocal movement between the second clamping arrangement 600 and the base element 200 concurrently along the coupling axis CA and along the output axis OA In at least this example, and referring in particular to Figs. 2, 5(a), 5(b), 5(c) and 6, the second clamping arrangement comprises a second wedge element 620, a third wedge elements 630 and a fourth wedge element 640.

The second wedge element 620 has a generally trapezoidal shape when viewed in a longitudinal direction parallel to the Z-axis, and comprises a central section 625 joined to two end sections 626, 627, each end section 626, 627 being adjacent to a respective lateral side of the central section 625. In at least this example, the second wedge element 620, when viewed in a longitudinal direction parallel to the Z-axis, has a shape of an isosceles trapezoid or isosceles trapezium, and in which the shorter one of the two parallel sized forms the base and is below the longer parallel side. In alternative variations of this example, the trapezoidal shape can be in the form of an acute trapezoid in which the two non-parallel sides are at respective acute angles to the longer parallel side, and in which the two acute angles can be different from one another.

Referring in particular to Fig. 10(b), the central section 625 has a longitudinal thickness (in a direction along the Z-axis) Zl, less than the longitudinal spacing ZS1 between the two bottom frame members 240. Referring also to Fig. 6, the central section 625 has a lateral width (in a direction along the Y-axis) LS2, less than the lateral spacing LSI. The two end sections 626, 627 each have a longitudinal thickness Z2, less than the internal longitudinal spacing ZS2 between each respective pair of flanges 229. At least in operation of the clamping device, the second wedge element 620 is accommodated in the open space OS and between the two pairs of flanges 229, and is reciprocally movable with respect to the base element 200 in a transverse direction, i.e., along the X-axis.

Referring again to Figs. 2, 5(a), 5(b), 5(c) and 6, the central section 625 is configured for being operatively coupled with respect to the first clamping arrangement 400, as will become clearer herein, and comprises a second wedge first face W21, and a pair of second wedge second faces W22.

The second wedge first face W21 is inclined in a complementary manner to the first wedge second face W12 of the first wedge member 420. In operation of the clamping device 100, the second wedge first face W21 is in abutting contact with the first wedge second face W12 of the first wedge member 420.

The second wedge second faces W22 are each inclined in an opposed direction to that of second wedge first face W21. Furthermore, the second wedge second faces W22 are each inclined in a complementary manner to the respective first auxiliary wedge second faces W102 of the first auxiliary wedge member 440. In operation of the clamping device 100, each one of the second wedge second faces W22 is in abutting contact with the respective first auxiliary wedge second face W102 of the first auxiliary wedge member 440.

As viewed in the example of Fig. 5(a), the right end section 626 comprises second wedge third face W23, and the left end section 627 comprises second wedge fourth face W24

It is to be noted that when the second wedge element 620 is located in place with respect to the base element 200, the second wedge third face W23 is non-parallel to the first wedge third faces W13 of the respective flanges 229.

Similarly, when the second wedge element 620 is located in place with respect to the base element 200, the second wedge fourth face W24 is non-parallel to the first wedge fourth faces W14 of the respective flanges 229.

Referring again to Figs. 1(a), 1(b), 2, 5(a), 5(b), 5(c) and 6, the third wedge element 630 and the fourth wedge element 640 are each movably mounted with respect to both the base element 200 and to the third wedge element 620. The clamping device 100, in particular the second clamping arrangement 600 is configured for coupling with an external mechanism or structure in which the clamping device 100 is required for providing a clamping operation with respect thereto. For example, the clamping device 100, in particular the second clamping arrangement 600, comprises coupling interfaces configured for coupling with an external mechanism or structure in which the clamping device 100 is required for providing a clamping operation with respect thereto. In at least this example, the third wedge element 630 and the fourth wedge element 640 are each configured for coupling with an external mechanism or structure in which the clamping device 100 is required. Accordingly, the third wedge element 630 and the fourth wedge element 640 are For example, and referring again to Figs. 13(a) to 14(b), the coupling interfaces 634, 644 can be configured for being mechanically connected to the ends 920 of a clamping arrangement, for example a Marman clamp, for example via bolts (not shown) that can be screwed into interface wells 633, 643 (Figs. 1(b), 2).

In at least this example, in the open configuration OC the coupling interfaces 634, 644 are spaced from one another along output axis OA at said characteristic minimum dimension DI, and in the closed configuration CC, the coupling interfaces 634, 644 are spaced from one another along output axis OA at said characteristic maximum dimension D2.

The third wedge element 630 is configured for being operatively coupled with respect to the wedge element 620, in particular the end section 626 thereof, as will become clearer herein. In at least this example, and referring in particular to Figs. 5(a) and 6, the third wedge element 630 comprises a third wedge first face W31, and a pair of third wedge second faces W32.

The third wedge first face W31 is inclined in a complementary manner to the second wedge third face W23 of the second wedge element 620. In operation of the clamping device 100, the third wedge first face W31 is in abutting contact with the second wedge third face W23 of the second wedge element 620, as illustrated in Figs. 5(b) and 5(c), for example.

