Electronic Torque Wrench Dual Tensor Beam Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic torque wrenches typically operate within a narrow torque range, requiring multiple wrenches to accurately cover a wide range of measurable torque values, which is inefficient and unreliable for applications requiring precise torque specifications.
Innovation Solution
An electronic torque wrench with a dual tensor beam and strain gauge assemblies, where the tensor beam is rotatably connected to the wrench head, allowing the wrench to operate over two independent torque ranges by switching between different strain gauge assemblies, and a processor converts the output signals into equivalent torque values, enabling accurate measurement across a broader range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single electronic torque wrench is designed to measure a wide torque range, then the versatility and productivity are improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to the narrow torque band that can be accurately measured
Solution Approach 1:
The torque wrench is segmented into multiple measurement ranges by providing at least two tension beams with different stiffness characteristics. Each tension beam is optimized for a specific torque range, allowing the wrench to accurately measure torque across a wide overall range by switching between segments (tension beams) as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic torque wrench achieves multi-functionality by incorporating multiple tension beams that can each handle different torque ranges. The system universally covers a wide torque spectrum by selecting the appropriate tension beam based on the expected torque magnitude, making a single wrench suitable for multiple application scenarios.
2Measurement precision
If multiple electronic torque wrenches are used to cover different torque ranges, then the measurement precision for each range is maintained, but the device complexity and ease of operation worsen due to managing multiple tools
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tension beams that would otherwise require separate wrenches are merged into a single integrated electronic torque wrench. The system combines several measurement capabilities into one tool, eliminating the need to manage multiple wrenches while maintaining accurate measurement across all torque ranges through electronic selection of the appropriate tension beam.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic torque wrench achieves multi-functionality by incorporating multiple tension beams that can each handle different torque ranges. The system universally covers a wide torque spectrum by selecting the appropriate tension beam based on the expected torque magnitude, making a single wrench suitable for multiple application scenarios.
3Measurement precision
If multiple electronic torque wrenches are used to cover different torque ranges, then the measurement precision is maintained, but the loss of time and productivity deteriorate due to switching between different tools
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tension beams that would otherwise require separate wrenches are merged into a single integrated electronic torque wrench. The system combines several measurement capabilities into one tool, eliminating the need to physically switch between multiple wrenches and thereby eliminating the time loss associated with tool changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects the appropriate tension beam based on the expected torque magnitude. This dynamic adaptation allows the wrench to automatically configure itself for the current measurement task, eliminating the static limitation of having to manually switch between fixed-range wrenches and thereby saving time.
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 allows for accurate and reliable measurement of torque across multiple ranges with a single wrench, reducing the need for multiple tools and enhancing precision in applications such as aerospace and heavy machinery, preventing over- or under-tightening of fasteners.
Implementation Method 1
A first strain gauge assembly is operatively coupled to a first side of the elongated tensor beam, and a second strain gauge assembly is operatively coupled to a second side of the elongated tensor beam
Data Source
AI summary
A torque wrench comprises a handle, a wrench head having a ratcheting workpiece engaging portion, and a tensor beam defining a longitudinal axis and having a rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A first strain gauge is coupled to one side of the tensor beam, and a second strain gauge is coupled to another side orthogonal to the one side. A processor coupled to the first and second strain gauges converts an output signal from one of the strain gauges into an equivalent torque value. The tensor beam is intermediate the handle and the wrench head and is rotatably coupled to the wrench head and is rotatable, with respect to the tensor beam, between a first position in which the processor processes an output signal from the first strain gauge and a second position in which the processor processes an output signal from the second strain gauge assembly.