Electrically Actuated Torque Tool Release for Over-Tightening Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torque tools lack a simple and cost-effective mechanism for decoupling the drive from the screw connection when a target torque is reached, which can lead to over-tightening and damage, especially with lightweight materials used in modern industries.
Innovation Solution
A torque tool design featuring an electrically operated actuator, such as a lifting magnet, that unlocks the locking mechanism by moving a locking element into an axial bore, allowing the adapter to rotate freely and decouple from the housing, thus preventing further torque transmission beyond the target value.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical locking mechanism is used to transmit torque from the housing to the drive shaft, then torque transmission is reliable, but the mechanism for decoupling at target torque becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical spring-loaded locking mechanism with an electrically operated actuator (magnet or motor) that controls the locking element. This substitution simplifies the mechanical structure while maintaining reliable torque transmission, as the electrical actuator can precisely control the locking and unlocking actions without requiring complex mechanical springs and cam mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electrical actuator as an intermediary between the control system and the locking mechanism. This intermediary component enables precise control of the locking element's position, allowing the system to reliably transmit torque when locked and easily decouple when the target torque is reached, without requiring complex direct mechanical coupling.
2Power
If the adapter is firmly connected to the housing for torque transmission, then torque is transmitted effectively, but preventing over-tightening requires complex triggering mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the connection between the adapter and housing dynamic rather than static. The locking element can transition between locked and unlocked states based on electrical control signals. This dynamic capability allows the system to maintain firm connection for effective torque transmission when needed, and easily decouple to prevent over-tightening when the target is reached, without requiring complex mechanical triggering mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical triggering mechanisms with an electrical control system. The electrical actuator receives control signals (potentially from sensors detecting target torque) and automatically controls the locking element's position, simplifying the triggering mechanism while maintaining effective torque transmission and preventing over-tightening.
3Weight of moving object
If lightweight materials are used in screw connections, then weight is reduced, but the risk of thread damage from over-tightening increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a control system that can detect when the target torque is reached and automatically triggers the unlocking of the locking element. This feedback mechanism ensures that torque is precisely controlled, preventing over-tightening that could damage lightweight thread connections. The system monitors torque application and provides real-time control to protect the integrity of lightweight material components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an electrical actuator to precisely control the locking and unlocking actions, replacing imprecise mechanical mechanisms. This electrical control provides better precision and responsiveness in preventing over-tightening, which is critical for protecting lightweight material threads from damage while maintaining the weight reduction benefits.
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 design ensures precise control and prevention of over-tightening, reducing the risk of screw thread damage and enhancing the reliability and longevity of lightweight materials in mechanical assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
the electrically operated actuator, which unlocks the locking mechanism by moving a locking element into an axial bore
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a releasing torque tool (10, 110, 310, 410) for tightening a screw or the like with a target torque. The torque tool (10, 110, 310, 410) contains a main part (12, 112, 312, 412) with a housing (14, 114, 314, 414) and a driveshaft (18, 118, 318) which is rotationally fixed to the housing (14, 114, 314, 414) in order to transmit a torque. The driveshaft (18, 118, 318) has a connection region (27, 127, 327) which can be connected to a drive. An adapter (30, 130, 330) for an actuation tool rotates together with the housing (14, 114, 314, 414) and the driveshaft (18, 118, 318) in order to transmit the torque. Detection and analysis means detect and analyze the transmitted torque, and a release mechanism (44, 144, 344, 444) which is arranged in the housing (14, 114, 314, 414) releases the torque tool (10, 110, 310, 410) upon reaching a target torque.