Apparatus and method for determining the amount of force applied to a fastening component.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a nut device comprising a body including first and second surfaces connected by an outer wall and a central threaded opening having internal threads for engaging an elongated fastening member, and a deformation measurement device received on or formed associated with the body, which allows for more accurate determination of forces applied to a fastener.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of clamping. More particularly, the present invention relates to the field of clamping components. Even more particularly, the present invention relates to an apparatus for determining the amount of force applied.

Background Art

[0002] Any reference to background art in this specification is not to be construed as an admission that such technology constitutes common general knowledge in Australia or in other regions.

[0003] The clamping of workpieces is important in various industries. Generally, to clamp two or more workpieces, a force is required to apply an axial pressure to the workpieces. However, if too much force is applied, the fastener may buckle and the workpiece may disengage. Alternatively, if the force applied is insufficient, there is a risk that the connection will similarly become ineffective or fail.

[0004] To reduce the problems of over-tension or under-tension, it would be beneficial to provide a method and / or apparatus for determining the axial pressure applied by a clamping member so that the amount of force applied can be monitored. Further, it would be advantageous if the amount of force applied over time could be monitored, as an indication of whether the tension is being lost would be obtained.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] One problem associated with many currently available solutions is that they are only compatible with a specific type of clamping method.

[0006] It will be appreciated that it would be beneficial to address one or more of the above problems or at least provide a commercially available alternative to consumers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In a first aspect (which does not necessarily have to be the only or most broad aspect), the present invention broadly relates to a nut device. A body including an outer wall portion and a central threaded opening having a female thread for engaging with an elongated fastening member, and a first surface and a second surface connected by these, A deformation measuring device that is received or formed in conjunction with the main body, This relates to a nut device equipped with a nut mechanism.

[0008] In one embodiment, the second surface includes a buffer region.

[0009] In the first embodiment, the present invention is A body including an outer wall portion and a central threaded opening having a female thread for engaging with an elongated fastening member, and a first surface and a second surface connected by these, A deformation measuring device that is received or attached to the main body, Equipped with, Here, we are relating to a nut device in which the second surface includes a buffering area.

[0010] In one embodiment, the buffer region extends at least partially from the outer wall portion to the central threaded opening. In one embodiment, the buffer region extends from the outer wall portion to the central threaded opening. In one embodiment, the buffer region has a frustoconical shape.

[0011] In another embodiment, the second surface is substantially planar.

[0012] In one embodiment, the outer wall portion includes an expanded flange portion adjacent to the second surface. In one embodiment, the outer wall portion further includes an axially remote portion adjacent to the first surface. In one further embodiment, the expanded flange portion and the axially remote portion are connected by a transition surface. In some embodiments, the axially remote portion is formed as a nut.

[0013] In some embodiments, the outer wall portion has a recess for receiving the deformation measuring device. In one embodiment, the expansion flange portion has the recess.

[0014] In some embodiments, the deformation measuring device is formed attached to the main body. In one embodiment, the deformation measuring device is formed attached to the peripheral edge of the main body. In one embodiment, the deformation measuring device is formed attached to the expansion flange portion. In one embodiment, the nut device is provided in combination with the elongated fastening member. In one embodiment, the deformation measuring device is a strain gauge.

[0015] In one embodiment, the female threads have a first uniform spacing. In one embodiment, the elongated fastening member includes a male threaded portion. In one embodiment, the female threads are adapted to cooperate with the male threads of the male threaded portion. In one embodiment, the male threads may have a second uniform pitch. The second uniform pitch may differ from the first uniform pitch.

[0016] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a clamping assembly for determining an applied load, A fastening device including an elongated fastening member having a male threaded distal end, and A body comprising an outer wall portion and a first surface and a second surface connected by a central threaded opening having a female thread for engaging with the elongated fastening member, and a deformation measuring device adapted to measure the deformation of the body and determine the applied load, the nut device having a deformation measuring device that is received on or formed attached to the body. Equipped with, This relates to a fastening assembly in which applying tension to the fastener causes deformation of the main body.

[0017] The nut device, fastener, and their components may be substantially as described in the first embodiment.

[0018] In one embodiment, the second surface includes a buffer region. In another embodiment, the second surface is substantially planar.

[0019] In one embodiment, the fastener includes a multi-jack bolt tensioner. In one embodiment, the fastener includes a nut. In one embodiment, the fastener comprises a body portion formed integrally with the proximal end of the elongated fastening member. In another embodiment, the fastener comprises a body portion that engages with the proximal end of the elongated fastening member.

[0020] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for determining a load applied to a fastening assembly including a fastener and a nut device, the method being: A step of providing a fastening device including an elongated fastening member having a male threaded tip, A step of fixing the nut device to the male threaded tip, wherein the nut device has a body including an outer wall portion and a first surface and a second surface connected by a central threaded opening having a female thread, and a deformation measuring device that is received on or attached to the body. The optional steps include arranging the deformation measuring device around the main body, and applying tension to the clamp and / or the nut device the load applied to the elongated clamping member measuring the deformation of the nut device in a direction transverse to the axial direction of the elongated clamping member, and determining the load applied to the elongated clamping member from the deformation of the nut device including the step of determining by

[0021] The nut device, the clamp, and their components can be substantially described as in the first and second aspects.