The third wedge second faces W32 are each inclined in an opposed direction to that of third wedge first face W31. Furthermore, the third wedge second faces W32 are each inclined in a complementary manner to the respective first wedge third faces W13 on the respective flanges 229 of the base element 200. In operation of the clamping device 100, each one of the third wedge second faces W32 is in abutting contact with the respective the respective first wedge third faces W13 on the respective flanges 229 of the base element 200, as illustrated in Fig. 1(a) for example.

The fourth wedge element 640 is configured for being operatively coupled with respect to the second wedge element 620, in particular the end section 627 thereof, as will become clearer herein. In at least this example, the fourth wedge element 640 comprises a fourth wedge first face W41, and a pair of fourth wedge second faces W42. The fourth wedge first face W41 is inclined in a complementary manner to the second wedge fourth face W24 of the second wedge element 620. In operation of the clamping device 100, the fourth wedge first face W41 is in abutting contact with the second wedge fourth face W24 of the second wedge element 620.

The fourth wedge second faces W42 are each inclined in an opposed direction to that of fourth wedge first face W41. Furthermore, the fourth wedge second faces W42 are each inclined in a complementary manner to the respective first wedge fourth faces W14 on the respective flanges 229 of the base element 200. In operation of the clamping device 100, each one of the fourth wedge second faces W42 is in abutting contact with the respective the respective first wedge fourth faces W14 on the respective flanges 229 of the base element 200.

As best seen in Fig. 11(b) and Fig. 12(b), the third wedge element 630 and the fourth wedge element 640 are biased towards one another laterally (i.e., along the Y-axis) in the absence of external forces acting on the clamping device 100. In at least this example, such biasing is provided via pre-stressed spring 635 coupled at lateral ends thereof to the third wedge element 630 and the fourth wedge element 640 via respective anchoring pins 631 and 632, respectively.

Referring again to Fig. 1(a) and Fig. 6, the first wedge member 420 is positioned with respect to the forward face 201 of the base element 200, such that the first wedge first face Wil is in abutting (and load-transfer) contact with second wedge face W2 of the base element 200, and thus at least part of the arms 426, 427 are projecting into the open space OS.

The first auxiliary wedge member 440 is positioned at the aft face 202 of the base element 200, such that the first auxiliary wedge first faces W101 are each in abutting contact with a respective third wedge face W3 of the frame element 200, and thus at least part of the arms 446, 447 are projecting into the open space OS.

As best seen in Fig. 8(b) and Fig 9(b), first wedge first face Wil is inclined at a first inclination with respect to the actuation axis AA or the coupling axis CC. Such a first inclination can be defined by first wedge first angle <pl. The first wedge first face Wil defines a first wedge first plane W1P1 that is inclined with respect to a first plane Pl by first wedge first angle (pl. The first plane Pl is defined by the Y-axis and the Z-axis, i.e., the Y- axis and the Z-axis both lie on the first plane Pl. It is to be noted that the second wedge face W2 is also parallel to the first wedge plane WP1. Furthermore, the first wedge first plane W1P1 intersects the first plane Pl along a first intersection line IP1. In at least this example, the first intersection line IP1 is parallel to the output axis OA or Y-axis.

Similarly, the first auxiliary wedge first faces W101 are each inclined at a first auxiliary inclination with respect to the actuation axis AA or the coupling axis CC. Such a first auxiliary inclination can be defined by a first auxiliary wedge first angle cpAl. the first auxiliary wedge first faces W101 each defines a first auxiliary wedge first plane W1AP1 that is inclined with respect to the first plane Pl by first auxiliary wedge first angle cpAl. Furthermore, the first auxiliary wedge first plane W1AP1 intersects the first plane Pl along a first auxiliary intersection line IPA1. In at least this example, the first auxiliary intersection line IPA1 is parallel to the output axis OA or Y-axis.

It is to be noted that the third wedge face W3 is also parallel to the first auxiliary wedge plane W1AP1. The first auxiliary wedge first angle cpAl is in the opposite direction to the first wedge first angle (pl and equal in magnitude, and thus:

(pl = -(pAl

For example, the absolute value for the first wedge angle (pl or for the first auxiliary wedge angle (pAl can be 45°. However, in alternative variations of this example, the absolute value for the first wedge angle (pl or for the first auxiliary wedge angle (pAl can be greater than 45°, for example 50°, 55°, 60°, 65°, 70°, 75° and so on. In yet other alternative variations of this example, the absolute value for the first wedge angle (pl or for the first auxiliary wedge angle (pAl can be less than 45°, for example 40°, 35°, 30°, 25°, 20°, 15° and so on.

Also as best seen in Fig. 8(b) and Fig. 9(b), first wedge second face W12 is inclined at a second inclination with respect to the actuation axis AA or the coupling axis CC. Such a second inclination can be defined by first wedge second angle (p2. The first wedge second face W12 defines a first wedge second plane W1P2 that is inclined with respect to the first plane Pl by a first wedge second angle (p2. It is to be noted that the first wedge second face W12 is also parallel to the second wedge first face W21. Furthermore, the first wedge second plane W1P2 intersects the first plane Pl along a second intersection line IP2. In at least this example, the second intersection line IP2 is parallel to the output axis OA or Y-axis.

