CA2446366C - Electronic torque wrench with flexible head - Google Patents
Electronic torque wrench with flexible head Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2446366C CA2446366C CA002446366A CA2446366A CA2446366C CA 2446366 C CA2446366 C CA 2446366C CA 002446366 A CA002446366 A CA 002446366A CA 2446366 A CA2446366 A CA 2446366A CA 2446366 C CA2446366 C CA 2446366C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- lever arm
- torque
- head member
- torque wrench
- coupling
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
Links
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 35
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 35
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 35
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 12
- 230000002411 adverse Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000013536 elastomeric material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000428 dust Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007689 inspection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25G—HANDLES FOR HAND IMPLEMENTS
- B25G1/00—Handle constructions
- B25G1/06—Handle constructions reversible or adjustable for position
- B25G1/063—Handle constructions reversible or adjustable for position for screwdrivers, wrenches or spanners
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
- B25B23/00—Details of, or accessories for, spanners, wrenches, screwdrivers
- B25B23/14—Arrangement of torque limiters or torque indicators in wrenches or screwdrivers
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Details Of Spanners, Wrenches, And Screw Drivers And Accessories (AREA)
Abstract
An electronic torque wrench has a lever arm pivotally coupled to ahead member which is adapted for coupling to an associated fastener for rotation therewith about the rotational axis thereof, a torque sensing device being disposed on the head member for movement therewith relative to the lever arm. Different embodiments are provided for different degrees of relative angular movement between the head member and the lever arm.
Description
~
ELECTRONIC TORQUE WRENCH
WITH FLEXIBLE HEAD
Back.ground This application relates to torque applying and measuring apparatus and, in particular, to electronic torque wrenches. The application relates specifically to indexable torque wrenches.
Typically, torque wrenches, such as electronic torque wrenches, provide an elongated lever arm with a coupling mechanism, such as a drive lug, on a coupling head fixed at an end of the lever arm and disposed for coupling to an associated socket tool, fastener or other device to be torqued. In a typical arrangement, the coupling device includes a drive lug projecting from the lever arm substantially perpendicular thereto. U.S.
patent no. 4,643,030 discloses such an arrangement, wherein the torque sensing means comprises a strain gauge assembly disposed on the coupling head and connected by suitable electrical connections to display apparatus carried by the lever arm. In many cases, in using such a fixed-head wrench, a universal joint or the like is required between the head and the fastener in order to reach the fastener. This decreases the accuracy of the measurement.
It is also known to provide indexable torque wrenches, wherein the coupling head is indexable or pivotally movable relative to the lever arm to facilitate access to fasteners in certain applications, such a wrench being disclosed, for example, in U.S.
patent no.
4,958,541. In such wrenches the torque sensing means, such as a strain gauge assembly, is located on the lever arm.
Summary This application discloses improved torque wrenching techniques which avoid disadvantages of prior techniques while affording additional structural and operating advantages.
ELECTRONIC TORQUE WRENCH
WITH FLEXIBLE HEAD
Back.ground This application relates to torque applying and measuring apparatus and, in particular, to electronic torque wrenches. The application relates specifically to indexable torque wrenches.
Typically, torque wrenches, such as electronic torque wrenches, provide an elongated lever arm with a coupling mechanism, such as a drive lug, on a coupling head fixed at an end of the lever arm and disposed for coupling to an associated socket tool, fastener or other device to be torqued. In a typical arrangement, the coupling device includes a drive lug projecting from the lever arm substantially perpendicular thereto. U.S.
patent no. 4,643,030 discloses such an arrangement, wherein the torque sensing means comprises a strain gauge assembly disposed on the coupling head and connected by suitable electrical connections to display apparatus carried by the lever arm. In many cases, in using such a fixed-head wrench, a universal joint or the like is required between the head and the fastener in order to reach the fastener. This decreases the accuracy of the measurement.
It is also known to provide indexable torque wrenches, wherein the coupling head is indexable or pivotally movable relative to the lever arm to facilitate access to fasteners in certain applications, such a wrench being disclosed, for example, in U.S.
patent no.
4,958,541. In such wrenches the torque sensing means, such as a strain gauge assembly, is located on the lever arm.
Summary This application discloses improved torque wrenching techniques which avoid disadvantages of prior techniques while affording additional structural and operating advantages.
An aspect of the disclosed technique is the provision of an indexable-head torque wrench which affords accurate torque measurement.
In connection with the foregoing aspect another aspect is provision of an indexable-head torque wrench wherein the accuracy of the torque measurement is enhanced.
The invention thus provides according to a first aspect, for a torque wrench comprising: a lever arm having a handle end and a working end; a head member coupled to the working end of the lever arm and having an end portion disposed beyond the working end for pivotal movement relative to the lever arm among different working positions; and a torque sensing device carried by the end portion of the head member for movement therewith.
