Hybrid Electromechanical Torque Wrench for Torque and Angle Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torque wrenches, particularly clicker type mechanical wrenches, face challenges such as difficult-to-read gauges, limited resolution, reliance on batteries, and the need for separate tools for torque and angle application, with recalibration requiring disassembly and being costly and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid torque wrench combining mechanical and electronic features, including a PCB spacer for accurate displacement sensing, post-torque angle measurement, battery-independent operation, enhanced feedback, and a low-profile design, allowing for both torque and angle application in a single unit with improved accuracy and longevity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If clicker type mechanical torque wrenches with permanently marked gauges are used, then the device is simple and reliable, but the gauge resolution is limited and difficult to read
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical torque measurement with electronic digital display components into a single hybrid torque wrench system. The mechanical clicker mechanism remains intact for reliable torque sensing, while electronic sensors and displays are integrated to provide high-resolution digital readouts, merging the simplicity of mechanical systems with the precision of electronic measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque wrench is designed to perform multiple functions: traditional mechanical torque application with clicker feedback, high-resolution digital torque measurement, and angle measurement capabilities. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace multiple specialized tools while maintaining the reliability of mechanical operation.
2Productivity
If separate tools are used for torque and angle application, then each tool can be optimized for its specific function, but productivity decreases due to tool changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges torque application and angle measurement capabilities into a single hybrid torque wrench. The device maintains its mechanical torque sensing and clicker mechanism while integrating electronic angle sensors and measurement functions, allowing users to perform both torque and angle operations with one tool without changing tools mid-task.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid torque wrench is designed as a universal tool that can perform torque application, torque measurement, and angle measurement functions. This multi-functionality eliminates the need to switch between separate torque wrenches and angle measurement devices, improving workflow efficiency and productivity.
3Ease of repair
If mechanical torque wrenches with permanently marked gauges are used, then the device is simple, but recalibration requires disassembly and is costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces permanently marked mechanical gauges with electronic sensors and digital display systems. This substitution allows for easier recalibration through software updates and electronic adjustment rather than requiring physical disassembly and mechanical adjustment of permanent markings, while maintaining or improving measurement accuracy.
4Measurement precision
If high resolution digital displays are added to torque wrenches, then measurement precision improves, but the device requires batteries and becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges mechanical torque sensing with electronic display components in a hybrid system where the mechanical clicker mechanism operates independently of battery power. The electronic display enhances measurement precision but the core torque application and sensing functions remain mechanically driven, reducing complete battery dependency while maintaining high resolution capabilities.
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
The hybrid wrench provides precise torque and angle settings with enhanced feedback, operates without batteries, and reduces the need for recalibration, enhancing usability and productivity in tight spaces.
Implementation Method 1
A resistive element is operatively coupled to the torque setting screw and produces an output signal, the output signal being dependent on the position of the torque setting screw relative to the resistive element.
Implementation Method 2
The preset torque level is selected by a user by causing the spring to exert either greater or lesser force on the pawl. The force acts on the bar through the pawl to resist rotation of the bar relative to the hollow tube.
Implementation Method 3
As the torque exerted on the fastener exceeds the preset torque value, the force tending to cause the bar to pivot relative to the hollow tube exceeds the force preventing its rotation and the pawl 'trips.' When released by the action of the pawl, the bar pivots and hits the inside of the tube, thereby producing a click sound
Data Source
AI summary
A torque wrench having post-torque rotation setting and measurement function, optionally including auto transition from torque to angle rotation, which may operation with and without batteries, including low profile design, improved visual, audio and haptic feedback, a recesses pawl seat for improved accuracy and longevity and improved handle rotation for torque setting and spring unwinding by virtue of improved torque setting nut design.