Similarly, and referring also to Fig. 7(b) and Fig. 7(d), the first auxiliary wedge second faces W102 are each inclined at a respective second auxiliary inclination with respect to the actuation axis AA or the coupling axis CC. Such respective second auxiliary inclination can be defined by a second auxiliary wedge angle cpA2. The first auxiliary wedge second faces W102 each defines a first auxiliary wedge second plane W1AP2 that is inclined with respect to the first plane Pl by second auxiliary wedge angle cpA2. Furthermore, the first auxiliary wedge second plane W1AP2 intersects the first plane Pl along a second auxiliary intersection line IPA2. In at least this example, the first auxiliary intersection line IPA2 is parallel to the output axis OA or Y-axis.

It is to be noted that the second wedge second faces W22 are each also parallel to the first auxiliary wedge second plane W1AP2. The second auxiliary wedge angle (pA2 is in the opposite direction to the second wedge angle <p2 and equal in magnitude, and thus:

<p2 = -cpA2

For example, the absolute value for the second wedge angle <p2 or for the second auxiliary wedge angle (pA2 can be 45°. However, in alternative variations of this example, the absolute value for the second wedge angle <p2 or for the second auxiliary wedge angle cpA2 can be greater than 45°, for example 50°, 55°, 60°, 65°, 70°, 75° and so on. In yet other alternative variations of this example, the absolute value for the second wedge angle <p2 or for the second auxiliary wedge angle cpA2 can be less than 45°, for example 40°, 35°, 30°, 25°, 20°, 15° and so on.

It is further to be noted that at least in this example, both the first wedge member 420 and the first auxiliary wedge member 440 are generally symmetrical about a plane parallel to the first plane Pl and on which the actuation axis AA lies, and thus the second wedge angle <p2 is equal in magnitude and direction to the first auxiliary wedge first angle cpAl, while the second auxiliary wedge angle (pA2 is equal in magnitude and direction to the first wedge first angle (pl. As best seen in Fig. 7(a), the first wedge third faces W13 define a second wedge first plane W2P1 that is inclined with respect to the second plane P2 by a second wedge first angle ol. It is to be noted that the third wedge second faces W32 are each also parallel to the second wedge first plane W2P1. Furthermore, the second wedge first plane W2P1 intersects the second plane P2 along a third intersection line IP3. In at least this example, the third intersection line IP3 is parallel to the actuation axis AA or Z-axis.

Furthermore, and referring also to Fig. 11(b) and Fig. 12(b), second wedge third face W23 is inclined at a third inclination with respect to the output axis OA or the coupling axis CC. Such a third inclination can be defined by a second wedge third angle G3. The second wedge third face W23 defines a second wedge third plane W2P3 that is inclined with respect to the second plane P2 by a second wedge third angle a3.

It is to be noted that the third wedge first face W31 is also parallel to the second wedge third plane W2P3. The second plane P2 in at least this example is defined by the Y- axis and the Z-axis, i.e., the Y-axis and the Z-axis both lie on the second plane P2. Furthermore, the second wedge third plane W2P3 intersects the second plane P2 along a fourth intersection line IP4. In at least this example, the fourth intersection line IP4 is parallel to the actuation axis AA or Z-axis.

In at least this example, the second wedge third face W23 and the first wedge third faces W13 are inclined in mutually opposed direction with respect to second plane P2.

Similarly, the first wedge fourth faces W14 define a second wedge second plane W2P2 that is inclined with respect to the second plane P2 by a second wedge second angle G2. Furthermore, the second wedge second plane W2P2 intersects the second plane P2 along a fifth intersection line IP5. In at least this example, the fifth intersection line IP5 is parallel to the actuation axis AA or Z-axis.

It is to be noted that the fourth wedge second faces W42 are each also parallel to the second wedge second plane W2P2.

Furthermore, second wedge fourth face W24 defines a second wedge fourth plane W2P4 that is inclined with respect to the second plane P2 by a second wedge fourth angle o4. Furthermore, the fourth wedge second faces W42 intersects the second plane P2 along a sixth intersection line IP6. In at least this example, the sixth intersection line IP6 is parallel to the actuation axis AA or Z-axis.

In at least this example, the second wedge fourth angle G4 is inclined to the second plane P2 in an opposite direction to that of the second wedge third angle G3.

Furthermore, and referring also to Fig. 11(b) and Fig. 12(b), second wedge fourth face W24 is inclined at a fourth inclination with respect to the output axis OA or the coupling axis CC. Such a fourth inclination can be defined by the second wedge fourth angle G4. The second wedge fourth face W24 defines a second wedge fourth plane W2P4 that is inclined with respect to the second plane P2 by second wedge fourth angle G4.

It is to be noted that the fourth wedge first face W41 is also parallel to the second wedge fourth plane W2P4.

In at least this example, the second wedge fourth face W24 and the first wedge fourth faces W14 are inclined in mutually opposed direction with respect to the second plane P2.

