Geared torque tool and integrated subassembly

Abstract

A geared torque tool and an integrated subassembly are disclosed. The integrated subassembly includes a motor and a gear train. The gear train is coupled to the rotor of the motor for torque transmission. At the same time, the gear train is integrally coupled to the stator such that the subassembly is at least partially housed within an exterior housing assembly to form a geared torque tool. Furthermore, a method for manufacturing the geared torque tool is disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to portable power tools, and more particularly to a sub - assembly of a torque tool with gears.

Background Art

[0002] A torque tool with gears is a portable power tool that includes, for example, a transmission having a planetary gear mechanism and a motor that supplies torque to the transmission. The motor typically supplies a high rotational speed and low torque to the transmission, and the transmission drives the output shaft at a relatively low rotational speed and high torque. For example, the output shaft defines a head that fits the output shaft onto a threaded fastener or is coupled to the head to apply torque to the fastener and secure it to a substrate. The motor is typically an electric motor driven by a battery. A controller is connected to the motor to appropriately control the motor and to supply high - precision torque via the output shaft. For example, the torque of the output shaft is estimated by monitoring the current received by the motor with the controller. The power supplied to the motor is varied based on the torque supplied to the output shaft to achieve a desired torque with high precision at the output shaft.

[0003] The electric motor and transmission in a torque tool with gears are generally housed in a housing assembly and are fixed or frictionally coupled to the housing assembly. For example, the frictional coupling may include a mode that forms an interference fit between a part of the housing assembly and a complementary part of the electric motor. The housing assembly defines the outer part (outer shell) of the tool and typically forms a handle for an operator to use. The housing assembly is usually made of plastic for ease of manufacture (e.g., by injection molding) and cost - effectiveness. In some cases, one or more metal elements (couplers) may connect the plastic outer shell to the motor and / or transmission.

[0004] For example, U.S. Patent No. 10,357,87B2 dated July 23, 2019, discloses a precision torque screwdriver with a main housing that defines the outside of the tool. The main housing houses the transmission and motor. The transmission receives torque from the motor. The transmission is fixed to the main housing. The trigger of the torque screwdriver is fixed to the main housing via a retaining member.

[0005] Various commercially available electric motors and transmissions can be used in construction and other applications, and they may also be used in combination. Using well-tested commercial components can offer cost advantages and potentially improve the overall reliability and robustness of the system.

[0006] There is a need to improve the efficiency and precision of the applied torque. Such improvements must be achieved while maintaining reliability and avoiding costly configurations. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0007] In one embodiment, the disclosure describes a geared torque tool. The geared torque tool comprises a motor defining a rotor and a stator; an external housing assembly that fixatively houses the motor by coupling to the stator; and a gear train coupled to the rotor for torque transmission and integrally coupled to the stator, and separated from the external housing assembly, for supporting the gear train during torque transmission.

[0008] In one embodiment, the disclosure describes an integrated subassembly for a geared torque tool. The subassembly comprises a motor that defines a stator and a rotor and rotates about a rotation axis, and a gear train coupled to the rotor for torque transmission and directly and integrally coupled to the stator adjacent to the axial direction of the motor for support, and forming an integrated subassembly.

[0009] In one embodiment, the present disclosure describes a method for manufacturing a geared torque tool. The manufacturing method includes the steps of forming a subassembly by coupling a gear train to the rotor and stator of a motor such that torque is transmitted from the rotor to the gear train with the gear train supported by the stator, and at least partially fixing the subassembly within an exterior housing assembly.

[0010] Embodiments may include combinations of the above features.

[0011] Further details of these and other aspects of the subject matter of this application will become apparent from the following detailed description and drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] Refer to the attached drawings. [Figure 1A] Figure 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary geared torque tool. [Figure 1B] Figure 1B is an exploded perspective view of the geared torque tool shown in Figure 1A. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a side elevation view of a torque tool in one embodiment, showing a state in which a portion of the exterior housing assembly has been removed, exposing a motor coupled to another portion of the exterior housing assembly. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a partially exploded perspective view of a torque tool showing the structure of an outer housing assembly that houses a motor in one embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an exploded view of an integrated drive assembly in one embodiment. [Figure 5A] Figure 5A is a side elevation view of an exemplary integrated drive assembly in one embodiment. [Figure 5B] Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view along the line 5B-5B in Figure 5A. [Figure 6A] Figure 6A is an exploded perspective view of the stator and stator head in one embodiment. [Figure 6B] Figure 6B is a front elevation view of the stator shown in Figure 6A. [Figure 6C] Figure 6C is a cross-sectional view of the stator along the line 6C-6C in Figure 6B. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a rear perspective view of the gearbox and stator head in one embodiment. [Figure 8A] Figure 8A is an exploded view of a gearbox in one embodiment. [Figure 8B] Figure 8B is an enlarged view of the region 8B shown in Figure 8A, along with the stator head, in one embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for manufacturing a geared torque tool. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a block diagram of a computing device in one embodiment.

