Threaded Member Tension Detection via Nested Sensor

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for detecting the tightening force applied to threaded members, such as bolts and nuts, are not precise enough, leading to potential under-tightening or over-tightening in complex equipment and structures, affecting design requirements and safety.

Innovation Solution

A threaded member with a built-in sensor component featuring a flexible member and sensor, preset in a compressed state, which detects tension changes as the member is tightened, allowing for accurate measurement of tightening torque.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a sensor is disposed on the bolt to detect deformation, then the tightening force can be detected, but the measurement precision is not sufficient for sophisticated equipment requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetightening force detection precisionVSAvoidsensor system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor component is nested within the receiving space of the threaded member, with the flexible member contained within the sensor component housing. This nested arrangement allows the detection system to be integrated within the existing bolt structure without adding external complexity, while achieving precise tension detection through the flexible member's deformation within the confined space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces conventional deformation detection methods with a flexible member-based tension detection mechanism. The flexible member, preset in a compressed state, converts tension forces into measurable positional changes or force changes, providing more precise detection than traditional strain gauges or deformation sensors while reducing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If the sensor component is preset in a compressed state, then the detection sensitivity is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetension detection sensitivityVSAvoidsensor component structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible member is preset in a compressed state during assembly, creating a pre-loaded spring mechanism. This preliminary compression establishes a baseline force state, allowing the sensor to detect tension forces as deviations from this pre-set condition. The pre-compression enhances detection sensitivity by ensuring the flexible member is always under load, maximizing its response to applied tension.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes changes in the flexible member's physical state (compression, extension, flexion) in response to applied tension. By presetting the member in a compressed state, the system transforms small tension forces into measurable changes in position or force, amplifying the detection signal while maintaining a relatively simple component structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If the flexible member is used to detect tension, then the measurement precision is improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetightening torque detection accuracyVSAvoidsensor component assembly

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor component merges the flexible member, sensor element, and housing into a single integrated assembly that fits within the receiving space of the threaded member. This combined structure reduces the number of separate manufacturing steps and assembly operations, as the flexible member is directly coupled to the sensor without requiring separate mounting brackets, fasteners, or alignment procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 sensitive detection of tightening torque, improving the accuracy of tightening force application and ensuring proper connection and safety in sophisticated equipment and structures.

Implementation Method 1

The sensor component has a flexible member and a sensor disposed on the flexible member for detecting the flexion of the flexible member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFlexion detection: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the flexion of the flexible member is changed along with the extension of the threaded member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9046433B2Threaded member capable of detecting tension

Publication Date: 2015.06.02 KABO TOOL COMPANY

AI summary

A threaded member capable of detecting tension includes a sensor component. A receiving space is formed in the threaded member. The sensor component has a flexible member and a sensor. The sensor is disposed on the flexible member. The sensor component is disposed in the receiving space of the threaded member and preset in a compressed/flexed state in an axial/longitudinal direction of the threaded member. When an article is tightened with the threaded member, the threaded member is tensioned to change the flexion of the flexible member. At this time, the sensor can detect and find the tension of the threaded member to achieve the tightening force applied to the threaded member.