[0022] In one embodiment, the second surface includes a buffer region. In another embodiment, the second surface is substantially flat.

[0023] In one embodiment, the method further includes the step of disposing a load-bearing member adjacent to the second surface.

[0024] In one embodiment, the deformation of the body is measured at at least one predetermined axial position on the outer surface.

[0025] In one embodiment, the method further includes the step of inserting the elongated clamping member into an opening of a workpiece. In one embodiment, the method further includes the step of inserting the elongated clamping member into aligned openings of two or more workpieces.

[0026] In one embodiment, applying tension to the clamp is performed at an end opposite to the position of the nut device.

[0027] In one aspect, the present invention is a body portion integrally formed with an elongated clamping member, the body portion having a plurality of holes uniformly spaced from a longitudinal central axis at spaced positions around its outer peripheral portion, the holes having a side wall portion formed with an internal thread of the body Each jack bolt includes a body having a thread for screwing into the thread of the body in one of the holes of the main body, A load-bearing member for applying force to a workpiece to be tightened and positioned around the elongated clamping member, and A deformation measuring device that is received or attached to the main body, This concerns multi-jack bolt tensioners (MJT), including those mentioned above.

[0028] In one embodiment, the body includes a recess adapted to receive the deformation measuring device. In one embodiment, the deformation measuring device is formed in conjunction with the body.

[0029] In another embodiment, the present invention is: A main body formed to engage with or integrally formed with an elongated clamping member, wherein the main body has a plurality of holes spaced apart around its outer circumference and uniformly spaced apart from the longitudinal central axis, and the holes have side wall portions on which threads are formed, Each jack bolt includes a body having a thread for screwing into the thread of the body in one of the holes of the body, and A load-bearing member for applying force to a workpiece to be tightened and positioned around the elongated clamping member is provided. This relates to a multi-jack bolt tensioner in which the main body includes a deformation measuring device within an axial recess formed therein.

[0030] In a further embodiment, the present invention is A main body formed to engage with or integrally formed with an elongated clamping member, wherein the main body has a plurality of holes spaced apart around its outer circumference and uniformly spaced apart from the longitudinal central axis, and the holes have side wall portions on which threads are formed, Each jack bolt includes a body having a thread for screwing into the thread of the body in one of the holes of the body, and A step of providing an MJT comprising a load-bearing member for applying force to a workpiece to be tightened and positioned around the elongated clamping member, wherein the body includes a deformation measuring device in an axial recess formed therein, and the elongated clamping member includes a threaded tip, The step of fixing the threaded tip into at least a partially threaded bore in the workpiece, The step of applying tension to the MJT, The load applied to the elongated clamping member is To measure the deformation of the MJT in the lateral direction with respect to the axial direction of the elongated clamping member, and The load applied to the elongated clamping member is determined from the deformation of the clamping device. The step of determining by This relates to a method for determining the applied load, including the method described above.

[0031] The various features and embodiments of the present invention mentioned in the above sections and the following description may be applied mutatis mutandis to other sections as appropriate. As a result, features specified in one section may be appropriately combined with features specified in other sections.

[0032] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0033] To aid in understanding the present invention and to enable those skilled in the art to put it into practical use, embodiments of the present invention will be described only illustratively with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] This figure shows a cross-section of one embodiment of the nut device of the present invention. [Figure 1a] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the nut device without strain gauges. [Figure 2] A cross-section of a similar embodiment of the nut device shown in Figure 1 is displayed. [Figure 2a] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the nut device without strain gauges. [Figure 3] This shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the nut device of the present invention and its function. [Figure 4] Figure 3 shows a nut device combined with a multi-jack bolt tensioner (MJT). [Figure 5] Figure 3 shows the nut device combined with a nut tightening tool. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a bolt-type MJT equipped with strain gauges. [Figure 7] This figure shows another example of a bolt-type MJT equipped with strain gauges. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of an alternative bolt-type MJT equipped with strain gauges. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of a nut-type MJT equipped with a strain gauge. [Figure 10] This shows a cross-section of one embodiment of a nut device that does not include strain gauges. [Figure 10a] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the nut device. [Figure 11] This shows a cross-section of one embodiment of a nut device equipped with a strain gauge. [Figure 11a] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the nut device. [Figure 12] This shows a cross-section of one embodiment of a nut device equipped with a strain gauge. [Figure 12a] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the nut device. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of the correlation between the circumferential expansion of the nut body and the axial force of the bolt. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0034] Each embodiment of the present invention relates primarily to a nut device. Accordingly, each step of the device and method is shown in a concise and schematic manner in the drawings. That is, only the specific details necessary to understand each embodiment of the present invention are shown, so as not to obscure the disclosure by excessive details that would be immediately obvious to those skilled in the art who can benefit from the described advantages.

