Torque Mounting Device for Gas Meter Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing gas connections on wall-mounted gas meters, particularly single-tube or single-spigot meters, fail to maintain a consistent torque, leading to potential leaks due to outdated sealing materials and limited accessibility, which can result in undetected leaks, especially with changing gas compositions and higher hydrogen content.
Innovation Solution
A torque assembly device featuring a hook-like key attachment with a partial ring section and a handle, designed for mounting and dismounting polygonal components with internal threads, which can be combined with a torque wrench to ensure secure screwing and maintain a specific torque, accommodating the unique geometry and limited space of wall-mounted gas meters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pipe wrench is used to tighten union nuts on wall-mounted gas meters, then the connection can be secured, but the torque cannot be controlled consistently leading to potential leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical pipe wrench system with a torque wrench system that uses a spring-loaded mechanism and scale to provide controlled, repeatable torque application. This substitution eliminates the inconsistency of manual wrench tightening while maintaining secure connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter from uncontrolled force application to controlled torque measurement. The torque wrench incorporates a spring mechanism that deflects proportionally to the applied torque, allowing the operator to control and verify the tightening parameter within a specified range (e.g., 20-30 Nm).
2Ease of operation
If traditional wrenches are used on wall-mounted gas meters, then connections can be made, but accessibility is limited in hard-to-reach areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an extension handle that adds a spatial dimension to the torque wrench. This extension allows the operator to apply torque from a greater distance, reaching union nuts on wall-mounted meters that are in hard-to-access locations, while maintaining full torque control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension handle acts as an intermediary between the operator's hand and the union nut. It transmits the rotational force while bridging the gap created by limited accessibility, allowing precise torque application without requiring direct contact with the confined space around the meter.
3Reliability
If sealing materials are changed to modern compounds, then better sealing is achieved, but consistent torque application becomes critical to prevent leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The torque wrench provides visual feedback through a scale that indicates the applied torque level. The operator can see when the torque enters the acceptable range (e.g., between 20-30 Nm marked on the scale) and when it exceeds the maximum limit, enabling precise control to match the requirements of modern sealing materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism in the torque wrench is pre-calibrated to provide the correct torque range for specific applications. This preliminary setup ensures that when the operator uses the wrench, the torque control parameters are already optimized for the sealing material being used, eliminating the need for complex adjustments during operation.
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 device allows for precise and gas-tight connections by providing a stable and extendable lever mechanism, ensuring secure torque application even in hard-to-reach areas, thus addressing the issue of leaks and compatibility with modern sealing materials.
Implementation Method 1
A torque assembly device featuring a hook-like key attachment with a partial ring section and a handle, designed for mounting and dismounting polygonal components with internal threads, which can be combined with a torque wrench to ensure secure screwing and maintain a specific torque
Implementation Method 2
The device allows for precise and gas-tight connections by providing a stable and extendable lever mechanism, ensuring secure torque application even in hard-to-reach areas
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The present invention provides a torque assembly device (1) and a hook-like wrench attachment (2). The torque assembly device (1) is designed for assembling and disassembling polygonal components with internal threads on a corresponding mating thread. The torque assembly device (1) comprises a torque wrench (10) with a working end section and a hook-like wrench attachment (2) having a partial ring section (A) from which a stem (B) extends. The partial ring section (A) has an inner wall (7) with a polygonal geometry, and the stem (B) terminates at its end extending away from the partial ring section (A) in a connecting element (4) which is detachably engaged with the working end section of the torque wrench (10).