Simulation device for simulating screwing joints of screwing tools

Abstract

A simulation device for simulating the screwing connection of a screwing tool comprises: a check connection unit, through which the screwing tool can be coupled to the simulation device, the screwing tool being actuatable and causing the check connection unit to rotate around a rotation axis and apply torque to the check connection unit when being actuated and coupled to the check connection unit; a measuring unit, measuring the torque applied to the check connection unit by the screwing tool when being actuated and coupled to the check connection unit, and measuring the rotation angle of the check connection unit around the rotation axis when being coupled to the actuated screwing tool; a braking unit, braking the torque applied to the check connection unit by the screwing tool when being actuated and coupled to the check connection unit; the simulation device having a converter unit, mechanically connected to the check connection unit, receiving the torque applied to the check connection unit by the screwing tool when being actuated and coupled to the check connection unit and converting it into a braking force and loading it to the braking unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a simulation device for screw-joint simulation of a screwing tool and a method for screw-joint simulation of a screwing tool using the simulation device. Background Art

[0002] According to the guideline VDI / VDE 2647 of February 2013, screwdrivers are not only electrically operated screwdrivers, but also manually actuated torque wrenches. The screwdriver is actuatable, and the actuated screwdriver rotates about an axis of rotation and thereby applies a torque to the connecting element.

[0003] The connecting element has a thread and is a bolt, nut, etc. The connecting element is used to connect the components. This connection is achieved by the clamping force between the components. The clamping force ensures that the components can be used at the maximum operating force.

[0004] That is, the torque applied by the actuated screwing tool is used to generate the clamping force. For this reason, the screwing tool increases the applied torque over time and / or increases the applied torque with respect to the rotation angle. The applied torque increases until a target torque specific to the clamping force and / or increases until a target rotation angle specific to the clamping force. The target torque and / or the target rotation angle are predefined and can be set on the screwing tool. The target torque and / or the target rotation angle are also referred to as target parameters hereinafter.

[0005] The screwdriver is equipped with a signaling device. Once the set target parameter is reached, the screwdriver stops applying torque. Signaling devices can work according to different working principles. An angled wrench (Knickschlüssel) automatically stops applying torque when the target parameter is reached. An acoustic wrench (Knackschlüssel) automatically triggers an acoustic or optical signal when the target parameter is reached. Display screwdrivers display the currently applied torque and / or the current target rotation angle on a scale or electronic screen.

[0006] Screwdrivers are used in many industrial manufacturing processes. In order to ensure that the screwdrivers actually achieve the set target parameters, the performance of the screwdrivers needs to be checked regularly.

[0007] For this reason, the guideline VDI / VDE 2647 of February 2013 specifies what and how a screwing tool should be checked. The check of the performance of a screw wrench is called a screwing engagement simulation. The screwing engagement simulation is carried out using a simulation device, which has a check connection element, a brake unit and a measuring unit. The screwing tool is coupled to the simulation device through the check connection element. The check connection element can rotate around the axis of rotation. The brake unit and the check connection element are mechanically connected to each other. The measuring unit is arranged between the detection connection device and the brake unit. The measuring unit has a torque sensor and a rotation angle sensor.

[0008] The screwing tool coupled to the simulation device is activated and applies a torque to the test connection element. The test connection element begins to rotate around the rotation axis due to the applied torque. The brake unit is activated and brakes the test connection element. The torque sensor measures the torque, and the rotation angle sensor measures the rotation angle of the test connection element around the rotation axis.

[0009] Such a simulation device is known from the document WO 2016 / 103150 A1. The brake unit has a brake disc and a brake pad. The brake disc is mechanically connected to the inspection connection element, and the brake pad is arranged in a fixed position. The brake unit is operated hydraulically and has a hydraulic pump and a brake piston. The hydraulic pump loads brake fluid to the brake piston, and the loaded brake piston acts on the brake disc in a friction fit and brakes the inspection connection element.

[0010] Such hydraulic brake units are expensive to purchase and maintain, making the simulators expensive as well. Summary of the invention

[0011] The object of the present invention is to provide a low-cost simulation device for simulating screwing engagement of a screwing tool.

[0012] The purpose of the present invention is achieved by the features of the technical solution according to the present invention.

[0013] The present invention relates to a simulation device for simulating screwing engagement of a screwing tool, comprising:

[0014] a test connection unit, by means of which a screwing tool can be coupled to the simulation device, wherein the screwing tool is actuatable and, in the actuated state and coupled to the test connection unit, rotates the test connection unit about a rotation axis and applies a torque to the test connection unit;

[0015] a measuring unit for measuring a torque applied to the inspection connection unit by the screwing tool in a state in which the screwing tool is actuated and coupled to the inspection connection unit, and for measuring a rotation angle of the inspection connection unit around a rotation axis in a state in which the inspection connection unit is coupled to the actuated screwing tool;

[0016] a brake unit for braking a torque applied to the inspection connection unit by the screwing tool in a state where the screwing tool is actuated and coupled to the inspection connection unit;

[0017] The simulation device has a converter unit which is mechanically connected to the inspection connection unit. The converter unit receives the torque applied to the inspection connection unit by the screwing tool when the screwing tool is actuated and coupled to the inspection connection unit, converts the torque into a braking force, and loads the braking force to the brake unit.