According to a second aspect, the invention provides for a torque wrench comprising: a lever arm having a handle end and a working end; a display device carried by the lever arm intermediate the ends; a head member coupled to the working end of the lever arm and having an end portion disposed beyond the working end for pivotal movement relative to the lever arm among different working positions; a torque sensing device carried by the end portion of the head member for movement therewith; and an electrical connection between the torque sensing device and the display device.
According to a third aspect, the invention provides for a method for applying torque to a workpiece having a first axis of rotation, the method comprising:
providing a head member adapted to be coupled to the workpiece for rotation therewith about the first axis;
providing a torque sensing means on the head member for movement therewith;
and coupling to the head member a torque-applying lever arm so that the lever arm is moveable relative to the head member about a second axis inclined at a non-zero angle with respect to the first axis among a plurality of positions, whereby the relative angular inclination of the axes does not adversely affect the accuracy of the torque sensing.
2a According to a fourth aspect, the invention provides for a torque wrench comprising:
lever means having a handle end and a working end; head means for rotating a workpiece about a first axis; means coupling the head means to the working end of the lever means for pivotal movement relative to the lever means among different working positions about a second axis inclined at a non-zero angle with respect to the first axis; and torque sensing means carried by the head means for movement therewith.
According to a fifth aspect, the invention provides for a torque wrench comprising: a lever arm having a handle end and a working end; a head member for rotating a workpiece about a first axis; apparatus coupling the head member to the working end of a lever arm for pivotal movement relative to the lever arm among different working positions about a second axis inclined at a non-zero angle with respect to the first axis; and torque-sensing means carried by the head member for movement therewith.
Brief Description of the Drawings For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the subject matter sought to be protected, there are illustrated in the accompanying drawings embodiments thereof, from an inspection of which, when considered in connection with the following description, the subject matter sought to be protected, its construction and operation, and many of its advantages should be readily understood and appreciated.
FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a first embodiment of torque wrench;
FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the torque wrench of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is an enlarged, fragmentary, perspective view of the torque wrench of FIG. 1 with a protective boot added;
FIG. 4 is a fragmentary, perspective view of the underside of the working end of the torque wrench of FIG. 2, with a protective sleeve removed;
2b FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 3 of an alternative torque wrench embodiment, with the protective boot removed;
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the yoke of the torque wrench of FIG. 5; and FIG. 7 is a reduced, fragmentary, side elevational view of the torque wrench of FIG.
5, illustrating different positions of the head.
Detailed Description Referring to FIGS. 1-4, there is illustrated an electronic torque wrench, generally designated by the numeral 10, having an elongated lever arm 11 with a working end 12 and a handle end 13. The lever arm 11 includes an elongated, substantially tubular shaft 14 and a housing 15 mounted on the shaft 14 and enclosing approximately the rear two-thirds thereof. The housing 15 may be of generally two-part construction and may be provided with a handle grip 16. Mounted in the housing 15 may be a user interface 17, including a suitable display 18, which may be a digital electronic display, and a control keypad 19. The lever arm 11, the housing 15 and the circuitry and structure disposed within the housing 15 may be substantially the same as that disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,968,759 entitled "Electronic Torque Wrench".
Mounted to the working end 12 of the shaft 14 is a yoke, generally designated by the numeral 20, which has an elongated, substantially cylindrical body 21 (FIG. 3) telescopically received within the working end of the tubular shaft 14, and fixedly secured in place therein, as by screws 22 (FIG. 2). The body 21 may be provided with a circumferential flange against which is seated an 0-ring 21 a for sealing against the end of the shaft 14. Formed diametrically through the body 21 forwardly of the 0-ring 21 a is a slot 23, which is generally rectangular in transverse cross-section and has an axis substantially perpendicular to the plane of the display 18. Formed diametrically through the body 21 along an axis substantially perpendicular to that of the slot 23 and intersecting the slot 23 is a bore 24 (FIG. 3).
Mounted on the body 21 is an elongated head 25, which has a substantially cylindrical shank 26 provided at one end thereof with a reduced coupling end 27, which has flattened opposite sides so that it fits upwardly through the slot 23 with a predetermined clearance at the forward and rearward ends thereof. Shank 26 is provided at the opposite end thereof with a drive square 28, which may be provided with a suitable spring-loaded detent ball in a known manner. The coupling end 27 is pivotally coupled in the slot 23 by a pivot pin 29 extending through the bore 24 and through a complementary bore (not shown) in the coupling end 27. The end clearance between the coupling end 27 and the slot 23 permits a slight pivotal movement of the head 25 about the axis of the pivot pin 29, the total pivotal travel of the head 25 being less than forty-five degrees, the head 25 being illustrated in the drawings substantially at the midpoint of its pivotal range.