[0013] <Detailed description of the invention>

[0014] The following disclosure relates to geared torque tools and methods for manufacturing the same. In some embodiments, the aspects disclosed herein can facilitate more accurate and efficient torque application.

[0015] The torque generated by a geared torque tool can be very large. It is desirable to generate and apply such torque predictably and efficiently. The desired torque may be applied by feedback controlling a torque tool motor based on data from a sensor. During operation of the geared torque tool, it has been found that undesirable variations, disturbances, and inefficiencies can occur due to the structural aspects of the geared torque tool. For example, when the motor and gear train are coupled to each other via a handle and / or an outer housing assembly, it has been found that undesirable deformation of the handle and outer housing assembly of the torque tool during operation can lead to significant disruption and inefficiencies. Combining both the motor and the gear train as a single unit and coupled to the outer housing assembly, but as a separate body, an integrated sub-assembly (integrated drive assembly) has been found to cost-effectively improve structural rigidity and integrity and reduce undesirable disruptions and inefficiencies during operation.

[0016] In various embodiments, the stator of the motor is integrally coupled to a gear of a gear train suitable for maintaining a stationary state during operation of the geared torque tool. The stator of the motor may be integrally coupled to the gear train in a state at least partially parallel to the rotation axis of the rotor of the stator. In some embodiments, the gear train and the stator may be coupled to each other via one or more intervening components positioned between the gear train and the stator.

[0017] Aspects of various embodiments will be described in connection with the figures.

[0018] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary geared torque tool 100.

[0019] FIG. 1B is an exploded perspective view of the geared torque tool 100 of FIG. 1A.

[0020] The torque tool 100 comprises a motor 103 stably housed within an exterior housing assembly 102. The motor 103 comprises a rotor and a stator. In Figures 1A and 1B, the exterior housing assembly 102 is a handle assembly. However, it is understood that such an exterior housing assembly 102 does not have to be a handle. For example, the torque tool 100 may be remotely controlled using a pendant. In some embodiments, the exterior housing assembly 102 may be a single, integrated housing.

[0021] For example, motor 103 may be a brushless direct current (DC) electric motor that can be driven via one or more batteries. It is understood that other types of motors may also be suitable for specific applications.

[0022] Figure 2 is a side elevation view of a torque tool 100 in one embodiment, in which a portion of the exterior housing assembly 102 has been removed, exposing a motor 103 coupled to another portion of the exterior housing assembly 102.

[0023] Figure 3 is a partially exploded perspective view of a torque tool 100, showing the structure of an outer housing assembly 102 that houses the motor 103 in one embodiment.

[0024] The stator of the motor 103 is coupled to the outer housing assembly 102, which holds the outer housing assembly in a stationary position relative to the rotor during operation. For example, as shown in Figures 1A to 1B and Figures 2 to 3, the outer housing assembly 102 may be fastened to the motor 103 via a number of threaded fasteners.

[0025] As shown in Figures 1A to 1B and Figures 2 to 3, the motor 103 is coupled to the gear train of the gearbox 104 to form an integrated drive assembly 122 terminating at the output shaft 106. The integrated drive assembly 122 forms a subassembly of the torque tool 100 and functions as a single unit. In this specification, “integrated assembly” may refer to components coupled to each other to achieve a common purpose and mounted substantially rigidly to each other to form a single unit. For example, “integrated drive assembly” may refer to a motor and a gear train coupled to each other to achieve torque transmission and mounted to each other such that the stator of the motor and the carriers of the gear train are substantially rigidly stationary to each other. In particular, in the integrated drive assembly 122, the gear train is coupled to the rotor of the motor 103 for torque transmission and is integrally coupled to the stator of the motor 103 via a stator head 124 to support the gear train during torque transmission. The stator head 124 defines a central opening for receiving the rotor shaft. The rotor shaft extends through the stator head 124. The gear train forms an integrated drive assembly 122 and is directly coupled to the stator, separate from the exterior housing assembly 102, in order to support the gear train (by the stator) during torque transmission.

[0026] In some embodiments, the stator head 124 is directly fastened to the exterior housing assembly 102. In Figure 2, the stator head 124 has two openings, one of which engages with a fastener. During construction, a portion of the exterior housing assembly 102 is integrally coupled to the stator 136 via the fastener that engages with the opening.

