SIMULATION DEVICE FOR SCREWDRIVER FALL SIMULATION OF A ROTATING SCREWDRIVER

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a simulation device for the screwdriving simulation of a rotary screwdriver according to the preamble of the independent claim. The invention also relates to a method for performing the screwdriving simulation of a rotary screwdriver using the simulation device according to the preamble of the independent claim. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for retrofitting an existing simulation device to create the simulation device according to the preamble of the independent claim. State of the art

[0002] According to VDI / VDE guideline 2647 from February 2013, a rotary screwdriver is a motor-driven screwdriving tool. The rotary screwdriver can be activated, and when activated, it rotates continuously around an axis, thereby applying a torque to a fastener.

[0003] The fastener has a thread and is a screw, nut, etc. The fastener serves to connect components. The connection is achieved through a clamping force between the components. This clamping force ensures the components can be used under maximum operating loads.

[0004] The torque exerted by the activated screwdriver is used to generate the clamping force. To achieve this, the screwdriver increases the applied torque over time and / or by increasing the angle of rotation. The torque increases until a clamping force-specific target torque and / or angle of rotation is reached. This target torque and / or angle of rotation is / are adjustable on the screwdriver. The target torque and / or angle of rotation will subsequently be referred to as the target value.

[0005] The torque wrench is equipped with a signaling system. As soon as the set torque value is reached, the torque wrench stops applying the torque. The signaling system can operate according to different principles. For example, a click wrench automatically stops applying the torque when the set torque value is reached. A click wrench automatically triggers an audible or visual signal when the set torque value is reached. A torque wrench with an indicator displays the currently applied torque and / or the current target angle of rotation on a scale or an electronic display.

[0006] Such a rotary screwdriver is used in many industrial manufacturing processes. To ensure that the rotary screwdriver actually produces the set target value, its performance is checked at regular intervals.

[0007] The VDI / VDE 2647 guideline from February 2013 specifies what and how the tests should be performed. The performance test of the torque wrench is called a screwdriving simulation. This simulation is carried out using a simulation device that includes a brake unit and a test connection element. The test connection element is rotatable around an axis of rotation. The brake unit and the test connection element are rigidly connected. The torque wrench is coupled to the simulation device via the test connection element.

[0008] The rotary screwdriver, coupled to the simulation device, is activated and applies a torque to the test connection element. This torque causes the test connection element to rotate around its axis. The braking unit is then activated and brakes the test connection element.

[0009] The simulation device also includes a measuring unit with a torque sensor and an angle sensor. The torque sensor measures the torque, and the angle sensor measures the angle of rotation of the test connection element around its axis of rotation. The measuring unit is located between the brake unit and the test connection element. Such a simulation device is known from patent WO2016 / 103147A1 or patent US5886246A1. Patent EP0849049A1, in turn, discloses a torque wrench for tightening a bolted connection element, such as a screw or nut, with an angle measuring device.Using a torque wrench, the screw or nut is first tightened to a predetermined setting torque, after which the angle measuring device is fixed to a 0 mark on an angle scale, in order to then tighten the screw or nut further by a defined angle of rotation, which angle of rotation can be read on the angle measuring device.

[0010] The time course of the measured torque with respect to the measured angle of rotation is graphically represented as a torque rate. To obtain statistical significance, the bolting case simulation is performed multiple times. The torque rates from these multiple bolting case simulations are superimposed graphically. For each torque rate, a maximum measured torque and a corresponding maximum measured angle of rotation are determined. The arithmetic mean of the maximum measured torques is called the mean torque. The arithmetic mean of the maximum measured angles of rotation is called the mean angle of rotation. Furthermore, the bolting case simulation is repeated for different set target torques and for different torque rates.

[0011] According to VDI / VDE 2647 guideline from February 2013, the moment of inertia of the rotating parts of the simulation setup should not have a significant influence on the average torque. The rotating parts of the simulation setup include a rotor of the brake unit, a measuring disc of the measuring unit, the test fastener, etc. For a bolting simulation with a low torque rate, a deviation of ±15% of the maximum measured rotation angle from the average rotation angle is permissible. For a bolting simulation with a high torque rate, a deviation of ±5% of the maximum measured rotation angle from the average rotation angle is permissible.

[0012] This results in high demands on the concentricity of the rotating parts of the simulation device. In particular, the rotor of the brake unit and the measuring disc of the measuring unit must exhibit very low imbalances with respect to the axis of rotation. This high requirement for concentricity increases the manufacturing and acquisition costs of the simulation device.

[0013] A first object of the present invention is to provide a cost-effective simulation device for the screw driving simulation of a rotary screwdriver, which simulation device meets the requirements of the VDI / VDE 2647 guideline of February 2013 and complies with the required permissible deviation of the largest measured rotation angle with respect to the mean rotation angle for the screw driving simulation.

