Torque tester for checking multiple electronic torque wrenches

Abstract

A method for verifying an electronic torque wrench is provided. The method includes determining a reference torque value at a torque tester based on a torque applied by an electronic torque wrench to the torque tester with which the electronic torque wrench engages. The method includes receiving, at a torque tester, a plurality of torque values, the plurality of torque values received from a plurality of electronic torque wrenches, including the electronic torque wrench engaged with the torque tester, while a reference torque value is determined at the torque tester. The method includes identifying one of the plurality of torque values as a torque value from the electronic torque wrench based on a reference torque value and the plurality of torque values. The method includes performing a verification of the electronic torque wrench based on a reference torque value and an identified torque value; and outputting an indication of the verification of the electronic torque wrench.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to torque application and measurement devices, and more particularly to a device for torque measurement, such as an electronic torque wrench. Background Art

[0002] Fasteners are commonly used to assemble performance-critical components, which are tightened to a specific torque level to introduce "pre-tension" into the fastener. When torque is applied to the head of the fastener, the fastener may begin to stretch beyond a specific level of the applied torque. This stretching results in pre-tension in the fastener, which then holds the components together. Additionally, after the desired torque level has been applied, it is often necessary to further rotate the fastener through a specific angle. A common method of tightening these fasteners is to use a torque wrench.

[0003] Torque wrenches can be mechanical or electronic types. Mechanical torque wrenches are generally less expensive than electronic torque wrenches. There are two common types of mechanical torque wrenches, beam-type and clicker-type. In a beam-type torque wrench, the beam bends relative to a non-deflecting beam in response to the applied torque. The amount of deflection of the bending beam relative to the non-deflecting beam indicates the amount of torque applied to the fastener. A clicker-type torque wrench has a selectable pre-loaded snap mechanism that has a spring to release at a specified target torque, thereby producing a click to warn the operator to release the force on the wrench, where the applied torque is generated by the force.

[0004] Electronic torque wrenches tend to be more expensive than mechanical torque wrenches. Many electronic torque wrenches include a user interface having a human input device and an electronic visual display. An electronic torque wrench can receive a target torque through its user interface; and when torque is applied to a fastener with the electronic torque wrench, a torque reading can be indicated on the electronic visual display, which is related to the pre-tension generated in the fastener due to the applied torque. The electronic torque wrench can also warn the operator to release the force on the wrench when the applied torque reaches the target torque.

[0005] Many procedures for using torque wrenches include using a torque tester to periodically test the torque wrenches to verify that they are within specifications. The work area where the torque wrenches are being verified can include multiple torque wrenches waiting to be verified. In some cases, the torque wrenches and the torque tester can be connected by wires, which enables the torque tester to identify the torque wrench being verified; however, this requires additional work to connect the torque wrench and the torque tester by wires. In other cases, the torque wrenches and the torque tester can be wirelessly connected; however, in this case, the operator typically still must identify the torque wrench to the torque tester because the torque tester can also be wirelessly connected to other torque wrenches in the work area or otherwise within the radio range of the other torque wrenches.

[0006] Accordingly, there is a need for a system and method that addresses the above and other possible problems. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an apparatus for verifying multiple electronic torque wrenches or other torque measuring devices, such as a torque tester or a computer. The present disclosure includes, but is not limited to, the following exemplary embodiments.

[0008] Some exemplary embodiments provide a torque tester for verifying an electronic torque wrench, the torque tester including: a recess configured to engage a boss of the electronic torque wrench, thereby engaging the electronic torque wrench with the torque tester; and a processing circuit configured to cause the torque tester to at least: determine a reference torque value at the torque tester based on the torque applied by the electronic torque wrench to the torque tester with which the electronic torque wrench is engaged; receive, at the torque tester while the reference torque value is being determined at the torque tester, a plurality of torque values received from a plurality of electronic torque wrenches, the plurality of electronic torque wrenches including the electronic torque wrench engaged with the torque tester; identify, based on the reference torque value and the plurality of torque values, one of the plurality of torque values as the torque value from the electronic torque wrench; perform a verification of the electronic torque wrench based on the reference torque value and the identified torque value; and output an indication of the verification of the electronic torque wrench.

