Wireless Torque Wrench with ZigBee Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing torque wrenches lack efficient wireless communication and feedback mechanisms for accurately setting and maintaining torque levels, leading to potential errors in fastener tightening processes, especially in industrial settings where precise torque is critical.

Innovation Solution

A wireless tool system that includes a torque wrench with a low power wireless network using ZigBee protocol, enabling communication between tools and portable devices, and an electromechanical mechanism that provides audible and tactile feedback when the target torque is reached, ensuring accurate and efficient tightening.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If electrical components are added to detect torque and signal the operator, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque detection precisionVSAvoidwrench structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines mechanical torque detection components with electrical sensing components into an integrated system. The strain gauge or torque sensor is integrated within the wrench body structure, merging mechanical force transmission with electrical signal generation to detect torque without requiring separate external detection devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional purely mechanical torque indication mechanisms (such as visual indicators or mechanical gauges) with electrical sensing components that provide more precise torque detection. The electrical components convert mechanical torque into electrical signals for accurate measurement and digital processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Loss of information

If wireless communication components are added for data exchange, then information feedback capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque data feedback capabilityVSAvoidwrench structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a wireless communication module as an intermediary between the torque wrench and external devices or systems. This module enables automatic data exchange and real-time feedback without requiring direct physical connection or manual data transfer, reducing information loss and improving communication efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If mechanical components generate audible click and power gap, then reliability of torque indication is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring manual monitoring

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque set point indication reliabilityVSAvoidoperator monitoring burden
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements multiple feedback mechanisms including audible clicks, visual indicators, and wireless data transmission that automatically notify the operator when the torque set point is reached. This eliminates the need for continuous manual monitoring and provides reliable torque indication through automated feedback channels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates visual indicators such as LED lights that change color or illuminate to indicate torque status. When the torque set point is approached or reached, the visual indicator provides immediate feedback to the operator, making it easier to monitor torque application without constant manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Data Source

PatentEP3007862B1Wireless tool system
Publication Date: 2022.01.26 STANLEY BLACK & DECKER INC
  • EP3007862B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3007862B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3007862B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A torque wrench includes a solenoid driven release mechanism and a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting and receiving parameter set.