Torque driver

Abstract

The present invention relates to a torque driver 1, which comprises a handle 2, a display 3 for the set torque and a driven part 4. In the handle 2, a setting device 5 for setting the torque and a torque mechanism 17 are arranged, which comprises a drive shaft 18 for transmitting the torque and a release mechanism 23 for interrupting the transmission of the torque when the set torque is reached. The drive shaft 18 and the driven part 4 are connected via a freewheel mechanism 33.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a torque driver according to the features within the generic concept of claim 1.

Background Art

[0002] Torque tools such as torque drivers are manually operated tools by which a controlled rotational torque can be applied to a work material, usually a screw or nut. A predetermined tightening torque can be applied by a settable torque tool in order to ensure the required tightening force or assembly preload between the structural members to be joined.

[0003] In a torque driver, a release mechanism is stored within a handle. Within the handle, or on the handle, a setting device is also provided together with a display of the rotational torque to be set. An adjustment mechanism in the handle, usually an adjusting body coupled to a threaded spindle, is rotated relative to a fixed part of the handle so that the desired rotational torque is set by compression of a compression spring.

[0004] A settable torque driver is known from Patent Document 1.

[0005] Patent Documents 2 and 3 disclose a ratchet driver.

[0006] Furthermore, Patent Document 4 regards a switchable torque driver as part of the prior art.

[0007] The torque driver described above operates with a switchable ratchet mechanism to transmit the rotational force in one rotational direction. On the other hand, in the reverse rotational direction, no force is transmitted. Instead, the ratchet rotates in a freewheeling state. Such a mechanical ratchet mechanism has a reverse return resistance depending on the system, and this reverse return resistance can be felt during the return rotation. The magnitude of the reverse return resistance varies according to the configuration of each ratchet mechanism. A reverse return without resistance is not possible in known mechanisms. The reverse return resistance has a particularly adverse effect during the tightening or pre-tightening of a disengaged screw connection. This is because the tightening torque of the screw is often smaller than this reverse return resistance. As a result, in such a usage situation, the ratchet mechanism does not function. A comparable problem occurs during the screwing of a screw with an extremely small tightening torque. This is because there, the tightening torque may be smaller than the reverse return resistance.

[0008] In the switchable driver disclosed in Patent Document 5, the rotational force transmission is performed using rollers. The switching of the rotational direction is performed via a control device. These rollers cooperate with the shaft and the inner perforation of the handle of the driver. Therefore, during the transmission of the rotational torque, these rollers are fixed in a wedge shape in the rotational direction that can be set by the control device, and the rotational torque can be transmitted in one rotational direction. The change of the rotational direction is performed by switching using the control device. The structure for setting the rotational torque in a torque driver is regarded as general known technology according to Patent Document 6. Inside the handle, a setting device for setting the rotational torque and a rotational torque mechanism are arranged. This rotational torque mechanism includes a drive shaft for transmitting the rotational torque and a release mechanism for interrupting the rotational torque transmission when the set rotational torque is achieved. A screw tightening tool having a direction-switchable freewheel locking device is described in Patent Document 7. Furthermore, a configurable torque driver can be read from Patent Document 8.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0009]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

Patent Document 5

Patent Document 6

Patent Document 7

Patent Document 8

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0010] The problem underlying the present invention is, starting from this known technology, to improve the torque driver technically and functionally in terms of its use.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0011] The solution to this problem lies, according to the present invention, in a torque driver according to claim 1.

Effects of the Invention

[0012] Advantageous embodiments and further configurations of the torque driver according to the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0013] The configuration and modification of the features of the torque driver that technically advantageously configure the invention, either alone or in combination, are likewise given from the specification and the attached drawings.

[0014] This torque driver has a handle, a display for a set rotational torque, and a driven part. In the handle, a setting device for setting the rotational torque and a rotational torque mechanism are arranged. The rotational torque mechanism includes a drive shaft for transmitting the rotational torque and a release mechanism for interrupting the rotational torque transmission when the set rotational torque is reached.

[0015] The release mechanism has a clutch, and this clutch interrupts the rotational torque transmission when the set rotational torque is reached. The clutch includes a first clutch structural member and a second mating clutch structural member, and the first clutch structural member and the second mating clutch structural member are connected in a shape-based engagement state via an engagement portion. The first clutch structural member cooperates with the second mating clutch structural member and is biased by a compression spring. The first clutch structural member and the second mating clutch structural member are connected in a shape-based engagement state via an engagement portion. These teeth are formed inclined and have a helical tooth profile. When a counter torque acts on the driven part and as soon as this counter torque is transmitted to the drive side, both clutch elements move away from each other along the contact surfaces of these teeth. This movement is performed against the spring force of the compression spring, and at this time, the rotational torque introduced in the handle and the counter torque are the same in terms of quantity. From the set rotational torque (release rotational torque), the first clutch structural member and the second mating clutch structural member move away from each other to such an extent that the engagement due to the shape between both structural members is released. As a result, the introduction of a higher rotational torque is blocked in the driven part, and the meshing part is locked in a subsequent position. If the rotational torque introduced at the handle is not reduced, this process is repeated. This process is interrupted only when the rotational torque at the handle is smaller than the release rotational torque.

[0016] The desired release torque of the release mechanism in the clutch can be changed by an increase or decrease in the spring force of the compression spring. This adjustment is performed by the rotational movement of an adjustment screw.

