Simulation device for simulating the screwing joint of a nut runner

Abstract

The present invention relates to a simulation device (1) for simulating the screwing connection of a nut runner (2), comprising: a check connection element (13) and a brake unit (10), wherein the check connection element is rigidly connected to the brake unit, the nut runner can be coupled to the check connection element, the nut runner is actuatable, the actuated nut runner applies a torque to the check connection element coupled thereto, the applied torque causes the check connection element to rotate around a rotation axis (Z), the brake unit is actuatable, and the actuated brake unit brakes the check connection element rotating around the rotation axis; a torque sensor (12.3) for measuring the applied torque; and a rotation angle sensor (12.2) for measuring the rotation angle of the check connection element around the rotation axis; wherein the simulation device has a zero mark (12.12); and the brake unit can be oriented at a zero angle (12.22) relative to the zero mark (12.12).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a simulation device for simulating the screwing joint of a nut runner. The present invention also relates to a method for simulating the screwing joint of a nut runner using the simulation device. The present invention also relates to a method for modifying an existing simulation device to form the above-mentioned simulation device. Background Art

[0002] According to the guideline VDI / VDE 2647 of February 2013, a nut runner is an electrically operated screwing tool. The nut runner is actuatable and the actuated nut runner continuously rotates about an axis of rotation and thereby applies a torque to the connecting element.

[0003] Connecting elements have threads and are used to connect components, such as bolts and nuts. This connection is achieved through a clamping force between the components. This clamping force ensures that the components can be used under maximum operating forces.

[0004] In other words, the torque applied by the actuated nut runner is used to generate the clamping force. To this end, the nut runner increases the torque applied over time and / or increases the torque applied relative to the rotation angle. The applied torque is increased until it reaches a target torque specific to the clamping force and / or a target rotation angle specific to the clamping force. The target torque and / or target rotation angle can be set on the nut runner. The target torque and / or target rotation angle are also referred to as target parameters hereinafter.

[0005] Nutrunners are equipped with a signaling device. Once the set target value is reached, the nutrunner stops applying torque. Signaling devices can operate according to different principles. An angled wrench automatically stops applying torque when the target value is reached. An acoustic wrench automatically triggers an audible or visual signal when the target value is reached. Display nutrunners display the current applied torque and / or the current target rotation angle on a scale or electronic display.

[0006] Nutrunners are used in many industrial manufacturing processes. To ensure that the nutrunners actually achieve the set target parameters, the performance of the nutrunners needs to be checked regularly.

[0007] To this end, the February 2013 guideline VDI / VDE 2647 specifies what should be checked and how. This process of checking the performance of a nutrunner is known as a screwdriver joint simulation. This simulation is performed using a simulation device that includes a braking unit and a test connection element. The test connection element is rotatable about an axis of rotation. The braking unit and the test connection element are rigidly connected to each other. The nutrunner is coupled to the simulation device via the test connection element.

[0008] A nut runner coupled to the simulation device is actuated and applies a torque to the test connection element. The applied torque causes the test connection element to begin rotating about the rotation axis. A braking unit is actuated and brakes the test connection element.

[0009] The simulation device also includes a measuring unit with a torque sensor and a rotational angle sensor. The torque sensor measures the torque, and the rotational angle sensor measures the rotational angle of the test connection element around the rotation axis. The measuring unit is arranged between the brake unit and the test connection device.

[0010] The measured torque is graphically represented as a torque rate (Drehmomentrate) with respect to the time curve of the measured rotation angle. In order to meet statistical validity, it is necessary to perform multiple screwing engagement simulations. The torque rates of the screwing engagement simulations performed multiple times are graphically superimposed and shown. For each torque rate, the maximum measured torque and the maximum measured rotation angle corresponding to the maximum measured torque are determined. The arithmetic mean of the maximum measured torque is called average torque. The arithmetic mean of the maximum measured rotation angle is called average rotation angle. In addition, for different set target torques and torque rates of different levels, the screwing engagement simulation is repeated.

[0011] According to the guideline VDI / VDE 2647 from February 2013, the mass moment of inertia of the rotating parts of the simulation device is now There should be no significant effect on the average torque. Rotating components of the simulation device include the rotor of the brake unit, the measuring disc of the measuring unit, and the detection connection device. For low-torque screwing simulations, a maximum measured rotation angle of ±15% relative to the average rotation angle is permitted. For high-torque screwing simulations, a maximum measured rotation angle of ±5% relative to the average rotation angle is permitted.

[0012] This places stringent demands on the concentricity of the simulator's rotating components. In particular, the brake unit's rotor and the measuring unit's measuring disk must exhibit very low imbalance relative to the axis of rotation. These stringent concentricity requirements increase the simulator's production and procurement costs. Summary of the Invention

[0013] A first object of the present invention is to provide a low-cost simulation device for simulating screw threading of a nut runner, which meets the requirements of the guideline VDI / VDE 2647 of February 2013 and keeps the permissible deviation of the maximum measured rotation angle relative to the average rotation angle within the permissible deviation required for screw threading simulation.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for performing a screw threading simulation of a nut runner using a simulation device, which meets the requirements of the guideline VDI / VDE 2647 of February 2013 and keeps the permissible deviation of the maximum measured rotation angle relative to the average rotation angle within the permissible deviation required for the screw threading simulation, and the method can be performed simply and quickly.

