Blind Rivet Nut Tool Clutch Control for Precise Setting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blind rivet nut-setting tools lack efficient mechanisms for controlling torque and distance/force settings, leading to inconsistent rivet nut installation quality and potential damage to workpieces.
Innovation Solution
A blind rivet nut-setting tool with a clutch mechanism that disengages when a predefined torque threshold is exceeded, and a motor control system that adjusts operation based on distance or force settings, using sensors and a controller to ensure precise rivet nut installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a clutch mechanism is added to control torque threshold, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A clutch mechanism is introduced as an intermediary component between the motor and output shaft. This clutch engages and disengages based on reaction torque thresholds, precisely controlling when the setting stroke should occur. The clutch acts as a mechanical mediator that automatically detects when the rivet nut is properly seated against the anvil and prevents over-compression, thereby improving installation precision without requiring complex electronic sensing systems.
2Manufacturing precision
If motor control system with sensors is added to adjust operation based on distance or force settings, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool incorporates sensors that detect the position of the output shaft and motor rotor, providing real-time feedback to the controller. The controller processes this feedback information and adjusts motor operation accordingly, enabling precise control of the setting stroke distance and force. This closed-loop feedback system ensures consistent installation quality across multiple operations while maintaining relatively simple control logic through pre-programmed thresholds.
3Reliability
If clutch mechanism and motor control system are added, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism is designed with predetermined torque thresholds that act as pre-set protection against over-compression. Before damage can occur to the workpiece or rivet nut, the clutch automatically disengages when the reaction torque exceeds safe limits. This beforehand cushioning approach prevents harmful effects rather than correcting them after occurrence, significantly improving reliability through passive mechanical protection.
Data Source
AI summary
A blind rivet nut-setting tool for setting a rivet nut including a housing having an anvil, a pull stud for engaging the rivet nut, and an output shaft defining a drive axis. The tool includes a motor defining a motor axis. The motor is configured to transfer torque to the output shaft to rotate the pull stud about the drive axis. The tool includes a clutch mechanism that is disposed between the motor and the output shaft. The clutch mechanism is moveable between an engaged state, in which a reaction torque exerted on the pull stud is below a predefined torque threshold, and a disengaged state, in which a reaction torque exerted on the pull stud is equal to or above a predefined torque threshold. The tool includes a pull mechanism that is driven by the motor and capable of translating the pull stud along the drive axis.