[0017] The drive shaft and the driven part are connected via a freewheel mechanism. The freewheel mechanism is configured and defined to transmit or support rotational torque in one rotational direction, while allowing rotational movement (idling) in the opposite direction. With the configuration according to the invention of the torque driver having a freewheel mechanism, the reverse resistance during reverse rotation of the handle is removed or almost completely removed. This freewheel mechanism enables a reverse return without resistance during re-grasping. During operation in the tightening direction, the freewheel mechanism locks in a self-locking manner and transmits the rotational torque. The functional mode according to the invention enables the tightening of an un-tensioned screw or nut. Even a screw connection that requires an extremely small tightening torque can be advantageously established with the torque driver according to the invention.

[0018] According to the invention, the freewheel mechanism has an inner shaft, an outer ring, a switching cage, and at least one tightening body. In particular, this tightening body is a tightening roller. The switching cage is arranged on the shaft portion of the inner shaft. The clamping body is arranged within the notch in the cylindrical portion of the switching cage. The outer ring is coupled to the drive shaft, at least indirectly. Advantageously, the outer ring is formed at the end of the driven side of the drive shaft from one piece of the same material. Advantageously, the outer ring is a component of a cylindrical sleeve having a floor portion at the end of the driven side of the drive shaft. A circumferentially extending ring collar portion is provided on the outer periphery of the outer ring. This ring collar portion cooperates with the abutting portion in the receiving portion of the handle and fixes the axial position of the drive shaft within the handle.

[0019] The clamping body is arranged between the inner shaft and the outer ring. In the clamping position, the clamping body transmits the rotational torque between the outer ring and the inner shaft. The clamping body is supported on the flat surface of the shaft portion and the inner circumferential surface of the outer ring. During the rotational movement in the idling direction, the clamping body slides on the running surfaces of the inner shaft and the outer ring.

[0020] When the rotational movement of the handle in the tightening direction is performed, frictional engagement occurs due to the static friction at the contact surface between the flat surface of the shaft portion and the inner circumferential surface of the outer ring. The rotational torque is transmitted through one or a plurality of clamping bodies. The driving movement with repeated direction switching is transmitted stepwise in the tightening direction to the driven side or the driven part in the rotation direction aligned in the same direction. When the rotation direction alternates from the tightening direction to the idling direction, a return movement is performed without rotational torque transmission.

[0021] The freewheel mechanism is switchable. The torque driver has a neutral position, and in this neutral position, the rotational torque is transmissible in both rotational directions. In the neutral position, the torque driver according to the present invention operates like a conventional driver. By switching the freewheel mechanism, this freewheel mechanism can alternate between a first clamping position and a second clamping position, and accordingly, the clamping direction can be set. For switching the freewheel mechanism, a switching cage is rotatable relative to the inner shaft and / or the outer ring. Thereby, the clamping body is movable from a neutral position where rotational torque can be transmitted in both rotational directions to the first clamping position or the second clamping position. In the first clamping position, rotational torque transmission is performed in one rotational direction (the clamping direction). In the second clamping position, rotational torque transmission is performed in a second rotational direction (the release direction). In each reverse direction (the freewheel direction) of the first rotational direction or the second rotational direction, no rotational torque transmission is performed. The rotational torque mechanism can be rotated back in an idling state in the freewheel direction (the free-running direction).

[0022] Since the switching cage cannot automatically change the switching position of this switching cage or each clamping position, a locking device is provided, and these locking devices are configured and defined for fixing the position of the switching cage at the neutral position, the first clamping position, or the second clamping position.

[0023] In particular, the locking device has a locking element, and this locking element is arranged in the perforation of the inner shaft. The locking element cooperates with a spring, and this spring is inserted in the perforation and acts on this locking element. Accordingly, this locking element is elastically biased outward from this perforation by the spring. The switching cage has locking portions, and into these locking portions, the locking element engages in a reaction force supporting state at each clamping position or the neutral position. The contour of the locking portion is adapted to the outer geometric shape of the locking element. In particular, this locking element is a sphere.

[0024] The switching of the freewheel mechanism is performed via a switching body, which is configured and defined for switching the switching cage. The switching is performed by a rotational movement of the switching body about the longitudinal axis of the torque driver. In particular, the switching body is a switching ring or a switching disk. This switching disk can be manually operated. By rotating the switching body, the switching cage is moved to the clamping position or the neutral position.

[0025] The present invention intends that a collar portion is provided at the drive shaft side end portion of the inner shaft, and this collar portion is supported on the floor portion of the outer ring.

[0026] Furthermore, according to the present invention, a pin portion is provided at the end portion of the inner shaft on the drive shaft side, and this pin portion protrudes into the central perforation in the floor portion of the outer ring. In order to prevent a change in the switching state due to the frictional torque generated during the use of the freewheel, the collar portion in the inner shaft is supported on the floor portion of the outer ring. Thereby, the frictional torque between the switching cage and the outer ring is avoided, and switching is prevented. The pin portion protruding into the perforation in the floor portion of the outer ring centers the arrangement state and prevents the inclined position.

[0027] The axial fixing of the freewheel mechanism is performed by a lid. The lid is arranged on the driven side of the switching cage and is fixed to the handle or within this handle. The switching cage has a collar body, and this collar body is supported on the lid.

[0028] The lid is inserted into the notch in a state aligned with the driven side end of the handle. Subsequently, the lid is fixed by a relative rotational movement with respect to the handle. The lid has a socket portion. A joining element, in particular a cutting tooth or a cutting strip, is provided in this socket portion. For the assembly of this lid, when this lid rotates, the joining element is fitted into the material of the handle. For assembly or to facilitate this assembly process, the lid is provided with an engagement surface, for example a slit, in which a tool can engage. To avoid over-rotation, the handle and the lid are provided with cooperating abutment surfaces. Furthermore, since the connection between the handle and the lid is not automatically detachable, locking elements are provided on the handle and the lid. When the lid is screwed in, the lid is fixed within the cylindrical portion in front of the handle in a state of engagement by friction and a state of engagement by shape. Advantageously, the handle is made of a composite material, while the lid is manufactured from a metallic material.