[0015] An additional object of the present invention is to provide a method for retrofitting an existing simulation device for nut runner screwing simulation, wherein the retrofitted simulation device meets the requirements of the guideline VDI / VDE 2647 of February 2013 and keeps the permissible deviation of the maximum measured rotation angle relative to the average rotation angle within the permissible deviation required for screwing simulation.

[0016] At least one of these objects is achieved by the features of the solution according to the invention.

[0017] The present invention relates to a simulation device for simulating the screwing joint of a nut runner, comprising:

[0018] An inspection connection element and a brake unit, wherein the inspection connection element is rigidly connected to the brake unit; a nut runner can be coupled to the inspection connection element; the nut runner is actuatable; the actuated nut runner applies a torque to the inspection connection element coupled thereto; the applied torque causes the inspection connection element to rotate about a rotation axis; the brake unit is actuatable; the actuated brake unit brakes the inspection connection element rotating about the rotation axis;

[0019] a torque sensor for measuring the applied torque; and

[0020] A rotation angle sensor is used to measure and inspect the rotation angle of the connecting element around the rotation axis;

[0021] wherein the simulation device has a zero mark; and

[0022] In this case, the braking unit can be aligned at a zero angle relative to a zero mark.

[0023] Other developments of the subject matter of the simulation device according to the technical solution of the present invention are given below.

[0024] The present invention also relates to a method for simulating the screwing connection of a nut runner using a simulation device according to the technical solution of the present invention; wherein, in a first step of the method, the braking unit is oriented at a zero angle relative to a zero position mark; wherein, in a second step of the method, the nut runner is coupled to a check connection element; and wherein, in a third step of the method, the screwing connection simulation is started angularly synchronously starting from the zero angle.

[0025] The inventors surprisingly discovered that if the screw-joint simulation is always started from the zero angle oriented with respect to the zero mark, the requirements of the February 2013 guideline VDI / VDE 2647 regarding the permissible deviation of the measured rotation angle relative to the average rotation angle are met. In this way, the rotating parts of the simulation device will always be in the same defined starting position of the rotational motion. This allows the imbalance of the rotating parts of the simulation device to be angularly synchronized. This is because the screw-joint simulation is repeated multiple times, and the imbalance then occurs angularly synchronously with respect to the zero angle. And when the torque rates of the screw-joint simulations performed multiple times are subsequently graphically superimposed, the deviation of the maximum measured rotation angle from the average rotation angle caused by the imbalance also appears angularly synchronized. The installation of the zero mark and the orientation of the brake unit at the zero angle relative to the zero mark can be carried out at low cost, and the method can also be performed simply and quickly.

[0026] The present invention also relates to a method for modifying an existing simulation device to form a simulation device according to the technical solution of the present invention, wherein the existing simulation device has an existing rotation angle sensor and an existing measuring disk without a zero mark; wherein, in the first step of the method, the existing measuring disk is removed; wherein, in the second step of the method, a measuring disk with a zero mark is provided; wherein, in the third step of the method, the provided measuring disk is installed to replace the existing measuring disk; and wherein, in the fourth step of the method, the arrangement of the existing rotation angle sensor relative to the zero mark is defined as a zero angle.

[0027] Alternatively, the present invention also relates to a method for modifying an existing simulation device for simulating the screwing connection of a nut runner to form a simulation device according to the technical solution of the present invention, wherein the existing simulation device has an existing rotation angle sensor and an existing measuring disk with angle marks but no zero mark; wherein, in the alternative first step of the method, one of the angle marks of the existing measuring disk is defined as a zero mark; and wherein, in the fourth step of the method, the arrangement of the existing rotation angle sensor relative to the zero mark is defined as a zero angle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The present invention is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0029] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a simulation device 1 for simulating a screwing engagement of a nut runner 2 is shown;

[0030] Figure 2 Shown according to Figure 1A partial view of a first embodiment of the measuring unit 12 of the simulation device 1 , wherein the zero mark 12 . 12 is not oriented angularly synchronously with respect to the zero angle 12 . 22 ;

[0031] Figure 3 Shown according to Figure 2 Partial view of a first embodiment of the measuring unit 12, wherein the zero mark 12.12 is oriented angularly synchronously with respect to the zero angle 12.22;

[0032] Figure 4 Shown according to Figure 1 A partial view of a second embodiment of the measuring unit 12 of the simulation device 1 , in which the zero mark 12 . 12 is not oriented angularly synchronously with respect to the zero angle 12 . 22 ;

