Torque-Setting Device Axle and C-Clip Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torque-setting devices lack precision and reliability in adjusting torque values, as they often require complex mechanisms that can be difficult to operate and maintain, leading to inconsistent results.
Innovation Solution
A torque-setting device comprising a handle, shank, axle, knob, and C-clip with grooves and annular flanges, where the axle moves a pusher against a spring to set torque values, and the C-clip allows for smooth movement between locking and unlocking positions to adjust torque, ensuring precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a complex mechanism is used to adjust torque values, then torque adjustment capability is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The torque-setting device is divided into distinct functional segments: the knob for rotation, the axle for torque transmission, the pusher for force application, and the C-clip with grooves for positioning. Each component has a specific function, simplifying the overall mechanism while maintaining precision. The grooves in the C-clip create discrete torque settings through segmentation of the rotation range.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential torque-setting function from complex mechanisms into a simple rotational knob system. By removing unnecessary components and focusing on the core function of rotating the knob to move the axle and pusher, the device achieves precision without complexity. The C-clip with grooves extracts the positioning function into a simple geometric feature.
2Ease of operation
If a simple mechanism is used to adjust torque values, then ease of operation is improved, but torque adjustment precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The pusher acts as an intermediary component between the rotating axle and the spring mechanism. As the axle rotates, the pusher converts this rotational motion into linear motion that compresses the spring, thereby setting the torque value. This intermediary mechanism ensures precise torque adjustment while maintaining simple operation through the knob rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes the geometric parameter of the axle rotation to control torque. By rotating the axle through different angles, the pusher moves to different positions, compressing the spring by different amounts and setting different torque values. The grooves in the C-clip provide discrete angular positions for precise parameter control.
3Reliability
If multiple components are used to ensure reliable torque setting, then torque setting reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into integrated components. The C-clip combines the function of retaining the knob at specific positions with the grooves that guide the axle rotation. The axle combines torque transmission with the function of moving the pusher through its rotation. This merging reduces the total number of components while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs a nested structure where the knob contains the axle, which in turn contains or drives the pusher mechanism. The C-clip with grooves is nested within the overall assembly to provide positioning. This nesting allows multiple components to work together in a compact arrangement, reducing complexity while ensuring reliable torque setting through the coordinated action of nested elements.
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 provides a reliable and precise method for setting and adjusting torque values, allowing for consistent and accurate application of torque, enhancing the tool's operational efficiency and user experience.
Implementation Method 1
a spring (20) abutted against the strain gauge within the handle (10)
Data Source
AI summary
A torque-setting device includes a shank, a handle provided on the shank, a driving unit attached to the shank, a strain gauge connected to the driving unit, a spring abutted against the strain gauge, a pusher abutted against the spring, an axle engaged with the pusher, a restraining element connected to the axle, a C-clip provided on the restraining element, and a knob. The knob is operable to rotate the axle relative to the pusher, thus moving the pusher relative to the spring to set a value of torque. The knob is movable between a position where teeth thereof are in grooves of the handle to avoid rotation of the axle and another position where the tooth are out of the grooves to allow rotation of the knob and the axle. The C-clip is located against an annular rib formed on an internal face of the knob.