[0029] A further advantageous configuration is that the inner shaft has a driven part, which can be connected to the driven part or is intended to have the driven part formed thereon. It is possible for the driven part to be configured as an outer polygonal part having a holding system for tools, for example a nut (Nuesse) or a bit holder. Furthermore, it is possible for the driven part to be formed as an inner polygonal part.

[0030] The driven part advantageously has a tool holding system.

[0031] A particularly advantageous embodiment for practical purposes is that the driven part is intended to have an inner polygonal receptacle and a slit oriented transversely to the longitudinal extension of the driven part within the region of this inner polygonal receptacle. The tool holding system has a tension sleeve arranged movably restricted on the driven part and a locking spring. The tension sleeve is arranged concentrically with respect to the driven part and comprises a front collar part and a rear plug. The locking spring comprises a helical part and a straight leg. The locking spring surrounds the driven part on the outside by means of the helical part. The helical part is supported at a ring element. The legs are defined and configured for being held in a reaction-bearing state by means of a tool inserted into the inner polygonal receiving part, in particular a bit. The legs of the locking spring engage through the slits into the inner polygonal receiving part. By this, it is possible that the straight legs of the locking spring engage into a standardized locking groove of a tool, in particular a bit, and fix the bit inserted into the inner polygonal receiving part. A compression spring is arranged at a side face of the ring element facing the locking spring. This compression spring is provided for preventing a clearance occurring when a tool, in particular a bit, is inserted into the inner polygonal receiving part. The compression spring serves to permanently press the tension sleeve slightly backwards. For this purpose, the compression spring acts on a plug at the end side of the tension sleeve. The tension sleeve and the plug are pressed against each other and form a firm unit.

[0032] For removing the tool from the inner polygonal receiving part, the tool holding system is unlocked. For this purpose, the tension sleeve is pulled back. When the inner edge of the front collar of the tension sleeve moves when pulling back the locking spring, the locking spring can be unlocked by pulling back the tension sleeve, and thus the straight legs are moved from the holding position and release the accommodated tool.

[0033] The slits in the driven part are aligned obliquely backwards from the inner face of the inner polygonal receiving part and extend up to the outer face of the driven part.

[0034] The torque driver according to the present invention generally intends to have a configuration that improves the usage technology and functionality, where the setting device has a preloadable compression spring, an adjustment nut, and an adjustment screw. For setting the rotational torque, this setting device cooperates with an adjustment body that is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the handle.

[0035] The rotation torque set for each is numerically displayed on the display unit. For this purpose, in the torque driver according to the present invention, a digital roller counting mechanism is provided within the hollow cylindrical longitudinal portion of the handle.

[0036] Furthermore, an advantageous configuration of the torque driver according to the present invention is that an adjustment device is integrated, and through this adjustment device, adjustment of the rotational torque setting can be carried out.

[0037] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0038]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] Based on FIGS. 1 to 22, the torque driver 1 according to the present invention and the structural members of this torque driver will be described. FIGS. 23 to 25 show modified examples of the torque driver 1.

[0040] The torque driver 1 has a handle 2, a display unit 3 for a set rotational torque, and a driven part 4. Inside the handle 2, a setting device 5 for setting a predetermined rotational torque or a defined release rotational torque is incorporated. The setting device 5 includes an adjustment mechanism having a preloadable compression spring 6 supported by an adjustment nut 7 rotatably arranged inside the handle 2, and an adjustment screw 8. The desired rotational torque is set by compressing or relaxing the compression spring 6.

[0041] The setting device 5 and the adjustment mechanism of this setting device cooperate with an adjustment body 9 in the handle 2. The adjustment body 9 is rotatable relative to the handle 2 about the longitudinal axis LA of the handle 2. The rotational torque is set by turning the adjustment body 9 relative to the fixed part of the handle 2. To protect the set rotational torque from unexpected adjustment, the adjustment body 9 is fixed using a lock member 10, and this lock member is operated via a lock knob 11.

[0042] The driven part 4 of the torque driver 1 is arranged on the end face side on the handle 2. The driven part 4 is formed for accommodating replaceable tools. For the replaceable accommodation of different insertion tools in the form of bits, the driven part 4 is provided with a tool holding system 12 defined therefor.

[0043] The display unit 3 for the rotational torque has a digital roller counter mechanism 14 arranged in the hollow cylindrical longitudinal part 13 of the handle 2, which includes a plurality of digital rollers 15 arranged one after another, and these digital rollers are readable through a viewing window 16 in the handle 2.

[0044] The transmission of the rotational torque from the handle 2 to the driven part 4 is performed via a rotational torque mechanism 17. The driven part 4 is connected to a drive shaft 18 so as to be capable of transmitting the rotational torque. The drive shaft 18 is supported within the handle 2 and has a driven cylindrical sleeve 19 with a ring collar portion 20, an intermediate shaft portion 21, and an end portion 22.

[0045] Within the handle 2, a release mechanism 23 having a clutch 24 is disposed, and this clutch interrupts the transmission of rotational torque upon reaching a predetermined release rotational torque. The clutch 24 includes a first clutch structural member 25 and a second mating clutch structural member 26. When rotational torque is introduced via the handle 2, this rotational torque is transmitted to the clutch structural member 25. The clutch structural member 25 cooperates with the mating clutch structural member 26 and is biased by a compression spring 6. The first clutch structural member 25 and the second mating clutch structural member 26 are connected in a shape - based engagement state via an engagement portion 27. The teeth of the first clutch structural member 25 and the teeth of the second mating clutch structural member 26 are formed inclined and have a spiral tooth profile. Due to the spiral shape and the screw line thereby pre - given, a small surface pressure between the first clutch structural member 25 and the second mating clutch structural member 26 is guaranteed.