[0018] The present invention also relates to a method for performing a screwing joint simulation of a screwing tool using a simulation device according to the technical solution of the present invention, the method comprising the following steps: in a first step, target parameters are set on the screwing tool, and the screwing tool is coupled to the simulation device through a checking connection unit; in a second step, the screwing tool is actuated, and the actuated screwing tool causes the checking connection unit to rotate around a rotation axis and applies a torque to the checking connection unit; in a third step, the torque applied by the screwing tool is received by a converter unit and converted into a braking force, and in the third step, the braking force is loaded from the converter unit to the brake unit.

[0019] Therefore, compared with the prior art described in document WO2016 / 103150A1, the simulation device according to the present invention no longer requires a hydraulic brake unit, which reduces costs. Instead, the torque applied by the screwing tool is received by the converter unit and converted into a braking force. The braking force is loaded into the brake unit.

[0020] Further developments of the present invention will be given in the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The present invention will be described in detail below according to preferred embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1 A longitudinal section of a simulation device 1 is shown with a coupled screwing tool 2;

[0023] Figure 2 Shown according to Figure 1 A longitudinal section in which the screwing tool 2 and the holding unit 15 are actuated;

[0024] Figure 2a Shown according to Figure 1 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 A partial enlarged view of the non-actuated holding unit 15;

[0025] Figure 2b Shown according to Figures 2 to 4A partial enlarged view of the actuated holding unit 15;

[0026] Figure 3 Shown according to Figure 2 A longitudinal section with a converter unit 14 in mechanical contact with the brake unit 12;

[0027] Figure 3a Shown according to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 6 A partial enlarged view of the converter unit 14 which is not in mechanical contact with the brake unit 12;

[0028] Figure 3b Shown according to Figures 3 to 5 A partial enlarged view of a converter unit 14 in mechanical contact with the brake unit 12;

[0029] Figure 4 Shown according to Figure 3 A longitudinal section in which the brake spring element 12.3 of the brake unit 12 is compressed by the converter unit 14;

[0030] Figure 4a Shown according to Figures 1 to 3 and Figure 6 A partial enlarged view of an uncompressed brake spring element 12.3 of the brake unit 12;

[0031] Figure 4b Shown according to Figure 4 and Figure 5 A partial enlarged view of the compressed brake spring element 12.3 of the brake unit 12;

[0032] Figure 5 Shown according to Figure 4 A longitudinal section of the screwing tool 2, including the decoupled screwing tool 2; and

[0033] Figure 6 Shown according to Figure 5 A longitudinal section including a deactivated holding unit 15 .

[0034] The same reference numerals refer to the same objects in the drawings.

[0035] The reference numerals are listed as follows:

[0036] 1 Simulation device

[0037] 2 Screwing tools

[0038] 10.1 Upper part of the housing

[0039] 10.2 Housing bottom

[0040] 11 Check the connection unit

[0041] 11.1 Checking connection components

[0042] 11.2 Rotating body

[0043] 12 Braking unit

[0044] 12.1 Brake pad components

[0045] 12.2 Brake piston

[0046] 12.3 Brake spring elements

[0047] 13 Measurement units

[0048] 14 Converter Unit

[0049] 14.1 Lead screw

[0050] 14.1* Screw start position

[0051] 14.1+ Screw end position

[0052] 14.11 Another mechanical connection

[0053] 14.12 Screw contact surface

[0054] 14.2 Nuts

[0055] 14.2* Nut starting position

[0056] 14.2+ Nut end position

[0057] 14.21 Pressure sleeve

[0058] 14.3 Sleeve

[0059] 14.31 Mechanical connections

[0060] 14.4 Return spring element

[0061] 14.5 Rolling Elements

[0062] 15 Holding unit

[0063] 15.1 Drivers

[0064] 15.2 Retaining elements

[0065] 15.2* Rest position

[0066] 15.2+ Maintaining Position

[0067] Δx Distance traveled

[0068] Δz1 Nut travel

[0069] Δz2 sleeve travel

[0070] F Braking force

[0071] H Form fit retention

[0072] M Torque

[0073] R Spring force

[0074] RR Return spring force

[0075] S Target parameter

[0076] X radial axis

[0077] Z rotation axis DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0078] Figures 1 to 6 A preferred embodiment of a simulation device 1 for simulating a screw connection of a screwing tool 2 is shown in longitudinal section. The longitudinal section is taken along the axis Z of rotation. Figure 2a , Figure 2b , Figure 3a , Figure 3b , Figure 4a and Figure 4b Shows Figures 1 to 6 A partial enlarged view of .

