Torque-Limiting Driver With Modular Clutch Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torque-limiting driver devices lack precision and efficiency in delivering controlled torque, especially in medical procedures, and require time-consuming assembly processes, with interactions between torque and ratcheting components compromising precision.
Innovation Solution
A torque-limiting driver with a drive assembly comprising a drive shaft, camming clutch members, and a locking screw, allowing for independent calibration and assembly of the torque-limiting and ratcheting functions, ensuring precise torque delivery and reduced wear through arched surfaces and bearings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If torque-limiting and ratcheting components are integrated in a single assembly, then the device can perform both functions, but precision is compromised due to interactions between components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the driver into separate modular assemblies: a torque-limiting drive assembly and a ratcheting assembly. These can be assembled and calibrated independently, then integrated into a complete driver tool. This segmentation eliminates interference between components while maintaining both functions in a single device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a separate housing and interface mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the torque-limiting drive assembly and the ratcheting assembly. This intermediary structure allows the two functional assemblies to work together without direct component interference, preserving precision in both functions.
2Reliability
If driver assembly is calibrated after insertion into handle, then complete tool can be tested, but assembly process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary calibration of the torque-limiting drive assembly before it is inserted into the handle housing. The drive assembly can be assembled and calibrated separately using a testing assembly, then pre-calibrated units can be efficiently integrated into multiple handles. This preliminary action significantly reduces total assembly time while maintaining calibration accuracy.
3Ease of manufacture
If locking screw is positioned away from closed end of housing, then assembly is easier, but stability and support are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of positioning the locking screw at the conventional open end of the handle for easy access, the patent inverts the arrangement by positioning the locking screw near the closed end of the housing. This inverted positioning provides superior structural support and stability for the locking screw while still allowing for practical assembly through the drive assembly insertion process.
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 enables precise and consistent torque delivery, reduces wear, and simplifies the assembly process by allowing pre-calibration of the drive assembly before integration into the handle, maintaining precision over time and improving the usability of the driver in delicate applications.
Implementation Method 1
The clutch members are biased against one another, and are secured on the drive shaft with a locking screw or other similar device
Implementation Method 2
reduces wear through arched surfaces and bearings
Data Source
AI summary
A torque-limiting and ratcheting driver. The drive comprises a handle having an enclosed end and an open end, which houses a drive assembly. The drive assembly comprises a drive shaft, a drive clutch member and a camming clutch member supported by the drive shaft. The camming clutch member is coupled to the drive shaft, and the first drive clutch member and second camming clutch member are biased towards one another. The drive assembly has a locking screw supported by the drive shaft, with the locking means located at the enclosed end of the handle. The drive assembly is secured with the housing. The driver also comprises a ratcheting assembly connected to the handle, independently assembled of the drive assembly.