[0046] The second mating clutch structural member 26 is connected radially to the drive shaft 18 via a hexagonal coupling portion and is supported at the floor portion 28 of the cylindrical sleeve 19. As soon as a counter - moment acts on the driven part 4 and this counter - moment is transmitted to the drive shaft 18, the first clutch structural member 25 and the second mating clutch structural member 26 move away from each other along the contact surfaces of these teeth. This movement is performed against the spring force of the compression spring 6, and at this time, the rotational torque introduced in the handle 2 and the counter - moment are the same in terms of quantity. From the set rotational torque, i.e., the release rotational torque, the first clutch structural member 25 and the second mating clutch structural member 26 move away from each other to such an extent that the engagement due to the shape between both structural members is released. By this, the introduction of a higher rotational torque in the driven part 4 is prevented, and the engaging part 27 is locked in a subsequent position. If the rotational torque introduced in the handle 2 does not decrease, this process is repeated. This process is interrupted only when the rotational torque in the handle 2 is smaller than the release rotational torque.

[0047] By increasing or decreasing the spring force of the compression spring 6, the desired release rotational torque of the release mechanism 23 in the clutch 24 can be proportionally changed. This adjustment is caused by the rotational movement of the adjustment screw 8 supported by the thrust bearing 29. The thrust bearing 29 is used to reduce the adjustment rotational torque to be applied to the adjustment screw 8. When a rotational movement is performed on the adjustment screw 8, the coupled adjustment nut 7 moves in the axial direction, and at this time, the preload of the compression spring 6 supported by the adjustment nut 7 changes. The thread rotation direction is preset at that time as to what effect each rotation direction produces. When the adjustment screw 8 rotates, since the adjustment nut 7 cannot rotate concomitantly, this adjustment nut is radially constrained within the handle 2. In the longitudinal axis LA, the adjustment nut 7 is axially movable.

[0048] The torque driver 1 has an adjustment device 30 including an adjustment clutch 31 and an adjustment shaft 32. Through the adjustment device 30, the adjustment of the release rotational torque can be performed. Through the adjustment clutch 31 and the adjustment shaft 32, in particular, the setting or adjustment (adjust) of the adjustment screw 8 is performed, and accordingly, the rotational torque transmission for setting the release rotational torque is performed. In this way, the set value displayed via the digital roller counting mechanism 14 on the display unit 3 and the release rotational torque are correctly matched with each other.

[0049] The drive shaft 18 and the driven part 4 are connected via a freewheel mechanism 33. This freewheel mechanism 33 has an inner shaft 34, an outer ring 35, and a switching cage 36. The outer shaft 35 is a component of the cylindrical sleeve 19 at the driven-side end 37 of the drive shaft 18. The cylindrical sleeve 19 having the outer ring 35 of the cylindrical sleeve and the floor part 28, and the ring collar part 20 are components of the drive shaft 18 configured to be made of the same material and from one member.

[0050] In particular, the freewheel mechanism 33 includes a clamping body 38 in the form of a clamping roller. In the illustrated embodiment of the torque driver 1, two clamping bodies 38 are provided.

[0051] The switching cage 36 is disposed on the shaft portion 39 of the inner shaft 34. The clamping body 38 is disposed in the notch 40 in the cylindrical portion 41 of the switching cage 36. The clamping bodies 38 are each supported on the flat surface 42 of the shaft portion 39. Both flat surfaces 42 that cooperate with the clamping bodies 38 are diametrically opposed to each other on the cylindrical portion 41. In the outer ring 35, the clamping body 38 is supported on the inner peripheral surface 43 of this outer ring 35.

[0052] In the clamping position, the clamping body 38 transmits the rotational torque between the outer ring 35 and the inner shaft 34. In the reverse direction, no rotational torque is transmitted. The handle 2 idles in the reverse direction. The driving rotational movement of the handle 2 with switching in the repeated direction is stepwise transmitted to the rotational movement oriented in the same direction with respect to the driven part 4 in the clamping direction.

[0053] At the tightening position R for clockwise rotational movement or the tightening position L for counterclockwise rotational movement, the tightening body 38 abuts against the right or left abutting ridge portion 44 within the notch 40 of the switching cage 36. The right or left abutting ridge portion 44 functions such that a self-locking state occurs and rotational torque transmission is possible only in one rotational direction, while idling is achieved in the reverse direction. The abutting ridge portion 44 reduces the free space of the tightening body 38, so that this tightening body does not wedge-fix between the inner shaft 34 and the outer ring 35. In this rotational direction, the mechanism can be rotated back without resistance, thereby enabling a comfortable re-grip. In the reverse direction, the mechanism locks in a self-locking manner.

[0054] In the embodiment of the torque driver 1 that is currently in question here, two tightening bodies 38 are provided. For each tightening body 38, one flat surface 42 is required for each. Both flat surfaces 42 are located opposite each other at the same interval with respect to the tightening position L at the shaft portion 39.

[0055] The provided switching cage 36 is utilized for the control of self-locking.

[0056] To set the three operating positions of the freewheel mechanism 33, the switching cage 36 can be arranged at three switching positions. These switching positions provide a neutral position N, a first tightening position R for clockwise operation, and a second tightening position L for counterclockwise operation.

