Variable-Force Press Jaws Using Chip-Based Size Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing press tools with fixed output forces, such as 32 kN, are inefficient for fittings of varying sizes, leading to energy wastage and overdesigning of jaws for smaller fittings, which results in unnecessary weight and reduced fatigue life.
Innovation Solution
A press tool system with a jaw assembly incorporating an electronic chip for size-specific force adjustment, a motor-actuated hydraulic circuit, and communication provisions for receiving information from the jaw assembly to control the hydraulic pressure, allowing for optimized force application based on the fitting size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single press tool with fixed output force (e.g., 32 kN) is used for all fitting sizes, then the tool can handle larger fittings, but energy is wasted and jaws must be overdesigned for smaller fittings
Solution Approach 1:
The press tool system dynamically adjusts its output force based on the detected jaw size. The control system receives information from the electronic chip about jaw size and automatically modifies the hydraulic pressure and motor operation parameters to deliver only the necessary force for each specific fitting size, transforming the static fixed-force system into a dynamic adaptive one
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback through electronic chips in the jaw assemblies that communicate with the tool's control system. The control system receives information about jaw size and uses this feedback to automatically adjust operating parameters, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes energy consumption based on actual work requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single press tool with fixed output force (e.g., 32 kN) is used for all fitting sizes, then the tool can handle larger fittings, but jaws must be overdesigned with more material, increasing weight
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables dynamic selection of jaw assemblies based on the specific fitting size. Different jaw assemblies with appropriate sizes and material properties can be selected and attached to the tool, allowing the system to optimize jaw weight for each application rather than always using heavy-duty jaws designed for maximum capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The jaw assembly is segmented into interchangeable components with electronic identification chips. This allows the user to select and attach the appropriate jaw size for each specific fitting, rather than being constrained to a single heavy-duty jaw design. The segmentation enables optimization of jaw mass and material properties for each application
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single press tool with fixed output force (e.g., 32 kN) is used for all fitting sizes, then the tool can handle larger fittings, but the jaws experience excessive stress, reducing fatigue life
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adjusts the hydraulic pressure and force application based on the detected jaw size and fitting requirements. This prevents excessive stress on jaws by delivering only the necessary force for each specific application, thereby extending jaw fatigue life while maintaining versatility across different fitting sizes
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic chip feedback system provides information about jaw size and capacity to the control system, which uses this data to adjust operating parameters and prevent overloading. This feedback mechanism ensures that jaws operate within their optimal stress ranges, extending their service life
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 system reduces energy wastage, minimizes material usage in jaws, and extends their fatigue life by applying only the necessary force required for each fitting size, leading to lighter and more efficient press tools.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic circuit including a pump, a reservoir, a hydraulic cylinder, and a piston movably disposed in the cylinder. Upon actuation of the motor, the pump is operated to thereby move the piston relative to the cylinder.
Implementation Method 2
an electronic chip incorporated into the jaw assembly for identifying and/or providing information relating to the jaw assembly... communication provisions for receiving information associated with a jaw assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Pressing tools and jaws are described which include communication provisions that enable information concerning the jaws to be used with the press tool, to be transmitted to the tool. The press tool includes provisions that limit or otherwise tailor the output of the tool based on information concerning the jaws.