[0033] Figure 5 Shown according to Figure 4 Partial view of a second embodiment of a measuring unit 12 , in which the zero mark 12 . 12 is oriented angularly synchronously with respect to the zero angle 12 . 22 ;

[0034] Figure 6 Schematic diagram showing the use of Figure 1 A series of steps IS to VIIS of a method for simulating a screw connection of a nut runner by a simulation device 1;

[0035] Figure 7 Shows the use of Figure 1 FIG1 is a diagram showing the superimposed torque rates R1, R2, and R3 when the simulation device 1 performs a non-angular synchronous screwing joint simulation;

[0036] Figure 8 Shows the use of Figure 1 A diagram of the torque rates R1, R2, and R3 superimposed when the simulation device 1 performs an angular synchronous screwing joint simulation; and

[0037] Figure 9 A series of steps IN, IN′ to VIIN of a method for retrofitting an existing simulation device 1 ′ is schematically shown.

[0038] The reference numerals are as follows:

[0039] 1 Simulation device

[0040] 1' Existing simulation device

[0041] 2 nut wrenches

[0042] 10 Braking unit

[0043] 10.0 Brake unit housing

[0044] 10.1 Braking elements

[0045] 10.2 Rotor

[0046] 10.3 Control and regulation unit

[0047] 11 Coupling elements

[0048] 12 measurement units

[0049] 12.0 Measuring unit housing

[0050] 12.1 Measuring plate

[0051] 12.1' Existing measuring plate

[0052] 12.10 Measuring surface

[0053] 12.11 Angle Marking

[0054] 12.12 Zero mark

[0055] 12.2 Rotation Angle Sensor

[0056] 12.2' Existing rotation angle sensor

[0057] 12.21 Sensing Elements

[0058] 12.22 Zero Angle

[0059] 12.3 Torque Sensor

[0060] 13 Check connection components

[0061] 14 Analysis Unit

[0062] 14.1 Analytical Procedure

[0063] 14.2 Rotation Angle Signal Line

[0064] 14.3 Torque signal line

[0065] Δ1, Δ2, Δ3 deviation

[0066] IN–VIIN Methodological steps for retrofitting existing simulators

[0067] IS–VIIS method steps for performing screw joint simulations

[0068] M torque

[0069] Me1, Me2, Me3 maximum torque

[0070] Mm average torque

[0071] Ms1, Ms2, Ms3 starting torque signal

[0072] MS torque signal

[0073] NS Zero mark signal

[0074] R1, R2, R3 Torque Ratio

[0075] W rotation angle

[0076] We1, We2, We3 maximum rotation angle

[0077] Ws1, Ws2, Ws3 start rotation angle signal

[0078] Wm average rotation angle

[0079] Z rotation axis DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0080] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a simulation device 1 for simulating a screw connection of a nut runner 2 is shown.

[0081] The nut runner 2 is an electrically operated screwing tool according to the guideline VDI / VDE 2647 of February 2013. The nut runner is actuatable and the actuated nut runner continuously rotates about the axis of rotation Z and thereby applies a torque.

[0082] The nut runner 2 increases the applied torque and / or the applied torque relative to the rotation angle over time. The applied torque is increased until it reaches a target torque and / or a target rotation angle. The target torque and / or target rotation angle can be set on the nut runner 2. The target torque and / or target rotation angle are also referred to as target parameters below.

[0083] Nutrunner 2 is equipped with a signaling device. Once the set target parameter is reached, nutrunner 2 stops applying torque. The signaling device can operate according to different operating principles. Nutrunner 2 can be an angle wrench that automatically bends when the target torque is reached. Nutrunner 2 can be an acoustic wrench that automatically triggers an acoustic or optical signal when the target torque is reached. Nutrunner 2 can also be a display nutrunner that displays the applied torque on a scale or electronic screen.

[0084] The simulation device 1 has a test connection element 13. The nut runner 2 is rigidly coupled to the simulation device 1 via the test connection element 13. The coupling of the nut runner 2 to the simulation device 1 via the test connection element 13 is detachable.

[0085] The simulation device 1 has a measuring unit 12. The measuring unit 12 is arranged on a The measuring cell housing 12.0 is made of a metal and is hollow and cylindrical. The measuring cell housing 12.0 has a cavity in which a measuring disc 12.1 is arranged.

[0086] Measuring disc 12.1 is a cylindrical body made of resistant metal. A test connection element 13 is rigidly connected to measuring disc 12.1. A nutrunner 2 coupled to test connection element 13 is actuated and applies a torque to test connection element 13. The applied torque causes test connection element 13 and the rigidly connected measuring disc 12.1 to begin rotating about the rotation axis Z. Measuring disc 12.1 has a measuring surface 12.10, which lies in a plane whose normal extends parallel to the rotation axis Z. Measuring disc 12.1 has angle markings 12.11 arranged on measuring surface 12.10.