[0057] At the neutral position N, the switching cage 36 gives the tightening body 38 so much freedom that the mechanism locks in a self-locking manner in each rotational direction to the right and left, and thereby the freewheel stops operating. The torque driver 1 transmits rotational torque both clockwise and counterclockwise. At both other clamping positions R, L, on each side, the right or left abutment edge portion 44 within the notch portion 40 of the switching cage 36 serves for the self-locking to be functionalized only in one rotational direction each. The abutment edge portion 44 reduces the free space of the clamping body 38, and thus this clamping body does not wedge-fix between the inner shaft 34 and the outer ring 35. In this rotational direction, the freewheel mechanism 33 can be rotated back without resistance, which enables a comfortable re-grip. In the reverse direction, the freewheel mechanism 33 locks in a self-locking manner. The second clamping position L changes only the operating direction or the freewheel direction of the freewheel mechanism 33. Accordingly, the torque driver 1 can be set between the right-hand tightening (Rechtsanzug), the left-hand tightening (Linksanzug), and the braking function in the neutral position N according to the respective requirements.

[0058] The freewheel mechanism 33 is switchable, whereupon the switching cage 36 is pivotable relative to the inner shaft 34 and the outer ring 35. Thereby, the clamping body 38 is moved from the neutral position N, where rotational torque can be transmitted in both rotational directions (clockwise or counterclockwise), to the first clamping position R or the second clamping position L. At the first clamping position R, the rotational torque is transmitted in the first rotational direction (tightening direction) in the clockwise direction. At the second clamping position L, the rotational torque transmission is effected in the second rotational direction (release direction) in the counterclockwise direction. In the respective reverse directions (freewheel directions) of the first rotational direction and the second rotational direction, no rotational torque transmission takes place.

[0059] Since the switching cage 36 cannot automatically change its respective switching positions, locking devices 45 are provided, and these locking devices are configured and defined for fixing the switching cage 36 in position at the neutral position N, the first clamping position R, or the second clamping position L. The locking device 45 has a radially arranged perforation 46 inside the inner shaft 34, and inside this perforation, a locking element 48 in the form of a sphere, which is urged by a spring 47, is located. In the switching cage 36, a locking portion 49 is provided. This locking element 48 and these locking portions 49 cooperate with each other. The locking element 48 can engage into the locking portion 49 in the switching cage 36 at each switching position, and prevents automatic switching. The locking portion 49 is configured to be adapted to the outer contour of the locking element 48. In particular, the locking portion 49 is formed as a spherical - shaped recess in the switching cage 36. The perforation 46, the abutting ridge portion 44, and the locking portion 49 need to be positioned with respect to the flat surface 42 of the inner shaft 34. The switching cage 36 is axially fixed using a retaining ring 50 arranged in the surrounding groove portion 51 of the inner shaft 34.

[0060] In order to prevent a change in the switching state due to the frictional torque generated during the use of the torque driver 1, the collar portion 52 of the inner shaft 34 is supported on the floor portion 28 of the cylindrical sleeve 19. By this, the corresponding frictional torque between the switching cage 36 and the outer ring 35 is avoided, and switching is prevented. The collar portion 52 is provided at the drive - shaft - side end portion of the inner shaft 34. At the end of the collar portion 52, additionally, a pin portion 53 is located, and this pin portion sinks into a perforation 54 in the floor portion 28. The role of this pin portion 53 is to prevent or limit the inclined position between the outer ring 35 and the inner shaft 34.

[0061] The axial fixation of the free - wheel mechanism 33 is performed via a cover 55. The cover 55 is arranged on the driven side of the switching cage 36 and is fixed at or inside the handle 2. The switching cage 36 has a collar body 56, and on this collar body, the cover 55 is supported. The cover 55 is provided with a socket portion 57. In the socket portion 57, a joining element 58 in the form of cutting teeth is provided. These cutting teeth are configured for fixation in the cylindrical portion 59 in front of the handle 2 in a state of engagement by friction and engagement by shape of the cover 55. The cover 55 is inserted into the notch 60 provided in the front cylindrical portion 59 in an aligned state. By a subsequent rotational movement relative to the handle 2, the joining element 58 arranged around the outer periphery of the socket portion 57 is fitted into the material of the handle 2 in a screwing manner. For this purpose, the cover 55 is provided with a slit 61, and a corresponding tool can engage within this slit. In order to avoid over-rotation, abutment surfaces 62 are provided on the handle 2 and the cover 55. Additionally, locking elements 63 are provided on the handle 2 and the cover 55, and accordingly, the connection is not automatically detachable.

[0062] The handle 2 is manufactured from a composite material, while the cover 55 is made of a metallic material.

[0063] A groove portion 64 is provided at the inner diameter of the cover 55. This groove portion is utilized for passing by the follower 65 of the switching cage 36. The follower 65 is required to form a radial connection to the switching body 66. The switching body 66 is configured in particular as a switching disk. Using the switching body 66, the switching cage 36 can be switched, and in this case, the switching body 66 fulfills two functions. On the one hand, the cover 55 is covered by the switching body 66, and on the other hand, the switching body 66 serves for better comfort during switching. This is because the switching body 66 has a larger periphery and can additionally be provided with an outer groove formation. The axial fixation of the switching body 66 is performed via locking protrusions 67, and these locking protrusions lock into corresponding notches 68 within the switching cage 36.

[0064] The inner shaft 34 has a driven part 69, which can be connected to the driven part 4 or the driven part 4 is formed on this driven part.

[0065] In the torque driver 1 described based on FIGS. 1 to 22, the driven part 4 has a tool holding system 12.

[0066] The driven part 69 has an inner polygonal receiving part 70. This inner polygonal receiving part is provided for receiving the tool 72, in particular the polygonal part 71 of the driver bit. Within the region of the inner polygonal receiving part 70, the driven part 69 has a slit 73 that is oriented transversely with respect to the longitudinal extension of this driven part 69. The slit 73 extends from the inner surface 74 of the inner polygonal receiving part 70, slanting rearward, to the outer surface 75 of the driven part 69.