[0009] Some exemplary embodiments provide a torque tester for calibrating a plurality of electronic torque wrenches. The torque tester includes: a recess configured to engage a boss of an electronic torque wrench, thereby engaging the electronic torque wrench with the torque tester; and a processing circuit configured to cause the torque tester to at least: connect the torque tester to the plurality of electronic torque wrenches within the radio range of the torque tester to establish a radio link between the torque tester and the plurality of electronic torque wrenches; calibrate one of the plurality of electronic torque wrenches, including the torque tester being caused to: determine a reference torque value at the torque tester based on the torque applied by the electronic torque wrench to the torque tester with which the electronic torque wrench is engaged; receive a plurality of torque values at the torque tester while the reference torque value is determined at the torque tester, the plurality of torque values being wirelessly received from the plurality of electronic torque wrenches via radio communication over the radio link; identify one of the plurality of torque values as the torque value from the electronic torque wrench based on the reference torque value and the plurality of torque values; perform calibration of the electronic torque wrench based on the reference torque value and the identified torque value; and output an indication of the calibration of the electronic torque wrench; after performing the calibration of the electronic torque wrench, disconnect the electronic torque wrench from the torque tester; and after the electronic torque wrench is disconnected, repeat the calibration and disconnection for other electronic torque wrenches of the plurality of electronic torque wrenches connected to the torque tester.

[0010] Some exemplary embodiments provide a method for calibrating an electronic torque wrench. The method includes: determining a reference torque value at a torque tester based on the torque applied by the electronic torque wrench to the torque tester with which the electronic torque wrench is engaged; receiving a plurality of torque values at the torque tester while the reference torque value is determined at the torque tester, the plurality of torque values being received from a plurality of electronic torque wrenches including the electronic torque wrench engaged with the torque tester; identifying one of the plurality of torque values as the torque value from the electronic torque wrench based on the reference torque value and the plurality of torque values; performing calibration of the electronic torque wrench based on the reference torque value and the identified torque value; and outputting an indication of the calibration of the electronic torque wrench.

[0011] Some exemplary embodiments provide a method for calibrating a plurality of electronic torque wrenches, the method comprising: connecting the torque tester to the plurality of electronic torque wrenches within the radio range of the torque tester to establish a radio link between the torque tester and the plurality of electronic torque wrenches; calibrating an electronic torque wrench among the plurality of electronic torque wrenches, including: determining a reference torque value at the torque tester according to the torque applied by the electronic torque wrench to the torque tester with which the electronic torque wrench engages; while the reference torque value is determined at the torque tester, receiving a plurality of torque values at the torque tester, the plurality of torque values being wirelessly received from the plurality of electronic torque wrenches via radio communication on the radio link; based on the reference torque value and the plurality of torque values, identifying one of the plurality of torque values as the torque value from the electronic torque wrench; based on the reference torque value and the identified torque value, performing calibration of the electronic torque wrench; and outputting an indication of the calibration of the electronic torque wrench; after performing the calibration of the electronic torque wrench, disconnecting the electronic torque wrench from the torque tester; and after the electronic torque wrench is disconnected, repeating the calibration and disconnection for other electronic torque wrenches among the plurality of electronic torque wrenches connected to the torque tester.

[0012] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below. The present disclosure encompasses any combination of two, three, four, or more of the features or elements set forth in the present disclosure, whether or not such features or elements are explicitly combined or otherwise stated in the specific example embodiments described herein. The present disclosure is intended to be read as a whole such that any separable feature or element thereof should be considered combinable in any aspect and example embodiment thereof, unless the context of the present disclosure clearly dictates otherwise.

[0013] Accordingly, it will be understood that the present invention content is provided only to outline some example embodiments in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above exemplary embodiments are merely examples and should not be construed as in any way narrowing the scope or spirit of the present invention. From the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, other example embodiments, aspects, and advantages will become apparent, the drawings illustrating by way of example the principles of some of the described example embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The example embodiments of the present disclosure have been described so generally above, and now reference will be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in which:

[0015] Figure 1A and 1B illustrates an electronic torque wrench in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a device for determining an applied torque in accordance with some exemplary embodiments, and the device may correspond to the electronic torque wrench of FIG. 1;

[0017] Figure 3 illustrates a system for calibrating a torque measuring device in accordance with various exemplary embodiments, the torque measuring device being, for example, an electronic torque wrench among a plurality of electronic torque wrenches;

[0018] Figure 4A 、 4B and 4C are flowcharts showing various steps in a method for calibrating an electronic torque wrench in accordance with various exemplary embodiments; and

[0019] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing various steps in a method for calibrating a plurality of electronic torque wrenches in accordance with various exemplary embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Some embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In fact, the various embodiments of the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these example implementations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals always denote like elements.

[0021] Unless otherwise specified or clear from the context, references to first, second, etc. should not be construed as implying a particular order. A feature described as above another feature (unless otherwise specified or clear from the context) may alternatively be below, and vice versa; similarly, a feature described as to the left of another feature may alternatively be to the right, and vice versa. Further, although quantitative measurements, values, geometric relationships, etc. may be referred to herein, any one or more of these (if not all) may be absolute or approximate, to account for acceptable variations that may occur, such as variations due to engineering tolerances, etc.