In at least this example, the second wedge first angle G! is in the opposite direction to the second wedge third angle G3 and equal in magnitude, and thus: ol= -G3

In at least this example, the second wedge second angle G2 is in the opposite direction to the second wedge fourth angle G4 and equal in magnitude, and thus:

G2= -G4

For example, the absolute value for the second wedge first angle G! or for the second wedge second angle G2 can be 45°. However, in alternative variations of this example, the absolute value for the second wedge first angle G! or for the second wedge second angle G2 can be greater than 45°, for example 50°, 55°, 60°, 65°, 70°, 75° and so on. In yet other alternative variations of this example, the absolute value for the second wedge first angle G! or for the second wedge second angle G2 can be less than 45°, for example 40°, 35°, 30°, 25°, 20°, 15° and so on. For example, the absolute value for the second wedge third angle G3 or for the second wedge fourth angle G4 can be 45°. However, in alternative variations of this example, the absolute value for the second wedge third angle G3 or for the second wedge fourth angle G4 can be greater than 45°, for example 50°, 55°, 60°, 65°, 70°, 75° and so on. In yet other alternative variations of this example, the absolute value for the second wedge third angle G3 or for the second wedge fourth angle G4 can be less than 45°, for example 40°, 35°, 30°, 25°, 20°, 15° and so on.

It is further to be noted that at least in this example, the third wedge element 630 ad the fourth wedge element 640 are nominally mirror images of one another. Furthermore, in at least this example, the two end sections 626 and 627 are generally symmetrical about a plane orthogonal to the second plane P2 and on which the actuation axis AA lies. Similarly, in at least this example, the base element 200, in particular the two pairs of flanges 629 thereof are generally symmetrical about a plane orthogonal to the second plane P2 and on which the actuation axis AA lies. Thus in at least this example, the second wedge third angle G3 is equal in magnitude and opposite direction to the second wedge fourth angle G4, while the second wedge first angle G! is equal in magnitude and opposite direction to the second wedge second angle G2.

Referring again to Fig. 6, in at least this example, the device 10 further includes a plurality of alignment features 300 configured for constraining relative movement between the various components of the first clamping arrangement 400 with respect to the second clamping arrangement 600, or for constraining relative movement between the various components of the first clamping arrangement 400 and of the second clamping arrangement 600 with respect to the base element 200 along respective predetermined directions, and to prevent relative movement as will become clearer herein. For example, each respective alignment feature comprises a pin and slot arrangement.

The alignment features 300 include, in at least this example, a first alignment feature 300 A, a second alignment feature 300B and a third alignment feature 300C, configured for ensuring that relative motion between the first clamping arrangement 400 and each one of the base element 200 and the second clamping arrangement 600 occurs in a direction having a component along the X-axis and a component along the Z-axis, and prevents such relative motion having a component in a direction parallel to the Y-axis. The alignment features 300 also include, in at least this example, a fourth alignment feature 300D, a fifth alignment feature 300E and a sixth alignment feature 300F, configured for ensuring that relative motion between the second clamping arrangement 600 and each one of the base element 200 and the first clamping arrangement 400 occurs in a direction having a component along the X-axis and a component along the Y axis, and prevents such relative motion having a component in a direction parallel to the Z-axis.

A first such alignment feature 300, specifically designated with reference numeral 300 A, is configured for ensuring that relative motion between the first wedge member 420 and the base element 200, in particular between the second wedge face W2 and the first wedge first face Wil, occurs in a direction having a component along the X-axis and a component along the Z axis, and prevents such relative motion having a component in a direction parallel to the Y-axis. The first alignment feature 300A comprises a first pin 310A provided through a complementary hole 221 in the upper frame member 220 such that an end of the pin 310A projects above the second wedge face W2. The first alignment feature 300A further comprises a first slot 320A formed on the first wedge first face Wil. The first slot 320A has a cross-section complementary to the cross-section of the projecting end of the pin 310A, and runs in a direction parallel to a Z-X plane. In the assembled device 10, and in operation thereof, as the second wedge face W2 and the first wedge first face Wil slide over one another, the projecting end of the pin 310A concurrently moves along the length of first slot 320A.

A second such alignment feature 300, specifically designated with reference numeral 300B, is configured for ensuring that relative motion between the first auxiliary wedge member 440 and the base element 200, in particular between the third wedge faces W3 and the first auxiliary wedge first faces W101, occurs in a direction having a component along the X-axis and a component along the Z axis, and prevents such relative motion having a component in a direction parallel to the Y-axis. The second alignment feature 300B comprises a second pin 310B provided through a complementary hole 261 in each of the two side members 260, such that an end of the pin 310B projects from the inside surface of the respective side member 260 into the open space OA. The second alignment feature 300B further comprises a respective second slot 320B formed on the outer facing surface of the respective first auxiliary wedge member 446. The second slot 320B has a cross-section complementary to the cross-section of the projecting end of the pin 310B, and runs in a direction parallel to a Z-X plane. In the assembled device 10, and in operation thereof, as the third wedge faces W3 and the respective first auxiliary wedge first faces W101 slide over one another, the projecting end of the respective pins 310B concurrently move along the length of the respective second slots 320B.