[0027] In some embodiments, the motor 103 and gearbox 104 are arranged sequentially such that they are adjacent to each other axially (with respect to the longitudinal axis 108 that defines the rotor's axis of rotation) and / or do not overlap each other (or are at least partially nested to each other). Advantageously, such a sequential arrangement may facilitate a modular structure for the integrated drive assembly 122 of the torque tool 100.

[0028] The output shaft 106 extends axially outward from the gearbox 104 distal to the motor 103. The output shaft 106 is operated by the motor via the gearbox 104, allowing it to rotate around the longitudinal axis 108. The output shaft 106 may define a mating adapter or spindle for mating with a workpiece (e.g., a threaded fastener) that is suitable for or for coupling with a tool head, in order to enable rotation by a torque tool 100.

[0029] As shown in Figure 3, the exterior housing assembly 102 comprises a first part 102A and a second part 102B that is complementary to the first part 102A. The first part 102A and the second part 102B are securely fixed to the first and second sides (both sides of the stator) of the motor 103, respectively, which are opposite each other. In this way, the exterior housing assembly 102 covers the motor and its stator at least partially and forms a handle 110 of the exterior housing assembly 102 so that an operator can grip the torque tool 100. In various embodiments, the first part 102A and the second part 102B may be the handle portion.

[0030] In some embodiments, the first outer housing portion may be securely fixed to the first side of the gearbox 104 that includes the gear train, and the second portion may be securely fixed to the second side of the gearbox 104 opposite to the first side that includes the gear train, so as to cover the gearbox 104. The first portion and / or the second portion may be directly fixed to the first and second sides of the gearbox 104.

[0031] In various embodiments, the trigger 112 may be mounted on or near the handle 110 so that the operator can operate the torque tool 100. In various embodiments, the exterior housing assembly 102 may further include a trigger guard 114 to prevent accidental activation of the trigger 112.

[0032] The controller 117 may be located in or between at least part of the two parts 102A, 102B of the exterior housing assembly 102. In various embodiments, the controller 117 may be housed at the distal end of the handle 110 from the motor 103. The controller 117 may be securely sandwiched between the first and second parts 102A, 102B of the exterior housing assembly 102. The controller 117 may be located in a pocket formed between the first and second parts 102A, 102B. In various embodiments, the controller 117 is fixed to parts 102A, 102B, thereby securely held between the two parts 102A, 102B. As a useful point, in some embodiments, a part of the controller 117 (e.g., its housing) may form the lowest end of the exterior housing assembly 102.

[0033] The battery pack 118 may engage with the outer housing assembly 102. In various embodiments, the battery pack 118 may engage directly with the controller 117, or the entire assembly may be located next to it. One or more batteries of the battery pack 118 are connected to the motor 103 to supply power to the motor 103. For example, a dual battery pack may include two batteries that work together to drive the motor 103.

[0034] In various embodiments, the exterior housing assembly 102 may be formed at least partially from plastic or other cost-effective materials. For example, parts 102A and 102B may be made of injection-molded plastic. Such materials may be prone to deformation and breakage under repeated and / or excessive loads, but they can offer cost advantages and improved manufacturability. For example, in some embodiments, an ergonomically textured gripping surface may be cost-effectively realized.

[0035] The motor may provide a high-speed, low-torque input to the gearbox 104. This allows the gearbox 104 to generate a low-speed, high-torque output via the output shaft 106. An advantage of this configuration is that it allows for the application of high torque using a relatively small motor.

[0036] The motor 103 may be mounted on the low-torque end of the gear train of the gearbox 104. An advantage of this configuration is that the structural integrity of the integrated drive assembly 122 as a single unit may be improved, for example, by suppressing high torque acting on the fixed or connecting parts between the motor 103 and the gearbox 104.

[0037] The torque tool 100 may include a controller operably coupled to the motor. The torque tool 100 may also include one or more sensors, such as an encoder for measuring shaft rotation. The controller may be configured to control the motor based on data generated by the sensors to achieve controlled torque on the output shaft 106. The controlled torque may include a predetermined torque level or a predetermined torque curve.

[0038] The integrated drive assembly 122 of the torque tool 100 may be adapted to be firmly coupled to the end of an external reaction arm 107, for example, by friction engagement or fastening of a ring 116 of the gearbox 104 with a groove of the reaction arm 107 that is complementary to the ring 116. For example, the reaction arm 107 may be a metal rod or other rigid member. The other end of the reaction arm 107 may be rotatably coupled or mounted to an output shaft 106, a gear train of the gearbox 104 that rotationally engages with the output shaft 106, and a rotor of a motor that operably engages with the gear train to drive the shaft 106, while the stator of the motor 103, the exterior housing assembly 102, and the carrier of the gear train in the gearbox 104 may be rigidly coupled or mounted in a non-rotatable, immovable structure. Such a configuration is structurally advantageous because it allows the integrated drive assembly 122 to be held without placing an excessive load on the exterior housing assembly 102, which is normally structurally fragile. In some embodiments, the reaction arm 107 may not be provided.