[0014] A further object of the invention is to demonstrate a method for performing the screw joint simulation of a rotary screwdriver using a simulation device which meets the requirements of the VDI / VDE 2647 guideline of February 2013 and complies with the required permissible deviation of the largest measured rotation angle with respect to the mean rotation angle for the screw joint simulation, and which method is simple and quick to perform.

[0015] And the invention sets itself the additional task of specifying a method for retrofitting an existing simulation device for the screw joint simulation of a rotary screwdriver, which retrofitted simulation device meets the requirements of the VDI / VDE 2647 guideline of February 2013 and complies with the required permissible deviation of the largest measured rotation angle with respect to the mean rotation angle for the screw joint simulation. Description of the invention

[0016] At least one of these tasks is solved by the features of an independent claim.

[0017] The invention relates to a simulation device for the screw driving simulation of a rotary screwdriver as defined in claim 1.

[0018] Further developments of the subject of the simulation device according to the independent claim are claimed in the dependent claims.

[0019] The invention also relates to a method for performing the screw failure simulation of a rotary screwdriver using the simulation device according to one of claims 1 to 10; wherein in a first step of the method the brake unit is aligned to a zero angle with respect to the zero mark; wherein in a second step of the method the rotary screwdriver is coupled to the test connection element; and wherein in a third step of the method the screw failure simulation is started from the zero angle in an angle-synchronized manner.

[0020] The inventors have surprisingly discovered that the requirements of the VDI / VDE 2647 guideline from February 2013 regarding the permissible deviation of the measured rotation angle from the mean rotation angle are met if the screw joint simulation is always started from a zero angle aligned with a zero mark. In this way, the rotating parts of the simulation device are always in the same defined initial position of rotation. Imbalances in the rotating parts of the simulation device are thus angle-synchronized. This is because the screw joint simulation is repeated several times, and the imbalances then occur in an angle-synchronized manner with respect to the zero angle.Furthermore, in the subsequent graphical superimposition of torque rates from the repeatedly performed screw-type simulations, the deviations of the largest measured rotation angles relative to the mean rotation angle, caused by the imbalances, appear angle-synchronized. Applying the zero mark and aligning the brake unit to a zero angle relative to the zero mark is cost-effective, and the procedure itself is simple and quick to perform.

[0021] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for retrofitting an existing simulation device to form the simulation device according to one of claims 1 to 10, which existing simulation device comprises an existing rotary angle sensor and an existing measuring disk without a zero mark; wherein in a first step of the method the existing measuring disk is removed; wherein in a second step of the method a measuring disk with a zero mark is provided; wherein in a third step of the method the provided measuring disk is installed in place of the existing measuring disk; and wherein in a fourth step of the method an arrangement of the existing rotary angle sensor with respect to the zero mark is defined as the zero angle.

[0022] Alternatively, the invention also relates to a method for retrofitting an existing simulation device for the screwdriving simulation of a rotary screwdriver to form the simulation device according to one of claims 1 to 10, which existing simulation device comprises an existing angle sensor and an existing measuring disc with angle markings, but without a zero mark; wherein in an alternative first step of the method, one of the angle markings of the existing measuring disc is defined as the zero mark; and wherein in a fourth step of the method, an arrangement of the existing angle sensor with respect to the zero mark is defined as the zero angle. Brief description of the drawings

[0023] The invention will now be explained in more detail using the figures as an example. They show Fig. 1 a schematic representation of the simulation device 1 for the screw driving simulation of a rotary screwdriver 2; Fig. 2 a view of a part of a first embodiment of a measuring unit 12 of the simulation device 1 according to Fig. 1 without angle-synchronized alignment of a zero mark 12.12 with respect to a zero angle 12.22; Fig. 3 a view of a part of the first embodiment of the measuring unit 12 according to Fig. 2 with angle-synchronized alignment of the zero mark 12.12 with respect to the zero angle 12.22; Fig. 4 a view of part of a second embodiment of a measuring unit 12 of the simulation device 1 according to Fig. 1 without angle-synchronized alignment of a zero mark 12.12 with respect to a zero angle 12.22; Fig. 5 a view of part of the second embodiment of the measuring unit 12 according to Fig. 4with angle-synchronized alignment of the zero mark 12.12 with respect to the zero angle 12.22; Fig. 6 schematically shows a sequence of steps IS to VIIS of the method for carrying out the screw case simulation of a rotary screwdriver using the simulation device 1 according to Fig. 1 ; Fig. 7 a representation of superimposed torque rates R1, R2, R3 of a non-angle-synchronized screw case simulation using the simulation device 1 according to Fig. 1 ; Fig. 8 a representation of superimposed torque rates R1, R2, R3 of an angle-synchronized screw joint simulation using the simulation device 1 according to Fig. 1 ; and Fig. 9 schematically shows a sequence of steps IN, IN' to VIIN of the procedure for retrofitting an existing simulation device 1'. Ways to implement the invention

[0024] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a simulation device 1 for the screw driving simulation of a rotary screwdriver 2.