A third such alignment feature 300, specifically designated with reference numeral 300C, is configured for ensuring that relative motion between the first wedge member 420 and the second clamping arrangement 600, in particular between the second wedge first face W21 and the first wedge second face W12, occurs in a direction having a component along the X-axis and a component along the Z axis, and prevents such relative motion having a component in a direction parallel to the Y-axis. The third alignment feature 300C comprises a third pin 310C provided through a complementary hole 621 in the central section 625 such that an end of the pin 310C projects above the second wedge first face W21. The third alignment feature 300C further comprises a first slot 320A formed on the first wedge first face Wil. The third slot 320C has a cross-section complementary to the cross-section of the projecting end of the pin 310C, and runs in a direction parallel to a Z-X plane. In the assembled device 10, and in operation thereof, as the second wedge first face W21 and the first wedge second face W12 slide over one another, the projecting end of the pin 310C concurrently moves along the length of third slot 320C.

A fourth such alignment feature 300, specifically designated with reference numeral 300D, is configured for ensuring that relative motion between the third wedge element 630 and the base element 200, in particular between the third wedge second faces W32 and the first wedge third faces W13, occurs in a direction having a component along the X-axis and a component along the Y axis, and prevents such relative motion having a component in a direction parallel to the Z-axis. Referring also to Fig. 1(b), the fourth alignment feature 300D comprises a two fourth pins 310D, each provided through a respective complementary hole 263 in the respective side of the third wedge element 630, such that an end of each pin 310D projects towards one another. The fourth alignment feature 300D further comprises a respective pair of fourth slots 320D formed on the outer facing surface of the two flanges 229 of the respective side member 260. Each fourth slot 320D has a cross-section complementary to the cross-section of the projecting end of the pin 310D, and runs in a direction parallel to a X-Y plane. In the assembled device 10, and in operation thereof, as the third wedge second faces W32 and the respective the first wedge third faces W13 slide over one another, the projecting end of the respective pins 310D concurrently move along the length of the respective fourth slots 320D.

A fifth such alignment feature 300, specifically designated with reference numeral 300E, is configured for ensuring that relative motion between the fourth wedge element 640 and the base element 200, in particular between the fourth wedge second faces W42 and the first wedge fourth faces W14, occurs in a direction having a component along the X-axis and a component along the Y axis, and prevents such relative motion having a component in a direction parallel to the Z-axis. Referring again to Fig. 6, the fifth alignment feature 300E comprises a two fifth pins 310E, each provided through a respective complementary hole 264 in the respective side of the fourth wedge element 640, such that an end of each pin 310E projects towards one another. The fifth alignment feature 300E further comprises a respective pair of fifth slots 320E formed on the outer facing surface of the two flanges 229 of the respective side member 260. Each fifth slot 320E has a cross-section complementary to the cross-section of the projecting end of the pin 310E, and runs in a direction parallel to a X-Y plane. In the assembled device 10, and in operation thereof, as the fourth wedge second faces W42 and the respective first wedge fourth faces W14 slide over one another, the projecting end of the respective pins 310E concurrently move along the length of the respective fifth slots 320E.

A sixth such alignment feature 300, specifically designated with reference numeral 300F, is configured for ensuring that relative motion between the second wedge element 620 and each one of the third wedge element 630 and the fourth wedge element 640, occurs in a direction having a component along the X-axis and a component along the Y axis, and prevents such relative motion having a component in a direction parallel to the Z-axis. In particular, the sixth alignment feature 300F is configured for ensuring that relative motion between the second wedge fourth face W24 and the fourth wedge first face W41, and between second wedge third face W23 and third wedge first face W31, each occurs in a direction having a component along the X-axis and a component along the Y axis, and prevents such relative motion having a component in a direction parallel to the Z-axis.

Referring again to Fig. 1(b), the sixth alignment feature 300E comprises two pairs of sixth pins 310F. One pair of sixth pins 310F is provided through a respective pair of complementary holes 265 in the respective sides of the third wedge element 630, such that an end of each such pin 310F projects towards one another. Referring again to Fig. 6, the other pair of sixth pins 310F is provided through a respective pair of complementary holes 266 in the respective sides of the fourth wedge element 640, such that an end of each such pin 310F projects towards one another.

The sixth alignment feature 300F further comprises two respective pairs of sixth slots 320F provided in the second wedge element 620. One such pair of sixth slots is formed on the outer facing surfaces of the respective end section 626. Each such sixth slot 320F has a cross-section complementary to the cross-section of the projecting end of the respective pin 310F, and runs in a direction parallel to a X-Y plane. In the assembled device 10, and in operation thereof, as the second wedge third face W23 and third wedge first face W31 slide over one another, the projecting end of the respective pins 310F concurrently move along the length of the respective sixth slots 320F. Similarly, the other pair of sixth slots is formed on the outer facing surfaces of the respective end section 627. Each such sixth slot 320F has a cross-section complementary to the cross-section of the projecting end of the respective pin 310F, and runs in a direction parallel to a X-Y plane. In the assembled device 10, and in operation thereof, as the second wedge fourth face W24 and fourth wedge first face W41 slide over one another, the projecting end of the respective pins 310F concurrently move along the length of the respective sixth slots 320F.

