Method and apparatus for evaluating torquing operations

A system for applying a torquing force to a workpiece, comprising:

• a tool for engaging the workpiece;
• a driving system for said tool;
• means for initiating driving action of the tool on the workpiece;
• means for terminating the driving action upon attainment of a predetermined torque force between the tool and the workpiece;
• and means for recording the duration of time between initiation of the torquing action and termination of the torquing action during which the torque exerted by the tool on the workpiece exceeds the torque previously exerted by the tool on the workpiece during the torquing operation.

In a system for applying a torque force to a workpiece, including a tool for engaging the workpiece and a driving system for said tool, the improvement comprising:

• sensor means for generating an electrical signal proportional to the torque being applied by the tool to the workpiece during a torquing operation;
• means for terminating operation of the driving system when the torque exerted by the tool on the workpiece exceeds a predetermined maximum value;
• means for generating electrical signals during the torquing operation proportional to the peak torque applied by the tool to the workpiece during the previous section of the torquing operation;
• means for comparing said electrical signals proportional to the peak torque applied by the tool to the workpiece during the previous torquing operation to the signal indicating the torque being applied by the tool to the workpiece;
• and means for generating an electrical signal portional to the time, during the torquing operation, in which the signal indicating the torque being applied by the tool to the workpiece exceeds the signal indicating the maximum previous torque applied by the tool to the workpiece and for recording the time during which said condition exists.