[0035] In this specification, descriptive phrases such as “first,” “second,” “top,” and “bottom” may be used solely to distinguish one element or action from another, and do not necessarily imply or require an actual relationship or order.

[0036] Words such as "include" and "possess" are intended to define non-exclusive inclusion. That is, a process, method, apparatus, or device that includes a set of elements may include other elements not explicitly listed, rather than only those elements. Such other elements may be, for example, elements inherent to the process, method, apparatus, or device.

[0037] In this specification, the term "approximately" means that, for a given quantity, it is nominally represented by the number following the term "approximately," but the actual quantity may differ from this exact number to an insignificant degree.

[0038] In a first aspect (which does not necessarily have to be the only or most broad aspect), the present invention is: Nut devices 100, 200, Body 110, 210, including first surfaces 112, 212 and second surfaces 114, 214 connected by outer wall portions 116, 216 and central threaded openings 119, 219 having female threads 118, 218 for engaging with elongated fastening members, and Deformation measuring device, which is received or formed attached to the main body 110, 210, The present invention relates to nut devices 100, 200, which are equipped with the above.

[0039] In one embodiment, the second surfaces 114, 214 include buffer regions 114a, 214a. While the buffer regions provide further advantages (as described below), it will be understood that they are not essential to the present invention. In this regard, the second surfaces are preferably substantially flat surfaces or planes. In one embodiment, the second surface is a plane connecting the outer wall portion and the female threads of the opening.

[0040] For the sake of clarity, deformation measuring devices will be described in relation to strain gauges. However, those skilled in the art will understand that any device capable of measuring and detecting deformation can be used in this invention. Non-limiting examples of deformation measuring devices include linear variable differential transformer sensors, capacitance sensors, ultrasonic sensors, light-emitting devices, and optical fiber sensors. A non-limiting example of a light-emitting device is a laser. Other non-limiting examples of deformation measuring devices are pin gauges or plug gauges.

[0041] Figure 1 shows one embodiment of the nut device 100 of the present invention. The nut device 100 includes a main body 110. The main body 110 includes a first surface 112 and a second surface 114 connected by an outer wall portion 116 and a central threaded opening 119 having an internal thread 118. That is, the first surface 112 and the second surface 114 are connected by the outer wall portion 116 and the internal thread 118. The central threaded opening 119 is located in the center of the main body 110. In use, the second surface 114 is in contact with the workpiece to be fastened, or with a load-bearing member 150 between the second surface 114 and the workpiece. The second surface 114 includes a buffer region 114a extending from the outer wall portion 116 to the central threaded opening 119. In this regard, the buffer region 114a extends at least partially from the outer wall portion 116 to the central threaded opening 119. In other words, with respect to the surfaces connecting the joints between the outer wall portion 116 and the second surface 114, the buffer region 114a defines a gap between the main body 110 and the load-bearing member 150 or (if no load-bearing member is present) the workpiece.

[0042] In one embodiment, the central threaded opening may be in the form of a blind hole. That is, the opening does not extend completely from the second surface to the first surface, and the second surface 112 is complete.

[0043] The buffer region 114a can be defined by a surface extending from the joint between the outer wall portion 116 and the second surface 114 to the joint between the central threaded opening 119 and the second surface 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the buffer region 114a is defined in the shape of a frustocone. This frustocone-shaped buffer region reduces initial contact between the second surface 114 and the load-bearing member 150 or workpiece. This has the effect of mitigating the problem of buckling.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, the outer wall portion 116 includes an expansion flange portion 116a and an axially distant portion 116c. The expansion flange portion 116a may be adjacent to the second surface 114. The axially distant portion 116c may be adjacent to the first surface 112. In one embodiment, the axially distant portion 116c is formed with polygonal sides, for example, as a hexagonal nut, and can be gripped with a tool. The expansion flange portion 116a may be connected to the axially distant portion 116c by a transition surface 116b. In one embodiment, the transition surface 116b is a frustoconical transition surface. In one embodiment, the outer wall portion 116 is circular. In one embodiment, the diameter of the expansion flange portion 116a is larger than the diameter of the axially distant portion 116c.

[0045] In one embodiment, the nut device 100 includes a deformation measuring device. In one embodiment, the deformation measuring device includes a strain gauge 117. The strain gauge is a device used to measure the amount of strain on an object by responding to the deformation of the object. The measured strain may be used to determine the amount of applied load (such as an axial load). Non-limiting examples of the strain gauge include an electrical resistance strain gauge and an optical strain gauge. In the illustrated embodiment, the expansion flange portion 116a includes a recess 116a' for receiving the deformation measuring device (such as the strain gauge 117).

[0046] Those skilled in the art will understand that the nut device 100 may include one or more deformation measuring devices. In one embodiment, the deformation measuring devices may be mounted around the axially distant portion or formed attached to the axially distant portion. In this regard, each deformation measuring device may be used to more accurately measure the amount of deformation, and thus force, applied to the elongated clamping member. In this regard, the nut device may include one or more recesses that receive or are adapted to receive, each of the deformation measuring devices. Alternatively or additionally, the nut device may include one or more deformation measuring devices mounted or fixed to the main body.

