Torque Measuring Hand Tool with Hole-Induced Deformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hand tools lack a reliable and cost-effective means to measure torque applied to a workpiece, as existing torque measuring apparatuses with strain transducers are prone to circuit disruptions and are expensive, making them non-competitive in the market.
Innovation Solution
A hand tool design featuring a handle with a through hole and a strain transducer engaged with one of two recesses, allowing deformation measurement of torque applied, with a processing unit and display member for real-time torque indication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If four strain transducers are installed on two sides of the handle to measure torque, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device cost increases significantly and circuit disruption risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential measurement function by installing a single strain transducer instead of four, removing unnecessary components while maintaining torque measurement capability through strategic placement and hole-induced deformation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating a specific structural feature (hole) at a precise location on the handle where it intersects with the strain transducer's measurement zone, concentrating the deformation effect at this localized area to maximize measurement sensitivity with minimal components
2Ease of operation
If a conductive wire is extended from the display member to show torque, then torque indication is improved, but the wire may be pulled or tangled to cut off the circuit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wire connection system with a wireless or more robust electrical connection system, eliminating the vulnerability of thin conductive wires being pulled or tangled while maintaining real-time torque indication capability
3Measurement precision
If strain transducers are installed close to the handle to measure deformation, then measurement sensitivity is improved, but the handle structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating the structural modification (hole) at a specific location on the handle where it optimizes deformation for the strain transducer, rather than making the entire handle structure complex. This localized approach maintains simplicity while maximizing measurement sensitivity
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 accurate and cost-effective measurement of torque applied to a workpiece by utilizing the deformation of the handle section with a hole, providing a competitive solution in the market.
Implementation Method 1
The section with the hole of the handle is deformed so that the strain transducer can easily measure the torque
Data Source
AI summary
A hand tool includes a handle and a function head is connected to an end of the handle. A first recess and a second recess are respectively defined in two opposite sides of the handle, and a strain transducer is engaged with the first recess. A display member and a processing unit are connected to the handle, and the strain transducer is electrically connected with the processing unit. A hole is defined through the handle and located between the first and second recesses.