Clamp structure with improved spring action

摘要

An auxiliary spring structure (10) for use with open clamps in which the auxiliary spring member is contained within a cage (20) formed by the outer band portion whereby the free leg portions of the auxiliary spring member extend through slot-like openings in the cage to engage the latter from the outside so as to resist elastically forces seeking to enlarge the circumferential dimensions of the clamp. In another embodiment, the auxiliary spring structure (10) is formed by one or preferably several inter-engaged leaf springs (111, 112) which are connected between the end area of the outer band portion and the clamping band near the beginning of the inner band portion. Any gaps resulting in the auxiliary spring structure are thereby covered by the full band width of the inner band portion. The auxiliary spring structure of this invention can be used with one-ear clamps, earless clamps and screw-type clamps.