[0047] In one embodiment, the female thread 118 has a first uniform pitch. The female thread 118 is fitted to cooperate with the male thread 122 of the elongated fastening member 120. In one embodiment, the male thread 122 has a second uniform pitch. In one embodiment, the first uniform pitch is different from the second uniform pitch. The male thread 122 is fitted to mate and engage with the female thread 118.

[0048] The difference between the first uniform pitch of the female thread 118 and the second uniform pitch of the male thread 122 makes it possible to consider deformation of the body (hereinafter referred to in more detail). In this regard, when the body 110 deforms under a tensile load, the gap formed between the female thread 118 and the male thread 122 disappears, so that engagement occurs axially not only along its limited axial length but also along the length of the male and female threads. When a tensile load is applied, the mating fit between the female and male threads is lengthened and the engagement is improved. This effect is described in detail in U.S. Patent No. 4,846,614, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0049] In one embodiment, the nut device 100 may be used in combination with a load-bearing member 150. In this case, the nut device 100 applies force to the load-bearing member 150, and as a result, a compressive force is applied to the workpiece. In one embodiment, the load-bearing member 150 includes a washer.

[0050] Figure 1a is a perspective view of the nut device 100 of Figure 1. As shown in the figure, the recess 116a' is around the expanded flange portion 116a. around It extends in the direction. Furthermore, the axially distant portion 116c may be provided as a hexagonal nut to assist in tightening and positioning a nut around an elongated tightening member (not shown in Figure 1a) if the consumer wishes to tighten the nut device. Note that the strain gauge 117 is absent in Figure 1a in order to clearly show the recess 116a'.

[0051] In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, the strain gauge 117 may be positioned on the outer wall portion 116. In this regard, the strain gauge 117 is suitably formed in conjunction with the outer wall portion 116 so that it can determine the strain of the main body 110 and, consequently, the strain of the elongated fastener 120. In one embodiment, the strain gauge 117 may be formed in conjunction with the main body 110. That is, the strain gauge 117 is attached to or formed in conjunction with the main body 110. In one embodiment, the expansion flange portion 116a includes the strain gauge 117. For ease of explanation, Figure 2 is given the same reference numerals as Figure 1, and the explanation for Figure 1 applies similarly to Figure 2. The difference between the nut device in Figure 2 and the nut device in Figure 1 is that the nut device in Figure 2 does not have a recess in the expansion flange portion 116a, and the strain gauge is formed in conjunction with the nut device 100.

[0052] In one embodiment, the strain gauge 117 may be sputtered onto the outer wall portion 116. In one embodiment, the strain gauge 117 may include a measuring ring. The measuring ring can measure the amount of deformation in the main body and use this to determine the amount of tension.

[0053] Figure 2a shows a perspective view of the nut device of Figure 2. As shown, the axially distant portion 116c may be provided as a hexagonal nut to assist in tightening and positioning a nut around an elongated tightening member (not shown in Figure 2a) when the consumer wishes to tighten the nut device. Note that the strain gauge 117 is absent in Figure 2a in order to clearly show the expanded flange portion 116a.

[0054] In use, the nut device may be used in combination with an elongated clamping member. In one embodiment, the nut device is provided in combination with an elongated clamping member. In this regard, the elongated clamping member may be inserted through aligned openings in one or more workpieces. The elongated clamping member may be formed in conjunction with a head portion or body portion (e.g., a multi-jackbolt tensioner or clamp) to which tension can be applied. The other end of the elongated clamping member may be secured using the nut device of the present invention. By applying torque to the multi-jackbolt tensioner or clamp, a strong axial force is generated and applied to the workpiece. The thrust of the jackbolt or head and the opposing reaction force of the nut device apply a strong clamping force to the workpiece.

[0055] In one embodiment, the main body is provided with an axial recess. In this embodiment, the deformation measuring device may be received in or formed in conjunction with the axial recess. In one embodiment, the deformation measuring device may be permanently attached to or formed in conjunction with the axial recess. The deformation measuring device in the axial recess can determine deformation and, consequently, the force applied to the elongated clamping member.

[0056] Figure 3 is an enlarged view showing one embodiment of the nut device 200, showing a state in which tension is applied to the elongated fastening member 220. The nut device 200 comprises a main body 210. The main body 210 comprises a first surface 212 and a second surface 214 connected by an outer wall portion 216 and a central threaded opening 219. The central threaded opening 219 includes a female thread 218. The second surface 214 includes a buffer region 214a extending from the outer wall portion 216 to the central threaded opening 219. In this regard, the buffer region 214a extends at least partially from the outer wall portion 216 to the central threaded opening 219. The buffer region 214a may have a frustoconical shape.