[0039] In various embodiments, the exterior housing assembly 102 may include openings 120, such as vents, that allow a portion of the motor to be exposed to the outside air and cooled during operation. A useful feature is that such portions of the motor may be stationary (relative to the exterior housing assembly 102) and may include fins or other features to enhance heat dissipation. For example, heat dissipation of the stator portion may be enhanced. The exterior housing assembly 102 may also include textured surfaces to facilitate gripping by an operator. For example, textured surfaces may be provided on the rear and / or side of the handle 110.

[0040] Figure 4 is an exploded view of an integrated drive assembly 122 in one embodiment.

[0041] Figure 5A is a side elevation view of an exemplary integrated drive assembly 122 in one embodiment.

[0042] Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view along the line 5B-5B in Figure 5A.

[0043] The integrated drive assembly 122 may be suitably coupled to the exterior housing assembly 102 as a subassembly of the torque tool 100. The integrated drive assembly 122 may be securely fixed to the exterior housing assembly 102. The integrated drive assembly 122 may be partially or entirely housed within the exterior housing assembly 102. The integrated drive assembly 122 may be integrally coupled to the reaction arm 107 to hold the integrated drive assembly 122 in a stationary position. In this way, the positioning and support of the motor 103 and gearbox 104 during the operation of the torque tool 100 may be achieved without relying on the exterior housing assembly 102. An advantage is that in various embodiments, ease of operation and rigidity can be improved cost-effectively.

[0044] As shown in Figures 4 and 5A to 5B, the rotor 130 of the motor 103 is coupled to a gear train of the gearbox 104 to transmit torque. The gear train consists of a connecting member such as an adapter plate 142 and a plurality of sequentially arranged planetary gear sets 134A, 134B, 134C, 134D, 134E supported by a plurality of carriers 132A, 132B, 132C. In various embodiments, the adapter plate 142 may be annular. Each carrier 132A, 132B, 132C may be an annular portion surrounding one or more planetary gears and supporting the planetary gear sets 134A-134E for torque transmission. For example, each carrier 132A, 132B, 132C may engage with one or more planetary gears of the planetary gear sets 134A to 134E and each may define a corresponding annular or ring gear.

[0045] As shown in Figure 5B, the stator 136 may be an annular stator including a core 128 and a sleeve 126 attached to the core 128. Fins or other heat dissipation surfaces may be formed on the sleeve 126 to facilitate heat dissipation, for example, through an opening 120. The stator 136 is integrally coupled to the gearbox 104 via a stator head 124. Multiple fasteners 138 are sequentially inserted into openings in the stator 136 and the stator head 124 to form multiple fastener connections. The multiple fastener connections are distributed around the flange of the sleeve 126, coupling the gear train to the sleeve 126.

[0046] The rotor 130 may be housed within the core 128 of the stator 136. The stator 136 may surround the rotor 130 in the circumferential direction.

[0047] As shown in Figure 5B, the shaft of the rotor 130 engages with the sun gear of the planetary gear unit 134A. The planetary gears of the planetary gear unit 134A engage with the surrounding annular gear and are defined by the carrier 132A. During operation, the planetary gears and sun gear rotate and are supported within the fixed carrier 132A, transmitting shaft power (torque) to the planetary gear unit 134B. Similarly, shaft power is transmitted from the planetary gear unit 134B to the planetary gear unit 134C, from the planetary gear unit 134C to the planetary gear unit 134D, and from the planetary gear unit 134D to the planetary gear unit 134E. During operation, the planetary gears and sun gears of the planetary gear units 134B and 134C rotate and are supported within the fixed carrier 132B, while the planetary gears and sun gears of the planetary gear units 134D and 134E rotate and are supported within the fixed carrier 132C. The output shaft 106 engages with the planetary gear unit 134E and provides output shaft power.

[0048] The planetary gear units 134A, 134B, 134C, 134D, and 134E play a role in increasing torque from the low torque at the low torque end close to the motor 103 relative to the output shaft 106 to the high torque at the high torque end close to the output shaft 106 relative to the motor 103. The stator 136 may be integrally coupled to the low torque end of the gear train. As an advantage, this may make it easier to maintain a fixed connection between the stator 136 and the gear train.

[0049] The carrier 132A may be engaged within the stator head 124. Keyways or slots within the carrier 132A may engage with projections 140 formed on the stator head 124, thereby integrally connecting the carrier 132A to the stator 136.