It is to be noted that in at least in some alternative variations of this example, one, some, or all of the alignment features 300 can be omitted. In examples in which all the alignment features are omitted, the device comprises an alternative arrangement for movably coupling the third wedge element 630 and the fourth wedge element 640 with respect to the base element 200.

Operation of the clamping device 100 to transit from the open configuration OC to the closed configuration CC can be as follows, for example.

Actuation of the clamping device 100 to transition the clamping device from the open configuration OC to the closed configuration CC is accomplished by turning the screw actuator 500 about the actuation axis AA in a rotational direction such as to enable the first wedge member 420 to be displaced in a direction towards the first auxiliary wedge member 440. It is to be noted that typically the clamping device 100 is first coupled to two elements that are to be connected together via the clamping device 100, via the coupling interfaces 634, 644.

As the first wedge member 420 and the first auxiliary wedge member 440 are brought closer together along the actuator axis AA (parallel to the Z-axis), responsive to operation of the screw actuator 500, the first wedge first face Wil slides with respect to the second wedge face W2 in a direction along a plane parallel to the plane of the first wedge first face Wil and the plane of the second wedge face W2, i.e., having a translational component along the X-axis as well as a concurrent translational component along the Z- axis. Concurrently, two first auxiliary wedge first faces W101 slide with respect to the respective third wedge faces W3 in a direction parallel the plane of two first auxiliary wedge first faces W101 and to the plane of the respective two third wedge faces W3, i.e., also having a translational component along the X-axis as well as along the Z-axis. Thus, since the second wedge face W2 and the two third wedge faces W3 are spatially fixed with respect to the base element 200, the first clamping arrangement 400 translates as a single unit along the X-axis in a net downward direction, in the view illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2, i.e., in a direction along the X-axis towards the second clamping arrangement 600.

Thus, and referring to Figs. 7(b) and 7(d), as the screw actuator 500 is rotated so that the first wedge element 420 and the first auxiliary wedge element 440 are each displaced along the Z-X plane. For example, a center point of the first auxiliary wedge member 440 moves from position CPI in the open configuration OC to position CP2 in the closed configuration CC, and thus essentially the first wedge element 420 and the first auxiliary wedge element 440 are each displaced by a first stroke STI along the Z-axis, and concurrently the aforesaid displacement along the X-axis defines a second stroke ST2. It is to be noted that the displacement along the X-axis is linear with respect to the displacement along the Z-axis.

The first stroke STI thus corresponds to the aforesaid actuation displacement.

It is to be noted that at least in operation of the clamping device 100, the first clamping arrangement 400 is in abutting contact with the second clamping arrangement 600, in particular the second wedge element 620 thereof. In particular, the first wedge second face W12 is in abutting contact with the second wedge first face W21, and concurrently, the first auxiliary wedge second face W102 are in abutting contact with the respective second wedge second faces W22.

Thus, as the first clamping arrangement 400 translates along the X-axis in a net direction towards the second clamping arrangement 600 through second stroke ST2, the first wedge second face W12 slides with respect to the second wedge first face W21 in a direction parallel the plane of the first wedge second face W12 and the plane of the second wedge first face W21, i.e., having a translational component along the X-axis as well as along the Z-axis. Concurrently, two first auxiliary wedge second face W102 slide with respect to the respective second wedge second faces W22 in a direction parallel the plane of two first auxiliary wedge second face W102 and to the plane of the respective two second wedge second faces W22, i.e., also having a translational component along the X-axis as well as along the Z-axis. However, in at least this example, the translation components along the Z- axis is carried out entirely by the first wedge element 420 and the first auxiliary wedge element 440 of first clamping arrangement 400, and thus the second wedge element 620 moves only along a direction parallel to the X axis away from the base element 200. Thus, in response to the first clamping arrangement 400 translating along the X-axis in a net direction towards the second clamping arrangement 600 through second stroke ST2, the second wedge element 620 is also displaced by second stroke ST2 along a direction parallel to the X axis.

The second stroke ST2 thus corresponds to the aforesaid coupling displacement.

As the second wedge element 620 moves only along a direction parallel to the X axis away from the base element 200, this causes second wedge fourth face W24 to slide with respect fourth wedge first face W41, and concurrently the second wedge third face W23 slides with respect to third wedge first face W31. In turn, concurrently third wedge second faces W32 slides with respect to first wedge third faces W 13, and fourth wedge second faces W42 slide with respect to the first wedge fourth faces W14.

