Retrofittable Screwdriver Handle with Torque Measurement and Limiting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing screwdriving devices lack cost-effective means to ensure a defined torque for screw connections, requiring either integrated mechatronics or additional torque modules, and pose a risk of user injury due to excessive torque.
Innovation Solution
A retrofitable handle with integrated torque measurement and limiting devices, such as a slip clutch or compression spring mechanism, allows for easy attachment to conventional screwdrivers, providing predefined torque settings and safety features like acoustic, haptic, or visual signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If integrated mechatronics or additional torque modules are used in screwdriving devices, then torque control precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The torque control function is segmented from the main screwdriving device and placed in a separate, attachable handle. This allows the main device to remain simple while adding torque control capability only when needed, through a modular attachment rather than integrated complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle acts as an intermediary component between the simple screwdriving device and the torque control function. It provides the torque measurement and control mechanisms without requiring modifications to the main device, serving as a mediator that adds functionality to an existing simple system.
2Device complexity
If conventional screwdriving devices are used without torque control, then device simplicity is maintained, but user safety deteriorates due to risk of injury from excessive torque
Solution Approach 1:
The torque control functionality is extracted as a separate attachable handle rather than being built into the main device. This allows users to maintain simplicity in the base device while adding safety features only when needed through the optional handle attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque limiting device in the handle provides beforehand cushioning by preventing excessive torque from reaching the user's hand. When the predetermined torque limit is reached, the mechanism engages to prevent further torque transmission, cushioning the user against potential injury before harm can occur.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If torque limiting devices are added to screwdriving devices, then user safety is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The torque limiting function is segmented into a separate attachable handle rather than being integrated into the main device. This segmentation allows users to attach the safety feature only when needed, maintaining ease of operation for simple tasks while providing enhanced safety when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque limiting device operates automatically without requiring user intervention. When the predetermined torque is reached, the mechanism self-activates to prevent excessive torque transmission, eliminating the need for additional controls or adjustments that would complicate operation.
4Measurement precision
If specialized torque-controlled screwdriving devices are used, then torque precision is improved, but cost-effectiveness deteriorates for small and medium-sized companies
Solution Approach 1:
The torque control functionality is segmented into a separate, attachable handle that can be added to existing simple screwdriving devices. This segmentation allows companies to maintain cost-effective base devices while adding precision torque control only when needed, rather than purchasing expensive specialized devices for all applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle is designed as a universal attachment that works with various types of simple screwdriving devices from different manufacturers. This multi-functionality allows a single torque control handle to serve multiple purposes and compatibility requirements, providing cost-effective torque precision across different device platforms.
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 precise and safe screw tightening with predefined torque, protecting users from injury and making conventional screwdrivers compatible with torque control without the need for expensive specialized devices.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring mechanism, a bending rod, a slip clutch, or the like
Implementation Method 2
a slip clutch or releasable mechanical lock
Implementation Method 3
a bending rod or a strain gauge (SG) on a bending rod or a torsion rod
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a handle for a screwing device with a connecting portion for fastening to a housing of the screwing device and with a grip portion which is designed to engage a human hand, in which the handle is provided with a measuring device for measuring a torque acting on the handle and with a torque limiting device for limiting a torque acting on the handle.