Torque-Adjustable Wrench with Dual-Range Adjustment Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional torque wrenches are inconvenient to use due to their inability to quickly adjust torque values and have small, densely arranged scales making it difficult to read and identify torque values accurately across different units.

Innovation Solution

A mechanical torque wrench design featuring a tubular body with a flexible bar, compression spring, and a torque adjustment mechanism that includes an adjustment rod and switch, allowing for quick and precise adjustment of torque values within a single circle rotation, with a maximum to minimum torque ratio of 1.2 to 10 times, and clear scale markings for easy identification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the handle is rotated by one circle to adjust torque value by 10 Nm in conventional torque wrenches, then the torque adjustment mechanism is simple, but the torque value cannot be quickly adjusted and requires multiple rotations for significant torque changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque adjustment speedVSAvoidadjustment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dual-range adjustment mechanism where the handle can rotate in two different modes: a first rotation direction for fine adjustment (10 Nm per rotation) and a second rotation direction for coarse adjustment (60 Nm per rotation). This dynamic switching allows the operator to quickly change torque values when needed while maintaining precision when required, directly resolving the contradiction between adjustment speed and operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If scales of different units (Nm, lb-ft, kg-m) are densely arranged on conventional torque wrenches, then multiple unit options are provided, but the scales are too small to clearly see and hard to identify torque values

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultiple unit optionsVSAvoidscale readability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the scale display into separate, dedicated sections for each unit type (Nm, lb-ft, kg-m) rather than densely arranging all scales together. Each unit has its own clearly marked scale area with sufficient spacing, allowing the indicator to clearly point to the appropriate value without confusion. This segmentation maintains versatility by providing multiple unit options while dramatically improving readability and ease of identification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Productivity

If the torque wrench is designed for precise torque setting, then accurate torque control is achieved, but the torque value cannot be quickly switched between frequently used values in applications like automobile service shops

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque switching speedVSAvoidtorque value precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dual-range adjustment mechanism where the handle can rotate in two different modes: a first rotation direction for fine adjustment (10 Nm per rotation) and a second rotation direction for coarse adjustment (60 Nm per rotation). This dynamic switching allows the operator to quickly change torque values when needed while maintaining precision when required, directly resolving the contradiction between adjustment speed and operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent provides pre-marked scale values for frequently used torque settings, allowing operators to quickly select common values without performing multiple rotations or calculations. This preliminary preparation of常用 values speeds up the adjustment process in applications like automobile service shops where the same torque values are repeatedly needed, while still maintaining the capability for precise adjustment when unique values are required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 quick and precise adjustment of torque values, reducing the need for multiple rotations and improving readability of torque values, making it more convenient for frequent adjustments in applications like automobile service shops.

Implementation Method 1

a front end of the compression spring elastically abutting against the abutment member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

an adjustment rod and an adjustment switch, the adjustment rod being disposed in the tubular body and being formed with a threaded rod section

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS9700999B2Fast torque-adjustable torque wrench
Publication Date: 2017.07.11 KABO TOOL COMPANY
  • US9700999B2 patent drawing
  • US9700999B2 patent drawing
  • US9700999B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A torque-adjustable torque wrench includes: a tubular body; a flexible bar, an abutment member and a compression spring disposed in the tubular body, a front end of the compression spring abutting against the abutment member; a head section connected with a front end of the flexible bar; an adjustment rod disposed in the tubular body; and an adjustment switch rotatably fitted on a rear end of the tubular body and connected with a rear end of the adjustment rod. The elastic force of the compression spring against the abutment member is adjustable by rotating the adjustment switch. The adjustment switch is only rotatable within a rotational range of one circle, in such rotational range, the ratio of the maximum adjustable torque value to the minimum adjustable torque value of the wrench ranges from 1.2 to 10 times.