[0050] During operation, the carriers 132A, 132B, and 132C may be held stationary by a reaction arm 107 which is integrally coupled to the gear train and (via the gear train) to the stator 136. The reaction arm 107 generates a reaction force against the non-movable structure and supports the torque tool 100 during operation.

[0051] As shown in Figure 5B, the planetary gears and sun gears of each planetary gear system may be housed in their respective brackets. Retaining pins and / or other fasteners may be used to connect the brackets to the planetary gears and sun gears.

[0052] One face of the gear train is fixed to a face of the stator 136 that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis 108. In some embodiments, these faces may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 108.

[0053] The fastener 138 may integrally connect the stator 136 to the gear train via an adapter plate 142. The adapter plate 142 of the gear train may be securely fastened to the sleeve 126 of the stator 136. The adapter plate 142 may be connected to the carrier 132B via one or more detent assemblies, i.e., a ball detent assembly 144. In various embodiments, the detent assembly may include a wave spring assembly. The adapter plate 142 allows the stator 136 to be connected to an annular gear (annular section) defined by the carrier 132B. In some embodiments, the stator 136 may be connected directly to the annular gear defined by the adapter plate 142 or the carrier 132B. In this specification, “annular section” means an annular gear.

[0054] Collar 146 surrounds the low-torque end of the gear train. Collar 146 is coupled to adapter plate 142 via slots and keys that engage with them.

[0055] Figure 6A is an exploded perspective view of the stator 136 and stator head 124 in one embodiment.

[0056] Figure 6B is a front elevation view of the stator shown in Figure 6A.

[0057] Figure 6C is a cross-sectional view of the stator along the line 6C-6C in Figure 6B.

[0058] In various embodiments, the sleeve 126 of the stator 136 is bonded to a hollow core 128 that receives the rotor 130 with an adhesive. In various embodiments, a thermally conductive adhesive bonds the sleeve 126 to the core 128 of the stator 136, allowing for heat dissipation. For example, the adhesive may be a heat sink adhesive or other adhesive with high thermal conductivity (e.g., thermal conductivity of 1.4 W / m·K at 25°C). In some embodiments, the adhesive may be an epoxy adhesive, such as a two-part adhesive. The adhesive may be configured to operate at 150°C or above. The adhesive may be configured to bond metals together. In various embodiments, the adhesive forms a hard and durable material (hardness 77D) after curing, rigidly bonding the sleeve 126 to the core 128. As a benefit, the adhesive may have electrical insulating properties, for example, the resistivity of the adhesive may be 9 × 10⁻⁶. 12 It is acceptable if it is greater than Ω·cm.

[0059] In some embodiments, the sleeve 126 is made of a metal or a metal alloy. In some embodiments, such a metal may be aluminum, for example, 6061-T6 aluminum. In various embodiments, the sleeve 126 may be made of copper, titanium, magnesium, or an alloy thereof.

[0060] The sleeve 126 may include multiple openings to receive fasteners for fastening the handling assembly 102 to the stator 136. For example, such openings may allow fastening by screw fasteners.

[0061] Figure 7 is a rear perspective view of the gearbox 104 and stator head 124 in one embodiment.

[0062] Figure 8A is an exploded view of the gearbox 104 in one embodiment.

[0063] Figure 8B is an enlarged view of area 8B in Figure 8A, showing it together with the stator head 124, in one embodiment.

[0064] The collar 146 is equipped with keys arranged along its inner circumference. These keys are projections that radiate inward from the inner circumference. These projections complement slots distributed around the outer circumference of the adapter plate 142, allowing the projections to engage with the slots so as to hold the collar 146 in place relative to the adapter plate 142. The adapter plate 142 is securely fastened to the stator head 124 via a plurality of fasteners 138. The adapter plate 142 is also securely coupled to plate 148 via a plurality of fasteners.

[0065] The carrier 132A is fixed to the stator 136 by the engagement of slots on the outer circumference of the carrier 132A with projections 140 formed on the stator head 124, thereby allowing the planetary gear unit 134A to rotate relative to the carrier 132A.

[0066] The carrier 132B is coupled to the adapter plate 142 and its attached components via the ball detent assembly 144. In particular, the carrier 132B allows the carrier 132B (the annular gear defined thereby) to be detachably fixed to the stator 136. As shown in Figure 5B, the adapter plate 142 and plate 148, once fixed to each other, define an annular space between them that receives the rim of the carrier 132B. The rim of the carrier 132B is provided with slots or pockets for holding the springs and balls of the ball detent assembly 144. Multiple recesses complementary to the ends of the balls of the ball detent assembly 144 are formed in the rear lip of plate 148 facing the rim of the carrier 132B, receiving and engaging the ends of the balls of the ball detent assembly 144. The multiple recesses may be distributed circumferentially around the lip. The multiple recesses represent preset angular positions of the carrier 132B.