Referring in particular to FIG. 4, there is mounted on the rear side of the head shank 26 a strain gauge assembly 30, which may be of the type disclosed in the aforementioned U.S. Patent No. 6,968,759. The assembly 30 includes four gauges arranged in a bridge network, including two deflection sensing gauges 31 and 32 and Poisson correction and temperature compensation gauges 33 and 34. The terminal strips of the gauge assembly are connected via ribbon wires 35 to electronics in housing 15, the wires 35 extending upwardly into the lower end of the slot 23 and then rearwardly, longitudinally of the body 21, along a suitable channel (not shown). A cylindrical sheath or sleeve 36 may be provided in surrounding relationship with the shank 26, covering the strain gauge assembly 30 and protecting it in use, the sheath 36 being formed of any suitable material, such as a suitable elastomeric material. A flexible and resilient boot 38 may be provided for enclosing the working end 12 of the shaft 14, the 0-ring 21a and the portion of the body 21 projecting from the shaft 14, as well as the head 25 down to the drive square 28. The boot 38 (FIG. 3) may be of unitary, one-piece construction and may be formed of a suitable rubber or elastomeric material and will protect the yoke 20, and particularly the pivot assembly thereof, from dust, dirt and the like, as well as protecting the yoke from potentially damaging contact with surrounding surfaces in use.
As was indicated above, the slot 23 is dimensioned to accommodate a slight pivoting forward and rearward movement of the head 25 to facilitate access to fasteners in certain applications. However, because the strain gauge assembly 30 is mounted on the head 25, it is always aligned in use with the rotational axis of the fastener being torqued, so that the relative angular position of the head 25 relative to the lever arm 11 has no effect on the value of the torque sensed by the strain gauge assembly 30.
Referring to FIGS. 5-7, there is illustrated another embodiment of electronic torque wrench, generally designated 10A, which is substantially the same as the torque wrench 10, 5 described above, except that, in place of the yoke 20, there is provided a yoke 40, having an elongated cylindrical body 41 telescopically received in the working end of the shaft 14 and secured in place by any suitable means. The yoke 40 differs from the yoke 20, described above, fundamentally in that its forward portion is in the form of a clevis 22, having legs 42A which cooperate to define tlierebetween a slot 43. Diametrically aligned bores 44 extend through the arms 42a. The yoke 40 is provided with a head 45 having a shank 46, integral at one end thereof with a coupling end 47 with flattened sides which extends into the slot 43 of the clevis 42. The shank 46 is integral at its opposite end with a drive square 48. A pivot pin 49 extends through the bores 44 and through a complementary bore (not shown) in the coupling end 47 for pivotally connecting the head 45 to the clevis 42.
Because of the clevis nature of this coupling, it will be appreciated that the head 45 is capable of a pivotal movement through at least 180 degrees, as illustrated in FIG. 7.
The strain gauge assembly 30 may be mounted on the shank 46 of the head 45, preferably being mounted on a side thereof. The strain gauge assembly and the shank 46 may be enclosed within a suitable sheath 50, having a sleeve portion 51 which encompasses the adjacent end of a suitable cable 52 providing electrical connection to the strain gauge assembly 30 and extending through a suitable hole 53 in the yoke 40 for connecting to the electronics in the housing 15, in a known manner. The side mounting of the strain gauge assembly 30 on the head 45 accommodates the full range of pivotal movement of the head 45 without having to provide an unduly large slack portion of the cable 52. It will be appreciated that, if desired, a suitable boot, like the boot 28 described above, could be provided for protecting the yoke 40. Again, it will be appreciated that, because the strain gauge assembly is mounted on the head 45, it remains in alignment with the rotational axis of the fastener being torqued, the sensed value of torque being substantially unaffected by the pivotal orientation of the head 45.
From the foregoing, it can be seen that there has been provided an improved electronic torque wrench with an indexable head, which provides sensed torque values which are unaffected by the orientation of the head relative to the lever arm of the wrench.
The matter set forth in the foregoing description and accompanying drawings is offered by way of illustration only and not as a limitation. `To7h.ile particular embodiments have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made without departing from the broader aspects of applicants' contribution. The actual scope of the protection sought is intended to be defined in the following claims when viewed in their proper perspective based on the prior art.
In connection with the foregoing aspect another aspect is provision of an indexable-head torque wrench wherein the accuracy of the torque measurement is enhanced.
The invention thus provides according to a first aspect, for a torque wrench comprising: a lever arm having a handle end and a working end; a head member coupled to the working end of the lever arm and having an end portion disposed beyond the working end for pivotal movement relative to the lever arm among different working positions; and a torque sensing device carried by the end portion of the head member for movement therewith.
According to a second aspect, the invention provides for a torque wrench comprising: a lever arm having a handle end and a working end; a display device carried by the lever arm intermediate the ends; a head member coupled to the working end of the lever arm and having an end portion disposed beyond the working end for pivotal movement relative to the lever arm among different working positions; a torque sensing device carried by the end portion of the head member for movement therewith; and an electrical connection between the torque sensing device and the display device.
