Torque Measuring Vise With Wireless Notification System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current torque wrenches are limited in their versatility and cannot accurately measure torque on various objects, especially those with unique shapes or forms, requiring different types of wrenches and being ineffective with force multipliers.

Innovation Solution

A torque measuring vise and notification system that includes sensors and an electronic circuit to accurately measure torque on any object, regardless of wrench handle length or orientation, and wirelessly transmits these measurements to a receiving device, which can notify the user of target torque values.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple different types of torque wrenches are used for different objects, then the ability to measure torque on various objects is improved, but the device complexity and number of tools required increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to measure torque on various objectsVSAvoidnumber of different torque wrenches needed
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by creating a single torque measuring vise that can measure torque on any object regardless of the wrench type, handle length, or object shape. The vise integrates multiple measurement capabilities into one device, eliminating the need for multiple specialized torque wrenches. The electronic circuit and sensors work together to universally measure torque across diverse applications including pipes, fittings, and irregularly shaped objects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Force

If traditional torque wrenches are used with force multipliers like cheater pipes, then the ability to apply higher torque is improved, but the measurement accuracy deteriorates because the wrenches cannot account for the extended leverage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque application capabilityVSAvoidtorque measurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical measurement system of traditional torque wrenches with an electronic measurement system. Sensors mounted on the vise body electronically detect and measure the actual torque applied to the object, regardless of the wrench type or whether force multipliers are used. This electronic substitution allows accurate measurement of torque even when cheater pipes or other leverage extensions are employed, as the system directly measures the resulting force on the object rather than relying on mechanical calculations based on handle length.

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

3Measurement precision

If torque measurements are not provided in real-time, then the operational simplicity is maintained, but the ability to ensure accurate torque application deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque measurement accuracyVSAvoidnotification system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by providing real-time torque measurements through a display device that shows the measured torque value to the operator during the tightening or loosening operation. This immediate feedback allows the operator to monitor torque application and ensure it reaches the desired level, improving measurement utility without requiring complex notification systems. The feedback mechanism is straightforward, displaying numerical torque data that guides the operator to achieve precise torque values.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 torque measurement on any object, regardless of shape or form, and provides real-time notifications to the user, improving operational efficiency and accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

one or more sensors disposed about a support member of the torque measuring vise to produce one or more load responsive measurements of the support member during the application of torque to the object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStrain measurement: Piezoresistive Effect

Data Source

PatentUS8869630B2Torque measuring vise and notification system and method of using same
Publication Date: 2014.10.28 THRU TUBING SOLUTIONS INC
  • US8869630B2 patent drawing
  • US8869630B2 patent drawing
  • US8869630B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A torque measuring vise, including a body for operatively supporting one or more movable clamping members defining a clamping axis for releasably securing an object; one or more sensors disposed about the torque measuring vise; and an electronic circuit in communication with the one or more sensors for producing one or more load responsive measurements.