[0067] The carrier 132B may function as an index rotor for the gear train, allowing it to be repositioned (indexed) to a preset angular position relative to the stator head 124 (and adapter plate 142). One or more selective engagements of the ball detent assembly 144, namely the engagement of the balls with recesses on the rear lip of plate 148, allow the carrier 132B to rotate relative to the stator head 124. In particular, the ball detent assembly 144 may be selectively released by torque applied to the carrier 132B (index rotor), for example by pushing the balls in the (non-compressed portion) and pressing down the spring, thereby rotatably releasing the carrier 132B relative to plate 148 and adapter plate 142. In this case, the rotation of the carrier 132B may cause the planetary gear system to rotate, and the output shaft 106 to rotate. This may allow the position of the handle 110 to be repositioned by rotating the exterior housing assembly 102 relative to the output shaft 106.

[0068] One or more ball detent assemblies 144 may be distributed around the carrier 132B at the low-torque end of the gear train to ensure secure fastening. In various embodiments, the size and number of ball detent assemblies 144 may be adjusted to withstand the applied torque and prevent slippage.

[0069] Figure 9 is a flowchart of an exemplary method 900 for manufacturing a geared torque tool.

[0070] Step 902 of Method 900 includes coupling the gear train to the rotor and stator to form a subassembly such that torque is transmitted from the rotor to the gear train while the gear train is supported by the stator. The gear train may also be rigidly supported by the stator.

[0071] Step 904 of Method 900 includes ensuring that the subassembly is at least partially housed within the exterior housing assembly.

[0072] Some embodiments of Method 900 include fixing the gear train to the stator and integrally coupling the stator to the gear train.

[0073] Some embodiments of Method 900 include securely fastening a first exterior housing portion to the first side of the stator and a second exterior housing portion to the second side of the stator opposite the first side, so as to at least partially cover the stator and form a handle for the exterior housing assembly.

[0074] Some embodiments of Method 900 include securely fastening a first outer housing portion to the first side of the gear train and a second outer housing portion to the second side of the gear train opposite the first side, so as to at least partially cover the gear train.

[0075] In some embodiments of Method 900, the stator is an annular stator that surrounds the rotor in the circumferential direction and is integrally coupled to the annular portion of the gear train.

[0076] In some embodiments of Method 900, the annular portion of the gear train is securely fixed to a stator sleeve, which is bonded and coupled to the stator core.

[0077] In some embodiments of Method 900, a thermally conductive adhesive is used to bond the sleeve to the stator core, allowing for heat dissipation.

[0078] In some embodiments of Method 900, the annular portion of the gear train is coupled to the flange of the sleeve via a plurality of fixed connections distributed around the flange of the sleeve.

[0079] In some embodiments of Method 900, the annular portion of the gear train is an annular gear that engages with and surrounds a planetary gear system coupled to a rotor and performing torque transmission.

[0080] In some embodiments of Method 900, the gear train includes an index rotor of the gear train that is selectively engageable to allow the exterior housing assembly to rotate relative to the output shaft of the geared torque tool.

[0081] In some embodiments of Method 900, the index rotor is defined as an annular gear that is detachably fixed to the stator and engages with a planetary gear system coupled to the rotor to transmit torque.

[0082] In some embodiments of Method 900, the index rotor is detachably fastened to the stator via one or more ball detent assemblies distributed around the low-torque end of the gear train, and these ball detent assemblies are selectively released by torque applied to the index rotor.

[0083] Some embodiments of Method 900 include integrally coupling the reaction arm to the stator via a gear train.

[0084] In some embodiments of Method 900, the stator is integrally coupled to the low-torque end of the gear train.

[0085] Figure 10 shows a block diagram of a computing device 1000 according to one embodiment.

[0086] For example, the controller for controlling the output torque of the geared torque tool described above may be implemented using the computing device 1000 illustrated in Figure 10.

[0087] The computing device 1000 includes at least one processor 1002, memory 1004, and at least one input / output (I / O) interface 1006. At least one network communication interface 1008 may also be provided.

[0088] The processor 1002 may be a microprocessor or microcontroller, a digital signal processing (DSP) processor, an integrated circuit (IC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a reconfigurable processor, a programmable read-only memory (PROM), or a combination thereof.

[0089] The memory 1004 may include computer memory located internally or externally, such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), compact disk read-only memory (CDROM), electro-optical memory, magneto-optical memory, erasable program read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable program read-only memory (EEPROM), ferroelectric RAM (FRAM), and the like.