The result is that the third wedge element 630 translates with respect to the second wedge element 620 and with respect to the base element 200, in a direction having a component along the X-axis (and away from the 220), and having a component Y-axis (away from the open space OS). Similarly, and concurrently, the fourth wedge element 640 translates with respect to the second wedge element 620 and with respect to the base element 200, in a direction having a component along the X-axis (and away from the 220), and having a component Y-axis (away from the open space OS), i.e., in the opposite direction from the third wedge element 630 along the Y-axis. Furthermore, for example, and referring to Figs. 11(b) and 12(b), a center point of the third clamping element 630 moves from position CP3 in the open configuration OC to position CP3' in the closed configuration CC, and thus essentially the third wedge element 630 is displaced by second stroke ST2 along the X-axis, and concurrently the aforesaid displacement along the Y-axis defines a third stroke ST3. Concurrently, a center point of the fourth clamping element 640 moves from position CP4 in the open configuration OC to position CP4' in the closed configuration CC, and thus essentially the fourth wedge element 640 is displaced by second stroke ST2 along the X-axis, and concurrently the aforesaid displacement along the Y-axis defines a fourth stroke ST3. It is to be noted that the displacement along the X-axis is linear with respect to the displacement along the Y-axis.

Thus, essentially, operation of the screw actuator 500 along actuator axis AA parallel to the Z axis by a first stroke STI results in generation of a force displacing the third wedge element 630 and the fourth wedge element 640 in directions along the output axis OA, parallel to the Y-axis.

Operation of the clamping device 100 to transit from the closed configuration CC to the open configuration OC can be the reverse of the operation of the clamping device 100 to transit from the open configuration OC to the closed configuration CC, as disclosed herein mutatis mutandis.

Thus, the third wedge element 630 and the fourth wedge element 640 move away from one another along the Y-axis, to a final position thereby defining between them the characteristic maximum dimension D2. Furthermore, the difference in magnitude between the characteristic maximum dimension D2 and the characteristic minimum dimension DI is the sum of the third stroke ST3 and the fourth stroke ST4, i.e.:

D2 - DI = ST3 +ST4

The summation of the third stroke ST3 and fourth stroke ST4 thus corresponds to the aforesaid actuation displacement. In at least this example, first auxiliary wedge first angle cpAl, and the first wedge first angle <pl, each have an absolute magnitude of 45°. Similarly, the second auxiliary wedge angle <pA2 and the second wedge angle <p2 each have an absolute magnitude of 45°.

Thus, in at least this example, the first stroke STI is equal in magnitude to the second stroke ST2, and there is a magnification factor in displacement of 1 between the translational movement along the actuation axis AA (which is parallel to the Z-axis), and the coupling axis (which is parallel to the X-axis). However, in alternative variation of this example, the first auxiliary wedge first angle cpAl, and the first wedge first angle (pl, and the second auxiliary wedge angle cpA2 and the second wedge angle <p2, can all have the same absolute magnitude angle, and which can be any suitable angle other than 45°, for example larger than 45° or less than 45°, which would results in magnification factors greater than 1 or less than 1, respectively. In other words, for a given magnitude of the first stroke STI, the second stroke ST2 can be greater than, or less than, respectively, the first stroke STI. The magnification factor for the respective input and output forces is in inverse relationship to the magnification factor in displacement.

Similarly, in at least this example, second wedge first angle G! and the second wedge second angle G2, each have an absolute magnitude of 45°. Similarly, the second wedge third angle G3 and the second wedge fourth angle G4 each have an absolute magnitude of 45°.

Thus, in at least this example, the second stroke ST2 is equal in magnitude to each one of the third stroke ST3 and the fourth stroke ST4, and there is a magnification factor of 1 in displacement between the translational movement along the output axis OA (which is parallel to the Y-axis), and the coupling axis (which is parallel to the X-axis) for each one of the third wedge element 630 and for the fourth element 640. However, in alternative variation of this example, each one of the second wedge first angle G! and second wedge third angle G3, can both have the same absolute magnitude angle, and which can be any suitable angle other than 45°, for example larger than 45° or less than 45°, which would results in magnification factors greater than 1 or less than 1 , respectively for the third wedge element 630. Similarly, each one of the second wedge second angle G2 and second wedge fourth angle G4, can both have the same absolute magnitude angle, and which can be any suitable angle other than 45°, for example larger than 45° or less than 45°, which would results in magnification factors in displacement greater than 1 or less than 1, respectively for the fourth wedge element 640. In other words, for a given magnitude of the second stroke ST2, the third stroke ST3 can be greater than, or less than, the second stroke ST2, and, independently, for same given magnitude of the second stroke ST2, the fourth stroke ST4 can be greater than, or less than, the second stroke ST2. Thus, in some such cases, the fourth stroke ST4 can be different from the thirds stroke ST3. The magnification factor for the respective input and output forces is in inverse relationship to the magnification factor in displacement.

It is to be noted that at least some examples of the device 100 can be designed having particular respective wedge angles (one or more of the first auxiliary wedge first angle cpAl, the first wedge first angle (pl, the second auxiliary wedge angle cpA2, the second wedge angle <p2, second wedge first angle ol, the second wedge second angle G2, the second wedge third angle G3, the second wedge fourth angle G4) such as to provide a desired magnification between an actuation force and an output force. For example, such a device 100 can be designed with magnification factors of unity, or less than 1, or greater than 1, between actuation force (along the actuation axis) and the output force along the output axis), or between the actuation displacement and the output displacement.