[0067] The tool holding system 12 particularly has a tension sleeve 76 that is arranged to be movable in a restricted manner on the driven part 69 and a locking spring 77. The tension sleeve 76 has a front collar part 78 and surrounds the front end of the driven part 69 on the peripheral side with an opening 79. The rear packing body 80 is pressed by the tension sleeve 76 and is firmly connected to this tension sleeve. On the drive shaft side, the packing body 80 has a radial notch 81. By this notch, this packing body can radially surround the intermediate part 82 of the inner shaft 34 and can be guided onto the intermediate part 82 in a restricted state when the tension sleeve 76 is pulled back.

[0068] The locking spring 77 has a helical part 83 and a straight leg part 84. The locking spring 77 is guided on the driven part 69 by the helical part 83 and surrounds this driven part on the outside. A ring element 86 in the form of a retaining ring is arranged in a groove 85 within the driven part 69. The helical part 83 is supported on the ring element 86. The linear leg portion 84 engages through the slit 73 until it reaches within the inner polygonal receiving portion 70. This leg portion 84 is defined and configured to hold the tool 72 inserted into the inner polygonal receiving portion 70 in a reaction force supporting state. The leg portion 84 of the locking spring 77 locks into the standardized locking groove portion 87 of the tool 72 for this purpose.

[0069] A compression spring 88 is disposed on the side surface of the ring element 86 positioned opposite to the locking spring 77. This compression spring 88 is provided to prevent the clearance that occurs when the tool 72 is inserted into the inner polygonal receiving portion 70 and causes a clearance between the inner ridge portion 89 in front of the tension sleeve 76 and the locking spring 77. The compression spring 88 serves to permanently press the tension sleeve 76 slightly rearward via the packing body 80. The acting spring force is small enough that the locking spring 77 is not affected by this spring force.

[0070] By pulling back the tension sleeve 76, the locking spring 77 is unlocked. At this time, the inner ridge portion 89 of the tension sleeve 76 pulls back the locking spring 77 along the slit 73 and releases the tool 72.

[0071] The torque driver 1 shown in FIGS. 23 to 25 has a driven part 4 including a driven part 69 in which an outer polygonal part 90 is formed on its driven part. A locking device 91 is integrated in the driven part 69 provided with the outer polygonal part 90. The driven part 4 having the outer polygonal part 90 and the locking device 91 is defined and configured to accommodate and drive a generally commercially available tool, such as a socket wrench.