[0079] The screwing tool 2 is an electrically operated screwing tool or a manually actuated torque wrench according to the guideline VDI / VDE 2647 of February 2013. The screwing tool 2 is actuatable and the actuated screwing tool 2 rotates continuously and / or discontinuously around the rotation axis Z depending on the screwing situation and applies a torque M during this process.

[0080] During the screwing engagement simulation, the screwing tool 2 increases the applied torque M and / or the applied torque M with respect to the rotation angle over time. The applied torque M increases until the target torque and / or the target rotation angle. The target torque and / or the target rotation angle are predefined and can be set on the screwing tool 2. The target torque and / or the target rotation angle are also referred to as the target parameter S hereinafter.

[0081] The screwing tool 2 is equipped with a signaling device. In the screwing joint simulation, once the set target parameter S is reached, the screwing tool 2 will stop applying the torque M. The signaling device can work according to different working principles. The screwing wrench 2 can be an angle wrench, which automatically bends when the target torque is reached. The screwing tool 2 can be an acoustic wrench, which automatically triggers an acoustic or optical signal when the target torque is reached. The screwing tool 2 can be a display screwing tool, which displays the applied torque M on a scale or an electronic screen.

[0082] The main components of the simulation device 1 are a check connection unit 11 , a brake unit 12 , a measuring unit 13 , a converter unit 14 and a holding unit 15 .

[0083] The simulation device 1 has a housing 10. The housing 10 is multi-piece and includes a housing upper part 10.1 and a housing bottom 10.2. The housing end close to the screwing tool is located on the housing upper part 10.1, and the housing end away from the screwing tool is located on the housing bottom 10.2. The housing 10 is hollow cylindrical and extends along the rotation axis Z. The housing 10 has a hollow chamber. The hollow chamber extends from the housing upper part 10.1 to the housing bottom 10.2. The housing 10 has multiple functions, which protects the main components of the simulation device 1 from mechanical damage, and it also provides mechanical stability for the simulation device 1 during the screwing joint simulation to prevent bending along the rotation axis Z and twisting around the rotation axis Z.

[0084] The inspection connection unit 11 has the function of coupling the screwing tool 2 with the simulation device 1 to simulate the screwing engagement. The inspection connection unit 11 is cylindrical and extends along the rotation axis Z. The inspection connection element 11 includes an inspection connection element 11.1 and a rotating body 11.2. Preferably, the inspection connection element 11.1 and the rotating body 11.2 are made in one piece. The inspection connection element 11.1 is arranged on the housing end of the upper housing part 10.1 close to the screwing tool. The inspection connection element 11.1 can be approached from the outside through an opening in the upper housing part 10.1. The inspection connection element 11.1 is standardized, for example, a quadrilateral. The screwing tool 2 is coupled to the simulation device 1 through the inspection connection element 11.1. The coupling is releasable. The rotating body 11.2 is rotatably mounted and arranged in the hollow chamber of the upper housing part 10.1.

[0085] The brake unit 12 is arranged in the hollow chamber of the housing upper part 10.1. The brake unit 12 has a plurality of brake pad elements 12.1, a brake piston 12.2 and a plurality of brake spring elements 12.3. The brake unit 12 has the function of braking the torque M applied by the screwing tool 2 during the screwing joint simulation.

[0086] Along the rotation axis Z, the brake pad element 12.1 is arranged closer to the screwing tool 2, and the brake piston 12.2 is arranged farther away from the screwing tool 2. Preferably, the brake pad element 12.1 has a plurality of first brake pad elements fastened to the housing upper part 10.1 and a plurality of second brake pad elements fastened to the rotating body 11.2. The brake pad element 12.1 is annular. They are arranged alternately with each other along the rotation axis Z. The brake piston 12.2 is arranged on the housing upper part 10.1. The brake piston 12.2 has an end away from the screwing tool and an end close to the screwing tool. The brake piston 12.2 is in direct mechanical contact with the brake pad element 12.1 via the end close to the screwing tool. Through the end away from the screwing tool, a braking force F (see Figure 3 and Figure 4 ). The brake piston 12.2 loaded with a braking force F is movable along the rotation axis Z in the direction toward the screwing tool 2. The brake piston 12.2 loaded with a braking force F causes the brake pad element 12.1 to abut against each other in a friction fit. The brake pad elements 12.1 abutting against each other in a friction fit brake the torque M applied by the screwing tool 2.