[0090] The input / output (I / O) interface 1006 may allow the computing device 1000 to interconnect with one or more sensors and / or input devices. Sensors may include encoders, temperature sensors, and current sensors. Input devices may include keyboards, mice, cameras, touchscreens, and microphones, or combinations with one or more output devices such as display devices and speakers.

[0091] The networking interface 1008 may be configured to receive and transmit data and / or datasets to and from a target data storage or data structure. In some embodiments, the target data storage or data structure may reside on a computing device or system.

[0092] It should be understood that the aforementioned examples are intended to be illustrative only.

[0093] In some embodiments, the motor may include an annular rotor in which the stator is arranged within the annular rotor. In such embodiments, the carrier gears of the planetary gear system may be rotatable while the sun gear remains fixed. Nevertheless, it is found to be advantageous to have a structure in which the stator is annular and encloses the rotor. For example, improved structural rigidity can be achieved.

[0094] The embodiments described herein provide non-limiting examples of possible embodiments of the Art. By reviewing this disclosure, those skilled in the art will recognize that modifications to the embodiments described herein do not depart from the scope of the Art. For example, the motor may be a gear motor, and the index rotor may be replaced with a freely sliding connection to the exterior housing assembly, allowing the exterior housing assembly to rotate relative to the integrated drive assembly. The ball detent assembly may also be positioned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and there may be no index rotor, with the stator fixed directly to the carrier. Furthermore, further modifications by those skilled in the art based on this disclosure are possible, but such modifications also fall within the scope of the Art.

Claims

1. A motor that defines the rotor and stator, An outer housing assembly for securely housing the motor by coupling with the stator, A gear train coupled to the rotor for torque transmission and integrally coupled to the stator separately from the outer housing assembly to support the gear train during torque transmission, A geared torque tool, including one.

2. The geared torque tool according to claim 1, characterized in that the stator is an annular stator surrounding the rotor in the circumferential direction and is integrally coupled to the annular portion of the gear train.

3. The geared torque tool according to claim 2, characterized in that the annular portion of the gear train is securely fixed to the sleeve of the stator, which is bonded and coupled to the core of the stator.

4. The geared torque tool according to claim 3, characterized in that a thermally conductive adhesive bonds the sleeve and the core of the stator, enabling heat dissipation.

5. The geared torque tool according to claim 3, characterized in that the annular portion of the gear train is coupled to the flange of the sleeve via a plurality of fixed connections distributed around the flange of the sleeve.

6. The geared torque tool according to claim 2, characterized in that the annular portion of the gear train engages with a planetary gear system that is coupled to the rotor and transmits torque, and is an annular gear surrounding the planetary gear system.

7. The geared torque tool according to claim 1, wherein the gear train includes an index rotor of the gear train that is selectively engageable to enable the exterior housing assembly to rotate relative to the output shaft of the geared torque tool.

8. The geared torque tool according to claim 7, characterized in that the index rotor is detachably fixed to the stator and contains an annular gear that engages with a planetary gear system coupled to the rotor to transmit torque.

9. The geared torque tool according to claim 8, wherein the index rotor is detachably fixed to the stator via one or more ball detent assemblies distributed around the low-torque end of the gear train, and these ball detent assemblies are selectively releaseable by torque applied to the index rotor.

10. A reaction arm integrally connected to the stator via the aforementioned gear train, A geared torque tool according to claim 1, further comprising:

11. The geared torque tool according to claim 1, characterized in that the stator is integrally coupled to the low torque end of the gear train.

12. The geared torque tool according to claim 1, wherein the exterior housing assembly comprises a first portion and a second portion complementary to the first portion, the first portion being securely fixed to a first side of the stator and the second portion being securely fixed to a second side of the stator opposite to the first side, thereby covering the stator at least partially and forming a handle for the exterior housing assembly.

13. The geared torque tool according to claim 12, characterized in that the first portion is securely fixed to the first side of the gear train, and the second portion is securely fixed to the second side of the gear train opposite to the first side so as to cover the gear train.

14. The geared torque tool according to claim 1, characterized in that the gear train and the stator are adjacent to each other in the axial direction with respect to the rotation axis of the rotor and do not overlap.

15. The geared torque tool according to claim 1, characterized in that the surface of the gear train is fixed to the surface of the stator which is not non-parallel to the rotation axis of the rotor, and the surface of the gear train and the surface of the stator are adjacent in the axial direction.

16. A motor that defines a rotor and stator that rotate around a rotation axis, A gear train coupled to the rotor for torque transmission, directly and integrally coupled to the stator adjacent to the motor in the axial direction, supporting and forming an integrated subassembly; Integrated subassembly for geared torque tools, including a geared subassembly.

17. The integrated subassembly according to claim 16, characterized in that the geared torque tool defines the exterior housing assembly, and the integrated subassembly is at least partially and reliably housed within the exterior housing assembly, thereby forming the geared torque tool.