[0057] When tension is applied to the elongated fastening member 220, the nut device 200 is subjected to equally opposing resistance forces and pulled against the load-bearing member 250 and the workpiece. In one embodiment, the expanding flange portion 216a has a large diameter to absorb the tensile stress generated in that portion of the nut device 200, and the axially far portion 216c has a small lateral size so that the upper female thread can bend (relative to the workpiece) but cannot move further than the lower female thread. The force applied to the nut device 200 causes the body 210 to elastically deform or bend. In this regard, the buffer region 214a is pushed toward the workpiece so that the second surface 214 contacts the load-bearing member 250, thereby causing the expanding flange portion 216a to bend outward. Seals are also formed between the second surface 214 and the load-bearing member 250, and between the load-bearing member 250 and the workpiece 260. Furthermore, this force causes the axially distant portion 216c to bend inward. This bending (circumferential expansion) can be determined by the strain gauge 217, and the applied force can be determined from the result. In this regard, tests have revealed a direct linear correlation between the deformation of the main body and the load on the elongated fastening member. Physically, the circumference of the outer diameter of the nut body expands to less than 1% in proportion to the increase in the axial preload of the bolt. Figure 13 is a graph of this correlation.

[0058] Figure 3 illustrates the nominal amount of deflection in the nut device 200. In this regard, when no or little tension is applied to the elongated clamping member 220 (for example, by the MJT facing the nut device 200), the nut device 200 deflects little or no (indicated by complete lines). However, when tension is applied to the elongated clamping member 220, the nut device 200 is pulled against the load-bearing member 250 and the workpiece (indicated by the arrow labeled "x"), and the second surface 214 engages with the load-bearing member 250. Furthermore, the expanding flange portion 216a is deflected outward from the elongated clamping member 220 (as indicated by the arrow labeled "y"), and the axially far portion 216c is deflected toward the elongated clamping member 220 (as indicated by the dotted line and the arrow labeled "z"). As a result, a fitting engagement occurs between the female thread 218 and the male thread 222. The presence of the buffer region 214a allows a seal to be formed between the load-bearing member 250 and the second surface 214. Furthermore, the buffer region 214a makes the main body 210 of the nut device 200 more flexible. In this regard, the buffer region 214a makes the deflection when tension is applied to the elongated fastening member 220 more pronounced. One advantage of the pronounced deflection of the nut device 200 is that the ratio of deflection to the force being determined becomes larger. Furthermore, the buffer region 214a reduces the problem of buckling. Thus, it is assumed that a more accurate relationship between the observed deflection and the applied force can be determined. This will be seen as a significant advantage compared to currently available force determination methods.

[0059] In one embodiment, the nut device of the present invention may be used in conjunction with a multi-jackbolt tensioner (MJT). In this regard, Figure 4 shows a nut device 200 used in conjunction with a multi-jackbolt tensioner. The MJT 300 comprises a body portion 310 formed to engage with or integrally formed with an elongated tightening member 320. In the illustrated embodiment, the body portion 310 is formed to engage with the elongated tightening member 320. The body portion 310 comprises a plurality of holes 315 (shown with jackbolts 330 inserted in each) spaced apart around its outer circumference and uniformly spaced from the longitudinal central axis, each hole 315 having a side wall portion with body threads formed thereon, and each jackbolt 330 includes a body having threads for screwing into the body threads in the respective holes 315 in the body portion 310. The tip of the elongated tightening member 320 has an external threaded portion 322 to which the nut device 200 can be tightened. When tension is applied to the jack bolt, a compressive force is applied to the nut device 200 so as to pull against the load-bearing member 250, and this compressive force is then applied to the workpieces 360a and 360b. For completeness, note that the main body 310 is provided with a plurality of holes and a jack bolt for each.

[0060] In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, it should be noted that tension is applied to the MJT300, causing the second surface 214 to deform and come into contact with the load-bearing member 250. This deformation is measured by the strain gauge 217.

[0061] Referring to Figure 5, the nut device 200 is used in conjunction with the nut 500. The elongated fastener 320 can be inserted through aligned openings in a pair of workpieces 360a, 360b. In the illustrated embodiment, the elongated fastener 320 has a male threaded end. One end of the elongated fastener is connected to the nut device 200, and the other end is connected to the nut 500. In the illustrated embodiment, the nut 500 is a hexagonal nut. When tension is applied to the nut 500 and / or the nut device 200, a compressive force is applied to the nut device 200 so that it is pulled against the load-bearing member 250, and this compressive force is applied to the workpieces 360a, 360b. Note that in the embodiment of Figure 5, tension is applied to the nut 500, and the second surface 214 deforms to contact the load-bearing member 250. This deformation is measured by a strain gauge 217.

[0062] One advantage of the nut device of the present invention is that its deformation allows for more accurate determination of the load applied to the elongated clamping member and the workpiece. Another advantage of the nut device of the present invention is that it does not require the nut device to be directly tightened, thus providing greater usability. In this regard, consumers can access a wider range of joint configurations, regardless of the tightening method. Generally, the nut device of the present invention is used at the end of an elongated clamping member, and a load can be generated at the end opposite the nut device by applying torque to the bolt head or jack bolt. Thus, the nut device of the present invention allows for monitoring and determination of the load with tightening methods including, but not limited to, conventional torque / rotation tightening, thermal stud stretching, mechanical tensioning, and hydraulic tensioning. This is a significant advantage as it enables monitoring and determination of the load with a wide range of tightening methods. Furthermore, monitoring the load at the end is generally much easier than monitoring the load at the torque application point. In this regard, it will be understood that space is required to apply force there.