[0087] The brake spring element 12.3 is arranged at the housing end facing away from the screwing tool, in the hollow chamber of the housing pot 10.2. The brake spring element 12.3 is fastened in the housing pot 10.2. Preferably, the brake spring element 12.3 is a disc spring. The brake spring element 12.3 is compressible along the rotation axis Z. Depending on the target variable S (target torque and / or target rotation angle), different numbers of brake spring elements 12.3 and / or brake spring elements 12.3 of different stiffness are arranged in the housing pot 10.2. In order to quickly and easily replace the brake spring element 12.3, the housing pot 10.2 has a quick lock (Schnellverschluss), for example a bayonet lock.

[0088] The measuring unit 13 is arranged in the hollow chamber of the upper housing part 10.1. The measuring unit 13 has a torque sensor and a rotation angle sensor. The torque sensor has the function of measuring the torque M applied by the screwing tool 2 during the screwing engagement simulation. The torque sensor is fastened to the rotating body 11.2. Preferably, the torque sensor is a strain gauge. The strain gauge detects the extension or compression of the rotating body 11.2 caused by the torque M. The rotation angle sensor has the function of measuring the rotation angle of the check connection unit 11 rotating around the rotation axis Z during the screwing engagement simulation. The rotation angle sensor includes a sensor element and a measuring disc. The sensor element is fastened to the upper housing part 10.1, and the measuring disc is fastened to the rotating body 11.2. Preferably, the measuring disc has an angle mark, and the sensor element detects the angle mark rotating around the rotation axis Z during the screwing engagement simulation.

[0089] The converter unit 14 is mostly arranged in the hollow chamber of the housing upper part 10.1, and a small part is arranged in the hollow chamber of the housing pot 10.2. The converter unit 14 has a screw 14.1, a nut 14.2, a sleeve 14.3 and a return spring element 14.4. The converter unit 14 is fastened to the inspection connection unit 11. The function of the converter unit 14 is to receive the torque M applied by the screwing tool 2 during the screwing joint simulation and convert it into a braking force F, and apply the braking force F to the brake unit 12.

[0090] The screw 14.1 is cylindrical and extends along the rotation axis Z. The nut 14.2 is hollow cylindrical and is arranged on the circumference of the screw 14.1. In a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis Z, the nut 14.2 completely surrounds the circumference of the screw 14.1. The screw 14.1 and the nut 14.2 are connected to each other by a form fit. The form fit converts the rotational movement of the screw 14.1 around the rotation axis Z into the longitudinal movement of the nut 14.2 along the rotation axis Z. Preferably, the screw 14.1 and the nut 14.2 form a ball screw transmission, a roller screw transmission, or the like. In this case, the screw 14.1 is a threaded screw, and the nut 14.2 is a threaded nut. Here, rolling elements 14.5 such as balls or rollers form a form fit between the threaded screw and the threaded nut. Figures 1 to 6 In the diagram, the rolling elements 14.5 are schematically shown as dashed circles. The threaded spindle has a raceway on its circumference. The threaded nut has a setback. The rolling elements 14.5 move in the raceway of the threaded spindle and in the setback of the threaded nut. The rolling elements 14.5 convert the rotational movement of the threaded spindle about the rotation axis Z into a movement of the threaded nut along the rotation axis Z. Since the rolling friction of the rolling elements 14.5 is very low, there is no self-braking in ball screw drives or roller screw drives.

[0091] The sleeve 14.3 is connected to the rotating body 11.2 via a mechanical connection 14.31. The mechanical connection 14.31 transfers the torque M applied by the screwing tool 2 from the rotating body 11.2 to the sleeve 14.3. Preferably, the mechanical connection 14.31 is a toothing, wherein the sleeve 14.3 and the rotating body 11.2 are provided with teeth which mesh with each other and form a toothing.

[0092] The lead screw 14.1 has an end close to the screwing tool along the rotation axis Z. At the end close to the screwing tool, the lead screw 14.1 is fastened to the sleeve 14.3 by another mechanical connection 14.11. The other mechanical connection 14.11 transfers the torque M applied by the screwing tool 2 from the sleeve 14.3 to the lead screw 14.1. Preferably, the other mechanical connection 14.11 is a pass-key-bolt connection (Passfeder-Schraube-Verbindung). Here, the bolt connects the lead screw 14.1 and the sleeve 14.3 to each other, and the pass-key ensures the connection. The bolt has a thread with a pitch. Under the action of the torque M applied by the screwing tool 2 and according to the pitch, the bolt can move along the rotation axis Z and cause the longitudinal movement of the sleeve 14.3 in the direction away from the screwing tool 2 to be less than / equal to 10mm.

[0093] The return spring element 14.4 is arranged on the housing upper part 10.1. Preferably, the end of the return spring element 14.4 close to the screwing tool mechanically contacts the housing upper part 10.1, while the end of the return spring element 14.4 remote from the screwing tool mechanically contacts the nut 14.2.