[0087] In accordance with Figure 2 and Figure 3 In a first embodiment of measuring disk 12.1, angle markings 12.11 are light and dark lines. These light and dark lines are arranged in a first area on measuring surface 12.10, which has a constant radial distance from the axis of rotation Z. When viewed in the direction of rotation, the light and dark lines are equidistant from one another. The light and dark lines represent incremental code values. The incremental code values ​​represent the rotation angle of measuring disk 12.1 when it is rotated about axis of rotation Z. The incremental code values ​​do not represent the rotation angle of measuring disk 12.1 when it is rotated about axis of rotation Z in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0088] In accordance with Figure 4 and Figure 5 In a second embodiment of the measuring disk 12.1, the angle markings 12.11 are Gray codes. The Gray code is substantially arranged across the entire measuring surface 12.10. The Gray code comprises a large number of light code values ​​and dark code values. These light code values ​​and dark code values ​​are arranged side by side when viewed in the direction of rotation. These light code values ​​and dark code values ​​are absolute code values, meaning that each absolute code value has a one-to-one correspondence. These absolute code values ​​represent the rotation angle of the measuring disk 12.1 when it rotates about the rotation axis Z.

[0089] The simulation device 1 includes a rotation angle sensor 12.2. The rotation angle sensor 12.2 is fixedly mounted on the measuring unit housing 12.0. The rotation angle sensor 12.2 measures the rotation angle of the measuring disk 12.1 around the rotation axis Z. The rotation angle sensor 12.2 is arranged above the measuring surface 12.10 of the measuring disk 12.1. The rotation angle sensor 12.2 includes a sensor element 12.21. The sensor element 12.21 detects the angle marking 12.11. The rotation angle sensor 12.2 is preferably an optical rotation angle sensor having an optical sensor element, which emits light onto the angle marking 12.11 and uses the optical sensor element to detect the emitted light reflected by the angle marking 12.11. If the angle marking 12.11 is rotated around the rotation axis Z, the section of the angle marking 12.11 detected by the optical sensor element also changes.

[0090] In accordance with Figure 2 and Figure 3 In a first embodiment of the angle marking 12.11, the rotational angle sensor 12.2 counts the number of incremental code values ​​detected by the sensor element 12.21 after a segment change of the angle marking 12.11 and generates a corresponding rotational angle signal WS for this purpose.

[0091] In accordance with Figure 4 and Figure 5 In a second embodiment of the angle marking 12.11, the rotational angle sensor 12.2 detects the absolute code value detected by the sensor element 12.21 after the segment change of the angle marking 12.11 and generates a corresponding rotational angle signal WS for this purpose.

[0092] Preferably, rotational angle sensor 12.2 measures the rotational angle of measuring disk 12.1 about rotation axis Z with an angular resolution of less than or equal to 1°. Rotational angle sensor 12.2 generates a rotational angle signal WS for the measured rotational angle. Rotational angle signal WS is derived via rotational angle signal line 14.2. Preferably, rotational angle sensor 12.2 measures the rotational angle at a measurement frequency greater than or equal to 2000 Hz.

[0093] Based on the knowledge of the present invention, those skilled in the art may also use a rotation angle sensor with a different working principle to replace the optical rotation angle sensor with an optical sensing element, for example, a magnetic rotation angle sensor with a magnetic sensing element, a capacitive rotation angle sensor with a capacitive sensing element, etc.

[0094] The simulation device 1 includes a torque sensor 12.3. The torque sensor 12.3 is mounted on the measuring disk 12.1. The torque sensor 12.3 measures the force as torque along the force lines at a vertical distance relative to the rotation axis Z. Preferably, the torque sensor 12.3 includes a plurality of strain gauges. These strain gauges are mounted on the measuring disk 12.1 with respect to the force lines so that they are stretched and compressed under the action of the force. This stretching and compression causes the resistance of the strain gauges to change. The strain gauges are connected in a bridge circuit. This change in resistance generates a voltage signal in the strain gauge bridge circuit, which is proportional to the magnitude of the torque. This voltage signal generated by the torque sensor 12.3 is derived as the torque signal MS via a torque signal line 14.3. Preferably, the torque sensor 12.3 measures torque in different measuring ranges, for example, 0.4 Nm to 2 Nm, 2 Nm to 10 Nm, 10 Nm to 50 Nm, 50 Nm to 250 Nm, 100 Nm to 500 Nm, 400 Nm to 2000 Nm, 1200 Nm to 6000 Nm, etc. Preferably, the torque sensor 12.3 measures torque at a measuring frequency greater than / equal to 2000 Hz.

[0095] The simulation device 1 has a brake unit 10. The brake unit 10 is arranged in a hollow cylindrical brake unit housing 10.0 made of a resistant metal. The brake unit housing 10.0 has a cavity. A brake element 10.1 and a rotor 10.2 are arranged in the cavity.

[0096] Simulation device 1 has a coupling element 11. Viewed along rotation axis Z, coupling element 11 is arranged between rotor 10.1 and measuring unit 12. Coupling element 11 is rigidly connected not only to rotor 10.1 but also to measuring disk 12.1. Coupling element 11 couples rotor 10.1 to measuring disk 12.1.