[0025] The rotary screwdriver 2 is, according to VDI / VDE guideline 2647 from February 2013, a motor-driven screwdriving tool. The rotary screwdriver can be activated, and when activated, it rotates continuously around a Z-axis, thereby exerting a torque.

[0026] The rotary screwdriver 2 increases the applied torque over time and / or it increases the applied torque over the angle of rotation. The applied torque increases until a target torque and / or angle of rotation is reached. The target torque and / or angle of rotation is / are adjustable on the rotary screwdriver 2. The target torque and / or angle of rotation will subsequently also be referred to as the target value.

[0027] The torque wrench 2 is equipped with a signaling system. As soon as the set torque value is reached, the torque wrench 2 stops applying the torque. The signaling system can operate according to different principles. The torque wrench 2 can be a folding wrench, which automatically folds when the set torque value is reached. The torque wrench 2 can be a click wrench, which automatically triggers an audible or visual signal when the set torque value is reached. The torque wrench 2 can be a display wrench, which displays the applied torque on a scale or an electronic screen.

[0028] The simulation device 1 has a test connection element 13. The rotary screwdriver 2 is rigidly coupled to the simulation device 1 via the test connection element 13. The coupling of the rotary screwdriver 2 and the simulation device 1 achieved by the test connection element 13 is detachable.

[0029] The simulation device 1 has a measuring unit 12. The measuring unit 12 is arranged in a hollow cylindrical measuring unit housing 12.0 made of resistant metal. The measuring unit housing 12.0 has a cavity. A measuring disk 12.1 is arranged in the cavity.

[0030] The measuring disc 12.1 is a cylindrical body made of durable metal. The test connection element 13 is rigidly connected to the measuring disc 12.1. The rotary screwdriver 2, coupled to the test connection element 13, is activated and exerts a torque on the test connection element 13. Due to the applied torque, the test connection element 13 and the measuring disc 12.1 rigidly connected to it begin to rotate about the axis of rotation Z. The measuring disc 12.1 has a measuring surface 12.10, which lies in a plane whose normal is parallel to the axis of rotation Z. The measuring disc 12.1 has angle markings 12.11, which are arranged on the measuring surface 12.10.

[0031] In the first embodiment of the measuring disc 12.1 according to Figs. 2 and 3The angle markers 12.11 are light and dark lines. These light and dark lines are arranged in a first area on the measuring surface 12.10, which has a constant radial distance to the axis of rotation Z. Viewed in the direction of rotation, the light and dark lines are equidistant from each other. The light and dark lines represent incremental code values. These incremental code values ​​denote angles of rotation during the rotation of the measuring disk 12.1 about the axis of rotation Z. However, the incremental code values ​​do not uniquely represent the angle of rotation during the rotation of the measuring disk 12.1 about the axis of rotation Z.

[0032] In the second embodiment of the measuring disc 12.1 according to Figs. 4 and 5The angle markings 12.11 are a Gray code. The Gray code is largely distributed across the entire measuring surface 12.10. The Gray code has a multitude of light and dark code values. These light and dark code values ​​are arranged side by side in the direction of rotation. The light and dark code values ​​are absolute code values, meaning each absolute code value has a unique value. The absolute code values ​​uniquely denote the angle of rotation when the measuring disk 12.1 rotates around the axis of rotation Z.

[0033] The simulation device 1 includes a rotary angle sensor 12.2. The rotary angle sensor 12.2 is fixedly mounted on the measuring unit housing 12.0. The rotary angle sensor 12.2 measures the angle of rotation by which the measuring disk 12.1 rotates about the axis of rotation Z. The rotary angle sensor 12.2 is arranged above the measuring surface 12.10 of the measuring disk 12.1. The rotary angle sensor 12.2 has a sensor element 12.21. The sensor element 12.21 detects angular markers 12.11. Preferably, the rotary angle sensor 12.2 is an optical rotary angle sensor with an optical sensor element that emits light onto the angular markers 12.11 and detects the emitted light that has been reflected by the angular markers 12.11. If the angle markers 12.11 now rotate around the axis of rotation Z, a section of the angle markers 12.11 detected by the optical sensor element also changes.

[0034] In the first embodiment of the angle markings 12.11 according to Figs. 2 and 3 The rotary angle sensor 12.2 counts the number of incremental code values ​​detected by the sensor element 12.21 after a section change of the angle markers 12.11 and generates a corresponding rotary angle signal WS for this purpose.

