Jointed Stall Bar Torque Transfer for Multi-Orientation Fastening
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In high-torque applications, workers face reaction torque loads when tightening nuts or bolts, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to the need for multiple torque tools with stall bars oriented for different fastener orientations.
Innovation Solution
A torque transfer device with two joints that lock during tool activation to transfer reaction torque to a torque limiter device, allowing the tool to be used in multiple orientations and unlocking for reorientation after deactivation, eliminating the need for multiple tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid stall bar is attached to the torque tool for one orientation, then reaction torque is absorbed effectively, but multiple tools are needed for different orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The stall bar is designed with two rotational joints that allow it to dynamically adapt its orientation. The joints enable the stall bar to rotate and reposition itself according to the fastener location, while the locking mechanism ensures it maintains a fixed position during torque application to effectively absorb reaction torque.
Solution Approach 2:
The single stall bar with rotational joints can serve multiple orientations and positions, replacing the need for multiple dedicated stall bars. The device universally handles various fastener locations by adjusting its configuration through the joints, making one tool adaptable to multiple functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple torque tools with stall bars are used for different orientations, then each orientation is covered, but costs and production line efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
One stall bar device with rotational joints replaces multiple dedicated stall bars, allowing a single tool to handle various fastener orientations. This reduces tool inventory, minimizes changeover time between different fastener positions, and improves production line efficiency by eliminating the need to swap tools or attachments.
3Strength
If the stall bar is rigidly attached to the torque tool, then reaction torque is absorbed in one direction, but the tool cannot be used in multiple orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The stall bar incorporates rotational joints with locking mechanisms that allow it to be rigid when needed for torque absorption, yet flexible for repositioning. During torque application, the joints lock to provide rigid torque transfer; between applications, they unlock to allow reorientation of the stall bar for different fastener locations.
Data Source
AI summary
A torque transfer device is provided to transfer torque from a torque tool to a torque limiter device, the torque transfer device comprising a torque limiter connection member adapted for connection to the torque limiter device; a first joint; a second joint; and a tool connection member adapted for connection to the torque tool, wherein the first joint and the second joint are configured to lock responsive to activation of the torque tool to transfer a reaction torque generated by the torque tool to the torque limiter device, and wherein the first joint and the second joint are configured to unlock responsive to deactivation of the torque tool to enable rotation between the torque tool and the torque limiter device along a first axis and a second axis different from the first axis.