[0097] Braking element 10.1 is preferably operated hydraulically or electrically. Braking element 10.1 is actuatable, and when actuated, converts hydraulic or electrical energy into force. Rotor 10.2 is a cylindrical metal body rigidly connected to braking element 10.1. The force generated by braking element 10.1 acts on rotor 10.2, causing it to rotate about rotation axis Z. The direction of rotation of rotor 10.2 about rotation axis Z is opposite to the direction of rotation of test connection element 13 about rotation axis Z. Consequently, actuated braking element 10.1 brakes test connection element 13.

[0098] Braking unit 10 also has a control and regulation unit 10.3. Control and regulation unit 10.3 activates and deactivates braking element 10. However, control and regulation unit 10.3 also regulates and controls the magnitude and duration of the generated force, as well as the speed, acceleration, and duration of the rotational movement of rotor 10.2. Preferably, rotor 10.2 rotates at a speed in the range of 10 to 3000 revolutions per minute.

[0099] The measuring disk 12.1 has a zero mark 12.12. Preferably, the zero mark 12.12 is arranged on the measuring surface 12.10.

[0100] In accordance with Figure 2 and Figure 3 In a first embodiment of the measuring disk 12.1, the zero mark 12.12 is a dark line. The dark line is arranged in a different area on the measuring surface 12.10, at a smaller radial distance from the rotation axis Z than in the first area where the angle marks 12.11 are arranged. Therefore, the zero mark 12.12 is not a component of the angle marks 12.11. Zero mark 12.12 and angle marks 12.11 are arranged spatially separate from each other on the measuring surface 12.10. A measuring disk 12.1 in which the zero mark 12.12 and angle marks 12.11 are located in separate areas is cost-effective. The sensor element 12.21 detects the zero mark 12.12 arranged in the other area independently of the angle marks 12.11 arranged in the first area. The rotational angle sensor 12.2 generates a zero mark signal NS for the zero mark 12.12 detected by the sensor element 12.21. This zero mark signal NS is derived via the rotational angle signal line 14.2.

[0101] In accordance with Figure 4 and Figure 5 In a second embodiment of measuring disk 12.1, zero mark 12.12 is the absolute code value of the Gray code of defined angle marks 12.11. Therefore, zero mark 12.12 is a component of angle marks 12.11. Zero mark 12.12 and angle marks 12.11 are arranged on measuring surface 12.10 without being spatially separated from each other. Sensor element 12.21 detects zero mark 12.12 together with angle marks 12.11. Rotational angle sensor 12.2 generates a zero mark signal NS for zero mark 12.12 detected by sensor element 12.21. This zero mark signal NS is derived via rotational angle signal line 14.2.

[0102] The rotation angle sensor 12.2 is arranged at a defined zero angle 12.22 relative to the zero mark 12.12. The rotation angle sensor 12.2 is fixedly mounted on the simulation device 1. Preferably, the rotation angle sensor 12.2 is fixedly mounted on the measuring unit housing 12.0.

[0103] In accordance with Figures 2 to 5 In the embodiment of the rotation angle sensor 12.2, the zero angle 12.22 represents the maximum radial extent of the rotation angle sensor 12.2 along a radial direction extending perpendicularly to the rotation axis Z. Preferably, the zero angle 12.22 is located at the location of the sensor element 12.21.

[0104] For the purpose of performing the screwed joint simulation, zero angle 12.22 forms the defined initial position for the rotational movement about the axis of rotation Z. Zero mark 12.12 and zero angle 12.22 enable angularly synchronized orientation of the rotating components of simulation device 1. The rotating components of simulation device 1 are brake element 10.1, rotor 10.2, coupling element 11, measuring disc 12.1, torque sensor 12.3, and test connection element 13. Since these rotating components are rigidly connected to one another, aligning zero mark 12.12 of measuring disc 12.1 with zero angle 12.22 of the fixed rotation angle sensor 12.2 is sufficient to achieve angularly synchronized orientation of all rotating components of simulation device 1. Figure 2 and Figure 4 A zero mark 12 . 12 and a zero angle 12 . 22 are shown which are not oriented angularly synchronously. Figure 3 and Figure 5 A zero mark 12 . 12 and a zero angle 12 . 22 oriented angularly synchronously are shown.

[0105] Simulation device 1 includes an analysis unit 14. Analysis unit 14 includes a processor, a data memory, a rotation angle signal line 14.2, a torque signal line 14.3, and an output device. An analysis program 14.1 can be loaded from the data memory into the processor. Analysis program 14.1 loaded into the processor is adapted to read rotation angle signal WS from rotation angle signal line 14.2 via an interface. Analysis program 14.1 loaded into the processor is adapted to read torque signal MS from torque signal line 14.3 via an interface.

