Torque Wrench Calibration Device with Strain Gauge

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing torque wrench calibration devices suffer from inaccuracies due to angle-dependent measurements and mechanical errors, and experience rough pivoting, leading to unreliable torque readings.

Innovation Solution

A calibration device comprising a base plate with a strain gauge, a display, a cup, a rod, and a ring, where the strain gauge is non-rotationally connected to the base plate, and the rod is securely positioned within the cup to define an annular gap for smooth socket reception, allowing precise torque measurement through deformation sensing and display.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a mechanical indicator and scale configuration is used for torque measurement, then the device structure is simple, but the measurement precision is poor due to angle-dependent readings and mechanical errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque reading accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical indicator-scale system with an electronic sensor system. A strain gauge is mounted on the rod to detect deformation, and an electronic display unit shows the torque value. This substitution eliminates angle-dependent reading errors and mechanical transmission errors, significantly improving measurement precision while accepting increased electronic system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a strain gauge as an intermediary element between the mechanical rod and the display system. The strain gauge converts mechanical deformation into electrical signals, which are then processed and displayed electronically. This intermediary enables accurate torque measurement without direct mechanical contact between the indicator and scale, resolving the angle-dependency issue.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If a rigid mechanical connection is used between components, then the structural stability is high, but the ease of operation is poor due to rough pivoting motion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesocket insertion smoothnessVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a bearing between the rod and the cup to enable smooth rotational movement. The bearing provides a flexible interface that allows the rod to rotate smoothly within the cup while maintaining structural stability. This resolves the contradiction by providing both ease of operation (smooth pivoting) and structural stability (secure positioning).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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

The solution provides a smooth and accurate calibration of torque wrenches by ensuring precise torque transfer and measurement, minimizing errors and enhancing the reliability of torque readings.

Implementation Method 1

The sensor 60 is a strain gauge attached to the elastic bar 40

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStrain gauge measurement: Piezoresistive Effect

Data Source

PatentUS9664583B2Device for calibrating a torque wrench
Publication Date: 2017.05.30 MATATAKITOYO TOOL
  • US9664583B2 patent drawing
  • US9664583B2 patent drawing
  • US9664583B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for calibrating a torque wrench includes a base plate, a strain gauge, a display, a cup, a rod and a ring. The strain gauge is non-rotationally connected to the base plate. The display is electrically connected to the strain gauge. The cup is non-rotationally connected to the base plate. The rod is non-rotationally connected to the cup. The ring is inserted in the cup so that the ring and the cup together define an annular gap for tightly receiving a socket.