Automated Torque Wrench Calibration via Digital Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuating devices for testing torque wrenches require manual calibration, which is time-consuming and prone to input errors, as testers must manually set and read test torques, leading to inefficiencies in the calibration process.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a communication unit with a digital processor that enables automated calibration through cable, radio, or infrared connections, allowing direct data exchange with the torque wrench, eliminating the need for manual input of test torques and reducing errors by reading nominal torques directly into the communication unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual calibration is used to test torque wrenches, then the calibration process can be performed with simple equipment, but the calibration time increases and input errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical calibration process with an automated system using a communication unit that exchanges data electronically with the torque wrench. The communication unit automatically transmits test torque values and receives measured values, eliminating manual input operations and significantly reducing calibration time while preventing human input errors.
2Reliability
If manual calibration is used, then the device complexity remains low, but human error in input and reading values increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication unit serves as an intermediary between the tester and the torque wrench, automatically handling data transmission. It retrieves test torque values from a database, transmits them to the torque wrench via cable, radio, or infrared connection, and receives measured values back, eliminating manual reading and input operations that cause human errors.
3Productivity
If automated calibration with communication unit is implemented, then calibration speed increases, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication unit is designed with multi-functionality, supporting multiple communication methods (cable connection, radio transmission, infrared connection) to interface with the torque wrench. This universal design allows the same device to achieve automated calibration through various technical pathways, justifying the complexity increase through enhanced productivity and reliability.
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
This solution significantly accelerates and simplifies the calibration process, reducing human error and enabling quick, precise testing of torque wrenches, while also allowing central management of multiple actuation devices, thus optimizing the calibration process economically.
Implementation Method 1
a radio or an infrared connection is formed
Implementation Method 2
a radio or an infrared connection is formed
Implementation Method 3
a sensor arranged on the carrier, which is coupled to the head piece of the torque wrench to be tested
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an actuating device (10) for testing a torque wrench (12) with a data storage device (14). A carrier (18) serves to fix a torque wrench (12) to be tested. A sensor (22) is arranged on the carrier (18) and is coupled to the head (36) of the torque wrench (12) to be tested. A handle holder (30) arranged on the carrier (18) fixes the handle (34) of the torque wrench (12) to be tested. A deflection mechanism (53) generates a torque on the head (36) of the torque wrench (12) to be tested.