[0035] In the second embodiment of the angle markings 12.11 according to Figs. 4 and 5 The rotary angle sensor 12.2 recognizes the absolute code value detected by the sensor element 12.21 after a section change of the angle markers 12.11 and generates a corresponding rotary angle signal WS for it.

[0036] Preferably, the rotary angle sensor 12.2 measures the angle of rotation by which the measuring disk 12.1 rotates about the axis of rotation Z with an angular resolution of less than or equal to 1°. The rotary angle sensor 12.2 generates a rotary angle signal WS for the measured angle of rotation. The rotary angle signal WS is derived via a rotary angle signal line 14.2. Preferably, the rotary angle sensor 12.2 measures the angle of rotation at a measurement frequency of greater than or equal to 2000 Hz.

[0037] Knowing the present invention, a person skilled in the art can use, instead of an optical rotary angle sensor with an optical sensor element, a rotary angle sensor operating according to a different functional principle, such as a magnetic rotary angle sensor with a magnetic sensor element, a capacitive rotary angle sensor with a capacitive sensor element, etc.

[0038] The simulation device 1 has a torque sensor 12.3. The torque sensor 12.3 is mounted on the measuring disk 12.1. The torque sensor 12.3 measures the force as torque at a perpendicular distance from the axis of rotation Z along a force line. Preferably, the torque sensor 12.3 has several strain gauges. The strain gauges are mounted on the measuring disk 12.1 with respect to the force line such that they are stretched and compressed under the influence of the force. The stretching and compression change the electrical resistance of the strain gauges. The strain gauges are connected in a bridge circuit. The change in electrical resistance generates an electrical voltage signal in the bridge circuit of the strain gauges, which electrical voltage signal is proportional to the magnitude of the torque. The torque sensor 12.3 thus measures the torque.The electrical voltage signal generated is derived as a torque signal MS via a torque signal line 14.3. Preferably, the torque transducer 12.3 measures the torque in different measuring ranges such as 0.4 to 2 Nm, 2 to 10 Nm, 10 to 50 Nm, 50 to 250 Nm, 100 to 500 Nm, 400 to 2000 Nm, 1200 to 6000 Nm, etc. Preferably, the torque transducer 12.3 measures the torque at a measuring frequency of greater than or equal to 2000 Hz.

[0039] The simulation device 1 includes a brake unit 10. The brake unit 10 is arranged in a hollow cylindrical brake unit housing 10.0 made of durable metal. The brake unit housing 10.0 has a cavity. A brake element 10.1 and a rotor 10.2 are arranged in the cavity.

[0040] The simulation device 1 has a coupling element 11. The coupling element 11 is arranged along the axis of rotation Z, between the rotor 10.1 and the measuring unit 12. The coupling element 11 is rigidly connected to both the rotor 10.1 and the measuring disk 12.1. The coupling element 11 couples the rotor 10.1 to the measuring disk 12.1.

[0041] The braking element 10.1 is preferably hydraulically or electrically operated. The braking element 10.1 can be activated, and when activated, it converts hydraulic or electrical energy into force. The rotor 10.2 is a cylindrical metal body rigidly connected to the braking element 10.1. The force generated by the braking element 10.1 acts on the rotor 10.2 and rotates it about the axis of rotation Z. The direction of rotation of the rotor 10.2 about the axis of rotation Z is opposite to the direction of rotation of the test connection element 13 about the axis of rotation Z. Thus, the activated braking element 10.1 brakes the test connection element 13.

[0042] The brake unit 10 also includes a control unit 10.3. The control unit 10.3 activates and deactivates the brake element 10.1. The control unit 10.3 also regulates and controls the magnitude and duration of the generated force, as well as the speed, acceleration, and duration of the rotational movement of the rotor 10.2. Preferably, the rotor 10.2 rotates at a speed within a range of 10 to 3000 revolutions per minute.

[0043] The measuring disc 12.1 has a zero mark 12.12. Preferably, the zero mark 12.12 is arranged on the measuring surface 12.10.

[0044] In the first embodiment of the measuring disc 12.1 according to Figs. 2 and 3The zero mark 12.12 is a dark line. This dark line is located in a further area on the measuring surface 12.10, and this dark line has a smaller radial distance to the axis of rotation Z than the first area, in which the angle marks 12.11 are located. The zero mark 12.12 is therefore not part of the angle marks 12.11. The zero mark 12.12 and the angle marks 12.11 are spatially separated from each other on the measuring surface 12.10. Such a measuring disk 12.1 with the zero mark 12.12 and angle marks 12.11 in separate areas is cost-effective. The sensor element 12.21 detects the zero mark 12.12 located in the further area independently of the angle marks 12.11 located in the first area. The rotary angle sensor 12.2 generates a zero mark signal NS for the zero mark 12.12 detected by the sensor element 12.21. The zero-mark signal NS is derived via the rotary angle signal line 14.2.

