Holding Tool Prevents Twisting in Hydraulic Coupling Torque Application

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Solution Overview

Problem

In industrial applications, there is a challenge in ensuring that threaded fasteners are tightened to a specific torque without over-tightening, which can damage components like hydraulic hoses and fittings, and existing tools do not effectively prevent twisting forces that reduce the service life of these components.

Innovation Solution

A holding tool that works in conjunction with a torque application tool to maintain a static position of one component while torque is applied to another, using wireless communication with a controller to monitor proper usage and prevent twisting forces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a torque application tool is used to tighten threaded fasteners, then the fasteners are tightened to a specific torque, but twisting forces are applied to hoses and fittings that can damage components and reduce service life

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque application precisionVSAvoidtwisting forces on hoses and fittings
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The holding tool acts as an intermediary device between the torque application tool and the workpiece. It engages with a first portion of the workpiece (such as a fitting or hose) and provides a reaction surface that prevents twisting forces from being applied to the hose or pipe, while allowing the torque application tool to properly tighten the fastener to the required torque specification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If torque is applied to tighten fasteners, then proper fastening is achieved, but hoses and fittings may be damaged or service life reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefastening reliabilityVSAvoidhose and fitting integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The holding tool applies a preliminary counteracting force to prevent the harmful twisting action before it can damage the hose or fitting. By engaging the holding tool with a stationary portion of the workpiece and applying a reaction force in the opposite direction of the torque application, the system prevents the hose or fitting from experiencing damaging stresses during the fastening process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

3Ease of operation

If existing tools are used without holding tool, then operation is simple, but twisting forces cannot be prevented and component life is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool operation simplicityVSAvoidservice life of hoses and fittings
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The holding tool is designed to be self-contained and self-explanatory in its operation. It includes features such as a handle for direct manual operation, engagement mechanisms that automatically grip the workpiece, and optional wireless communication capabilities that can automatically track and report torque application data, reducing the need for complex external monitoring systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20210187711A1Holding Tool
Publication Date: 2021.06.24 SNAP ON INC
  • US20210187711A1 patent drawing
  • US20210187711A1 patent drawing
  • US20210187711A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A holding tool for use in holding a first portion of an item, such as a hydraulic coupling, in a static position, while a torque application tool applies torque and rotates a second portion of the item. The holding tool helps reduce twisting of the first portion relative to the second portion when torque is applied. The holding tool also communicates with a controller when the tool is in use. For example, the tool communicates with the controller in response to a user applying a force to the tool in a direction of the first portion the tool is engaged with. That force releases pressure on a switch that activates a communication signal for communication to the controller. This allows the controller to monitor whether the holding tool was used in conjunction with a torque wrench to tighten the coupling; thereby providing an error reducing function.