Abstract: A method of controlling electric- and fluid-powered torque-applying tools to avoid torque overshoot and unwanted joint stresses. During a fastening operation, a controller monitors the peak torque applied to a joint at specified intervals in time and adjusts the speed of the tool appropriately to reach a programmed torque value without overshooting. The method may be applied to arbitrary types of joints and allows the tool to adapt to the characteristics of a joint while a fastening operation is underway, without a separate “learning” or “adaptation” phase.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an impulse wrench for use in conjunction with a fastener engaging tool and a power supply to selectively rotate threaded fasteners. The wrench comprises a housing and an impulse manifold rotatably mounted within the housing. An impulse piston is mounted inside a impulse piston receiving space for reciprocating movement and has an impulse delivering surface and a pressurizing surface. The piston and the piston receiving space are constructed and arranged such that the pressurizing surface and an outer end portion of the piston receiving space cooperate to define at least a portion of a high pressure chamber which is filled with a substantially incompressible fluid.

Abstract: An air tool torque control system includes a controller operative to independently control two air tools with continuous programmed adjustment of the torque shut off point for each tool after each fastener joint is made. The torque specification is measured for each fastener joint made, is verified as being within an acceptable torque range, is compared to the set point of that torque specification range to determine the variation therebetween, and is then adjusted toward the mid point by the applicable correction factor for the variation determined to continuously compensate for variations in joint rate, line pressure and/or tool output. To enhance the effectiveness of the system, fast acting solenoid valves utilizing line pressure to assist in valve closure may be included to improve shut off control.

Abstract: An air tool torque control system includes a controller operative to independently control two air tools with continuous programmed adjustment of the torque shut off point for each tool after each fastener joint is made. The torque specification is measured for each fastener joint made, is verified as being within an acceptable torque range, is compared to the set point of that torque specification range to determine the variation therebetween, and is then adjusted toward the mid point by the applicable correction factor for the variation determined to continuously compensate for variations in joint rate, line pressure and/or tool output. To enhance the effectiveness of the system, fast acting solenoid valves utilizing line pressure to assist in valve closure may be included to improve shut off control.

Abstract: A portable air tool for applying torque to a workpiece includes a built in strain gauge transducer for measuring applied torque and a built in potentiometer adjustment mechanism for balancing or calibrating the transducer in unloaded condition. The transducer and potentiometer adjustment mechanism are electrically connected by leads passing from the tool to an electrical circuit containing the power supply and a millivolt meter or computer. To balance the transducer in unloaded condition, the end of a screwdriver or other tool may be inserted through a housing aperture and into the air tool to turn an adjustment screw on the enclosed potentiometer until the millivolt meter reads zero indicating balance in the transducer circuit. Alternatively, the potentiometer could be mounted in a threaded sleeve forming the handle of the tool, with adjustment access to the potentiometer being provided when the handle is unthreaded and axially moved relative to the tool to expose the potentiometer.

Abstract: A speed responsive shutoff for a pneumatic tool such as a nut runner is disclosed. The shutoff, effective to terminate air supply to the air motor under load, employs a centrifugally operated air valve having a flat valve head which is biased against a valve seat through which pressurized air travels en route to the motor. A small orifice in the valve head leads to an expansible chamber behind the head. In operation of the tool, when the throttle valve is open, initial air is supplied to the motor by a slight opening of the air valve due to a higher pressure in front of the valve head than behind it. The motor quickly reaches a predetermined speed level at which time the air valve is fully opened by centrifugal weights. Under loading approaching stall, the motor slows to a speed low enough to allow the air valve to move toward closure under the influence of a spring.