Torque Wrench Loadcell Holder with Prong and Detent Constraints

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Solution Overview

Problem

Digital torque wrenches face inaccuracies due to unwanted rotational and axial movement of the loadcell, leading to temporary and erroneous torque readings during the application of torque to fasteners.

Innovation Solution

A loadcell holder is designed to limit both rotational and axial movement of the loadcell, utilizing prongs for rotational restriction and a detent or rounded surface for axial alignment, ensuring accurate force measurement by preventing unintended movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the loadcell is allowed to move freely during torque application, then the wrench can accommodate rotational and axial adjustments, but the loadcell experiences unwanted rotational and axial movement leading to inaccurate readings

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadjustabilityVSAvoidtorque reading accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The loadcell holder is segmented into multiple functional features: prongs for rotational restriction, detent for axial positioning, and rounded surfaces for alignment. Each segment addresses a specific movement constraint, allowing the loadcell to be isolated from unwanted motions while maintaining adjustability through the overall holder design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The loadcell holder acts as an intermediary component between the loadcell and the wrench body. It mediates the conflicting requirements by providing a structured interface that permits necessary adjustments while blocking harmful movements through its geometric constraints (prongs, detent, rounded surfaces).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If the loadcell is constrained to prevent rotational and axial movement, then measurement accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional structural features

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque reading accuracyVSAvoidholder structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple constraint functions are merged into a single integrated loadcell holder component. The prongs, detent, and rounded surfaces are combined in one piece that simultaneously provides rotational restriction, axial positioning, and alignment, rather than using separate components for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The loadcell holder serves multiple functions simultaneously: it supports the loadcell, prevents rotational movement (via prongs), prevents axial movement (via detent), and ensures proper alignment (via rounded surfaces). This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Stability of the object's composition

If the loadcell holder includes multiple constraint features (prongs, detent, rounded surfaces), then the loadcell stability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveloadcell stabilityVSAvoidholder manufacturing ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The design parameters of the holder (prong dimensions, detent geometry, rounded surface radii) are optimized to provide adequate stability while remaining manufacturable. The features are designed with practical dimensions that balance stability requirements with manufacturing capabilities, avoiding overly tight tolerances or complex geometries.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 loadcell holder stabilizes torque readings by preventing extraneous forces from affecting the measurement, maintaining accuracy and reliability in digital torque wrench operations.

Implementation Method 1

As torque is applied to the loadcell, it is converted into a change in electrical resistance which can then be measured

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoresistive effect: Piezoresistive Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20240255367A1Torque wrench loadcell holder
Publication Date: 2024.08.01 STANLEY BLACK & DECKER MEA FZE
  • US20240255367A1 patent drawing
  • US20240255367A1 patent drawing
  • US20240255367A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention discloses a loadcell holder for use within a digital torque wrench. The loadcell holder is characterized in that it includes a first surface configured to engage a loadcell, wherein said first surface includes engagement means configured to limit rotational movement of the loadcell in relation to the loadcell holder. The loadcell holder also includes a second surface distal from the first surface, wherein said second surface includes a rounded surface configured to limit axial movement of the load cell holder and any load cell that engaged to the first surface.