Tension Clamp for Thin Material

thingiverse

This is a single-print clamp that grips tightly onto a sheet of thin material directly proportional to the tension on a line attached to the other end - as envisioned. It performs effectively enough to demonstrate its principle, yet unfortunately not reliably enough for my needed level of tension in this scale. If scaled up, it might operate better with reduced strain and force exerted to keep the jaws locked securely. The required pressure could originate from both gravity and tension applied to a line. The pre-drilled holes on the outer body serve dual purposes: conserving material and simplifying removal of the inner jaws after printing is complete. I printed it without using support structures, which resulted in some excessive stringing and sagging, but not enough to hinder their functioning. Following the printing process, push upward on the outermost part of the clamp's jaws to break them free from the housing, then apply gentle pressure outward on the spring end of the jaws through one of the holes on the side of the housing.