Continuous-Rotation Torque Wrench for Speed and Low Vibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional torque wrenches experience slow fastener rotation due to interrupted movement, generate undesired vibrations, and require frequent servicing under specific conditions, limiting their usability.
Innovation Solution
A torque wrench design featuring a gear train and torque multiplier within a sealed, positively pressurized housing, allowing for continuous rotational input and output, and enabling operation in harsh environments with reduced maintenance needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If conventional ratchet-type torque wrenches use reciprocating piston motion, then torque can be applied to fasteners, but fastener rotation speed is slow due to interrupted movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the reciprocating piston motion with a continuous rotating motor (electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic) that drives the fastener through continuous 360-degree rotation. This eliminates the stop-and-start nature of ratchet mechanisms, allowing the fastener to rotate continuously at high speed while torque is applied through the entire rotation cycle rather than in small incremental segments.
2Force
If conventional torque wrenches use reciprocating piston motion, then torque can be applied to fasteners, but hammering and vibrations are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the mechanical reciprocating piston system with a rotational motor system. The motor provides smooth continuous rotation without the hammering impacts inherent in reciprocating mechanisms. The torque is applied through controlled rotational force from the motor rather than through impact forces from a reciprocating piston, eliminating the harmful vibrations and noise.
3Reliability
If conventional torque wrenches operate in dry and clean conditions, then proper lubrication can be maintained, but frequent servicing is required for cleaning and lubrication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-lubricating bearing materials within the motor assembly that do not require external lubrication. The motor is sealed to prevent contamination from the external environment, allowing the torque wrench to operate in harsh conditions (wet, dirty, underwater) without requiring frequent disassembly for cleaning and lubrication. The sealed motor compartment protects internal components from contaminants that would otherwise degrade lubrication.
4Reliability
If conventional torque wrenches are designed for specific conditions, then they can function reliably, but adaptability to diverse environments is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the torque wrench with a sealed motor compartment and self-lubricating components that enable reliable operation across multiple environments including dry, wet, dirty, and underwater conditions. The motor can be configured with different sealing levels and the wrench can accommodate various power source types (electric, hydraulic, pneumatic), making it universally adaptable to diverse application environments without sacrificing operational reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A torque wrench is disclosed for use in rotating a fastener. The torque wrench may include an input end configured to receive a torsional input, a housing, and a gear train disposed inside the housing and operatively driven by the torsional input. The torque wrench may also include a torque multiplier disposed inside the housing and connected to the gear train, and an output end operatively driven by the gear train to produce a torsional output.