According to a third aspect, the invention provides for a method for applying torque to a workpiece having a first axis of rotation, the method comprising:
providing a head member adapted to be coupled to the workpiece for rotation therewith about the first axis;
providing a torque sensing means on the head member for movement therewith;
and coupling to the head member a torque-applying lever arm so that the lever arm is moveable relative to the head member about a second axis inclined at a non-zero angle with respect to the first axis among a plurality of positions, whereby the relative angular inclination of the axes does not adversely affect the accuracy of the torque sensing.
2a According to a fourth aspect, the invention provides for a torque wrench comprising:
lever means having a handle end and a working end; head means for rotating a workpiece about a first axis; means coupling the head means to the working end of the lever means for pivotal movement relative to the lever means among different working positions about a second axis inclined at a non-zero angle with respect to the first axis; and torque sensing means carried by the head means for movement therewith.
According to a fifth aspect, the invention provides for a torque wrench comprising: a lever arm having a handle end and a working end; a head member for rotating a workpiece about a first axis; apparatus coupling the head member to the working end of a lever arm for pivotal movement relative to the lever arm among different working positions about a second axis inclined at a non-zero angle with respect to the first axis; and torque-sensing means carried by the head member for movement therewith.
Brief Description of the Drawings For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the subject matter sought to be protected, there are illustrated in the accompanying drawings embodiments thereof, from an inspection of which, when considered in connection with the following description, the subject matter sought to be protected, its construction and operation, and many of its advantages should be readily understood and appreciated.
FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a first embodiment of torque wrench;
FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the torque wrench of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is an enlarged, fragmentary, perspective view of the torque wrench of FIG. 1 with a protective boot added;
FIG. 4 is a fragmentary, perspective view of the underside of the working end of the torque wrench of FIG. 2, with a protective sleeve removed;
2b FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 3 of an alternative torque wrench embodiment, with the protective boot removed;
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the yoke of the torque wrench of FIG. 5; and FIG. 7 is a reduced, fragmentary, side elevational view of the torque wrench of FIG.
5, illustrating different positions of the head.
Detailed Description Referring to FIGS. 1-4, there is illustrated an electronic torque wrench, generally designated by the numeral 10, having an elongated lever arm 11 with a working end 12 and a handle end 13. The lever arm 11 includes an elongated, substantially tubular shaft 14 and a housing 15 mounted on the shaft 14 and enclosing approximately the rear two-thirds thereof. The housing 15 may be of generally two-part construction and may be provided with a handle grip 16. Mounted in the housing 15 may be a user interface 17, including a suitable display 18, which may be a digital electronic display, and a control keypad 19. The lever arm 11, the housing 15 and the circuitry and structure disposed within the housing 15 may be substantially the same as that disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,968,759 entitled "Electronic Torque Wrench".
Mounted to the working end 12 of the shaft 14 is a yoke, generally designated by the numeral 20, which has an elongated, substantially cylindrical body 21 (FIG. 3) telescopically received within the working end of the tubular shaft 14, and fixedly secured in place therein, as by screws 22 (FIG. 2). The body 21 may be provided with a circumferential flange against which is seated an 0-ring 21 a for sealing against the end of the shaft 14. Formed diametrically through the body 21 forwardly of the 0-ring 21 a is a slot 23, which is generally rectangular in transverse cross-section and has an axis substantially perpendicular to the plane of the display 18. Formed diametrically through the body 21 along an axis substantially perpendicular to that of the slot 23 and intersecting the slot 23 is a bore 24 (FIG. 3).
Mounted on the body 21 is an elongated head 25, which has a substantially cylindrical shank 26 provided at one end thereof with a reduced coupling end 27, which has flattened opposite sides so that it fits upwardly through the slot 23 with a predetermined clearance at the forward and rearward ends thereof. Shank 26 is provided at the opposite end thereof with a drive square 28, which may be provided with a suitable spring-loaded detent ball in a known manner. The coupling end 27 is pivotally coupled in the slot 23 by a pivot pin 29 extending through the bore 24 and through a complementary bore (not shown) in the coupling end 27. The end clearance between the coupling end 27 and the slot 23 permits a slight pivotal movement of the head 25 about the axis of the pivot pin 29, the total pivotal travel of the head 25 being less than forty-five degrees, the head 25 being illustrated in the drawings substantially at the midpoint of its pivotal range.