[0063] Figure 10 shows an embodiment similar to the nut device shown in Figure 1. Figure 10A is a perspective view of the nut device shown in Figure 10. For ease of explanation, Figure 10 is given the same reference numerals as Figure 1, and the description of Figure 1 applies equally to Figure 10. The main difference between the nut device in Figure 10 and the nut device in Figure 1 is that the nut device in Figure 10 does not have a transition surface 116b. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the recess 116a' has a stepped profile.

[0064] Figure 11 shows an embodiment similar to the nut device shown in Figure 10. Figure 11a shows a perspective view of the nut device shown in Figure 10. For ease of explanation, Figure 11 is given the same reference numerals as Figures 1 and 10, and the descriptions of Figures 1 and 10 apply equally to Figure 11. The main difference between the nut device in Figure 11 and the nut device in Figure 1 is that the nut device in Figure 11 does not have a transition surface 116b. Furthermore, the recess 116a' has a stepped profile. Furthermore, the axially far portion 116c is adapted to receive a 12-point socket. Those skilled in the art will understand that the axially far portion 116c may be adapted to be complementary to a fastener or to receive a tool to assist in its fastening.

[0065] Figure 12 shows an embodiment similar to the nut device shown in Figure 10. Figure 12a is a perspective view of the nut device shown in Figure 12. For ease of explanation, Figure 12 is given the same reference numerals as Figures 1 and 10, and the descriptions of Figures 1 and 10 apply equally to Figure 12. The main difference between the nut device in Figure 12 and the nut device in Figure 1 is that the nut device in Figure 11 does not have a transition surface 116b. Furthermore, the recess 116a' has a stepped profile. In this embodiment, the axially far portion 116c further comprises a bore adapted to receive a tool for assisting in applying tension. In one embodiment, the bore is a blind hole.

[0066] Those skilled in the art will understand that the nut device of the present invention can be used for torque and tension applications. In this regard, the nut device of the present invention can be used as an active nut or a reactive nut. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a nut device for use in torque and / or tension applications. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a nut device when used in torque and / or tension applications.

[0067] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for determining a load applied to a fastening assembly including a fastener and a nut device, the method being: A step of providing a fastening device including an elongated fastening member having a male threaded tip, The step of fixing the nut device to the male threaded tip, wherein the nut device is A main body including an outer wall portion and a first and second surface connected by a central threaded opening having an internal thread, A deformation measuring device that is received or formed attached to the main body, Steps, The optional steps include arranging the deformation measuring device around the main body, and A step of applying tension to the fastener and / or the nut device, The load applied to the elongated clamping member is To measure the deformation of the nut device in the direction laterally to the axial direction of the elongated fastening member, and The load applied to the elongated tightening member is determined from the deformation of the nut device. This includes a step of determining by [the specified method].

[0068] In one embodiment, the deformation measuring device includes a strain gauge.

[0069] In one embodiment, the second surface includes a buffer region.

[0070] The fasteners, nut devices, and their components may be substantially as described herein.

[0071] In one embodiment, the fastening device is an MJT.

[0072] It will be understood that this method may further include the steps of measuring the deformation of the nut device at multiple locations and determining the load applied to the elongated fastening member.

[0073] In one embodiment, the present invention is A main body portion 610 integrally formed with an elongated fastening member 620, the main body portion 610 has a plurality of holes 615a, 615b spaced apart around its outer circumference and uniformly spaced apart from the longitudinal central axis, and the holes 615a, 615b have side wall portions on which the main body threads are formed, the main body portion 610, Jack bolts 630a, 630b each include a body having a thread for screwing into the thread of the body in one of the holes 615a, 615b of the main body 610, A load-bearing member 650 for applying force to a workpiece 660a that is tightened and positioned around the elongated clamping member 620, and A deformation measuring device that is received or formed attached to the main body 610, Regarding MJT, which includes the following:

[0074] In one embodiment, the deformation measuring device includes a strain gauge.

[0075] The outer surface of the body may be adapted to receive strain gauges. In this regard, the outer surface has a recess for receiving the strain gauges. In another embodiment, the strain gauge is in contact with the outer surface. In some embodiments, the strain gauge is formed in conjunction with the body; that is, the strain gauge is attached to or formed in conjunction with the outer surface.

