The Kinematic Synthesis of Toggle Clamps

The toggle clamp is one of the most common forms of clamps used throughout industry. They are commercially available in different types and models satisfying almost all ordinary fixture clamping requirements. Based on the theorem of implicit function system existence and the concept of solution plane, computers have been employed to generate planar four-bar mechanisms for three position function generation problem at the toggle positions. A quadratic equation which defines the locus can be plotted in the plane of solutions which have toggle at first, second, or third positions. Additionally this approach offers control over the mechanical advantage at clamping position, and defect free solutions. A vertical acting toggle clamp has been worked for illustrative purposes. This methodology has also been applied to generate slider-crank at toggle position for push-pull type toggle clamps.