Press Tool Jaw Identification for Variable Force Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Commercially available pressing tools with a single output force, such as 32 kN, waste energy when used with smaller fittings and require overdesign of jaws, leading to unnecessary weight and material usage, while marketing preferences favor larger capacity tools for smaller fittings.
Innovation Solution
A press tool system with a jaw assembly incorporating an electronic chip for identification, a hydraulic circuit with pressure control, and communication provisions for receiving jaw information, allowing optimized force output based on fitting size and usage monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single high-capacity press tool (32 kN) is used for all fitting sizes, then large fittings can be pressed, but energy is wasted when pressing smaller fittings and the tool cannot use compact lightweight jaws
Solution Approach 1:
The press tool dynamically adjusts its output force based on the detected jaw size and fitting type. The system transitions from a static fixed-force tool to a dynamic variable-force tool that optimizes energy consumption by matching the pressing force to the actual requirements of each fitting size, thereby resolving the energy waste problem while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter (output force) based on the detected jaw configuration and fitting size. By detecting which jaw set is installed and identifying the appropriate force requirements, the tool adjusts its pressing force parameter to match the actual needs, eliminating energy waste associated with using excessive force on smaller fittings.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single high-capacity press tool (32 kN) is used for all fitting sizes, then large fittings can be pressed, but standard large jaws must be used for all sizes resulting in increased weight and material usage
Solution Approach 1:
Different jaw assemblies with locally optimized properties (size, weight, material strength) are used for different fitting sizes. Small fittings use compact lightweight jaws, while large fittings use larger stronger jaws. The system detects which jaw set is installed and adjusts its operation accordingly, allowing each jaw set to have the appropriate local qualities for its specific application rather than all jaws being uniformly large and heavy.
Solution Approach 2:
The jaw system is segmented into multiple discrete jaw assemblies, each optimized for specific fitting size ranges. Instead of a single universal jaw design, the tool accepts different jaw segments (small jaws for small fittings, large jaws for large fittings), allowing the operator to select and attach the appropriate jaw segment for each task, thereby reducing weight when small jaws are used.
3Weight of moving object
If compact lightweight jaws are used for small fittings, then weight is reduced, but the jaws lack sufficient strength for high-force applications
Solution Approach 1:
The press tool dynamically adjusts its output force to match the strength capabilities of the installed jaw assembly. When compact lightweight jaws are detected, the system reduces its maximum force output to levels appropriate for those jaws, preventing overload while still providing sufficient force for the intended small fitting applications. This dynamic adaptation allows lightweight jaws to be used safely and effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational force parameter based on the detected jaw type. When compact jaws are identified through detection mechanisms (such as electronic chips, physical dimensions, or registration features), the tool adjusts its force parameter downward to match the lower strength capacity of those jaws, ensuring safe operation while maintaining the weight advantages of compact design.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a single high-capacity press tool is marketed, then it can handle large fittings, but most applications involve smaller fittings creating a mismatch between tool capability and actual usage
Solution Approach 1:
The press tool dynamically adapts its performance characteristics to match the actual job requirements by detecting the installed jaw size and type. This allows a single tool to effectively cover multiple capacity ranges, optimizing productivity for each specific application rather than always operating at maximum capacity, thereby aligning tool capability with actual usage patterns and improving overall job site efficiency.
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
Enables efficient energy use, reduced jaw material requirements, extended cycle life, and proactive maintenance alerts, optimizing tool performance for various fitting sizes and improving job site efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic circuit including a pump, a reservoir, a hydraulic cylinder, and a piston movably disposed in the cylinder. Upon actuation of the motor, the pump is operated to thereby move the piston relative to the cylinder.
Implementation Method 2
an electronic chip incorporated into the jaw assembly for identifying and/or providing information relating to the jaw assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Pressing tools and jaws are described which include communication provisions that enable information concerning the jaws to be used with the press tool, to be transmitted to the tool. The press tool includes provisions that limit or otherwise tailor the output of the tool based on information concerning the jaws.