[0022] As used herein, unless otherwise specified or clear from context, the "or" of a set of operands is an "inclusive or", and thus is true if and only if one or more of the operands are true, as opposed to an "exclusive or" which is false when all operands are true. Thus, for example, "[A] or [B]" is true if [A] is true, or if [B] is true, or if both [A] and [B] are true. Further, the articles "a", "an" mean "one or more" unless otherwise stated or clear from context to refer to the singular form. Additionally, it should be understood that unless otherwise stated, the terms "data", "content", "digital content", "information" and like terms may sometimes be used interchangeably.

[0023] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to torque application and measurement devices. The exemplary embodiments will be described primarily in the context of an electronic torque wrench. Other examples of suitable torque measurement devices include torque testers, torque meters, torque transducers, and the like. Figure 1A and 1B An electronic torque wrench 100 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the electronic torque wrench includes a wrench body 102, a wrench head 104 (e.g., a ratchet wrench head), a gripping handle 106, a housing 108, a battery assembly 110, and an electronic unit 112 having a user interface 114. In some examples, the wrench body is a tubular construction made of steel or other rigid material, receiving the wrench head at a first end and the battery assembly at a second end, fixed therein by an end cap 116. In some of these examples, the housing is mounted therebetween and carries the electronic unit.

[0024] As shown, the front end 118 of the wrench head 104 includes a coupler having a control lever 120 that allows a user to select whether torque is applied to a fastener in a clockwise (CW) direction or a counter-clockwise (CCW) direction. The front end also includes a convex square drive portion or boss 122 for receiving various sizes of sockets, extensions, and the like. The rear end 124 of the wrench head is slidably received within the wrench body 102 and rigidly fixed therein. The wrench head includes at least one vertical flat portion 126 formed between the front end and the rear end for receiving a strain gauge assembly 128. The flat portion of the wrench head is both transverse to the plane of rotation of the torque wrench 100 and parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the wrench head. The strain gauge assembly includes one or more strain gauges. In some examples, the strain gauge assembly is a full-bridge assembly that includes four individual strain gauges on a single membrane that is fixed to the flat portion of the wrench head. The full-bridge strain gauge assembly mounted on the flat portion of the wrench head is collectively referred to as a strain tensor.

[0025] Also as shown, the housing 108 includes a bottom 130 that is slidably received around the wrench body 104 and defines a bore 132 for receiving a top 134, where the top 134 carries the electronic unit 112. The electronic unit provides a user interface 114 for operating the electronic torque wrench 100. The electronic unit includes a circuit board 136 that includes a digital display 138 and a signaler 140 mounted thereon. This portion of the housing defines a bore for receiving the user interface, which includes a power button 142, unit selection buttons 144, increment / decrement buttons 146A and 146B, and three light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 148A, 148B, and 148C. And when activated, the LEDs can be lit green, yellow, and red, respectively.

[0026] Figure 2 A torque measurement device 200 is shown in accordance with some example embodiments for determining a torque value of an applied torque. The torque measurement device can be embodied in a number of different ways, and in some examples, the torque measurement device is an electronic torque wrench, such as the electronic torque wrench 100. In other examples, the torque measurement device is a torque tester, torque meter, torque transducer, etc. As shown, the torque measurement device includes a strain gauge assembly 202 (e.g., strain gauge assembly 128), an amplifier 204, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 206, and a processing circuit 208. In some examples where the torque measurement device 200 corresponds to the electronic torque wrench 100, the amplifier, ADC, and processing circuit can be components of the electronic unit 112 and are carried by the circuit board 136.

[0027] The strain gauge assembly 202 is configured to measure an applied torque, such as the torque applied to a fastener when the torque measurement device 200 is an electronic torque wrench, and to generate an analog electrical signal whose voltage varies with the torque. The amplifier 204 is configured to receive the analog electrical signal and increase the amplitude of the analog electrical signal to produce an amplified analog electrical signal.

[0028] The ADC 206 is configured to convert the amplified analog electrical signal into an equivalent digital electrical signal. Then, the processing circuit 208 is configured to determine the torque value applied to the fastener from the equivalent digital electrical signal and output an indication of the torque value. In some examples, the equivalent digital electrical signal includes digital data points; and in some of these examples, the processing circuit is configured to determine a subset of the digital data points in a moving sampling window and calculate the torque value based on a rolling average of the subset of the digital data points in the moving sampling window.

[0029] The processing circuit 208 can output an indication of the torque value in a variety of different ways. In some examples, the torque measurement device 200 further includes a digital display 210 (e.g., digital display 138), and the processing circuit is configured to output an indication of the torque value to the digital display, which is configured to display the torque value.

[0030] Also as shown, the torque measurement device 200 can include a communication interface 212, which is configured to enable the torque measurement device to communicate with another device either wired or wirelessly via radio or optical communication. As described herein, the communication interface is an electronic circuit; in various examples, the communication interface includes a cable connector, an antenna, or optoelectronic devices for electronically transmitting information on a data link between the device and a computer / computer hardware. Examples of suitable communication interfaces include a network interface controller (NIC), a wireless NIC (WNIC), etc.