[0094] Along the rotation axis Z, the nut 14.2 is arranged farther away from the screwing tool 2 than the return spring element 14.4 and the brake piston 12.2. The nut 14.2 has a bearing and a pressure sleeve 14.21 at its end close to the screwing tool. The bearing serves to prevent the nut 14.2 from tilting during the movement along the rotation axis Z caused by the rolling element 14.5. The nut 14.2 is in mechanical contact with the return spring element 14.4 and with the brake piston 12.2 via the pressure sleeve 14.21. For this purpose, the pressure sleeve 14.21 has a contact surface extending in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis Z. The mechanical contact is not only made via the return spring element 14.4, but also via the brake piston 12.2.

[0095] The holding unit 15 is arranged on the housing 10. The holding unit 15 has a drive 15.1 and a holding element 15.2. The holding unit 15 has the function of holding the nut 14.2 along the rotation axis Z in the direction of the screwing tool 2 for a directional movement.

[0096] The drive 15.1 is fastened to the housing upper part 10.1 on the outside. Preferably, the drive 15.1 is a solenoid (hub magnet). The drive 15.1 and the holding element 15.2 are mechanically connected to each other. The drive 15.1 and the holding element 15.2 extend along a radial axis X. The radial axis X is perpendicular to the rotation axis Z. The holding element 15.2 extends through the outer opening of the housing 10 into the hollow chamber of the housing 10. The holding element 15.2 preferably has a sliding key.

[0097] The holding unit 15 is activatable and deactivatable. When the holding unit 15 is activated, the drive 15.1 moves the holding element 15.2 between the rest position 15.2* and the holding position 15.2+. Figure 2a , the holding element 15.2 is in the rest position 15.2*. Figure 2b , the driver 15.1 has moved the retaining element 15.2 along the radial axis X towards the nut 14.2 by a travel distance Δx. The retaining element 15.2 is now in the retaining position 15.2+. In the retaining position 15.2+, the retaining element 15.2 is in direct mechanical contact with the nut 14.2. Preferably, the travel distance Δx along the radial axis X is less than / equal to 10 mm. The retaining element 15.2 in mechanical contact with the nut 14.2 in the retaining position 15.2+ retains the nut 14.2 in a form-fitting manner (see Figures 2 to 4 ).

[0098] When the screw 14.1 rotates around the rotation axis Z, the form-fitting retention H will prevent the nut 14.2 from moving along the rotation axis Z in a direction away from the screwing tool 2. However, the form-fitting retention H will allow the nut 14.2 to move along the rotation axis Z in a direction toward the screwing tool 2. Figure 3a , the nut 14.2 is in the nut starting position 14.2*. Starting from the nut starting position 14.2*, the nut 14.2 can be moved along the rotation axis Z in the direction of the screwing tool 2 by a nut stroke Δz1 that is preferably less than / equal to 25 mm. However, the movement of the nut 14.2 along the rotation axis Z in the direction of the screwing tool 2 is limited by the brake piston 12.2. The nut 14.2 moves along the rotation axis Z by the nut stroke Δz1 and is then in the nut end position 14.2+ relative to the return spring element 14.4 and relative to the brake piston 12.2. The pressure sleeve 14.21 compresses the return spring element 14.4 and applies the braking force F to the brake piston 12.2.

[0099] The threaded spindle 14.1 has an end facing away from the screwing tool along the rotation axis Z. The threaded spindle 14.1 has a threaded spindle contact surface 14.12 at the end facing away from the screwing tool. The threaded spindle 14.1 is in direct mechanical contact with the brake spring element 12.3 in the housing pot 10.2 via the threaded spindle contact surface 14.12. The threaded spindle contact surface 14.12 extends in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis Z.

[0100] If the nut 14.2 is now in the nut end position 14.2+ and the screwing tool 2 continues to drive the threaded spindle 14.1 in a rotational movement about the rotation axis Z, the nut 14.2 and the threaded spindle 14.1 are mechanically clamped to each other. Figure 4a and Figure 4bAs shown in , the sleeve 14.3 moves along the rotation axis Z in a direction away from the screwing tool 2 under the action of the torque M applied by the screwing tool 2. As a result, the screw 14.1 mechanically connected to the sleeve 14.3 also moves along the rotation axis Z in a direction away from the screwing tool 2. The screw contact surface 14.12 leaves the screw starting position 14.1* and moves along the rotation axis Z to the screw end position 14.1+, which causes the compression of the brake spring element 12.3.

[0101] Even if the screwing tool 2 no longer applies the torque M at the end of the screwing simulation, the nut 14.2 will still continue to apply the braking force F to the brake piston 12.2 (see Figure 5 ). This is because the nut 14 . 2 is still in the form-fitting retention H of the retaining unit 15 .

