Interlink Torque Backup Tool with Self-Adjusting Jaw
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for tightening and loosening threaded fasteners in flange connections, especially in harsh or corrosive conditions, are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and costly, often requiring two persons and involving unsafe procedures due to the need for a backup wrench that must be manually adjusted.
Innovation Solution
A tool comprising a plurality of units with apertures for gripping fasteners, tension bolts, and shoulders for supporting these bolts, allowing simultaneous securing of units on one side of the fasteners, enabling single-person operation by preventing rotation during torque application and easy removal after securing the desired torque.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a backup wrench is used to prevent rotation during torque application, then the fastener can be secured with proper torque, but the backup wrench must be manually adjusted and knocked loose with a hammer, making the process labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The backup wrench is designed with a self-adjusting mechanism where the jaw automatically moves along the bolt head circumference during torque application, maintaining optimal contact position without manual intervention. The wrench also features an easy-release mechanism that allows quick removal after torque is applied, eliminating the need for hammering and significantly reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The backup wrench incorporates dynamic elements including a movable jaw that can rotate and adjust its position automatically during the torquing process. This dynamic adjustment allows the wrench to adapt to the bolt head's rotation and maintain effective contact, replacing the static, manually-adjusted backup wrench of traditional designs.
2Reliability
If a backup wrench is used to retain the nut or bolt head, then rotation is prevented during torque application, but the procedure requires two persons and involves unsafe hammering operations
Solution Approach 1:
The backup wrench automatically maintains its gripping function throughout the torquing process without requiring a second person to hold or adjust it. The self-adjusting jaw mechanism ensures continuous reliable contact with the bolt head, preventing rotation while allowing the operator to work alone, thereby improving both reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary mechanism between the operator and the backup wrench function. The automatic adjustment mechanism acts as an intermediary that translates the torque application into automatic jaw positioning, eliminating the need for manual intervention and hammering operations, thus improving safety while maintaining rotation prevention.
3Manufacturing precision
If a traditional backup wrench is used, then the fastener can be secured, but the process is labor-intensive and costly requiring multiple persons and equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The backup wrench performs multiple functions automatically: it prevents rotation, self-adjusts its position during torquing, and provides easy release after torque application. This eliminates the need for a second person and reduces the number of manual operations required, significantly improving productivity while maintaining fastener securing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single tool: the backup wrench now combines rotation prevention, automatic position adjustment, and easy release capabilities in one device. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate operations and personnel, thereby improving operational efficiency and productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for facilitating the tightening and torquing (or loosening) of threaded fasteners used to hold together two work pieces. The tool includes one or more units, where each unit has an aperture for gripping a threaded fastener, a hole with a tension bolt extending therefrom, and a shoulder for supporting a tension bolt extending from an adjacent tool during the tightening and torquing of the threaded fasteners.