Referring in particular to FIG. 4, there is mounted on the rear side of the head shank 26 a strain gauge assembly 30, which may be of the type disclosed in the aforementioned U.S. Patent No. 6,968,759. The assembly 30 includes four gauges arranged in a bridge network, including two deflection sensing gauges 31 and 32 and Poisson correction and temperature compensation gauges 33 and 34. The terminal strips of the gauge assembly are connected via ribbon wires 35 to electronics in housing 15, the wires 35 extending upwardly into the lower end of the slot 23 and then rearwardly, longitudinally of the body 21, along a suitable channel (not shown). A cylindrical sheath or sleeve 36 may be provided in surrounding relationship with the shank 26, covering the strain gauge assembly 30 and protecting it in use, the sheath 36 being formed of any suitable material, such as a suitable elastomeric material. A flexible and resilient boot 38 may be provided for enclosing the working end 12 of the shaft 14, the 0-ring 21a and the portion of the body 21 projecting from the shaft 14, as well as the head 25 down to the drive square 28. The boot 38 (FIG. 3) may be of unitary, one-piece construction and may be formed of a suitable rubber or elastomeric material and will protect the yoke 20, and particularly the pivot assembly thereof, from dust, dirt and the like, as well as protecting the yoke from potentially damaging contact with surrounding surfaces in use.
As was indicated above, the slot 23 is dimensioned to accommodate a slight pivoting forward and rearward movement of the head 25 to facilitate access to fasteners in certain applications. However, because the strain gauge assembly 30 is mounted on the head 25, it is always aligned in use with the rotational axis of the fastener being torqued, so that the relative angular position of the head 25 relative to the lever arm 11 has no effect on the value of the torque sensed by the strain gauge assembly 30.
Referring to FIGS. 5-7, there is illustrated another embodiment of electronic torque wrench, generally designated 10A, which is substantially the same as the torque wrench 10, 5 described above, except that, in place of the yoke 20, there is provided a yoke 40, having an elongated cylindrical body 41 telescopically received in the working end of the shaft 14 and secured in place by any suitable means. The yoke 40 differs from the yoke 20, described above, fundamentally in that its forward portion is in the form of a clevis 22, having legs 42A which cooperate to define tlierebetween a slot 43. Diametrically aligned bores 44 extend through the arms 42a. The yoke 40 is provided with a head 45 having a shank 46, integral at one end thereof with a coupling end 47 with flattened sides which extends into the slot 43 of the clevis 42. The shank 46 is integral at its opposite end with a drive square 48. A pivot pin 49 extends through the bores 44 and through a complementary bore (not shown) in the coupling end 47 for pivotally connecting the head 45 to the clevis 42.
Because of the clevis nature of this coupling, it will be appreciated that the head 45 is capable of a pivotal movement through at least 180 degrees, as illustrated in FIG. 7.
The strain gauge assembly 30 may be mounted on the shank 46 of the head 45, preferably being mounted on a side thereof. The strain gauge assembly and the shank 46 may be enclosed within a suitable sheath 50, having a sleeve portion 51 which encompasses the adjacent end of a suitable cable 52 providing electrical connection to the strain gauge assembly 30 and extending through a suitable hole 53 in the yoke 40 for connecting to the electronics in the housing 15, in a known manner. The side mounting of the strain gauge assembly 30 on the head 45 accommodates the full range of pivotal movement of the head 45 without having to provide an unduly large slack portion of the cable 52. It will be appreciated that, if desired, a suitable boot, like the boot 28 described above, could be provided for protecting the yoke 40. Again, it will be appreciated that, because the strain gauge assembly is mounted on the head 45, it remains in alignment with the rotational axis of the fastener being torqued, the sensed value of torque being substantially unaffected by the pivotal orientation of the head 45.
From the foregoing, it can be seen that there has been provided an improved electronic torque wrench with an indexable head, which provides sensed torque values which are unaffected by the orientation of the head relative to the lever arm of the wrench.
The matter set forth in the foregoing description and accompanying drawings is offered by way of illustration only and not as a limitation. `To7h.ile particular embodiments have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made without departing from the broader aspects of applicants' contribution. The actual scope of the protection sought is intended to be defined in the following claims when viewed in their proper perspective based on the prior art.
Claims (25)
1. A torque wrench comprising:
a lever arm having a handle end and a working end;
a head member coupled to the working end of the lever arm and having an end portion disposed beyond the working end for pivotal movement relative to the lever arm among different working positions; and a torque sensing device carried by the end portion of the head member for movement therewith.
a lever arm having a handle end and a working end;
a head member coupled to the working end of the lever arm and having an end portion disposed beyond the working end for pivotal movement relative to the lever arm among different working positions; and a torque sensing device carried by the end portion of the head member for movement therewith.
2. The torque wrench of claim 1 further comprising a coupling apparatus for coupling the head member to the lever arm for limited relative pivotal movement through an angle substantially less than ninety degrees.
3. The torque wrench of claim 1 further comprising a coupling apparatus for coupling the head member to the lever arm for relative pivotal movement through an angle substantially greater than ninety degrees.
4. The torque wrench of claim 3, wherein the coupling apparatus includes a clevis on the lever arm and a coupling portion on the head member straddled by the clevis and pivotally coupled thereto.
