Motorized Flaring Tool With Clutch Feedback for Consistent Flares
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flaring tools rely on manual operation to control the rotation of the motor, leading to variations in the finish (accuracy) of the formed flare.
Innovation Solution
A flaring tool with a motor, main shaft, cone, clutch mechanism, detection device, and control device that automatically controls the motor rotation based on the actuation of the clutch mechanism, ensuring consistent flare formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used to control motor rotation, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to variations in flare finish
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical control system with an automated control system comprising a detection device that detects clutch mechanism actuation and a control device that automatically controls motor rotation timing. This substitution eliminates manual operation variations while maintaining ease of use through automatic control.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection device provides feedback on clutch mechanism actuation status to the control device, which then adjusts motor rotation accordingly. This feedback loop ensures precise control of the cone's rotation timing, stabilizing flare finish accuracy by automatically responding to the actual mechanical state.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated control based on clutch mechanism actuation is implemented, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device serves multiple functions: it controls motor rotation timing, responds to detection device signals, and manages the transition between different operational phases (forward movement obstruction detection and subsequent rotation control). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection device acts as an intermediary between the mechanical clutch mechanism and the electronic control system. It translates mechanical actuation events into detectable signals that the control device can process, bridging the gap between mechanical and electronic domains without requiring complex direct integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A flaring tool includes a motor, a main shaft, a cone, a clutch mechanism, a detection device, and a control device. The main shaft is operably coupled to the motor, and configured to move forward along a first axis while rotating around the first axis when the motor is rotated in a forward direction. The cone is eccentrically supported at a front end portion of the main shaft to be rotatable around a second axis that is different from the first axis. The clutch mechanism is configured to be actuated in response to a forward movement of the main shaft being obstructed due to the cone abutting an end portion of a pipe. The detection device is configured to detect the actuation of the clutch mechanism. The control device is configured to control the rotation of the motor based on a detection result of the detection device.