[0031] To further illustrate the calculation of the torque value according to various example embodiments, consider an example where the processing circuit 208 samples one thousand digital data points per second and uses a ten-millisecond moving sampling window. When torque is applied, the processing circuit can average the first ten digital data points, one per millisecond, to produce a first equivalent digital value at time t = 0.01 seconds, where t = 0.0 seconds marks the start of the torque operation. At time t = 0.011 seconds, the processing circuit can average the digital data points taken between time t = 0.002 and t = 0.011 seconds to produce a second equivalent digital value. At time t = 0.012 seconds, the processing circuit can average the digital data points taken between time t = 0.003 seconds and t = 0.012 seconds to produce a third equivalent digital value. And this can continue such that an equivalent digital value can be provided every millisecond until torque is no longer applied. In short, the processing circuit can utilize a digital filtering algorithm to provide a rolling average, where, whenever a new digital data point is received within the moving sampling window, the oldest digital data point is discarded.

[0032] As explained in the background section, many procedures for using torque wrenches include using a torque tester to periodically test torque wrenches to verify that they are within specifications. The work area where torque wrenches are being verified can include multiple torque wrenches waiting to be verified, and the torque tester can be wirelessly connected to or otherwise within the radio range of multiple torque wrenches including the torque wrench being verified. Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure provide a torque tester configured to identify the one of multiple electronic torque wrenches being verified without a wired connection or an operator identifying the electronic torque wrench to the torque tester.

[0033] Figure 3 Shown is a system 300 for calibrating a torque measuring device 200, such as an electronic torque wrench 100 among multiple electronic torque wrenches, according to various exemplary embodiments. According to various exemplary embodiments, the system includes a torque measuring device and a device for calibrating the torque measuring device. The device can be embodied in a number of different ways. In Figure 3 the example where the torque measuring device shown is an electronic torque wrench, the device is embodied as a torque tester 302, and the electronic torque wrench is configured to engage with the torque tester. In this regard, the torque tester can include a concave square drive portion or recess 304 configured to receive a boss 122 of the electronic torque wrench. The torque tester can include circuitry that is the same as or similar to that of the torque measuring device 200, including a processing circuit 306 and a digital display 308.

[0034] During verification of the electronic torque wrench 100, the electronic torque wrench engages with the torque tester 302, and a rotational force is applied at the grip handle 106, which creates a torque at the torque tester. The processing circuit 306 of the torque tester is configured to determine a reference torque value at the torque tester based on the torque applied by the electronic torque wrench. In this regard, the torque tester can be configured to determine the reference torque value in the same or similar manner as the processing circuit 208 of the torque measuring device 200 is configured to determine a torque value.

[0035] In some examples, the torque tester 302 and thus the processing circuit 306 are configured to receive multiple torque values while the reference torque value is being determined at the torque tester. The multiple torque values can be received from multiple electronic torque wrenches 310, including the electronic torque wrench that is engaged with the torque tester. The processing circuit is configured to identify one of the multiple torque values as the torque value (for verification) from the electronic torque wrench based on the reference torque value and the multiple torque values.

[0036] One of the multiple torque values can be identified in a variety of different ways. In some examples, one of the multiple torque values is identified as the one within a threshold range from a reference torque value, or the one closest to the reference torque value. In other examples, one of the multiple torque values is identified as the one whose rate of change is within a threshold rate range from the rate of change of the reference torque value, or the one whose rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value. One of the multiple torque values can be identified as the one within a threshold range from the reference torque value, and for this torque value, the rate of change is within a threshold rate range from the rate of change of the reference torque value. Alternatively, one of the multiple torque values can be identified as the one closest to the reference torque value, and for this torque value, the rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0037] Regardless of the exact way in which one of the multiple torque values is identified as such, the processing circuit 306 is configured to: perform a calibration of the electronic torque wrench 100 based on the reference torque value and the identified torque value. And the processing circuit is configured to: output an indication of the calibration of the electronic torque wrench. The indication of the calibration can be output in a variety of different ways, such as outputting to a digital display 308, which is configured to display the indication.

[0038] In some examples, the processing circuit 306 is further configured to: connect the torque tester 302 to multiple electronic torque wrenches 310 within the radio range of the torque tester, and thereby establish a radio link 312 over which multiple torque values are wirelessly received via radio communication. Examples of suitable radio links include one or more of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, or frequency-shift keying (FSK) links. The processing circuit can be configured to: disconnect the electronic torque wrench 100 from the torque tester after performing the calibration of the electronic torque wrench. This can enable the torque tester to repeat the process to calibrate other electronic torque wrenches among the multiple electronic torque wrenches. That is, the processing circuit can be further configured to: after the electronic torque wrench is disconnected, cause the torque tester 302 to repeat the calibration and disconnection for other electronic torque wrenches among the multiple electronic torque wrenches connected to the torque tester.

