Hybrid Torque Wrench with Click-to-Angle Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clicker type torque wrenches face limitations such as difficult-to-read permanently marked gauges, limited torque range, need for recalibration, and the requirement of separate tools for torque and angle applications, especially in hard-to-reach and poorly lit areas, and are often battery-dependent.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid torque wrench, referred to as 'Click-to-Angle', which combines torque application and angle measurement in a single unit, featuring a post-torque angle-of-rotation setting, automatic transition between torque and angle modes, operation with or without batteries, a PCB spacer for accurate displacement sensing, low profile design, and enhanced feedback mechanisms including visual, audio, and haptic alerts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If permanently marked gauges are used on clicker type torque wrenches, then the device structure is simple, but the gauge becomes hard to read especially in poorly lit areas and when the user is occupied with torquing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical gauge reading system with an electronic display system. The electronic controller displays torque values on a visual display device, eliminating the need for users to read permanently marked gauges. This substitution resolves the contradiction by providing easy-to-read digital information while maintaining relatively simple device structure through integration of electronic components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the torque measurement information through the electronic display, separate from the mechanical gauge. The display shows torque values clearly regardless of lighting conditions, providing an alternative information channel that is easier to detect and measure.
2Volume of moving object
If the drum or permanently marked gage is made small to reduce device size, then the torque wrench becomes more compact, but the upper torquing range is limited and the markings become smaller and less readable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical gauge with an electronic display that is not constrained by physical space limitations. The digital display can show torque values across the full range without requiring large physical markings, allowing the wrench to remain compact while maintaining measurement precision and extended torque range capability.
3Device complexity
If only one or two sets of units are marked on the gage, then the device structure remains simple, but the user is limited to these units and cannot preset to fraction values
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static marking system into a dynamic electronic display system. The display can dynamically change to show different unit sets (e.g., foot-pounds, Newton-meters, inch-pounds) and allow users to preset to various torque values including fractions. This dynamic capability provides versatility while keeping the device structure relatively simple through software-based unit conversion rather than physical markings.
4Reliability
If separate tools are used for torque and angle applications, then each tool can be optimized for its specific function, but the user must use multiple tools and the process becomes less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the torque wrench and angle measurement device into a single integrated tool. The electronic controller can detect when torque is reached and automatically transition to angle measurement mode, allowing the user to complete both operations with one tool. This combining improves productivity by eliminating the need to switch tools while maintaining reliability through dedicated sensors and control algorithms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal tool that performs both torque application and angle measurement functions. The single device can adapt to different assembly requirements by switching between torque and angle modes, providing multi-functionality that reduces the number of tools needed while maintaining the functional optimization of each capability.
5Ease of operation
If clicker type torque wrenches are used, then the operation is simple and quick, but the preset torque values are permanently marked and cannot be adjusted or recalibrated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the fixed torque values into dynamically adjustable settings. The electronic controller allows users to change torque values through software input, enabling adaptation to different specifications without physical adjustments. The display can be programmed with various torque values, providing versatility while maintaining the simple operation characteristics of clicker-type wrenches.
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.