Torque Wrench Hall Effect Sensor Non-Contact Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torque tools face issues with reliability in detecting the break in mechanical equilibrium due to protuberances and electrical contact problems in conductive environments, which affect traceability and accuracy in tightening operations.
Innovation Solution
A torque tool design incorporating a Hall effect sensor and a magnetic bar magnet for non-contact detection of axial displacement, allowing reliable detection of mechanical equilibrium breaks without increasing tool size, using a support to guide the detection means and triggering information sending upon state changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an integrated switch is used inside the tool for detecting mechanical equilibrium break, then the detection function is achieved, but electrical contact reliability deteriorates in conductive grease environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical switch system with a magnetic detection system. A magnet is attached to the movable component (anvil or pusher), and a Hall effect sensor detects its position. This substitution eliminates direct electrical contacts that would be affected by conductive grease, while maintaining the ability to detect mechanical equilibrium breaks through magnetic field changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the moving component and the sensor. The magnet attached to the movable part creates a magnetic field that the Hall effect sensor detects, allowing indirect measurement of position without physical or electrical contact. This intermediary field is not affected by conductive grease contamination.
2Reliability
If a casing is fixed externally to the tool body to house the detection device, then the detection means are protected, but the tool size increases with a protuberance on the periphery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the detection means directly within the existing tool structure. The Hall effect sensor is mounted inside the tool body, and the magnet is attached to internal moving components. This nested arrangement allows the detection system to be housed within the existing volume without adding external protuberances, while still protecting the functional elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the detection system with the existing tool structure. Rather than adding a separate external casing, the sensor and magnet are integrated into the existing body and moving parts. The detection function is combined with the structural elements already present in the tool, eliminating the need for additional protective housings that would increase size.
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
Enhances the reliability of detecting mechanical equilibrium breaks, providing clear operator feedback and improving traceability without adding bulk, ensuring accurate measurement of applied torque and number of cycles.
Implementation Method 1
the detection means comprise a Hall effect sensor cooperating with at least one magnetic element
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns a torque wrench (1) comprising an outer elongated body (3) (X-X) wherein the tool head (5) is mobile in rotation; a plunger (66) axially mobile in the outer body (3) and biased towards the head (5) by a spring (61); a load transmitting member (67) interposed between the plunger (66) and the head (5), said member (67) being adapted to urge the head (5) into mechanical equilibrium et disrupt the equilibrium; means for detecting (130) the disruption of the mechanical equilibrium through detection of the movement of a component of the tool; the movement triggering the transmission of an information through triggering means connected to the detection means. The means for detecting (130) the disruption of the mechanical equilibrium detect a significant displacement of the plunger (66).