[0106] like Figure 6 As shown, the method for performing screw joint simulation using the simulation device 1 is carried out in a plurality of steps IS to VIS.

[0107] In a first step IS of the method, the brake unit 10 is oriented angularly synchronously with respect to the zero mark 12.12 at a zero angle 12.22. Figures 2 to 5 In Figure 2 and Figure 4 In the embodiment, the zero mark 12.12 and the zero angle 12.22 are oriented angularly offset from each other, whereas the zero mark 12.12 and the zero angle 12.22 are oriented angularly offset from each other. Figure 3 and Figure 5 In the example, the zero mark 12.12 and the zero angle 12.22 are oriented synchronously with each other. The zero mark 12.12 and the zero angle 12.22 are oriented by the brake element 10.1. The brake element 10.1 is actuated by the control and regulation unit 10.3. The actuated brake element 10.1 drives the rotor 10.2 and, thereby, the measuring disk 12.1, which is rigidly connected to the rotor 10.2 via the coupling element 11, in rotational motion about the axis of rotation Z. As soon as the sensor element 12.21 detects the zero mark 12.12 of the rotating measuring disk 12.1, the rotational angle sensor 12.2 generates a zero mark signal NS, which is output to the control and regulation unit 10.3 via the rotational angle signal line 14.2. The control and regulation unit 10.3 reads the zero mark signal NS from the rotational angle signal line 14.2 via an interface. Upon reading the zero mark signal NS, the control and regulation unit 10.3 deactivates the brake element 10. The zero mark 12 . 12 is now angularly synchronized with respect to the zero angle 12 . 2 .

[0108] In a second step IIS of the method, a target torque is set on the nut runner 2 . The nut runner 2 is coupled to the test connection element 13 .

[0109] In the third step IIIS of the method, the screw connection simulation starts from the zero angle 12.22. For this purpose, the nut runner 2 is actuated.

[0110] The nut runner 2 coupled to the test connection element 13 applies a torque that increases over time with respect to the rotation angle to the test connection element 13 and the measuring disk 12.1 rigidly connected to the test connection element 13. This causes the test connection element 13 and the measuring disk 12.1 to rotate about the rotation axis Z in the rotation direction.

[0111] Braking unit 10 is activated and brakes test connection element 13. To this end, brake element 10.1 is actuated by control and regulation unit 10.3. Actuated brake element 10.1 causes rotor 10.2 to rotate about axis of rotation Z in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation of test connection element 13. Because rotor 10.2 is rigidly connected to measuring disk 12.1 via coupling element 11, and because measuring disk 12.1 is rigidly connected to test connection element 13, the rotational movement of test connection element 13 about axis of rotation Z is stopped.

[0112] In the fourth step IVS of the method, torque measurement begins. To this end, torque sensor 12.3 begins measuring torque starting from a predefined threshold torque. The threshold torque is preferably 10% of the target torque. Torque sensor 12.3 generates a torque signal MS for the measured torque. This torque signal MS is fed to analysis unit 14 via torque signal line 14.3 and read by analysis program 14.1.

[0113] In the fifth step VS of the method, the rotation angle measurement begins. Rotation angle sensor 12.2 measures the rotation angle starting from a predefined angular start moment. The angular start moment is preferably 50% of the target torque. Rotation angle sensor 12.2 generates a rotation angle signal WS for the measured rotation angle. This rotation angle signal WS is fed to analysis unit 14 via rotation angle signal line 14.2 and read by analysis program 14.1.

[0114] In the sixth step VIS of the method, it is detected whether the set target torque has been applied. Once the set target torque has been applied, the nut runner 2 reacts. Depending on the operating principle on which the nut runner 2 operates, its reaction varies. An angled wrench stops applying torque when the set target torque has been applied. An acoustic wrench triggers an acoustic or optical signal when the set target torque has been applied. A display nut runner shows the applied target torque. This reaction of the nut runner 2 is detected, and the brake element 10.1 is deactivated by the control and regulation unit 10.3. The torque measurement by the torque sensor 12.3 and the rotation angle measurement by the rotation angle sensor 12.2 are also terminated.

[0115] In the seventh step VIS of the method, the time course of the measured torque signal MS relative to the measured rotational angle signal WS is graphically displayed as torque ratios R1, R2, and R3. For this purpose, the torque signal MS read in by the analysis program 14.1 and the read torque signal WS are graphically displayed on the screen of the analysis unit 14 as torque ratios R1, R2, and R3. To ensure statistical validity, multiple screwing simulations are performed. The multiple measured torque signals MS and rotational angle signals WS are read in by the analysis program 14.1 and graphically displayed as superimposed torque ratios R1, R2, and R3.