[0039] Figures 4A-4C is a flowchart showing various steps in a method 400 for calibrating an electronic torque wrench according to various exemplary embodiments. The method includes: determining a reference torque value at the torque tester according to the torque applied by the electronic torque wrench to the torque tester with which the electronic torque wrench is engaged, as Figure 4Aas shown in block 402 of the frame. The method includes: receiving a plurality of torque values at the torque tester while a reference torque value is determined at the torque tester, the plurality of torque values being received from a plurality of electronic torque wrenches, including the electronic torque wrench engaged with the torque tester, as shown at block 404.

[0040] Method 400 includes: identifying, based on the reference torque value and the plurality of torque values, one of the plurality of torque values as the torque value from the electronic torque wrench, as shown at block 406. The method includes: performing a calibration of the electronic torque wrench based on the reference torque value and the identified torque value, as shown at block 408. And the method includes: outputting an indication of the calibration of the electronic torque wrench, as shown at block 410.

[0041] In some examples, at block 406, one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one within a threshold range from the reference torque value.

[0042] In some examples, at block 406, one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one whose rate of change is within a threshold rate range from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0043] In some examples, at block 406, one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one within a threshold range from the reference torque value, and for this one torque value, its rate of change is within a threshold rate range from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0044] In some examples, at block 406, one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one closest to the reference torque value.

[0045] In some examples, at block 406, one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one whose rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0046] In some examples, at block 406, one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one closest to the reference torque value, and for this one torque value, its rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0047] In some examples, method 400 further includes: connecting the torque tester to a plurality of electronic torque wrenches within the radio range of the torque tester and thereby establishing a radio link over which the plurality of torque values are wirelessly received via radio communication, as Figure 4B shown at block 412.

[0048] In some examples, the radio link includes one or more of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, or Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) links.

[0049] In some examples, method 400 further includes: after performing the calibration of the electronic torque wrench, disconnecting the electronic torque wrench from the torque tester, as shown at block 414 of Figure 4C . Figure 4C as shown at block 414 of Figure 4C .

[0050] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing various steps in a method 500 for calibrating multiple electronic torque wrenches according to various exemplary embodiments. The method includes: connecting a torque tester to a plurality of electronic torque wrenches within the radio range of the torque tester, and thereby establishing a radio link between the torque tester and the plurality of electronic torque wrenches, as shown at block 502. The method includes calibrating an electronic torque wrench among the plurality of electronic torque wrenches, as shown at block 504.

[0051] Calibrating the electronic torque wrench at block 504 includes: at block 506, determining a reference torque value at the torque tester based on the torque applied by the electronic torque wrench to the torque tester with which the electronic torque wrench is engaged. While the reference torque value is being determined at the torque tester, a plurality of torque values are received at the torque tester, the plurality of torque values being wirelessly received from the plurality of electronic torque wrenches via radio communication over the radio link, as shown at block 508. Based on the reference torque value and the plurality of torque values, one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the torque value from the electronic torque wrench, as shown at block 510. Based on the reference torque value and the identified torque value, the calibration of the electronic torque wrench is performed, as shown at block 512. And an indication of the calibration of the electronic torque wrench is output, as shown at block 514.

[0052] Also as shown, method 500 includes: after performing the calibration of the electronic torque wrench, disconnecting the electronic torque wrench from the torque tester, as shown at block 516. And the method includes: after the electronic torque wrench is disconnected, repeating the calibration and disconnection for other electronic torque wrenches among the plurality of electronic torque wrenches connected to the torque tester, as shown at block 518.

[0053] In some examples, the radio link includes one or more of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, or Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) links.

[0054] In some examples, at block 510, one of the plurality of torque values is identified as being within a threshold range from the reference torque value.

[0055] In some examples, at block 510, one of the plurality of torque values is identified as having a rate of change within a threshold rate range from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0056] In some examples, one of a plurality of torque values is identified at block 510 as being within a threshold range from a reference torque value, and for this one torque value, its rate of change is within a range of a threshold rate from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0057] In some examples, one of a plurality of torque values is identified at block 510 as being the one closest to the reference torque value.

[0058] In some examples, one of a plurality of torque values is identified at block 510 as being the one with a rate of change closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0059] In some examples, one of a plurality of torque values is identified at block 510 as being the one closest to the reference torque value, and for this one torque value, its rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0060] As explained above and reiterated below, the present disclosure includes, but is not limited to, the following exemplary embodiments.

