Clamping Tool Arm Digitization and Interchangeable Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic clamping tools face inaccuracies and signal noise due to analog signal transmission from sensors to the central processing unit, and are prone to connector breakage.
Innovation Solution
The tool incorporates a microprocessor electronic card on the arm to digitize sensor signals, allowing digital transmission to the central unit, and features a removable connector for mechanical and electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If analog signal transmission is used from sensors to central processing unit, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to signal inaccuracies and noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the analog electrical signal transmission system with a digital signal transmission system. The strain gauge sensors continue to measure torque mechanically, but the signal conditioning and transmission are digitized using an A/D converter, microcontroller, and digital communication bus, eliminating analog signal degradation while maintaining measurement functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate components including a signal conditioning circuit with operational amplifiers, an A/D converter, and a microcontroller as mediators between the strain gauge sensors and the central processing unit. These intermediaries condition, digitize, and transmit signals more reliably than direct analog connections
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed connector is used in the tool, then connection reliability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates as connector breakage requires tool replacement rather than just arm replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the tool into separable modules: a fixed body containing the central processing unit and a removable arm containing the sensors and connector. The connector is specifically placed on the removable arm, allowing the arm (with its connector) to be replaced independently from the body, providing both modularity and repairability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the arm containing the connector to be discarded and replaced when the connector fails, while the expensive body containing the central processing unit is recovered and reused. This approach makes the system more adaptable to connector failures without requiring complete tool replacement
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances signal accuracy, reduces noise, and prevents connector breakage, ensuring reliable and interchangeable operation of the clamping tool.
Implementation Method 1
The sensors which measure the torque to be exerted on the member to be clamped are placed on the arm and comprise at least one strain gauge, which is a sensor whose electrical resistance varies with the deformation it undergoes; so it converts the force, pressure, voltage, weight, etc., into a variation in electrical resistance that can be measured.
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping tool is provided comprising a body, containing control circuits and electronic processing circuitry and having, at one end, a handle for gripping by an operator making the clamping, and on the other end, an arm. The arm comprises, at its free end, a seat that can be alternatively pluggable to a plurality of inserts suitable for engaging the tool with a corresponding type and/or dimension of a mechanical member on which the tool is configured to operate to perform a clamping operation. Sensor means are provided on the arm for detecting tightening conditions exerted on the mechanical member. Furthermore, a microprocessor electronic card is provided on the arm for receiving analogic signals from the sensor means, converting the signals into digital format, and handling transfer of the signals in digital format to the electronic processing circuitry.