[0076] Figure 6 shows a cross-section of a bolt-type MJT 600. The bolt-type MJT comprises a body portion 610 integrally formed with the elongated fastening member 620. The MJT 600 includes the body portion 610. The body portion 610 includes an outer surface 611. The body portion 610 has a plurality of spaced-apart holes around its outer circumference, uniformly spaced from the longitudinal central axis. In this cross-section, the body portion 610 is shown as having holes 615a, 615b. The holes 615a, 615b have side wall portions on which body threads are formed. Jack bolts 630a, 630b, each having threads, are respectively positioned in the holes 615a, 615b to engage. Those skilled in the art will understand that the MJT may have any number of holes and respective jack bolts, and is not limited to the two shown in this cross-section. In one embodiment, the load-bearing member 650 is positioned between the main body 610 and the workpiece. In the illustrated embodiment, the deformation measuring device is attached to or formed in conjunction with the main body 610. In one embodiment, the deformation device includes a strain gauge 617.

[0077] In one embodiment, the clamping device 670 can be fixed at the threaded end of the elongated clamping member 620. In this embodiment, when tension is applied to the MJT 600, axial pressure is applied to the workpieces 660a and 660b. Furthermore, when tension is applied to the body 610 of the MJT 600, the body 610 deforms, and strain gauges can detect and measure the deformation of the clamping member, allowing the applied load to be determined.

[0078] The clamping device 670 may be the device of the present invention or any clamping device known in the art. By using the clamping device of the present invention, multiple deformation readings become possible. These readings can be correlated to provide a more accurate force determination.

[0079] In another embodiment, the threaded tip of the elongated clamping member 620 can engage with a threaded bore in the workpiece. When tension is applied to the MJT 600, the body 610 applies axial pressure to the workpiece. It will be understood that the amount of torque applied can be monitored by the deformation of the body 610 through the strain gauge 617.

[0080] Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a bolt-type MJT. The bolt-type MJT in Figure 7 is similar to the bolt-type MJT in Figure 6, except that the body 610 has a recess 616 on its outer surface 611. The recess 616 is adapted to receive a strain gauge 617. For ease of explanation, the same reference numerals used to describe Figure 6 are used for the MJT in Figure 7, the only difference being that the outer surface 611 has a recess 616 adapted to receive a strain gauge 617. In one embodiment, the MJT is provided in combination with a strain gauge.

[0081] In one embodiment, the present invention is A main body portion 610 formed to engage with or integrally formed with an elongated clamping member 620, wherein the main body portion 610 has a plurality of holes 615a, 615b spaced apart around its outer circumference and uniformly spaced apart from the longitudinal central axis, and the holes 615a, 615b have side wall portions on which main body threads are formed, Jack bolts 630a, 630b, and each include a body having a thread for screwing into the thread of the body in one of the holes of the body portion 610, and A load-bearing member 650 for applying force to a target workpiece 660a that is tightened and positioned around the elongated clamping member 620 is provided, This relates to a MJT in which the main body 610 includes a deformation measuring device within an axial recess formed therein.

[0082] The main body has an axial recess parallel or substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis. The deformation measuring device can be held, fixed, or mounted within the recess. The deformation measuring device is used to determine the amount of deformation of the main body, thereby determining the amount of force applied. In one embodiment, the deformation measuring device includes a strain gauge.

[0083] Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of a bolt-type MJT800. The MJT800 comprises a main body 810. The main body 810 has a plurality of spaced-apart holes 815a, 815b around its outer circumference, uniformly spaced from the longitudinal central axis. The cross-sectional view shows that the main body is provided with holes 815a, 815b. The holes 815a, 815b have side walls on which threads are formed. Jack bolts 830a, 830b, each containing a threaded body, are respectively positioned in the holes 815a, 815b for engagement. Those skilled in the art will understand that the MJT may have any number of holes and jack bolts, and is not limited to the two shown in this cross-sectional view. In one embodiment, a load-bearing member 850 is positioned between the main body 810 and the workpiece. In the illustrated embodiment, recesses are formed aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis. The strain gauge 817 is held, fixed, or attached to the recess. In this embodiment, the main body 810 is integrally formed with the elongated clamping member 820.

[0084] Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a nut-type MJT. The nut-type MJT is similar to the bolt-type MJT in Figure 8, except that it has a central threaded opening 801 having a female thread 802 adapted to engage with the male thread 803 of an elongated fastener 820. For ease of explanation, the same reference numerals used to describe the MJT in Figure 8 are also used in Figure 9. The only difference is that Figure 9 is a nut-type MJT and not a bolt-type MJT. In this embodiment, the main body is formed to engage with an elongated fastener.

[0085] In one embodiment, the present invention involves the following steps: A main body formed to engage with or integrally formed with an elongated clamping member, wherein the main body has a plurality of holes spaced apart around its outer circumference and uniformly spaced apart from the longitudinal central axis, and the holes have side wall portions on which threads are formed, Each jack bolt includes a body having a thread for screwing into the thread of the body in one of the holes of the body, and The steps of providing an MJT comprising a load-bearing member for applying force to a workpiece to be tightened and positioned around the elongated clamping member, wherein the body includes a deformation measuring device in an axial recess formed therein, and the elongated clamping member includes a threaded tip, The steps include fixing the threaded tip in the threaded recess of the workpiece, The steps include applying tension to the MJT, The load applied to the elongated clamping member is To measure the deformation of the MJT in the lateral direction with respect to the axial direction of the elongated clamping member, and The load applied to the elongated clamping member is determined from the deformation of the clamping member. The steps include determining the outcome and This relates to a method for determining the applied load, including the method described above.