[0045] In the second embodiment of the measuring disc 12.1 according to Figs. 4 and 5 The zero mark 12.12 is a defined absolute code value of the Gray code of the angle marks 12.11. The zero mark 12.12 is therefore a component of the angle marks 12.11. The zero mark 12.12 and the angle marks 12.11 are not spatially separated from each other on the measuring surface 12.10. The sensor element 12.21 detects the zero mark 12.12 together with the angle marks 12.11. For the zero mark 12.12 detected by the sensor element 12.21, the rotary angle sensor 12.2 generates a zero mark signal NS. The zero mark signal NS is derived via the rotary angle signal line 14.2.

[0046] The rotary angle sensor 12.2 is arranged at a defined zero angle 12.22 with respect to the zero mark 12.12. The rotary angle sensor 12.2 is fixedly mounted on the simulation device 1. Advantageously, the rotary angle sensor 12.2 is fixedly mounted on the measuring unit housing 12.0.

[0047] In the embodiment of the rotary angle sensor 12.2 according to Figs. 2 to 5 The zero angle 12.22 denotes the largest radial extent of the rotary angle sensor 12.2 along a radial direction that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation Z. Advantageously, the zero angle 12.22 is located at the position of the sensor element 12.21.

[0048] The zero angle 12.22 provides a defined starting position for the rotational movement around the axis of rotation Z for the screw joint simulation. The zero mark 12.12 and the zero angle 12.22 enable angle-synchronized alignment of the rotating parts of the simulation device 1. These rotating parts are the brake element 10.1, the rotor 10.2, the coupling element 11, the measuring disc 12.1, the torque transducer 12.3, and the test connection element 13. Since the rotating parts are rigidly connected, aligning the zero mark 12.12 of the measuring disc 12.1 with the zero angle 12.22 of the stationary rotary angle transducer 12.2 is sufficient to achieve angle-synchronized alignment of all rotating parts of the simulation device 1. Fig. 2 and 4 The zero mark 12.12 and zero angle 12.22 are shown in a non-angle-synchronized orientation. Fig. 3 and 5The zero mark 12.12 and zero angle 12.22 are shown in an angle-synchronized alignment.

[0049] Simulation device 1 includes an evaluation unit 14. The evaluation unit 14 comprises a processor, a data memory, a rotary angle signal line 14.2, a torque signal line 14.3, and an output device. An evaluation program 14.1 can be loaded from the data memory into the processor. The evaluation program 14.1 loaded into the processor is capable of reading a rotary angle signal WS from the rotary angle signal line 14.2 via an interface. The evaluation program 14.1 loaded into the processor is also capable of reading a torque signal MS from the torque signal line 14.3 via an interface.

[0050] As in Fig. 6 As shown, the procedure for carrying out the screw failure simulation using the simulation device 1 is carried out in several steps IS to VIIS.

[0051] In a first step IS of the procedure, the brake unit 10 is aligned at a zero angle 12.22 with respect to the zero mark 12.12. This is described in the Figs. 2 to 5 illustrated. In Fig. 2 and 4 Zero mark 12.12 and zero angle 12.22 are aligned at an angle to each other, while zero mark 12.12 and zero angle 12.22 in Fig. 3 and 5The zero mark 12.12 and zero angle 12.22 are aligned with each other in an angle-synchronized manner. The alignment of the zero mark 12.12 and the zero angle 12.22 is achieved by the braking element 10.1. The braking element 10.1 is activated by the control unit 10.3. The activated braking element 10.1 drives the rotor 10.2, and thus also the measuring disk 12.1, which is rigidly connected to the rotor 10.2 via the coupling element 11, to a rotational movement about the axis of rotation Z. As soon as the sensor element 12.21 detects the zero mark 12.12 of the rotating measuring disk 12.1, the rotary angle sensor 12.2 generates a zero mark signal NS, which is derived via the rotary angle signal line 14.2 to the control unit 10.3. The control unit 10.3 reads the zero mark signal NS from the rotary angle signal line 14.2 via an interface. For a received zero-mark signal NS, the control unit 10.3 deactivates the brake element 10.1. The zero mark 12.12 is now at zero angle 12.2 angle-synchronized.

[0052] In a second step of the procedure, a target torque is set on the rotary screwdriver 2. The rotary screwdriver 2 is coupled to the test connection element 13.

[0053] In a third step IIIS of the procedure, the screw joint simulation is started from the zero angle 12.22. For this purpose, the rotary screwdriver 2 is activated.

[0054] The rotary screwdriver 2, coupled to the test connection element 13, exerts a torque on the test connection element 13 and the measuring disc 12.1, which is rigidly connected to the test connection element 13, with the torque increasing over time with respect to the angle of rotation. This causes the test connection element 13 and the measuring disc 12.1 to rotate in one direction about the axis of rotation Z.