[0061] Item 1. A torque tester for calibrating an electronic torque wrench, the torque tester comprising: a recess configured to engage a boss of the electronic torque wrench and thereby engage the electronic torque wrench with the torque tester; and a processing circuit configured to cause the torque tester to at least: determine a reference torque value at the torque tester based on a torque applied by the electronic torque wrench to the torque tester with which the electronic torque wrench is engaged; receive, at the torque tester while the reference torque value is being determined at the torque tester, a plurality of torque values received from a plurality of electronic torque wrenches, the plurality of electronic torque wrenches including the electronic torque wrench engaged with the torque tester; identify, based on the reference torque value and the plurality of torque values, one of the plurality of torque values as a torque value from the electronic torque wrench; perform calibration of the electronic torque wrench based on the reference torque value and the identified torque value; and output an indication of the calibration of the electronic torque wrench.

[0062] Item 2. The torque tester according to Item 1, wherein the one of the plurality of torque values is identified as being within a threshold range from the reference torque value.

[0063] Item 3. The torque tester according to Item 1 or Item 2, wherein the one of the plurality of torque values is identified as having a rate of change within a range of a threshold rate from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0064] Item 4. The torque tester according to any one of Items 1 to 3, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one within a threshold range from the reference torque value, and for the one torque value, its rate of change is within a range of the threshold rate from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0065] Item 5. The torque tester according to any one of Items 1 to 4, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one closest to the reference torque value.

[0066] Item 6. The torque tester according to any one of Items 1 to 5, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one with a rate of change closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0067] Item 7. The torque tester according to any one of Items 1 to 6, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one closest to the reference torque value, and for the one torque value, its rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0068] Item 8. The torque tester according to any one of Items 1 to 7, wherein the processing circuit is configured to cause the torque tester to further connect the torque tester to the plurality of electronic torque wrenches within the radio range of the torque tester and thereby establish a radio link, and wirelessly receive the plurality of torque values via radio communication on the radio link.

[0069] Item 9. The torque tester according to Item 8, wherein the radio link includes one or more of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, or Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) links.

[0070] Item 10. The torque tester according to Item 8 or Item 9, wherein the processing circuit is configured to: after performing the calibration of the electronic torque wrench, cause the torque tester to further disconnect the electronic torque wrench from the torque tester.

[0071] Item 11. A torque tester for calibrating a plurality of electronic torque wrenches, the torque tester comprising: a recess configured to engage a boss of an electronic torque wrench, thereby engaging the electronic torque wrench with the torque tester; and a processing circuit configured to cause the torque tester to at least: connect the torque tester to the plurality of electronic torque wrenches within the radio range of the torque tester, thereby establishing a radio link between the torque tester and the plurality of electronic torque wrenches; calibrate an electronic torque wrench among the plurality of electronic torque wrenches, including the torque tester being caused to: determine a reference torque value at the torque tester according to the torque applied by the electronic torque wrench to the torque tester with which the electronic torque wrench is engaged; while the reference torque value is determined at the torque tester, receive a plurality of torque values at the torque tester, the plurality of torque values being wirelessly received from the plurality of electronic torque wrenches through radio communication on the radio link; based on the reference torque value and the plurality of torque values, identify one of the plurality of torque values as the torque value from the electronic torque wrench; based on the reference torque value and the identified torque value, perform calibration of the electronic torque wrench; and output an indication of the calibration of the electronic torque wrench; after performing the calibration of the electronic torque wrench, disconnect the electronic torque wrench from the torque tester; and, after the electronic torque wrench is disconnected, repeat the calibration and disconnection for other electronic torque wrenches among the plurality of electronic torque wrenches connected to the torque tester.

[0072] Item 12. The torque tester according to Item 11, wherein the radio link includes one or more of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, or Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) links.

[0073] Item 13. The torque tester according to Item 11 or Item 12, wherein the one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one within a threshold range from the reference torque value.

[0074] Item 14. The torque tester according to any one of Items 11 to 13, wherein the one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one whose rate of change is within a threshold rate range from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0075] Item 15. The torque tester according to any one of Items 11 to 14, wherein the one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one within a threshold range from the reference torque value, and for the one torque value, its rate of change is within a threshold rate range from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0076] Item 16. The torque tester according to any one of Items 11 to 15, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one closest to the reference torque value.

[0077] Item 17. The torque tester according to any one of Items 11 to 16, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one having a rate of change closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0078] Item 18. The torque tester according to any one of Items 11 to 17, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one closest to the reference torque value, and for the one torque value, its rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0079] Item 19. A method for calibrating an electronic torque wrench, the method comprising: determining a reference torque value at the torque tester according to the torque applied by the electronic torque wrench to the torque tester with which the electronic torque wrench is engaged; while the reference torque value is determined at the torque tester, receiving, at the torque tester, a plurality of torque values received from a plurality of electronic torque wrenches, the plurality of electronic torque wrenches including the electronic torque wrench engaged with the torque tester; based on the reference torque value and the plurality of torque values, identifying one of the plurality of torque values as the torque value from the electronic torque wrench; based on the reference torque value and the identified torque value, performing calibration of the electronic torque wrench; and outputting an indication of the calibration of the electronic torque wrench.