[0086] In one embodiment, the deformation measuring device includes a strain gauge.

[0087] Where applicable, it will be understood that the nut device may be provided separately from the deformation measuring device (such as a strain gauge). In this regard, the consumer may place the nut device on a fastener and then place the deformation measuring device on top of the nut device.

[0088] In one embodiment, the present invention is A body having a central threaded opening, the body comprising an outer wall portion and a first surface and a second surface connected by the threads of the central threaded opening, The present invention relates to a nut device, the main body of which is adapted to receive a deformation measuring device.

[0089] In some embodiments, the second surface includes a buffer region.

[0090] In one embodiment, the outer wall portion includes a recess. The recess receives the deformation measuring device. In one embodiment, the nut device is provided in combination with the deformation measuring device.

[0091] The above description of various embodiments of the present invention is provided for the purpose of explaining to those skilled in the art. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to a single disclosed embodiment. As stated above, numerous alternatives and variations of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art of the above teachings. Accordingly, although some alternative embodiments have been specifically described, other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art or will be relatively easy to develop. Accordingly, the present invention is intended to encompass all alternatives, modifications and variations of the invention discussed herein, as well as other embodiments that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as described above.

Claims

1. Nut device, A body including an outer wall portion and a central threaded opening having a female thread for engaging with an elongated fastening member, and a first surface and a second surface connected by these, A deformation measuring device, which is received in or formed in conjunction with the main body and is circumferentially arranged around the main body, is provided. The nut device, wherein the second surface includes a buffer area.

2. The nut device according to claim 1, wherein the buffering area extends at least partially from the outer wall portion to the central threaded opening.

3. The nut device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the buffering region extends from the outer wall portion to the central threaded opening.

4. The nut device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the buffer region has a frustoconical shape.

5. A nut device, A body including an outer wall portion and a central threaded opening having a female thread for engaging with an elongated fastening member, and a first surface and a second surface connected by these, A deformation measuring device, which is received in or formed in conjunction with the main body and is circumferentially arranged around the main body, is provided. A nut device in which the outer wall portion comprises an expanded flange portion adjacent to the second surface, an axially distant portion adjacent to the first surface, and optionally a transition surface connecting the expanded flange portion and the axially distant portion.

6. A nut device, A body including an outer wall portion and a central threaded opening having a female thread for engaging with an elongated fastening member, and a first surface and a second surface connected by these, A deformation measuring device, which is received in or formed in conjunction with the main body and is circumferentially arranged around the main body, is provided. A nut device in which the outer wall portion has a recess for receiving the deformation measuring device.

7. The nut device according to claim 6, relating to claim 5, wherein the expanded flange portion includes the recess.

8. The nut device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the deformation measuring device is formed in conjunction with the main body.

9. A nut device, A body including an outer wall portion and a central threaded opening having a female thread for engaging with an elongated fastening member, and a first surface and a second surface connected by these, A deformation measuring device, which is received in or formed in conjunction with the main body and is circumferentially arranged around the main body, is provided. A nut device wherein the female thread has a first uniform pitch, and the male thread portion of the elongated fastening member has a second uniform pitch, wherein the second uniform pitch and the first uniform pitch are different.

10. The nut device according to claim 1, wherein the second surface is substantially planar.

11. The nut device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the deformation measuring device measures the circumferential expansion of the main body.

12. A nut device, A body including an outer wall portion and a central threaded opening having a female thread for engaging with an elongated fastening member, and a first surface and a second surface connected by these, A deformation measuring device, which is received in or formed in conjunction with the main body and is circumferentially arranged around the main body, is provided. A nut device in which, in the operating state, the second surface is in contact with the workpiece to be fastened.

13. The nut device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the deformation measuring device is arranged in a circular circumferential direction around the main body.

14. A clamping assembly for determining the applied load, A fastening device including an elongated fastening member having a male threaded tip, and A nut device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising: This results in a fastening assembly in which applying tension to the fastener causes deformation of the main body.

15. A method for determining the load applied to a fastening assembly, which includes a fastener and a nut device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, A step of providing a fastening device including an elongated fastening member having a male threaded tip, A step of fixing the nut device to the male threaded tip, wherein the nut device has a body including an outer wall portion and a first surface and a second surface connected by a central threaded opening having a female thread, and a deformation measuring device formed to be received by or attached to the body and arranged circumferentially around the body, and A step of applying tension to the fastener and / or the nut device, The load applied to the elongated clamping member is To measure the deformation of the nut device in the direction laterally to the axial direction of the elongated fastening member, and From the deformation of the nut device, the load applied to the elongated fastening member is determined. A method including the step of determining by

16. The method according to claim 15, further comprising the step of arranging the deformation measuring device around the main body.

Images