[0055] The brake unit 10 is activated and brakes the test connection element 13. For this purpose, the brake element 10.1 is activated by the control unit 10.3. The activated brake element 10.1 rotates the rotor 10.2 around the axis of rotation Z in a direction opposite to that of the test connection element 13. Since the rotor 10.2 is rigidly connected to the measuring disc 12.1 via the coupling element 11, and since the measuring disc 12.1 is rigidly connected to the test connection element 13, this results in the rotational movement of the test connection element 13 around the axis of rotation Z being braked.

[0056] In a fourth step of the process, IVS, the torque measurement begins. For this purpose, the torque transducer 12.3 starts measuring the torque from a predefined threshold torque. Preferably, the threshold torque is 10% of the nominal torque. The torque transducer 12.3 generates a torque signal MS for the measured torque. The torque signal MS is derived via the torque signal line 14.3 to the evaluation unit 14 and read by the evaluation program 14.1.

[0057] In a fifth step VS of the process, the angle of rotation is measured. From a predefined starting torque, the angle of rotation is measured by the angle sensor 12.2. Preferably, the starting torque is 50% of the target torque. The angle sensor 12.2 generates an angle signal WS for the measured angle of rotation. The angle signal WS is transmitted via the angle signal line 14.2 to the evaluation unit 14 and read by the evaluation program 14.1.

[0058] In a sixth step (VIS) of the procedure, it is detected whether the set target torque is being applied. As soon as the set target torque is applied, the torque wrench 2 reacts. Its reaction varies depending on the operating principle. A click wrench stops applying torque when the set target torque is applied. A click wrench triggers an audible or visual signal when the set target torque is applied. A signaling torque wrench indicates the applied target torque. The reaction of the torque wrench 2 is detected, and the brake element 10.1 is deactivated by the control unit 10.3. The torque measurements by the torque sensor 12.3 and the angle measurements by the angle sensor 12.2 are also terminated.

[0059] In a seventh step (VIIS) of the procedure, the temporal evolution of the measured torque signals MS with respect to the measured angle signals WS is graphically represented as torque rates R1, R2, R3. For this purpose, the torque signals MS and WS read in by evaluation program 14.1 are graphically displayed on the screen of evaluation unit 14 as torque rates R1, R2, R3. To obtain statistical significance, the bolting case simulation is performed several times. The torque signals MS and angle signals WS measured multiple times are read in by evaluation program 14.1 and graphically displayed as superimposed torque rates R1, R2, R3.

[0060] This is exemplified in the Fig. 7 and 8 to see. It shows Fig. 7 Superimposed torque rates R1, R2, R3 of a non-angle-synchronized bolting case simulation using simulation device 1. And Fig. 8Figure 1 shows superimposed torque rates R1, R2, R3 of an angle-synchronized bolting simulation using simulation device 1. The graphs depict a torque M on the ordinate and a rotation angle W on the abscissa. Starting from the initial torque, torque signals MS and rotation angle signals WS were measured. For each torque rate R1, R2, R3, the measured initial torque signals Ms1, Ms2, Ms3 and the measured initial rotation angle signals Ws1, Ws2, Ws3 are marked as dashed lines. In this example, three torque rates R1, R2, R3 are superimposed; however, according to VDI / VDE guideline 2647 from February 2013, 25 torque rates are superimposed per bolting simulation.

[0061] For each torque rate R1, R2, R3, the evaluation program 14.1 determines a largest measured torque signal Me1, Me2, Me3 and a corresponding largest measured angle signal We1, We2, We3. In the Fig. 7 and 8 The largest measured torque signals Me1, Me2, Me3 are marked as dashed lines. The largest measured angle-of-rotation signals We1, We2, We3 are also shown in the diagram. Fig. 7 and 8 marked as dashed lines.

[0062] Evaluation program 14.1 calculates an arithmetic mean of the largest measured torque signals Me1, Me2, Me3; this arithmetic mean is called the mean torque Mm. In the Fig. 7 and 8 The average torque Mm is marked as a dotted line.

[0063] Evaluation program 14.1 calculates an arithmetic mean of the largest measured rotation angle signals We1, We2, We3; this arithmetic mean is called the mean rotation angle Wm. In the Fig. 7 and 8 The mean rotation angle Wm is marked as a dotted line.