[0072] In other respects, the embodiment of the torque driver 1 having the setting device 5 for setting the rotational torque, the rotational torque mechanism 17, and the freewheel mechanism 33 corresponds to the above-described configuration. Note that although this application relates to the invention described in the claims, it may also include the following as other aspects. 1. A torque driver (1), the torque driver comprising a handle (2), a display unit (3) for a set rotational torque, and a driven part (4), inside the handle (2), a setting device (5) for setting the rotational torque and a rotational torque mechanism (17) are arranged, the rotational torque mechanism (17) comprising a drive shaft (18) for transmitting the rotational torque and a release mechanism (23) for interrupting the rotational torque transmission when the set rotational torque is reached, the release mechanism (23) having a clutch (24), the clutch interrupting the rotational torque transmission when the set rotational torque is reached, the clutch (24) comprising a first clutch structural member (25) and a second mating clutch structural member (26), the first clutch structural member and the second mating clutch structural member being connected in a shape-based engagement state via an engagement part (27), in the above torque driver, the drive shaft (18) and the driven part (4) are connected via a freewheel mechanism (33), the freewheel mechanism (33) comprising an inner shaft (34), an outer ring (35), a switching cage (36), and at least one fastening body (38), particularly a fastening roller, the switching cage (36) is arranged on a shaft portion (39) of the inner shaft (34), and the fastening body (38) is arranged in a notch (40) within a cylindrical portion (41) of the switching cage (36), and the outer ring (35) is coupled to the drive shaft (18) at least indirectly, the fastening body (38) transmits rotational torque between the outer ring (35) and the inner shaft (34) at a fastening position (R, L), characterized torque driver (1). 2. The tightening body (38) is supported on the flat surface (42) of the shaft portion (39) and the inner circumferential surface (43) of the outer ring (35), and the torque driver according to 1 above is characterized in that. 3. The freewheel mechanism (33) is switchable, the switching cage (36) is rotatable with respect to the inner shaft (34) and / or the outer ring (35), and the tightening body (38) is thereby rotated from the neutral position (N) where the torque can be transmitted in both rotational directions to the first tightening position (R) or the second tightening position (L). It is movable, at the first tightening position (R), rotational torque transmission is performed in the first rotational direction (tightening direction), and at the second tightening position (L), rotational torque transmission is performed in the second rotational direction (release direction). In the reverse direction (freewheel direction) of each of the first rotational direction or the second rotational direction, no rotational torque transmission is performed. The torque driver according to 1 or 2 above, characterized in that. 4. A locking device (45) is provided, and these locking devices are configured and defined to fix the switching cage (36) at the neutral position (N), the first tightening position (R), or the second tightening position (L). The torque driver according to 3 above, characterized in that. 5. The locking device (45) is a locking element (48) arranged under incorporation of a spring (47) in a perforation (46) of the inner shaft (34), and a locking portion (49) provided on the switching cage (36). The torque driver according to 4 above, characterized in that. 6. A switching body (66), particularly a switching ring or a switching disk, is provided, the switching body (66) is configured and defined to switch the switching cage (36), and the torque driver according to any one of 1 to 5 above, characterized in that. 7. The switching cage (36) is axially fixed by a retaining ring (50) in a groove portion (51) of the inner shaft (34), and the torque driver according to any one of 1 to 6 above, characterized in that. 8. At the drive shaft side end portion of the inner shaft (34), a collar portion (52) is provided, and this collar portion is supported at the floor portion (28) of the outer ring (35) or the cylindrical sleeve (19). The torque driver according to any one of the above 1 to 7, characterized in that. 9. At the end portion on the drive shaft side of the inner shaft (34), a pin portion (53) is provided, and this pin portion projects into a central perforation (54) within the floor portion (28). The torque driver according to claim 8, characterized in that. 10. A lid (55) is arranged on the driven side of the switching cage (36), and this lid is fixed to the handle (2), and 11. The switching cage (36) has a collar body (56), and this collar body is supported by the lid (55). The torque driver according to any one of the above 1 to 9, characterized in that. 12. The lid (55) has a socket portion (57), 13. For the purpose of fixing in the engaged state by friction and the engaged state by shape of the lid (55) within the cylindrical portion (59) in front of the handle (2), the socket portion (57) is provided with a joining element (58), in particular a cutting tooth or a cutting strip. The torque driver according to claim 10, characterized in that. 14. The inner shaft (34) has a driven portion (69), 15. This driven portion can be connected to the driven part (4), or the driven part (4) is formed on this driven portion. The torque driver according to any one of the above 1 to 11, characterized in that. 16. The driven part (4) has a tool holding system (12). The torque driver according to any one of the above 1 to 12, characterized in that. 17. The driven portion (69) has an inner polygonal receiving portion (70) and, within the region of this inner polygonal receiving portion (70), a slit (73) oriented transversely to the longitudinal extension of the driven portion (69), and 18. The tool holding system (12) has a tension sleeve (76) arranged to be movable within a limit on the driven portion (69) and a locking spring (77), 19. The tension sleeve (76) comprises a front collar portion (78) and a rear plug body (80), and the locking spring (77) comprises a helical portion (83) and a straight leg portion (84), The locking spring (77) is surrounded by the spiral part (83) on the outside of the driven part (69), and is supported by the ring element (86), and the leg part (84) engages into the inner polygonal receiving part (70) through the slit (73). The leg part (84) is defined and configured to hold the tool (72) inserted into the inner polygonal receiving part (70) in a reaction force supporting state, and a compression spring (88) is arranged on the side surface of the ring element (86) facing the locking spring (77), and the tension sleeve (76) surrounds the locking spring (77) and the compression spring (88) on the outside, and the compression spring (88) abuts against the plug body (80), the inner edge part (89) of the front collar part (78) can unlock the locking spring (77) by moving the locking spring (77), and thus the leg part (84) releases the tool (72). The torque driver according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that. 15. The torque driver according to claim 14, characterized in that the slit (73) extends obliquely rearward from the inner surface (74) of the inner polygonal receiving part (70) to the outer surface (75) of the driven part (69). 16. The setting device (5) has a preloadable compression spring (6), an adjusting nut (7), and an adjusting screw (8), and the torque driver according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the setting device (5) is rotatable about the longitudinal axis (LA) of the handle (2) and cooperates for setting the rotational torque. 17. The torque driver according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the display part (3) has a digital roller counting mechanism (14) arranged in the hollow cylindrical longitudinal part (13) of the handle (2). 18. The torque driver according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that an adjustment device (30) is integrated, and the adjustment of the rotational torque setting can be carried out through this adjustment device.

Explanation of Symbols

[0073] 1 Torque driver 2 Handle 3 Display unit 4 Driven part 5 Setting device 6 Compression spring 7 Adjusting nut 8 Adjusting screw 9 Adjusting body 10 Locking member 11 Locking knob 12 Tool holding system 13 Longitudinal part 14 Digital roller counting mechanism 15 Digital roller 16 Peep window 17 Rotational torque mechanism 18 Drive shaft 19 Cylindrical sleeve 20 Ring collar part 21 Shaft part 22 End part 23 Release mechanism 24 Clutch 25 Clutch structure member 26 Counterpart clutch structure member 27 Engaging part 28 Floor part of the cylindrical sleeve 19 29 Thrust bearing 30 Adjusting device 31 Adjusting clutch 32 Adjusting shaft 33 Freewheel mechanism 34 Inner shaft 35 Outer ring 36 Switching cage 37 End of drive shaft 18 38 Clamping body 39 Shaft portion 40 Notch 41 Cylindrical portion 42 Flat surface 43 Inner peripheral surface 44 Contact ridge 45 Locking device 46 Perforation 47 Spring 48 Locking element 49 Locking portion 50 Retaining ring 51 Groove 52 Collar portion 53 Pin portion 54 Perforation 55 Cover 56 Collar body 57 Socket portion 58 Joining element 59 Front cylindrical portion 60 Notch 61 Slit of cover 55 62 Contact surface 63 Locking element 64 Groove 65 Carrier 66 Switching body 67 Locking projection 68 Notch 69 Driven part 70 Inner polygonal housing 71 Polygonal portion 72 Tool 73 Slit 74 Inner surface 75 Outer surface 76 Tensile sleeve 77 Locking spring 78 Collar portion 79 Opening 80 Filling body 81 Notch 82 Intermediate portion 83 Spiral portion 84 Leg 85 Groove portion 86 Ring element 87 Locking groove portion 88 Compression spring 89 Inner ridge portion 90 Outer polygonal portion 91 Locking device LA Longitudinal axis N Neutral position R First tightening position L Second tightening position