[0102] At the end of the screw connection simulation, the screwing tool 2 no longer applies the torque M. However, the nut 14.2 is no longer in the form-fitting retention H only when the holding unit 15 is deactivated, when the holding element 15.2 has been moved back from the holding position 15.2+ to the rest position 15.2* by the drive 15.1. Subsequently, the brake spring element 12.3 is released from the compression, thereby generating a spring force R. The spring force R acts on the screw 14.1 via the screw contact surface 14.12. The sleeve 14.3 and the screw 14.1 move along the rotation axis Z in the direction of the screwing tool 2. The screw contact surface 14.12 leaves the screw end position 14.1+ and automatically moves along the rotation axis Z to the screw starting position 14.1+ (see Figure 5 and Figure 6 ). Therefore, no further time-consuming precautions are required for resetting the simulation device 1, which is cost-effective.

[0103] Without the form fit H, the return spring element 14.4 is decompressed and, under the action of the return spring force RR generated by the decompression, the nut 14.2 leaves the nut end position 14.2+ and automatically takes up the nut starting position 14.2+ again (see Figure 5 and Figure 6 ). Preferably, the return spring force RR is selected to be so large that the nut 14 . 2 re-occupies the nut starting position 14 . 2+ particularly quickly under the action of the return spring force RR, which saves time and costs.

[0104] Without the form-fitting retaining H, the friction-fitting contact of the brake pad element 12 . 1 is released and the brake piston 12 . 2 is moved along the rotational axis Z away from the brake pad element 12 . 1 .

[0105] The method for simulating screwing of a screwing tool 2 using the simulation device 1 now comprises the following steps:

[0106] In accordance with Figure 1 In a first step, a target variable S is set on the screwing tool 2 and the screwing tool 2 is coupled to the simulation device 1 via the check connection unit 11. The screwing tool 2 has not yet been actuated, nor has it been rotated about the axis of rotation Z, and no torque M has been applied. The holding element 15.2 is in the rest position 15.2* (see Figure 2a ). The nut 14.2 is in the nut starting position 14.2* (see Figure 3a ). The screw 14.1 is in the screw starting position 14.1* (see Figure 4a ).

[0107] In accordance with Figure 2 In the second step, the screwing tool 2 is activated. Shortly after the screwing tool 2 is activated (within 2 seconds), the holding unit 15 is activated and the holding element 15.2 is moved to the holding position 15.2+ by the drive 15.1, and the nut 14.2 is in the nut starting position 14.2* (see also) under the form-fitting holding H. Figure 2b and Figure 3a ). The screw 14.1 is still in the screw starting position 14.1* (see Figure 4a ).

[0108] In accordance with Figure 3 In the third step, the actuated screwing tool 2 rotates around the rotation axis Z and applies a torque M. The inspection connection element 11.1 coupled to the screwing tool 2 transmits the rotational movement around the rotation axis Z to the sleeve 14.3 via the rotating body 11.2. The converter unit 14 receives the torque M via the mechanical connection 14.31. The rotational movement around the rotation axis Z is transmitted to the screw 14.1 by the sleeve 14.3. The rotational movement of the screw 14.1 around the rotation axis Z causes the movement of the nut 14.2 along the rotation axis Z. The converter unit 14 converts the applied torque M. The form-fitting retention H on the nut 14.2 prevents the nut 14.2 from moving along the rotation axis Z in a direction away from the screwing tool 2. Therefore, the nut 14.2 performs a movement along the rotation axis Z in the direction of the screwing tool 2. The nut 14.2 leaves the nut starting position 14.1* and moves along the rotation axis Z to the nut end position 14.2+ (see Figure 3a and Figure 3b). The nut 14.2, which moves to the nut end position 14.2+, converts the applied torque M into a braking force F. In this way, the converter unit 14 converts the applied torque M into a braking force F. In the nut end position 14.2+, the nut 14.2 compresses the return spring element 14.4. In the nut end position 14.2+, the nut 14.2 applies the braking force F to the brake piston 12.2. In this way, the conversion unit 14 applies the braking force F to the brake unit 12. The brake piston 12.2, which is loaded with the braking force F, can move along the rotation axis Z and cause the brake pad element 12.1 to abut with friction. The brake pad element 12.1 brakes the torque M applied by the screwing tool 2. The measuring unit 13 measures the torque M applied by the screwing tool 2 and checks the rotation angle of the connection unit 11 around the rotation axis Z. The retaining element 15.2 remains in the retaining position 15.2+ (see Figure 2b ). The screw 14.1 is still in the screw starting position 14.1*.

[0109] In accordance with Figure 4 In the fourth step, the screwing tool 2 further increases the applied torque M until the set target variable S is reached. In this process, the screwing tool 2 rotates the screw 14.1 about the rotation axis Z. Since the nut 14.2 is in the nut end position 14.2+, the nut 14.2 and the screw 14.1 are mechanically clamped to each other. Due to this mechanical clamping, the sleeve 14.3 moves the screw 14.1 from the screw start position 14.1* to the screw end position 14.1+ and compresses the brake spring element 12.3 (see Figure 4a and Figure 4b The measuring unit 13 measures the torque M applied by the screwing tool 2 and checks the rotation angle of the connecting unit 11 around the rotation axis Z.