[0064] In the angle-synchronized screw case simulation in Fig. 8 The starting rotation angle signals Ws1, Ws2, Ws3 exhibit smaller intervals between each other than in the non-angle-synchronized screw fall simulation in Fig. 7 And even the largest measured rotation angle signals We1, We2, We3 show in the angle-synchronized screw case simulation in Fig. 8 smaller distances to each other than in the non-angle-synchronized screw fall simulation in Fig. 7The smaller discrepancies between the initial rotation angle signals Ws1, Ws2, Ws3 and between the largest measured rotation angle signals We1, We2, We3 originate from imbalances in the rotating parts of the simulation device 1. In the non-angle-synchronized screw joint simulation, the imbalances occur at angular offsets from each other, whereas in the angle-synchronized screw joint simulation, the imbalances are angularly synchronized.

[0065] This implies that in the angle-synchronized screw case simulation in Fig. 8 The deviations Δ1, Δ2, Δ3 of the largest measured rotation angle signals We1, We2, We3 from the mean rotation angle Wm are also smaller than in the non-angle-synchronized screw fall simulation in Fig. 7 In particular, the angle-synchronized screw failure simulation meets the requirements of the VDI / VDE 2647 guideline of February 2013 regarding the permissible deviation of the largest measured rotation angle with respect to the mean rotation angle.

[0066] Fig. 9 Figure 1 schematically shows a sequence of steps IN, IN' to VIIN of the procedure for retrofitting an existing simulation device 1'. The existing simulation device 1' has an existing rotary angle sensor 12.2' and an existing measuring disk 12.1' without a zero mark 12.12.

[0067] In the first step IN of the procedure, the existing measuring disc 12.1' is removed. In the second step IIN of the procedure, a measuring disc 12.1 with a zero mark 12.12 is provided. In the third step IIIN of the procedure, the provided measuring disc 12.1 is installed in place of the existing measuring disc 12.1'. In the fourth step IVN of the procedure, an arrangement of the existing rotary angle sensor 12.2' with respect to the zero mark 12.12 is defined as the zero angle 12.22. Replacing the existing measuring disc 12.1' after the first steps IN to IVN is advisable if the angle marks 12.11 are not unique incremental code values ​​and therefore none of the incremental code values ​​can be defined as the zero mark 12.12.

[0068] In an alternative first step IN' of the procedure, one of the angle marks 12.11 of the existing measuring disk 12.1' is defined as the zero mark 12.12. Subsequently, the fourth step IVN of the procedure is executed, and an arrangement of the existing rotary angle sensor 12.2' with respect to the zero mark 12.12 is defined as the zero angle 12.22. The alternative first step IN' is suitable if the angle marks 12.11 are absolute code values, so that one of the absolute code values ​​can be uniquely defined as the zero mark 12.12.

[0069] If the existing rotary angle sensor 12.2' cannot measure the zero mark 12.12, it is removed in a fifth step (VN) of the procedure. In a sixth step (VIN), a rotary angle sensor 12.2 that can measure the zero mark 12.12 is provided. Finally, in a seventh step (VIIN), the provided rotary angle sensor 12.2 is installed in place of the existing rotary angle sensor 12.2'. Replacing the existing rotary angle sensor 12.2' after steps VN to VIIN is recommended if it cannot measure the zero mark 12.12, for example, because the zero mark 12.12 and the angle marks 12.11 are spatially separated on the measuring surface 12.10. Reference symbol list

[0070] 1 Simulation device 1'existing simulation device 2 Screwdriver 10 Brake unit 10.0 Brake unit housing 10.1 Brake element 10.2 Rotor 10.3 Control and regulation unit 11 Clutch element 12 Measuring unit 12.0 Measuring unit housing 12.1 Measuring disc 12.1'existing measuring disc 12.10 Measuring surface 12.11 Angle mark 12.12 Zero mark 12.2 Angle transducer 12.2'existing angle transducer 12.21 Sensor element 12.22 Zero angle 12.3 Torque transducer 13 Test connection element 14 Evaluation unit 14.1 Evaluation program 14.2 Angle signal line 14.3 Torque signal line Δ1, Δ2, Δ3 Deviation IN - VIIN Step of the procedure for retrofitting an existing simulation device IS - VIIS Step of the procedure for carrying out the bolting case simulation M Torque Me1, Me2, Me3 Maximum torque Mm Average torque Ms1, Ms2, Ms3 Start torque signal MS Torque signal NS Zero mark signal R1, R2, R3 Torque rate W Rotation angle We1, We2, We3 Maximum rotation angle Ws1, Ws2, Ws3 Start rotation angle signal Wm Average rotation angle Z Rotation axis.