5. The torque wrench of claim 1, wherein the torque sensing device includes a strain gauge assembly.
6. The torque wrench of claim 5, wherein the end portion of the head member includes a shank and a drive lug, the torque sensing device being disposed on the shank.
7. The torque wrench of claim 6 further comprising a sheath encompassing the shank and the torque sensing device thereon.
8. The torque wrench of claim 1, wherein the working end of the lever arm has a cavity therein, and further comprising coupling apparatus including a yoke receivable in the cavity and pivotally coupled to the head member.
9. A torque wrench comprising:
a lever arm having a handle end and a working end;
a display device carried by the lever arm intermediate the ends;
a head member coupled to the working end of the lever arm and having an end portion disposed beyond the working end for pivotal movement relative to the lever arm among different working positions;
a torque sensing device carried by the end portion of the head member for movement therewith; and an electrical connection between the torque sensing device and the display device.
a lever arm having a handle end and a working end;
a display device carried by the lever arm intermediate the ends;
a head member coupled to the working end of the lever arm and having an end portion disposed beyond the working end for pivotal movement relative to the lever arm among different working positions;
a torque sensing device carried by the end portion of the head member for movement therewith; and an electrical connection between the torque sensing device and the display device.
10. The torque wrench of claim 9, wherein the display device includes a digital electronic display.
11. The torque wrench of claim 9 further comprising a control keypad carried by the lever arm for controlling operation of the display device.
12. The torque wrench of claim 9 further comprising a coupling apparatus for coupling the head member to the lever arm for limited relative pivotal movement through an angle of less than ninety degrees.
13. The torque wrench of claim 9 further comprising a coupling apparatus for coupling the head member to the lever arm for relative pivotal movement through an angle substantially greater than ninety degrees.
14. The torque wrench of claim 9, wherein the electrical connection includes electrical conductors extending inside the lever arm.
15. The torque wrench of claim 9, wherein the torque sensing device includes a strain gauge assembly.
16. A method for applying torque to a workpiece having a first axis of rotation, the method comprising:
providing a head member adapted to be coupled to the workpiece for rotation therewith about the first axis;
providing a torque sensing means on the head member for movement therewith;
and coupling to the head member a torque-applying lever arm so that the lever arm is moveable relative to the head member about a second axis inclined at a non-zero angle with respect to the first axis among a plurality of positions, whereby the relative angular inclination of the axes does not adversely affect the accuracy of the torque sensing.
providing a head member adapted to be coupled to the workpiece for rotation therewith about the first axis;
providing a torque sensing means on the head member for movement therewith;
and coupling to the head member a torque-applying lever arm so that the lever arm is moveable relative to the head member about a second axis inclined at a non-zero angle with respect to the first axis among a plurality of positions, whereby the relative angular inclination of the axes does not adversely affect the accuracy of the torque sensing.
17. The method of claim 16 further comprising displaying the torque level sensed by the torque sensing means.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein the coupling includes providing a coupling structure permitting limited pivotal movement between the head member and the lever arm through an angle substantially less than ninety degrees.
19. The method of claim 17, wherein the coupling includes coupling the head member to the lever arm for relative pivotal movement through an angle substantially greater than ninety degrees.
20. The method of claim 16 further comprising encapsulating the sensing means and associated portions of the head member.
21. A torque wrench comprising:
lever means having a handle end and a working end;
head means for rotating a workpiece about a first axis;
means coupling the head means to the working end of the lever means for pivotal movement relative to the lever means among different working positions about a second axis inclined at a non-zero angle with respect to the first axis; and torque sensing means carried by the head means for movement therewith.
lever means having a handle end and a working end;
head means for rotating a workpiece about a first axis;
means coupling the head means to the working end of the lever means for pivotal movement relative to the lever means among different working positions about a second axis inclined at a non-zero angle with respect to the first axis; and torque sensing means carried by the head means for movement therewith.
22. A torque wrench comprising:
a lever arm having a handle end and a working end;
a head member for rotating a workpiece about a first axis;
apparatus coupling the head member to the working end of a lever arm for pivotal movement relative to the lever arm among different working positions about a second axis inclined at a non-zero angle with respect to the first axis; and torque-sensing means carried by the head member for movement therewith.
a lever arm having a handle end and a working end;
a head member for rotating a workpiece about a first axis;
apparatus coupling the head member to the working end of a lever arm for pivotal movement relative to the lever arm among different working positions about a second axis inclined at a non-zero angle with respect to the first axis; and torque-sensing means carried by the head member for movement therewith.