18. The integrated subassembly according to claim 16, characterized in that the stator is an annular stator surrounding the rotor in the circumferential direction and is integrally coupled to the annular portion of the gear train.

19. The integrated subassembly according to claim 18, characterized in that the annular portion of the gear train is securely fixed to the sleeve of the stator, which is bonded and coupled to the core of the stator.

20. The integrated subassembly according to claim 19, characterized in that a thermally conductive adhesive bonds the sleeve and the core of the stator, enabling heat dissipation.

21. The integrated subassembly according to claim 19, characterized in that the annular portion of the gear train is coupled to the flange of the sleeve via a plurality of fixed connections distributed around the flange of the sleeve.

22. The integrated subassembly according to claim 18, characterized in that the annular portion of the gear train engages with a planetary gear system that is coupled to the rotor and transmits torque, and is an annular gear surrounding the planetary gear system.

23. The integrated subassembly according to claim 16, characterized in that the gear train includes an index rotor of the gear train that allows the stator to be rotatably engaged with the output shaft of the gear train in order to selectively engage with it.

24. The integrated subassembly according to claim 23, characterized in that the index rotor is detachably fixed to the stator and defines an annular gear that engages with a planetary gear system coupled to the rotor to transmit torque.

25. The integrated subassembly according to claim 24, characterized in that the index rotor is detachably fastened to the stator via one or more ball detent assemblies located at the low torque end of the gear train, and the ball detent assemblies are selectively releaseable by torque applied to the index rotor.

26. Reaction arm integrally connected to the stator via the gear train The integrated subassembly according to claim 16, further comprising:

27. The integrated subassembly according to claim 16, characterized in that the gear train and the stator do not overlap in the axial direction.

28. The integrated subassembly according to claim 16, characterized in that the surface of the gear train is fixed to the surface of the stator which is not parallel to the rotation axis of the rotor, and the surface of the gear train and the surface of the stator are adjacent to each other in the axial direction.

29. The integrated subassembly according to claim 16, characterized in that the stator is integrally coupled to the low-torque end of the gear train.

30. A torque tool comprising an integrated subassembly according to any one of claims 16 to 29.

31. A step of forming a subassembly by coupling the gear train to the rotor and stator of a motor such that torque is transmitted from the rotor to the gear train and the gear train is supported by the stator, The steps include:

1. Securely housing the subassembly at least partially within the exterior housing assembly; A method for manufacturing a geared torque tool, including the part mentioned above.

32. The method according to 31, characterized in that the step of forming the subassembly includes connecting the gear train to the stator and integrally fastening the stator to the gear train.

33. A step of forming a handle for the exterior housing assembly by securely fastening the first exterior housing portion to the first side of the stator and securely fastening the second exterior housing portion to the second side of the stator opposite to the first side, thereby at least partially covering the stator. The method according to claim 31, including the method described in claim 31.

34. The process of securely fastening the first outer housing portion to the first side of the gear train and the second outer housing portion to the second side of the gear train opposite to the first side, thereby covering the gear train at least partially. The method according to claim 33, including the method described in claim 33.

35. The method according to 31, characterized in that the stator is an annular stator that surrounds the rotor in the circumferential direction and is integrally coupled to the annular portion of the gear train.

36. The method according to 35, characterized in that the annular portion of the gear train is securely fastened to the sleeve of the stator, which is bonded to the core of the stator with an adhesive.

37. The method according to 36, characterized in that the sleeve is bonded to the core of the stator with a thermally conductive adhesive, thereby enabling heat dissipation.

38. A method according to claim 36, characterized in that the annular portion of the gear train is coupled to the flange of the sleeve via a plurality of fixed connections distributed around the flange of the sleeve.

39. The method according to 36, characterized in that the annular portion of the gear train is an annular gear that engages with and surrounds a planetary gear system coupled to the rotor for torque transmission.

40. The method according to 31, characterized in that the gear train includes an index rotor of the gear train that is selectively engaged such that the exterior housing assembly is rotatable with respect to the output shaft of a geared torque tool.

41. The method according to 40, characterized in that the index rotor is detachably fastened to the stator and comprises an annular gear that engages with a planetary gear system coupled to the rotor for torque transmission.

42. The method according to 41, characterized in that the index rotor is detachably fastened to the stator via one or more ball detent assemblies located at the low torque end of the gear train, and the ball detent assemblies are selectively releaseable by torque applied to the index rotor.

43. A step of integrally coupling the reaction arm to the stator via the gear train, The method according to claim 31, further comprising:

44. The method according to 31, characterized in that the stator is integrally coupled to the low torque end of the gear train.

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