Claims

1. A torque driver (1), wherein the torque driver has a handle (2), a display unit (3) for a set rotational torque, and a driven part (4), inside the handle (2), a setting device (5) for setting the rotational torque and a rotational torque mechanism (17) are arranged, and the rotational torque mechanism (17) includes a drive shaft (18) for transmitting the rotational torque and a release mechanism (23) for interrupting the rotational torque transmission when the set rotational torque is reached, the release mechanism (23) has a clutch (24), and this clutch interrupts the rotational torque transmission when the set rotational torque is reached, the clutch (24) includes a first clutch structural member (25) and a second mating clutch structural member (26), and the first clutch structural member and the second mating clutch structural member are connected in an engaged state by shape via an engagement portion (27), In the above torque driver, the drive shaft (18) and the driven part (4) are connected via a freewheel mechanism (33), the freewheel mechanism (33) has an inner shaft (34), an outer ring (35), a switching cage (36), and at least one fastening body (38), particularly a fastening roller, the switching cage (36) is arranged on the shaft portion (39) of the inner shaft (34), and the fastening body (38) is arranged in a notch portion (40) in the cylindrical portion (41) of the switching cage (36), and the outer ring (35) is coupled to the drive shaft (18) at least indirectly, the fastening body (38) transmits the rotational torque between the outer ring (35) and the inner shaft (34) at the fastening positions (R, L), and at the drive shaft side end portion of the inner shaft (34), a collar portion (52) is provided, and this collar portion is supported on the floor portion (28) of the outer ring (35) or the cylindrical sleeve (19), and at the drive shaft side end portion of the inner shaft (34), a pin portion (53) is provided, and this pin portion protrudes into the central perforation (54) in the floor portion (28), characterized torque driver (1).

2. The tightening body (38) is supported on the flat surface (42) of the shaft portion (39) and the inner peripheral surface (43) of the outer ring (35). The torque driver according to claim 1, characterized in that.

3. The freewheel mechanism (33) is switchable, The switching cage (36) is rotatable relative to the inner shaft (34) and / or the outer ring (35), and the tightening body (38) is thereby rotated. From the neutral position (N) where torque can be transmitted in both rotational directions, it is movable to the first tightening position (R) or the second tightening position (L), In the first tightening position (R), rotational torque transmission is in the first rotational direction (tightening direction), and in the second tightening position (L), rotational torque transmission is in the second rotational direction (release direction). And In the reverse direction (freewheel direction) of each of the first rotation direction or the second rotation direction, no rotational torque transmission is performed. The torque driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that.

4. A locking device (45) is provided, and these locking devices are configured and defined to fix the switching cage (36) in the neutral position (N), the first tightening position (R), or the second tightening position (L). The torque driver according to claim 3, characterized in that.

5. The locking device (45) is A locking element (48) disposed under the incorporation of a spring (47) in a perforation (46) of the inner shaft (34), The torque driver according to claim 4, further comprising a locking portion (49) provided on the switching cage (36).

6. A switching body (66), particularly a switching ring or a switching disk, is provided, The switching body (66) is configured and defined to switch the switching cage (36). The torque driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that.

7. The switching cage (36) is axially fixed by a retaining ring (50) in a groove portion (51) of the inner shaft (34). The torque driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that.

8. A lid (55) is disposed on the driven side of the switching cage (36), and this lid is fixed to the handle (2), and The torque driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the switching cage (36) has a color body (56), and this color body is supported by the lid (55).

9. The lid (55) has a socket portion (57), The torque driver according to claim 8, characterized in that a joining element (58), in particular a cutting tooth or a cutting strip, is provided on the socket portion (57) for fixing in an engagement state by friction and an engagement state by shape of the lid (55) within the cylindrical portion (59) in front of the handle (2).

10. The inner shaft (34) has a driven portion (69), The torque driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that this driven portion can be connected to the driven part (4), or the driven part (4) is formed on this driven portion.

11. The torque driver according to claim 10, characterized in that the driven part (4) has a tool holding system (12).

12. The driven portion (69) has an inner polygonal receiving portion (70) and, within the region of this inner polygonal receiving portion (70), a slit (73) oriented transversely to the longitudinal extension of the driven portion (69), and, The tool holding system (12) has a tension sleeve (76) arranged to be movable and restricted on the driven portion (69), and a locking spring (77), The tension sleeve (76) comprises a front collar portion (78) and a rear plug (80), and the locking spring (77) comprises a helical portion (83) and a straight leg (84), The locking spring (77) surrounds the driven portion (69) on the outside by the helical portion (83), and is supported at a ring element (86), and the leg (84) engages into the inner polygonal receiving portion (70) through the slit (73), The leg (84) is defined and configured to hold a tool (72) inserted into the inner polygonal receiving portion (70) in a reaction bearing state, and, A compression spring (88) is arranged on the side surface of the ring element (86) facing the locking spring (77), and, The tension sleeve (76) surrounds the locking spring (77) and the compression spring (88) on the outside, and the compression spring (88) abuts against the packing body (80). The inner edge part (89) of the front collar part (78) can unlock the locking spring (77) by moving the locking spring (77). Therefore, the leg part (84) releases the tool (72). The torque driver according to claim 11, characterized in that.

13. The torque driver according to claim 12, characterized in that the slit (73) extends obliquely rearward from the inner surface (74) of the inner polygonal housing part (70) to the outer surface (75) of the driven part (69).

14. The setting device (5) has a preloadable compression spring (6), an adjusting nut (7), and an adjusting screw (8), and the torque driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the setting device (5) is rotatable about the longitudinal axis (LA) of the handle (2) and cooperates for setting the rotational torque.

15. The torque driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the display part (3) has a digital roller counting mechanism (14) arranged in the hollow cylindrical longitudinal part (13) of the handle (2).

16. The torque driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that an adjustment device (30) is integrated, and the adjustment of the rotational torque setting can be carried out through this adjustment device.

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