23. The torque wrench of claim 22, wherein the angel is substantially 90°.
24. The method of claim 16, wherein the angel is substantially 90°.
25. The torque wrench of claim 21, wherein the angle is substantially 90°.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/368,032 | 2003-02-19 | ||
US10/368,032 US6796190B2 (en) | 2003-02-19 | 2003-02-19 | Electronic torque wrench with flexible head |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA2446366A1 CA2446366A1 (en) | 2004-08-19 |
CA2446366C true CA2446366C (en) | 2008-12-23 |
Family
ID=32850076
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA002446366A Expired - Lifetime CA2446366C (en) | 2003-02-19 | 2003-10-23 | Electronic torque wrench with flexible head |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US6796190B2 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2446366C (en) |
Families Citing this family (26)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6965835B2 (en) * | 2001-09-28 | 2005-11-15 | Spx Corporation | Torque angle sensing system and method with angle indication |
WO2003041914A2 (en) * | 2001-11-14 | 2003-05-22 | Snap-On Technologies, Inc. | Electronic torque wrench |
US6910390B2 (en) * | 2002-10-31 | 2005-06-28 | Plastic Technologies, Inc. | Hand held torque meter |
US20040261542A1 (en) * | 2003-06-25 | 2004-12-30 | Chih-Ching Hsien | Electronic torsional tool |
TW200621442A (en) * | 2004-12-29 | 2006-07-01 | Ind Tech Res Inst | A torque measurement device for torque wrench by using indirect sensing structure |
US7137323B1 (en) * | 2005-08-11 | 2006-11-21 | Chih-Ching Hsieh | Replaceable and rotatable tool with function of measuring twisting forces |
US7168350B1 (en) * | 2005-08-16 | 2007-01-30 | Chih-Ching Hsieh | Omnidirectional twisting tool |
US7168349B1 (en) * | 2005-08-16 | 2007-01-30 | Chih-Ching Hsieh | Omnidirectional twisting tool |
US7174817B1 (en) * | 2005-08-16 | 2007-02-13 | Chih-Ching Hsieh | Omnidirectional twisting tool |
US20070186734A1 (en) * | 2006-02-13 | 2007-08-16 | Chih-Ching Hsieh | Hand tool with illumination display screen |
CN100450723C (en) * | 2006-03-17 | 2009-01-14 | 陈泰佐 | Spanner with head having torsion digital extraction device |
US7984657B2 (en) * | 2006-11-17 | 2011-07-26 | General Electric Company | Method for operating a torque system configured to tighten a series of fasteners |
US20080127711A1 (en) * | 2006-12-04 | 2008-06-05 | Farag Tarek A Z | Force and Torque Measurements with Calibration and Auto Scale |
US9256220B1 (en) | 2008-06-25 | 2016-02-09 | The Boeing Company | System and method for monitoring completed manufacturing operations |
US8311658B2 (en) * | 2008-06-25 | 2012-11-13 | The Boeing Company | System and method for monitoring completed manufacturing operations |
US7876216B2 (en) * | 2008-06-25 | 2011-01-25 | The Boeing Company | Object location and reporting system for harsh RF environments |
US7819025B2 (en) | 2008-06-25 | 2010-10-26 | The Boeing Company | Electronic torque wrench and method for torquing fasteners |
DE202009006464U1 (en) * | 2009-05-06 | 2009-07-30 | Hazet-Werk Hermann Zerver Gmbh & Co. Kg | torque wrench |
US8714057B2 (en) | 2010-01-04 | 2014-05-06 | Apex Brands, Inc. | Ratcheting device for an electronic torque wrench |
TW201127562A (en) * | 2010-02-04 | 2011-08-16 | Hou-Fei Hu | Electronic torque wrench |
US8272301B2 (en) * | 2010-05-21 | 2012-09-25 | Taken Etorque Technology Co., Ltd. | Extensive apparatus for a wrench |
US8091438B1 (en) * | 2010-10-15 | 2012-01-10 | Taken Etorque Technology Co., Ltd. | Torsion tool |
USD719801S1 (en) * | 2011-12-22 | 2014-12-23 | Eduard Wille Gmbh & Co Kg | Torque wrench |
TWI539141B (en) * | 2014-11-24 | 2016-06-21 | 優鋼機械股份有限公司 | Biaxial torque measuring device |
TWI625202B (en) * | 2017-06-12 | 2018-06-01 | 優鋼機械股份有限公司 | An electronic torque wrench with a sensing structure |
US10562161B2 (en) * | 2018-01-05 | 2020-02-18 | General Electric Company | Torque wrench |
Family Cites Families (23)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3769860A (en) * | 1971-04-22 | 1973-11-06 | Daimler Benz Ag | Wrench, especially torque wrench |
FR2568010B1 (en) * | 1984-07-23 | 1987-05-15 | Stephanoises Forges | ELECTRONIC DYNAMOMETRIC KEY |
US4643030A (en) * | 1985-01-22 | 1987-02-17 | Snap-On Tools Corporation | Torque measuring apparatus |