[0080] Item 20. The method according to Item 19, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one within a threshold range from the reference torque value.

[0081] Item 21. The method according to Item 19 or Item 20, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one having a rate of change within a threshold rate range from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0082] Item 22. The method according to any one of Items 19 to 21, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one within a threshold range from the reference torque value, and for the one torque value, its rate of change is within the range of the threshold rate from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0083] Item 23. The method according to any one of Items 19 to 22, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one closest to the reference torque value.

[0084] Item 24. The method according to any one of Items 19 to 23, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one whose rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0085] Item 25. The method according to any one of Items 19 to 24, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one closest to the reference torque value, and for this one torque value, its rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0086] Item 26. The method according to any one of Items 19 to 25, wherein the method further comprises: connecting the torque tester to the plurality of electronic torque wrenches within the radio range of the torque tester, and thereby establishing a radio link, and wirelessly receiving the plurality of torque values via radio communication on the radio link.

[0087] Item 27. The method according to Item 26, wherein the radio link comprises one or more of a Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, or Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) link.

[0088] Item 28. The method according to Item 26 or Item 27, wherein the method further comprises: disconnecting the electronic torque wrench from the torque tester after performing the calibration of the electronic torque wrench.

[0089] Item 29. A method for calibrating a plurality of electronic torque wrenches, the method comprising: connecting the torque tester to the plurality of electronic torque wrenches within the radio range of the torque tester, thereby establishing a radio link between the torque tester and the plurality of electronic torque wrenches; calibrating an electronic torque wrench among the plurality of electronic torque wrenches, comprising: determining a reference torque value at the torque tester according to the torque applied by the electronic torque wrench to the torque tester with which the electronic torque wrench engages; while the reference torque value is determined at the torque tester, receiving a plurality of torque values at the torque tester, the plurality of torque values being wirelessly received from the plurality of electronic torque wrenches via radio communication on the radio link; based on the reference torque value and the plurality of torque values, identifying one of the plurality of torque values as the torque value from the electronic torque wrench; based on the reference torque value and the identified torque value, performing the calibration of the electronic torque wrench; and outputting an indication of the calibration of the electronic torque wrench; disconnecting the electronic torque wrench from the torque tester after performing the calibration of the electronic torque wrench; and after the electronic torque wrench is disconnected, repeating the calibration and disconnection for other electronic torque wrenches among the plurality of electronic torque wrenches connected to the torque tester.

[0090] Item 30. The method according to Item 29, wherein the radio link comprises one or more of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee or Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) link.

[0091] Item 31. The method according to Item 29 or Item 30, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one within a threshold range from the reference torque value.

[0092] Item 32. The method according to any one of Items 29 to 31, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one whose rate of change is within a threshold rate range from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0093] Item 33. The method according to any one of Items 29 to 32, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one within a threshold range from the reference torque value, and for the one torque value, its rate of change is within a threshold rate range from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0094] Item 34. The method according to any one of Items 29 to 33, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one closest to the reference torque value.

[0095] Item 35. The method according to any one of Items 29 to 34, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one whose rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0096] Item 36. The method according to any one of Items 29 to 35, wherein one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one closest to the reference torque value, and for the one torque value, its rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

[0097] Benefiting from the teachings presented in the above description and the associated drawings, many modifications and other embodiments of the disclosure set forth herein will occur to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. In addition, although the foregoing description and the associated drawings describe exemplary embodiments in the context of certain exemplary combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be understood that different combinations of elements and / or functions can be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, combinations of elements and / or functions different from those expressly described above are also contemplated as being within some of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. A torque tester for calibrating an electronic torque wrench, the torque tester comprises: a recess configured to engage a boss of the electronic torque wrench, thereby engaging the electronic torque wrench with the torque tester; and a processing circuit configured to cause the torque tester to at least: determine a reference torque value at the torque tester according to the torque applied by the electronic torque wrench to the torque tester with which the electronic torque wrench is engaged; while the reference torque value is determined at the torque tester, receive a plurality of torque values at the torque tester, the plurality of torque values being received from a plurality of electronic torque wrenches, the plurality of electronic torque wrenches including the electronic torque wrench engaged with the torque tester; identify, based on the reference torque value and the plurality of torque values, one of the plurality of torque values as the torque value from the electronic torque wrench; perform calibration of the electronic torque wrench based on the reference torque value and the identified torque value; and output an indication of the calibration of the electronic torque wrench.

2. The torque tester according to claim 1, wherein the one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one within a threshold range from the reference torque value, or the one closest to the reference torque value.

