Torque Wrench Calibration Rig with Movable Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional torque wrench calibration rigs face uncertainty due to handle bending, which causes a resultant vertical moment, affecting the accuracy of torque measurement.
Innovation Solution
A calibration rig with a support structure that includes a vertically movable support member counteracting the weight of the torque wrench, applying a balance force and resisting rotation through a counterweight or rollers, ensuring accurate torque application and measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the torque wrench is placed horizontally on a traditional calibration rig with a fixed support platform, then the wrench can be calibrated, but handle bending occurs which increases measurement uncertainty
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is made movable vertically instead of being fixed, allowing it to adjust its position dynamically. This enables the support member to counterbalance the weight of the torque wrench and eliminate handle bending during calibration, thereby reducing measurement uncertainty while maintaining calibration capability
Solution Approach 2:
A counterweight mechanism is introduced to balance the weight of the torque wrench. The counterweight applies an upward force that counteracts the downward gravitational force on the wrench, preventing handle bending and the associated measurement errors during calibration
2Ease of operation
If a fixed support platform is used to resist rotation of the torque wrench, then the wrench can be calibrated, but the handle bends under torque causing vertical moments that affect measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The support member transitions from a fixed platform to a dynamically adjustable component that can move vertically. This allows the system to maintain ease of operation while eliminating the handle bending issue that compromised measurement accuracy in fixed setups
Solution Approach 2:
The movable support member acts as an intermediary between the torque wrench and the calibration rig structure. It provides the necessary support and rotation resistance while accommodating the wrench's weight through vertical movement, thereby preventing harmful vertical moments without complicating the calibration process
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 reduces measurement uncertainty by eliminating or minimizing moments caused by handle bending, allowing for precise calibration of torque wrenches, including those without mechanical signaling, and accommodating different wrench weights and lengths.
Implementation Method 1
means for applying a balance force to the support member, wherein the balance force acts counter to a force exerted by the weight of the torque wrench
Implementation Method 2
These use a strain gauge to measure the torque that is being applied during use
Data Source
AI summary
A calibration rig (1), for calibrating a torque wrench (9), comprises a support structure (3) for supporting the torque wrench (9) during calibration. The support structure (3) comprises: a support member (7) which is free to move substantially vertically; means for applying a balance force (14, 15) to the support member (7), wherein the balance force acts counter to a force exerted by the weight of the torque wrench (9) when a handle of the torque wrench (9) is received by the support member (7); means for applying a measured torque (6) to the torque wrench (7); and means for resisting rotation (16) of the torque wrench (9) as a result of the applied torque.