[0110] In accordance with Figure 5 In the fifth step, the screwing tool 2 has reached the set target variable S and has stopped the rotational movement of the test connection unit 11 around the rotation axis Z and the application of the torque M. The coupling of the screwing tool 2 to the test connection element 11.1 is released. The screwing tool 2 is removed from the simulation device 1. The holding element 15.2 remains in the holding position 15.2+ (see Figure 2b ). The nut 14.2 is kept in the nut end position 14.2+ (see Figure 3b ).

[0111] In accordance with Figure 6In a sixth step, the holding unit 15 is deactivated and the holding element 15.2 is moved by the drive 15.1 from the holding position 15.2+ back to the rest position 15.2*. The nut 14.2 is no longer in the form-fitting holding H. Without the form-fitting holding H, the return spring element 14.4 is decompressed and moves the nut 14.2 along the rotation axis Z to the nut starting position 14.2+ (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 5 and Figure 6 Without the form-fitting retaining H, the frictional contact of the brake pad element 12.1 is released and the brake piston 12.2 is moved away from the brake pad element 12.1 along the axis of rotation Z (see Figure 5 and Figure 6 ). At the same time, the brake spring element 12.3 is released from compression, which results in the generation of a spring force R. By means of this spring force R, the sleeve 14.3 and the screw 14.1 move from the screw end position 14.1+ along the rotation axis Z back to the screw start position 14.1*. Figure 6 In the illustration shown, the spindle starting position is reached.

Claims

1. A simulation device (1) for simulating a screwing joint of a screwing tool (2), comprising: A test connection unit (11), via which the screwing tool (2) can be coupled to the simulation device (1), wherein: The screwing tool (2) is actuatable and, when actuated and coupled to the inspection connection unit (11), causes the inspection connection unit (11) to rotate about a rotation axis (Z) and applies a torque (M) to the inspection connection unit (11); a measuring unit (13) for measuring a torque (M) applied to the inspection connection unit (11) by the screwing tool (2) when the screwing tool (2) is actuated and coupled to the inspection connection unit (11), and for measuring a rotation angle of the inspection connection unit (11) around the rotation axis (Z) when the screwing tool (2) is coupled to the actuated screwing tool (2); and A braking unit (12) for braking a torque (M) applied to the inspection connection unit (11) by the screwing tool (2) when the screwing tool (2) is actuated and coupled to the inspection connection unit (11); The simulation device (1) comprises a converter unit (14), the converter unit (14) is mechanically connected to the inspection connection unit (11), the converter unit (14) receives a torque (M) applied to the inspection connection unit (11) by the screwing tool (2) when the screwing tool (2) is actuated and coupled to the inspection connection unit (11), converts the torque (M) into a braking force (F), and loads the braking force (F) to the brake unit (12); It is characterized in that The converter unit (14) comprises a lead screw (14.1) and a nut (14.2), wherein the lead screw (14.1) and the nut (14.2) are connected to each other by a form fit, wherein the form fit converts the rotational movement of the lead screw (14.1) around the rotation axis (Z) into the longitudinal movement of the nut (14.2) along the rotation axis (Z); and the nut (14.2) moving along the rotation axis (Z) converts the torque (M) applied to the inspection connection unit (11) by the screwing tool (2) when it is actuated and coupled to the inspection connection unit (11) into a braking force (F), and loads the braking force (F) to the brake unit (12); The converter unit (14) has a rolling element (14.5); the screw (14.1) is a threaded screw; the nut (14.2) is a threaded nut; the rolling element (14.5) forms the shape fit between the threaded screw (14.1) and the threaded nut (14.2); and the rolling element (14.5) converts the rotational movement of the threaded screw (14.1) around the rotation axis (Z) into the longitudinal movement of the threaded nut (14.2) along the rotation axis (Z).

2. The simulation device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The simulation device (1) has a holding unit (15) which is actuatable; and the actuated holding unit (15) holds the nut (14.2) in a form-fitting holding (H), wherein the form-fitting holding (H) only allows the nut (14.2) to move longitudinally from a nut starting position (14.2*) along the rotation axis (Z) in the direction of the screwing tool (2) to a nut end position (14.2+).

3. The simulation device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that The brake unit (12) comprises a plurality of brake pad elements (12.1) and a brake piston (12.2); the nut (14.2) which moves longitudinally to the end position (14.2+) of the nut applies the braking force (F) to the brake piston (12.2); and the brake piston (12.2) which is applied with the braking force (F) causes the brake pad element (12.1) to abut against the brake pad element in a frictional manner.

4. The simulation device (1) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that The converter unit (14) has a return spring element (14.4); and the nut (14.2) moving longitudinally to the nut end position (14.2+) compresses the return spring element (14.4).

