Torque Wrench Quick-Adjust Knob Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional torque wrenches require users to adjust torque values step-by-step, wasting time and causing inconvenience due to their large torque value ranges.
Innovation Solution
A torque wrench design featuring an adjusting knob that can be pulled outward and rotated relative to the mounting sleeve and linking rod, allowing direct and quick selection of desired torque values without sequential adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional torque wrenches use preset torque values with large ranges (50-105 pounds), then the device can cover a broad torque spectrum, but the user must adjust torque values step by step, wasting time and reducing operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic adjustment mechanism where the adjusting knob can be pulled outward to disengage from the toothed portion, allowing free rotation to any torque value position, then pushed inward to lock. This transforms the static step-by-step adjustment into a dynamic continuous adjustment process, resolving the contradiction between broad torque range coverage and quick adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjusting mechanism is segmented into two functional states: locked state (for precise torque setting) and unlocked state (for quick repositioning). The adjusting knob separates these functions, allowing users to quickly switch between adjustment modes without compromising either the broad torque range capability or the speed of adjustment.
2Device complexity
If conventional torque wrenches require step-by-step torque adjustment, then the structure can maintain simplicity, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to multiple adjustment steps
Solution Approach 1:
The adjusting knob introduces a dynamic locking mechanism that simplifies operation. By pulling the knob outward, the toothed engagement is disengaged, allowing free rotation to any desired torque position. Pushing the knob inward locks the position. This dynamic mechanism maintains structural simplicity while dramatically improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjusting knob acts as an intermediary element between the user and the torque setting mechanism. It mediates the adjustment process by providing a simple pull-rotate-push interface that controls the engagement between the toothed portion and positioning grooves, making the adjustment process intuitive and easy while maintaining the underlying mechanical structure's simplicity.
3Reliability
If the adjusting knob is locked in position during operation, then the torque setting stability is improved, but the ease of adjustment deteriorates when reconfiguration is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be dynamically controllable. During normal operation, the adjusting knob is pushed inward to lock the torque setting, ensuring stability and reliability. When reconfiguration is needed, the user pulls the knob outward to unlock, allowing quick repositioning. This dynamic control resolves the contradiction between stability during use and ease of reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjusting knob provides self-service locking and unlocking functionality. The elastic member automatically engages the toothed portion when the knob is pushed inward, providing automatic locking without additional mechanisms. Conversely, pulling the knob outward automatically disengages the lock, enabling easy reconfiguration. This self-service mechanism maintains reliability while improving operational flexibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
A torque wrench includes an operation bar (10) having a mounting sleeve (12), a hollow handle (20) having an inner wall provided with a first toothed portion (221) and a plurality of positioning grooves (222,223,224), and an adjusting unit (40) including an adjusting knob (41) movable relative the handle and having an outer wall provided with a second toothed portion (414) detachably engaged with the first toothed portion of the handle and a positioning block (415) detachably locked in one of the positioning grooves of the handle. Thus, the adjusting knob is initially pulled outwardly relative to the mounting sleeve and the linking rod and is then rotatable relative to the handle so as to adjust the torque values of the torque wrench.