[0116] This can be done, for example, in Figure 7 and Figure 8 Here, Figure 7 The superimposed torque rates R1 , R2 , R3 of a simulation of a non-angularly synchronized screwing joint using the simulation device 1 are shown. Figure 8The diagram shows the superimposed torque rates R1, R2, and R3 of an angularly synchronized screwing engagement simulation using a simulation device 1. In the diagram shown, torque M is plotted as the ordinate and rotation angle W is plotted as the abscissa. Starting from the starting torque, torque signal MS and rotation angle signal WS are measured. For each torque rate R1, R2, and R3, the measured starting torque signals Ms1, Ms2, and Ms3 and the measured starting rotation angle signals Ws1, Ws2, and Ws3 are marked with dotted lines. In this example, the three torque rates R1, R2, and R3 are shown superimposed, but according to the February 2013 guideline VDI / VDE 2647, 25 torque rates are superimposed in each screwing engagement simulation.

[0117] For each torque rate R1, R2, R3, the analysis program 14.1 determines the maximum measured torque signal Me1, Me2, Me3 and the maximum measured rotation angle signal We1, We2, We3 corresponding to the maximum measured torque signal Me1, Me2, Me3. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The maximum measured rotation angle signals We1, We2, and We3 are marked as dotted lines in Figure 7 and Figure 8 Also marked with a dotted line.

[0118] The analysis program 14.1 generates the arithmetic mean of the maximum measured torque signals Me1, Me2, Me3, which is called the mean torque Mm. Figure 7 and Figure 8 is marked with a dotted line.

[0119] The analysis program 14.1 generates the arithmetic mean of the maximum measured rotation angle signals We1, We2, We3, which is called the mean rotation angle Wm. Figure 7 and Figure 8 is marked with a dotted line.

[0120] and Figure 7 Compared with the simulation of non-angle synchronous screwing joint shown in Figure 8 The starting rotation angle signals Ws1, Ws2, Ws3 in the angle-synchronized screwing engagement simulation shown have a smaller distance between each other. Figure 7 Compared with the simulation of non-angle synchronous screwing joint shown in Figure 8The maximum measured rotational angle signals We1, We2, and We3 in the illustrated angularly synchronized screwing simulation are spaced relatively close to one another. This smaller distance between the start rotational angle signals Ws1, Ws2, and Ws3 and the smaller distance between the maximum measured rotational angle signals We1, We2, and We3 stems from imbalances in the rotating components of the simulation device 1. In the non-angularly synchronized screwing simulation, these imbalances occur at an angular offset; in the angularly synchronized screwing simulation, these imbalances are angularly synchronized.

[0121] It follows that: Figure 8 In the angle-synchronized screwing joint simulation shown in FIG, the deviations Δ1, Δ2, Δ3 between the maximum measured rotation angle signals We1, We2, We3 and the average rotation angle Wm are also smaller than those in FIG. Figure 7 Deviations in the simulation of a non-angularly synchronized screwing joint are shown. In particular, the simulation of the angularly synchronized screwing joint meets the requirements of the guideline VDI / VDE 2647 of February 2013 regarding the permissible deviations of the maximum measured rotation angle relative to the mean rotation angle.

[0122] Figure 9 Schematically, a series of steps IN, IN' to VIIN of a method for retrofitting an existing simulator 1' is shown. The existing simulator 1' has an existing rotational angle sensor 12.2' and an existing measuring disk 12.1' without a zero mark 12.12.

[0123] In a first step IN of the method, the existing measuring disk 12.1' is removed. In a second step IIN of the method, a measuring disk 12.1 with a zero mark 12.12 is provided. In a third step IIIN of the method, the provided measuring disk 12.1 is installed in place of the existing measuring disk 12.1'. In a fourth step IVN of the method, the arrangement of the existing rotary angle sensor 12.2' relative to the zero mark 12.12 is defined as a zero angle 12.22. If the angle marks 12.11 do not correspond one-to-one to the incremental code values ​​and therefore no incremental code value can be defined as the zero mark 12.12, it is recommended to replace the existing measuring disk 12.1' after the first steps IN to IVN.

[0124] In an alternative first step IN' of the method, one of the angle markings 12.11 of the existing measuring disk 12.1' is defined as zero mark 12.12. The fourth step IVN of the method is then carried out, and the arrangement of the existing rotation angle sensor 12.2' relative to the zero mark 12.12 is defined as zero angle 12.22. This alternative first step IN' is suitable if the angle markings 12.11 are absolute code values, so that one of the absolute code values ​​can be defined one-to-one as zero mark 12.12.

[0125] If the existing rotation angle sensor 12.2' is not capable of measuring the zero mark 12.12, then in a fifth step VN of the method, the existing rotation angle sensor 12.2' is removed. In a sixth step VIN of the method, a rotation angle sensor 12 that is capable of measuring the zero mark 12.12 is provided. And in a seventh step VIIN of the method, the provided rotation angle sensor 12.2 is installed in place of the existing rotation angle sensor 12.2'. If the existing rotation angle sensor 12.2' is not capable of measuring the zero mark 12.12, for example because the zero mark 12.12 and the angle mark 12.11 are spatially separated from each other on the measuring surface 12.10, it is recommended to replace the existing rotation angle sensor 12.2' after steps VN to VIIN.