5. The simulation device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that During the rotational movement of the screw (14.1) around the rotation axis (Z), the nut (14.2) and the screw (14.1) which move longitudinally to the nut end position (14.2+) are clamped to each other, and the screw (14.1) moves longitudinally from the screw starting position (14.1*) to the screw end position (14.1+) along the rotation axis (Z); the brake unit (12) has a plurality of brake spring elements (12.3); and the screw (14.1) which moves longitudinally along the rotation axis (Z) to the screw end position (14.1+) compresses the brake spring elements (12.3).

6. The simulation device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that The brake spring element (12.3) is arranged in a housing pot (10.2); different numbers of brake spring elements (12.3) are arranged in the housing pot (10.2) according to the torque (M) applied by the actuated screwing tool (2) until a predefined target torque and / or a target rotation angle; and / or brake spring elements (12.3) of different stiffness are arranged in the housing pot (10.2) according to the torque (M) applied by the actuated screwing tool (2) until a predefined target torque and / or a target rotation angle.

7. The simulation device (1) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that The brake spring element (12.3) is arranged in a housing pot (10.2); the housing pot (10.2) is opened by a quick-release fastener, and the brake spring element (12.3) can be replaced in the opened housing pot (10.2).

8. A method for simulating screwing joints of a screwing tool (2) using a simulation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: The method comprises the following steps: In a first step, the screwing tool (2) is coupled to the simulation device (1) via a test connection unit (11); In a second step, the screwing tool (2) is actuated, the actuated screwing tool causing the test connection unit (11) to rotate about the rotation axis (Z) and exerting a torque (M) on the test connection unit (11); In a third step, the converter unit (14) receives the torque (M) applied by the screwing tool (2) and converts the torque into a braking force (F); and In a third step, the converter unit (14) applies the braking force (F) to the brake unit (12).

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that The converter unit (14) comprises a lead screw (14.1) and a nut (14.2), wherein the lead screw (14.1) and the nut (14.2) are connected to each other in a form-fitting manner, and in a third step, through the form-fitting, the rotational movement of the lead screw (14.1) around the rotation axis (Z) is converted into the longitudinal movement of the nut (14.2) from a nut starting position (14.2*) along the rotation axis (Z) to a nut end position (14.2+); and in the third step, the nut (14.2) that moves longitudinally to the nut end position (14.2+) converts the torque (M) applied by the screwing tool (2) into the braking force (F).

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that The simulation device (1) has a holding unit (15), which is actuated in a second step; the nut (14.2) is held by the actuated holding unit (15) in a form-fitting holding (H), and the form-fitting holding (H) only allows the nut (14.2) to move longitudinally from the nut starting position (14.2*) along the rotation axis (Z) in the direction of the screwing tool (2) to the nut end position (14.2+).

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that The brake unit (12) has a plurality of brake pad elements (12.1) and a brake piston (12.2); and in a third step, the nut (14.2) that moves longitudinally to the nut end position (14.2+) loads the brake force (F) to the brake piston (12.2); and in the third step, the brake piston (12.2) loaded with the brake force (F) causes the brake pad element (12.1) to abut against it in a frictional manner.

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that: The converter unit (14) has a return spring element (14.4), and in a third step, the nut (14.2) that moves longitudinally to the nut end position (14.2+) compresses the return spring element (14.4); in a sixth step, the retaining unit (15) is deactivated, and the nut (14.2) is no longer retained in the form-fitting retention (H) due to the deactivation of the retaining unit (15); in the absence of the form-fitting retention (H), the compressed return spring element (14.4) is decompressed, and the decompressed return spring element (14.4) applies a return spring force (RR) to the nut (14.2); and in the sixth step, the nut (14.2) moves from the nut end position (14.2+) along the rotation axis (Z) to the nut starting position (14.2*) under the action of the return spring force (RR).

13. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that When the screw (14.1) rotates around the rotation axis (Z), the nut (14.2) and the screw (14.1) are clamped together when the nut (14.2) moves longitudinally to the nut end position (14.2+), and the screw (14.1) moves longitudinally from the screw starting position (14.1) to the screw end position (14.1+) along the rotation axis (Z); the brake unit (12) has a plurality of brake spring elements (12.3); and the screw (14.1) moves longitudinally to the screw end position (14.1+) to compress the brake spring elements. (12.3); and in a sixth step, the screwing tool (2) is deactivated, and the deactivated screwing tool (2) no longer applies a torque (M); without the shape-fitting retention (H) of the nut (14.2), the compression of the brake spring element (12.3) is released, and the decompressed spring element (12.3) applies a spring force (R); and in a sixth step, the screw (14.1) is moved from the screw end position (14.1+) along the rotation axis (Z) to the screw starting position (14.1*) by the spring force (R).

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