3. The torque tester according to claim 1, wherein the one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one with a rate of change within a threshold rate range from the rate of change of the reference torque value, or is identified as the one with the rate of change closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

4. The torque tester according to claim 1, wherein the one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one within a threshold range from the reference torque value, and for the one torque value, its rate of change is within a range of the threshold rate from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

5. The torque tester according to claim 1, wherein the one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one closest to the reference torque value, and for the one torque value, its rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

6. The torque tester according to claim 1, wherein the processing circuit is configured to cause the torque tester to further connect the torque tester to the plurality of electronic torque wrenches within the radio range of the torque tester, and thereby establish a radio link, over which the plurality of torque values are received wirelessly via radio communication.

7. The torque tester according to claim 6, wherein the radio link includes one or more of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, or Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) links.

8. The torque tester according to claim 6, wherein the processing circuit is configured to cause the torque tester to further disconnect the electronic torque wrench from the torque tester after performing the calibration of the electronic torque wrench.

9. A torque tester for calibrating a plurality of electronic torque wrenches, the torque tester comprises: A recess configured to engage a boss of an electronic torque wrench, thereby engaging the electronic torque wrench with the torque tester; and a processing circuit configured to cause the torque tester to at least: Connect the torque tester to the plurality of electronic torque wrenches within the radio range of the torque tester, thereby establishing a radio link between the torque tester and the plurality of electronic torque wrenches; Calibrate one of the plurality of electronic torque wrenches, including the torque tester being caused to: Determine a reference torque value at the torque tester based on the torque applied by the electronic torque wrench to the torque tester with which the electronic torque wrench is engaged, While the reference torque value is being determined at the torque tester, receive a plurality of torque values at the torque tester, the plurality of torque values being wirelessly received from the plurality of electronic torque wrenches via radio communication over the radio link, and based on the reference torque value and the plurality of torque values, identify one of the plurality of torque values as the torque value from the electronic torque wrench, Based on the reference torque value and the identified torque value, perform calibration of the electronic torque wrench, and Output an indication of the calibration of the electronic torque wrench; After performing the calibration of the electronic torque wrench, disconnect the electronic torque wrench from the torque tester; and After the electronic torque wrench is disconnected, repeat the calibration and disconnection for other electronic torque wrenches among the plurality of electronic torque wrenches connected to the torque tester.

10. The torque tester according to claim 9, wherein, The radio link includes one or more of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, or Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) link.

11. The torque tester according to claim 9, wherein, One of the plurality of torque values is identified as one within a threshold range from the reference torque value, or the one closest to the reference torque value.

12. The torque tester according to claim 9, wherein, One of the plurality of torque values is identified as one whose rate of change is within a threshold rate range from the rate of change of the reference torque value, or is identified as the one whose rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

13. The torque tester according to claim 9, wherein, One of the plurality of torque values is identified as one within a threshold range from the reference torque value, and for the one torque value, its rate of change is within the range of the threshold rate from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

14. The torque tester according to claim 9, wherein, One of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one closest to the reference torque value, and for the one torque value, its rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

15. A method for calibrating an electronic torque wrench, the method comprising: Determine a reference torque value at a torque tester according to a torque, the torque being applied by an electronic torque wrench to the torque tester, wherein the electronic torque wrench is engaged with the torque tester; While the reference torque value is being determined at the torque tester, receive a plurality of torque values at the torque tester, the plurality of torque values being received from a plurality of electronic torque wrenches, the plurality of electronic torque wrenches including the electronic torque wrench engaged with the torque tester; Based on the reference torque value and the plurality of torque values, identify one of the plurality of torque values as a torque value from the electronic torque wrench; Based on the reference torque value and the identified torque value, perform calibration of the electronic torque wrench; And Output an indication of the calibration of the electronic torque wrench.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, the one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one within a threshold range from the reference torque value, or the one closest to the reference torque value.

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein, the one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one having a rate of change within a threshold rate range from the rate of change of the reference torque value, or is identified as the one having the rate of change closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

18. The method according to claim 15, wherein, the one of the plurality of torque values is identified as one within a threshold range from the reference torque value, and for the one torque value, its rate of change is within a threshold rate range from the rate of change of the reference torque value.

19. The method according to claim 15, wherein, the one of the plurality of torque values is identified as the one closest to the reference torque value, and for the one torque value, its rate of change is closest to the rate of change of the reference torque value.

20. The method according to claim 15, wherein, the method further comprises: connecting the torque tester to the plurality of electronic torque wrenches within a radio range of the torque tester, and thereby establishing a radio link, and wirelessly receiving the plurality of torque values via radio communication on the radio link.

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein, the method further comprises: disconnecting the electronic torque wrench from the torque tester after performing the calibration of the electronic torque wrench.

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