Constant Torque Module for Power Tools

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional power tools face challenges in controlling torque output during both tightening and loosening operations, particularly at high rotational speeds, and have high manufacturing costs due to complex structural requirements.

Innovation Solution

A constant torque module comprising a transmission ring member, buffer units, internal shaft member, and external shaft member, which allows for different torque outputs based on rotation direction and operates efficiently at high speeds with reduced manufacturing costs by utilizing a unique structural design that includes drive blocks, buffer units, and engagement notches to manage torque transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If pneumatic tools utilize oil pressure or planetary gear reduction mechanism to control torque, then torque control is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases and rotational speed decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque controlVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The torque control mechanism is segmented into multiple functional components: transmission ring member with drive blocks, buffer units with elastic elements, internal shaft member with engagement portions, and external shaft member. Each segment performs a specific function in the torque transmission and control process, allowing independent optimization and simplifying manufacturing of individual parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanism employs asymmetric engagement between drive blocks and buffer units based on rotation direction. During loosening rotation, drive blocks engage buffer units to provide torque control, while during tightening rotation, the engagement is different. This asymmetric design enables direction-dependent torque control without complex additional components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Force

If pneumatic tools utilize oil pressure or planetary gear reduction mechanism to control torque, then torque control is achieved, but rotational speed decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque controlVSAvoidrotational speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the torque control function from traditional reduction mechanisms and implements it through a separate buffer unit system that engages selectively during loosening operations. This extraction allows the main transmission path to operate at high speed while torque control is applied only when needed, maintaining rotational speed without compromise.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanism dynamically engages and disengages buffer units based on rotation direction and load conditions. During loosening, buffer units are engaged to control torque; during tightening or idle rotation, they are disengaged to allow full rotational speed. This dynamic behavior enables both torque control and high speed operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Force

If torque is increased for loosening operations, then loosening capability is improved, but risk of damage during tightening increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque for looseningVSAvoiddamage risk during tightening
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanism inverts the torque control approach by providing enhanced torque control during loosening operations (when high force is needed) while allowing natural torque limitation during tightening operations (when damage risk exists). The buffer units are positioned to engage during loosening rotation but not during tightening, automatically providing protection against over-tightening damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS12064859B1Constant torque module for power tool
Publication Date: 2024.08.20 HO CHUAN CHENG
  • US12064859B1 patent drawing
  • US12064859B1 patent drawing
  • US12064859B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A constant torque module for a power tool includes a transmission ring member, which has a core shaft, two accommodations and two drive blocks, two buffer units disposed respectively in parts of the accommodations such that each of the two accommodations remains a receiving space, an internal shaft member, which has two inner protrusions extending into the receiving spaces and being contactable with the two buffer units respectively, a shaft notch engaged with the core shaft, and a shaft rod having an engagement portion, and an external shaft member including two outer protrusions contactable with the two drive blocks respectively, and a shaft tube having an engagement notch engaged with the engagement portion of the internal shaft member. As such, the constant torque module outputs different torques when it rotates in reverse directions and has the advantages of high rotational speed, good working efficiency and low manufacturing cost.