Claims

1. A simulation device (1) for the screw joint simulation of a nutrunner (2); comprising a test connecting element (13) and comprising a brake unit (10), said test connecting element (13) being rigidly connected to said brake unit (10); which nutrunner (2) is configured for coupling with said test connecting element (13); which nutrunner (2) is configured for activation when coupled with said test connecting element (13); wherein said activated nutrunner (2) when coupled with said test connecting element (13) exerts a torque onto the test connecting element (13) coupled thereto; said exerted torque rotating the test connecting element (13) about an axis of rotation (Z); which brake unit (10) can be activated; wherein said activated brake unit (10) brakes the test connecting element (13) rotating about the axis of rotation (Z); comprising a torque transducer (12.3) for measuring the exerted torque; and comprising an rotational angle transducer (12.2) for measuring an angle of rotation about which the test connecting element (13) rotates about the axis of rotation (Z); characterized in that the simulation device (1) comprises a zero mark (12.12); and in that the brake unit (10) can be orientated at a zero angle (12.22) with respect to said zero mark (12.12); und in that when said nutrunner (2) is coupled with said test connecting element (13), the simulation device (1) is configured for starting the screw joint simulation from said zero angle (12.22) aligned with respect to said zero mark (12.12) and the rotating parts of the simulation device (1) are always in the same defined starting position of the rotational movement.

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

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

4. The simulation device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that said measuring disc (12.1) comprises angle marks (12.11); in that said angle marks (12.11) are arranged on the measuring surface (12.10); and in that the zero mark (12.12) and the angle marks (12.11) are arranged spatially separated from each other on the measuring surface (12.10).

5. The simulation device (1) according to any of the claims 3 or 4, characterized in that the angle marks (12.11) are incremental code values.

6. The simulation device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the measuring disc (12.1) comprises angle marks (12.11); in that said angle marks (12.11) are a Gray code; in that said Gray code is arranged on largely the entire measuring surface (12.10); in that said Gray code comprises a plurality of light and dark code values; and in that seen in the direction of rotation, said light and dark code values are arranged side by side to each other.

7. The simulation device (1) according to any of the claims 3 or 6, characterized in that the angle marks (12.11) are absolute code values.

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

9. The simulation device (1) according to any of the claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the rotational angle transducer (12.2) is mounted in a fixed position on the simulation device (1).

10. The simulation device (1) according to any of the claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the rotational angle transducer (12.2) comprises a sensor element (12.21); in that said sensor element (12.21) detects the zero mark (12.12) adjusted to the zero angle (12.22); and in that the rotational angle transducer (12.2) generates a zero mark signal (NS) for a zero mark (12.12) detected by said sensor element (12.21).

11. A method for carrying out the screw joint simulation of a nutrunner (2) using the simulation device (1) according to any of the claims 1 to 10; characterized in that, in a first step (IS) of the method, the brake unit (10) is adjusted to a zero angle (12.22) with respect to the zero mark (12.12); in that, in a second step (IIS) of the method, the nutrunner (2) is coupled with the test connecting element (13); and in that, in a third step (IIIS) of the method, the screw joint simulation is initiated starting from the zero angle (12.22).

12. A method for retrofitting a preexisting simulation device (1') for the screw joint simulation of a nutrunner (2) to form the simulation device (1) according to any of the claims 1 to 10, wherein said preexisting simulation device (1') comprises a preexisting rotational angle transducer (12.2') and a preexisting measuring disc (12.1') without zero mark (12.12); characterized in that, in a first step (IN) of the method, the preexisting measuring disc (12. 1') is removed; in that, in a second step (IIN) of the method, a measuring disc (12.1) having a zero mark (12.12) is provided; in that, in a third step (IIIN) of the method, the measuring disc (12.1) provided is installed in place of the preexisting measuring disc (12.1'); and in that, in a fourth step (IVN) of the method, an orientation of the preexisting rotational angle transducer (12.2') with respect to the zero mark (12.12) is defined as the zero angle (12.22).

13. The method according to claim 12; characterized in that the preexisting rotational angle transducer (12.2') is not configured for measuring the zero mark (12.12) of the installed measuring disk (12.1) and is removed in a fifth step (VN) of the method; in that, in a sixth step (VIN) of the method, a rotational angle transducer (12. 2) designed for measuring the zero mark (12.12) of the installed measuring disk (12.1) is provided; and that, in a seventh step (VIIN) of the method, the rotational angle transducer (12.2) provided is installed in place of the preexisting rotational angle transducer (12.2').

14. A method for retrofitting a preexisting simulation device (1') for the screw joint simulation of a nutrunner (2) to form the simulation device (1) according to any of the claims 1 to 10, wherein said preexisting simulation device (1') comprises a preexisting rotational angle transducer (12.2') and a preexisting measuring disc (12.1') with angle marks (12.11) but without zero mark (12. 12); characterized in that, in a first step (IN') of the method, one of the angle marks (12.11) of the preexisting measuring disc (12.1') is defined as the zero mark (12.12); and in that, in a fourth step (IVN) following the first step of the method, an orientation of the preexisting rotational angle transducer (12.2') with respect to the zero mark (12.12) is defined as the zero angle (12.22).