Electronic Torque Adapter for Precise Tool Feedback and Limit Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torque wrenches lack accurate and immediate feedback on peak torque values, are affected by temperature and off-axis loading, require larger batteries for higher power demands, and cannot be used with existing tools without increasing weight or reducing mobility.
Innovation Solution
An electronic torque measurement adapter that can be secured to a driving tool, measuring and displaying torque, adjusting settings, and controlling torque output, using internal or external power sources, and optionally including a gear train for mechanical advantage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electronic torque measuring devices are incorporated directly into the torque wrench, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The torque measurement system is divided into separate components: a reusable adapter containing the electronic torque sensor and a disposable driver bit. This segmentation allows the complex electronic measurement system to be detached from the simple driving mechanism, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
An adapter serves as an intermediary component between the torque wrench and the driver bit. The adapter contains the electronic torque sensor and interfaces with both the wrench and the bit, enabling precise torque measurement without incorporating complex electronics directly into the wrench handle.
2Power
If larger batteries are used for higher power demands, then power is improved, but weight of moving object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power system is segmented into the main wrench body and the separate adapter assembly. The adapter contains minimal electronics with low power requirements, allowing the use of lighter batteries in the wrench while maintaining sufficient power for both operation and measurement functions.
3Loss of information
If electronic components are added to provide torque feedback, then loss of information is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic feedback system is extracted from the main wrench and placed in the disposable adapter assembly. This allows comprehensive torque information collection and processing without adding permanent complexity to the wrench, as the electronic components are contained in the replaceable adapter.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter performs self-service by containing all necessary electronic components for torque measurement, data processing, and feedback generation. The adapter autonomously handles information collection and presentation, reducing the complexity burden on the main wrench system.
4Adaptability or versatility
If an adapter is added to enable torque measurement on existing tools, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed with universal compatibility features, including standardized interfaces that work with multiple types of torque wrenches and driver bits. This multi-functionality allows a single adapter design to serve various tool configurations, improving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
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
Provides precise torque measurement and control, allowing for accurate and portable torque application in sterile environments, without the need for external power sources, and integrating with existing tools for enhanced accuracy and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The adapter includes a strain gauge disposed on the drive shaft and operably connected to the control unit/microprocessor for measuring torque applied to the drive shaft
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic torque measuring adapter is provided that can be releasably secured to a driving tool through a drive shaft extending outwardly from one end of the adapter. The adapter has a housing within which is disposed an electronics/control unit capable of measuring torque applied to an implement attached to the adapter opposite the driving tool. The drive shaft is shaped similarly to the engagement end of the fastener-engaging shaft in order to utilize the same connection mechanism within the driving tool to secure the adapter to the driving tool. The adapter can sense and limit the torque applied when a programmed torque limit is reached, which can be stored in the adapter or on a remote platform wirelessly connected to the adapter. Outputs from the adapter can be wirelessly transmitted to the remote platform for recordal of fastener torque values during a medical procedure and generation of associated reports.