Claims

1. A simulation device (1) for simulating a screwing joint of a nut runner (2), the simulation device comprising: An inspection connection element (13) and a brake unit (10), wherein the inspection connection element (13) is rigidly connected to the brake unit (10); the nut runner (2) is capable of being coupled to the inspection connection element (13); the nut runner (2) is actuatable; the actuated nut runner (2) applies a torque to the inspection connection element (13) coupled thereto; the applied torque causes the inspection connection element (13) to rotate around a rotation axis; the brake unit (10) is actuatable; the actuated brake unit (10) brakes the inspection connection element (13) rotating around the rotation axis; a torque sensor (12.3) for measuring the applied torque; A rotation angle sensor (12.2) for measuring the rotation angle of the inspection connecting element (13) around the rotation axis; It is characterized in that the simulation device (1) has a zero mark (12.12); and the brake unit (10) can be aligned at a zero angle (12.22) with respect to the zero mark (12.12).

2. The simulation device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The simulation device (1) has a measuring disk (12.1); and The measuring disk (12.1) has a zero mark (12.12).

3. The simulation device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that The measuring disc (12.1) is arranged along the rotation axis between the brake unit (10) and the test connection element (13); The measuring disc (12.1) is rigidly connected to the brake unit (10); The inspection connection element (13) is rigidly connected to the measuring disc (12.1); and The zero mark (12.12) is arranged on the measuring surface (12.10) of the measuring disk (12.1).

4. The simulation device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that The measuring disc (12.1) has angle markings (12.11); The angle marking (12.11) is arranged on the measuring surface (12.10); and The zero mark (12.12) and the angle mark (12.11) are arranged spatially separated from one another on the measuring surface (12.10).

5. The simulation device (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that The angle markings (12.11) are incremental code values.

6. The simulation device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that The measuring disc (12.1) has angle markings (12.11); The angle marking (12.11) is arranged on the measuring surface (12.10); and The zero mark (12.12) and the angle mark (12.11) are arranged spatially inseparable from one another on the measuring surface (12.10).

7. The simulation device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that The angle markings (12.11) are absolute code values.

8. The simulation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that The rotational angle sensor (12.2) is arranged in a defined manner at a zero angle (12.22) relative to the zero mark (12.12).

9. The simulation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that The rotation angle sensor (12.2) is mounted on the simulation device (1) in a fixed position.

10. The simulation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that The rotation angle sensor (12.2) has a sensor element (12.21); The sensing element (12.21) detects a zero mark (12.12) oriented at the zero angle (12.22); and The rotation angle sensor (12.2) generates a zero mark signal for a zero mark (12.12) detected by the sensor element (12.21).

11. A method for simulating a screwing joint of a nut runner (2) using a simulation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that: In a first step of the method, the brake unit (10) is oriented at a zero angle (12.22) relative to a zero mark (12.12); In a second step of the method, a nut runner (2) is coupled to the inspection connection element (13); and In a third step of the method, the screw connection simulation is started from the zero angle (12.22).

12. A method for retrofitting an existing simulation device (1') for simulating the screwing of a nut runner (2), in order to form a simulation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the existing simulation device (1') for simulating the screwing of a nut runner (2) has an existing rotation angle sensor (12.2') and an existing measuring disk (12.1') ​​without a zero mark (12.12); characterized in that In a first step of the method, the existing measuring disc (12.1') ​​is removed; In a second step of the method, a measuring disk (12.1) having a zero mark (12.12) is provided; In a third step of the method, the provided measuring disc (12.1) is installed in place of the existing measuring disc (12.1'); and In a fourth step of the method, the arrangement of the existing rotational angle sensor (12.2') relative to the zero mark (12.12) is defined as a zero angle (12.22).

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that The existing rotation angle sensor (12.2') is unable to measure the zero mark (12.12), and in the fifth step of the method, the existing rotation angle sensor is removed; In a sixth step of the method, a rotation angle sensor (12.2) is provided that is capable of measuring the zero mark (12.12); and In a seventh step of the method, the provided rotational angle sensor (12.2) is installed in place of the existing rotational angle sensor (12.2').

14. A method for retrofitting an existing simulation device (1') for simulating the screwing of a nut runner (2), in order to form a simulation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the existing simulation device (1') for simulating the screwing of a nut runner (2) has an existing rotation angle sensor (12.2') and an existing measuring disk (12.1') ​​with angle markings (12.11) but without a zero mark (12.12); characterized in that In a first step of the method, one of the angle markings (12.11) of the existing measuring disk (12.1') ​​is defined as a zero mark (12.12); and In a second step of the method, a measuring disk (12.1) having a zero mark (12.12) is provided; In a third step of the method, the provided measuring disc (12.1) is installed in place of the existing measuring disc (12.1'); and In a fourth step of the method, the arrangement of the existing rotational angle sensor (12.2') relative to the zero mark (12.12) is defined as a zero angle (12.22).

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