System and method for measuring torque and angle
AssigneeSnap-on Incorporated
InventorsJerry A. King, Nathan J. Lee, John L. Reynertson, Stephen M. Bauer, Jie Li
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
The present invention relates to torque application tools, such as an electronic torque screwdriver, with a multiple axis gyroscope (such as a 3-axis gyroscope or other type of gyroscope) and torque sensor that allows for simultaneous or sequential measurement of torque and angle around the axis of the tool. Targets for torque and angle measurements may be used to create algorithms to detect breakaway torque, residual torque, or to perform error proofing to ensure unique fasteners are tightened.
Claims11
A tool adapted to apply torque to a work piece, comprising:
- a torque sensor adapted to measure an amount of torque applied to the work piece;
- a gyroscope adapted to measure an amount of angular rotation applied to the work piece;
- and
- a controller configured with minimum and maximum prevailing torque values and a minimum prevailing angle value, the controller adapted to:
- cause the gyroscope to measure the amount of angular rotation applied to the work piece from when the amount of torque substantially meets the minimum prevailing torque value until the amount of torque substantially meets the maximum prevailing torque value, thereby creating an angular measurement;
- determine a measured prevailing torque value when the angular measurement substantially meets the minimum prevailing angle value;
- and
- determine a final target torque value based on the measured prevailing torque value.
A method of measuring torque applied to a work piece by a tool having a controller, a torque sensor, a gyroscope, and a display, the method comprising:
- configuring the controller with minimum and maximum prevailing torque values and a minimum prevailing angle value;
- measuring, via the torque sensor, an amount of torque applied to the work piece;
- measuring, via the gyroscope, an amount of angular rotation applied to the work piece from when the amount of torque substantially meets the minimum prevailing torque value until the amount of torque substantially meets the maximum prevailing torque value, thereby creating an angular measurement;
- determining a measured prevailing torque value when the angular measurement substantially meets the minimum prevailing angle value;
- and
- determining a final target torque value based on the measured prevailing torque value.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.