Torque Output Device for Ratchet Wrench with Zero-Lag Disengagement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional torque wrenches lack precision in applying desired torque, often leading to over-tightening or damage due to time lag in disengagement and are not compatible with pneumatic or electric tools.
Innovation Solution
A torque output device with a U-shaped body, featuring a top and bottom toothed part with angled teeth and rollers, a resilient member, and a pressure collar, allowing for precise torque application with almost zero frictional disengagement, enabling compatibility with wrenches, pneumatic, or electric tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional torque wrench with compression spring and disengagement mechanism is used, then the desired torque can be set, but there is a time lag between reaching the torque and the disengagement sound, causing over-rotation and exceeded torque
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the disengagement mechanism from the torque transmission path. When the bolt reaches the desired torque, the bolt directly drives the drive shaft without engaging the toothed parts. The top and bottom toothed parts separate immediately when torque is applied, eliminating the time lag between reaching torque and disengagement signal.
Solution Approach 2:
The toothed parts are pre-positioned and pre-loaded by the resilient member before torque application. The top toothed part is held by frictional force against the drive shaft, and the bottom toothed part is positioned to engage with it. This preliminary positioning ensures immediate disengagement when torque is applied, without delay.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional torque wrenches are used, then torque can be applied, but they cannot be cooperated with pneumatic or electric tools
Solution Approach 1:
The drive shaft includes a driving portion at its lower end that can be configured to accept different types of tool attachments. The patent describes that the driving portion may include a square drive, hex drive, or other configurations compatible with pneumatic, electric, or manual tools, making the device universally applicable across different tool types.
3Reliability
If a compression spring with disengagement mechanism is used, then torque setting is possible, but the mechanism is complex and cannot achieve zero friction disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the torque transmission system into separate segments: the drive shaft, the top toothed part, and the bottom toothed part. These segments can engage or disengage independently. The top and bottom toothed parts are separated by a gap and only engage when needed, allowing simple friction-based holding without complex disengagement mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The frictional force between the top toothed part and drive shaft is dynamically adjusted by the resilient member. The frictional force holds the top toothed part against the drive shaft during torque application, but when torque exceeds the frictional holding force, the parts immediately disengage. This dynamic friction-based system replaces complex mechanical disengagement mechanisms.
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 and controlled torque application, reducing the risk of over-tightening and damage, while allowing seamless integration with various tool types, ensuring accurate torque delivery.
Implementation Method 1
A resilient member is mounted to the drive shaft. The resilient member is biased between the bottom toothed part and the washer.
Implementation Method 2
Multiple rollers are rotatably located between the first and second grooves so that the bottom toothed part is movable axially relative to the drive shaft.
Data Source
AI summary
A torque output device includes a body with an opening in the top. A top toothed part is located beneath the opening and includes a bore located corresponding to the opening. The top toothed part includes multiple top teeth. A drive shaft secured in the body and includes a central hole in which a rod is located. A driving portion is formed to the lower end of the drive shaft. The drive shaft and the top toothed part are freely rotated relative to each other. A bottom toothed part is mounted to the drive shaft and freely moves up and down relative to the drive shaft. A resilient member is mounted to the drive shaft and biases the bottom toothed part. A pressure collar is threadedly connected to the lower end of the body to set the torque between the engagement of the top and bottom teeth.