FR2615948B1 (en) * | 1987-05-27 | 1989-10-27 | Sam Outillage | ELECTRONIC DYNAMOMETRIC KEY |
US4982612A (en) * | 1988-10-03 | 1991-01-08 | Snap-On Tools Corporation | Torque wrench with measurements independent of hand-hold position |
US4976159A (en) * | 1989-10-11 | 1990-12-11 | Raymond Engineering Inc. | Dual mode torque wrench |
US4958541A (en) * | 1989-10-13 | 1990-09-25 | Snap-On Tools Corporation | Electronic torque wrench with tactile indication |
JP2526075Y2 (en) * | 1990-10-13 | 1997-02-12 | ティアツク株式会社 | Torque Wrench |
US5130700A (en) * | 1991-03-04 | 1992-07-14 | Snap-On Tools Corporation | Electronic torque wrench and overshoot compensation circuit therefor |
US5617766A (en) * | 1993-10-12 | 1997-04-08 | Tonichi Manufacturing Co., Ltd. | Torque wrench device |
US5404775A (en) * | 1994-03-11 | 1995-04-11 | Sanyo Machine | Right angle fastening device |
US5890406A (en) * | 1994-08-09 | 1999-04-06 | Jane Figueiredo | Electronic torque limiting and parts marking wrench |
US5589644A (en) * | 1994-12-01 | 1996-12-31 | Snap-On Technologies, Inc. | Torque-angle wrench |
US5662012A (en) * | 1995-11-07 | 1997-09-02 | Consolidated Devices, Inc. | Torque wrench structure |
US5862723A (en) * | 1997-06-20 | 1999-01-26 | Rowlands; Albert J. | Pivot head wrench |
DE19758493C2 (en) * | 1997-10-10 | 2000-01-27 | Hazet Werk Zerver Hermann | Socket wrench extension |
US6196071B1 (en) * | 1998-02-23 | 2001-03-06 | Robert D. Shomo | Torque indicator socket |
US6405621B1 (en) * | 1998-03-13 | 2002-06-18 | Snap-On Tools Company | Ratchet wrench with multi-position ratchet head |
US6000302A (en) * | 1998-04-07 | 1999-12-14 | Chiang; Der Ching | Tool having rotatable driving head |
US6070506A (en) * | 1998-07-20 | 2000-06-06 | Snap-On Tools Company | Ratchet head electronic torque wrench |
US6463811B1 (en) * | 1999-04-28 | 2002-10-15 | Snap-On Tools Company | Bending beam torque wrench |
US6119562A (en) * | 1999-07-08 | 2000-09-19 | Jenkins; Bradley G. | Electromechanical releasing torque wrench |
US6220125B1 (en) * | 1999-11-29 | 2001-04-24 | Lai Lee Yu Lan | Device for adjusting angle of ratchet wrench |
-
2003
- 2003-02-19 US US10/368,032 patent/US6796190B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-10-23 CA CA002446366A patent/CA2446366C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US6796190B2 (en) | 2004-09-28 |
US20040159164A1 (en) | 2004-08-19 |
CA2446366A1 (en) | 2004-08-19 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
CA2446366C (en) | Electronic torque wrench with flexible head | |
US7234378B2 (en) | Digital torque wrench | |
US7137323B1 (en) | Replaceable and rotatable tool with function of measuring twisting forces | |
US6463834B2 (en) | Torque wrench | |
US7107884B2 (en) | Ergonomic electronic torque wrench | |
TWI605913B (en) | Method of compensating for adapters or extensions on an electronic torque wrench | |
JP2000028302A (en) | Adjustable handgrip for coordinate measuring machine | |
US7578219B2 (en) | Adjustable spanner with electronic strain gauge function | |
EP0609427B1 (en) | Tool with moment indication | |
US20080134800A1 (en) | Mechanical Torque Wrench With An Electronic Sensor And Display Device | |
US10836020B2 (en) | Tilt compensated torque-angle wrench | |
US4838134A (en) | Torque wrench | |
TW200942373A (en) | Torque tool adapter with digital display | |
TWM360114U (en) | Integrated digital control tool | |
US6216566B1 (en) | Insulating composite breaker bar | |
US7392711B2 (en) | Insertable strain gauge spanner | |
US4827813A (en) | Torque wrench with amplifying gauge | |
JPH03210447A (en) | Torque wrench calibrator | |
EP1839813B1 (en) | Adjustable spanner with electronic strain gauge function | |
US20040187650A1 (en) | Pressure-operated power screwdriver having a measuring section | |
DE202004017472U1 (en) | Torque wrench with angle indicator has a multi pole magnetic sensor system fitted to the tool bit holder and with a connection to a display | |
WO1999061208A8 (en) | Wire tensioning tool | |
US3747423A (en) | Torque measuring wrench | |
US7096747B1 (en) | Hand tool with twisting force measuring functions | |
TWI811077B (en) | Torque wrench automatic adjustment device |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
EEER | Examination request | ||
MKEX | Expiry |
Effective date: 20231023 |