It is to be noted that at least in this example, the first plane Pl is parallel with respect to the second plane P2. However, in alternative variations of this example, there can be alternative angular relationships between the first plane Pl and the second plane P2.

It is to be noted that at least in some alternative variations of the example illustrated in Figs. 1(a) to 14(b), the respective clamping device can include an additional second clamping arrangement at an opposed end of the respective base element along the X-axis. In other words, the upper frame member 220 is replaced with an arrangement similar to the side members 260, but in mirror image disposition with respect thereto about a Z-Y plane, and including an additional second clamping arrangement coupled to the first wedge first face Wil and the first auxiliary wedge first face W101. In such a case, actuation of the respective screw actuator along the actuation axis (parallel to the Z-axis) can result in the first wedge arrangement not being displaced along the coupling axis (parallel to the X-axis), but nevertheless displacing each of the two second clamping arrangements along opposite directions along the coupling axis (parallel to the X-axis). In turn, each of the second clamping arrangement provides a change in dimension along a respective output axis (each parallel to the Y-axis) between a respective characteristic minimum dimension DI and a respective maximum dimension D2.

It is to be noted that at least in some alternative variations of the example illustrated in Figs. 1(a) to 14(b) or of at least some other variations thereof, the respective clamping device can include only one of the third clamping element 630 or the fourth clamping element. In the first such case, the fourth clamping element 640, the end section 627, and the respective frame side 260, are removed or replaced with elements that are not displaced along the output axis OA (parallel to the Y-axis) as the respective second clamping arrangement is displaced along the coupling axis (parallel to the X-axis). In the second such case, the third clamping element 630, the end section 626, and the respective frame side 260, are instead removed or replaced with elements that are not displaced along the output axis OA (parallel to the Y-axis) as the respective second clamping arrangement is displaced along the coupling axis (parallel to the X-axis).

It is to be noted that at least in some alternative variations of the example illustrated in Figs. 1 (a) to 14(b) or of at least some other variations thereof, the respective first clamping arrangement does not require, and thus can omit, the respective first auxiliary wedge element, which can be omitted or replaced for example with a simple back plate that is devoid of wedge faces per se.

It is to be noted that at least in some alternative variations of the example illustrated in Figs. 1(a) to 14(b) or of at least some other variations thereof, while the respective actuation axis AA remains non-parallel to the respective coupling axis CC, the respective actuation axis AA can be non-orthogonal to the respective coupling axis CC. For example, the respective actuation axis AA can be at an angle of 30° or 45° or 60° with respect to the respective coupling axis CC. Additionally or alternatively, while the respective output axis OA remains non-parallel to the respective coupling axis CC, the respective output axis OA can be non-orthogonal to the respective coupling axis CC. For example, the respective output axis OA can be at an angle of 30° or 45° or 60° with respect to the respective coupling axis CC.

For example, while in the illustrated example the second intersection line IP2 and the second auxiliary intersection line IPA2 are parallel to the Y-axis, in alternative variations of this example the second intersection line IP2 and the second auxiliary intersection line IPA2 can be inclined at a non-zero angle to the Y-axis. Additionally or alternatively, while in the illustrated example the third intersection line IP3 and the fourth intersection line IP4 are parallel to the Z-axis, in alternative variations of this example the third intersection line IP3 and the fourth intersection line IP4 can be inclined at a non-zero angle to the Z-axis. Additionally or alternatively, while in the illustrated example the fifth intersection line IP5 and the sixth intersection line IP6 are parallel to the Z-axis, in alternative variations of this example the fifth intersection line IP5 and the sixth intersection line IP6 can be inclined at a non-zero angle to the Z-axis

It is to be noted that the planar configuration of the respective wedge surfaces of the various components of the device, via which loads and displacements are transmitted from the actuation axis to the output axis via the coupling axis, results in a linear relationship between input force/displacement along the actuation axis, and output force/displacement along the output axis.

As may be seen at least in Fig. 7(c), for example, the device 100 provides an offset OS between the actuation axis AA and the output axis OU, for example in a direction parallel to the coupling axis CA. referring also to Fig. 13(a), for example, such an offset OS enables an access port 980 to be provided in one of the two components 940, 950 (for example, that are being clamped together via abutting flanges 942, 952) for each device 100. The access port(s) 980 are configured for enabling actuating the device 980 through the respective access port 980 - for example a turning tool, for example a screw driver, Allen key and so on can be inserted via the access port 980 to engage with and turn the respective screw actuator 500. Such an access port 980 is spaced from the coupling flanges 942, 952, and this spacing enables such an access port to be to sealed in a simple manner.

In the method claims that follow, alphanumeric characters and Roman numerals used to designate claim steps are provided for convenience only and do not imply any particular order of performing the steps.

Finally, it should be noted that the word “comprising” as used throughout the appended claims is to be interpreted to mean “including but not limited to”. While there has been shown and disclosed examples in accordance with the presently disclosed subject matter, it will be appreciated that many changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the presently disclosed subject matter as set out in the claims.