For Making Or Breaking Threaded Connections (e.g., Torque Measuring Wrenches) Patents (Class 73/862.21)
  • Patent number: 11975427
    Abstract: A method for controlling an electric motor of a power tool having a receptacle for a tool, at least a current of the electric motor and/or a rotation speed of the electric motor during an impact operating mode of the electric motor being detected as a parameter, a driving time of the electric motor for the impact operating mode being specified as a function of the detected parameter. A method is also described for controlling an electric motor of a power tool having a receptacle for a tool for unscrewing a screw from a mating part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2024
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Chi Hoe Leong, Ju-Lien Tan, Kah Hooi Tan, Moritz Stiefel, Sim Teik Yeoh
  • Patent number: 11965784
    Abstract: A sensor for measuring the flex of a pole when exposed to one or more forces, the sensor including at least one magnet and Hall Effect sensor combination, wherein the at least one magnet and Hall effect sensor are at a predetermined position relative to one another when there are no forces acting on the pole and which are movable relative to one another when forces act on the pole, such that a signal proportional to the relative movement is generated by the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2024
    Assignee: BAE SYSTEMS plc
    Inventors: Stuart John Kitching, Daniel Bishop
  • Patent number: 11877558
    Abstract: A swivel assembly can have a longitudinal axis. The swivel assembly can have an upper portion and a lower portion that is rotationally coupled to the upper portion. The lower portion can have a connector configured to securely engage a cable. The lower portion can be configured to remain in electrical communication with the upper portion as the lower portion rotates with respect to the upper portion. A motor can be disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion and configured to selectively rotate the lower portion. A sensor can be configured to detect torsion in the cable. A controller can be in communication with the sensor and the motor. Upon receiving a signal from the sensor indicating a threshold torsion in the cable, the controller can be configured to cause the motor to rotate in a direction corresponding to a direction of the torsion in the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Assignee: NOVOCURE GMBH
    Inventors: Michael Krinitsky, Yoram Wasserman, Michael Shtotland, Shiri Davidi, Roni Blat, Golan Bar Tal, Moshe Giladi, Shalom Strauss, Michal Munster, Nikolai Piterov
  • Patent number: 11787025
    Abstract: A torque wrench for use in driving fasteners is provided. The wrench includes an electronics unit disposed within a housing engaged with the body of the wrench that is capable of sensing and measuring the torque applied to a fastener by the wrench and providing an output of the level of torque to the user. The data sensed by the electronics unit can be utilized to provide feedback to the user regarding the operation of the wrench, and to monitor the overall operation of the wrench for calibration purposes, among other functions. During use, the wrench can provide the user with visual, audible and tactile feedback regarding the operation of the device relative to stored maximum torque values stored in the electronics unit. The housing for the electronics unit can be formed to be a single use component of the tool or can be designed for multiple uses with a configuration that can be engaged with cradles forming the body of the wrench having various different configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: Gauthier Biomedical, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael T. Gauthier, Austin R. Braganza, Dean C. Jeutter, Stacy Ann Gauthier
  • Patent number: 11752604
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2023
    Assignee: Snap-on Incorporated
    Inventors: Jerry A. King, Nathan J. Lee, John L. Reynertson, Stephen M. Bauer, Jie Li
  • Patent number: 11592288
    Abstract: An ultrasound transmitting and receiving device that can determine whether a contact state between a probe and a bolt is normal without relying on the skill of an operator is provided. The ultrasound transmitting and receiving device includes a probe control unit, an auxiliary storage device, and a contact state determination unit. The probe control unit causes a probe to transmit ultrasound to a bolt, and causes the probe to receive an echo of the transmitted ultrasound. The auxiliary storage device stores one or more pieces of comparison data to be compared with echo data indicating the echo received by the probe. The contact state determination unit compares the echo data with the comparison data, and determines a contact state between the probe and the bolt based on a comparison result.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Tsuzaki, Toshitsugu Sakakibara, Toshiaki Ohashi, Tsukasa Ishida
  • Patent number: 11492857
    Abstract: A torque device for guiding a first torque device member relative to a second torque device member includes the first and second torque device members. Each of the torque device members has an operational axis of rotation and three clamp bodies spaced about the operational axis. The clamp bodies are movable between a retracted passive position and an extended active position. The torque device also includes a guide ring on one of the torque device members. The guide ring includes one or more guide ring sections. In addition, the torque device includes at least two guide elements on the other of the torque device members. Each guide element being movable with one of the clamp bodies of the respective torque device member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: NATIONAL OILWELL VARCO NORWAY AS
    Inventors: Jonathan Garrick Webb, David Allen Hill, Trond Werner Moen
  • Patent number: 11433513
    Abstract: A multifunctional torque wrench includes a main body, an operation member, and an indication device. The main body has a driving portion, a combination portion, and a twisting portion. The driving portion pivotally drives a fastener to rotate about an axis passing through the main body. The operation member is switchable between a first position and a second position with respect to the main body. The extension portion extends along a second axis. When the operation member is at the first position, the second axis is vertical to the first axis, allowing a user to turn the main body to generate the torque for driving a fastener. The indication device is disposed between the main body and the operation member for displaying the torque value. When the operation member is at the second position, the second axis is parallel to the first axis for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Inventor: Bobby Hu
  • Patent number: 11338414
    Abstract: A bendable torque wrench includes: a shank; a tubular body whose front end is angularly displaceable with respect to the shank about an axis defined by a first pivotal connection end of the shank; an abutting block located on one side of the tubular body, a the front end of the abutting block has a convexly curved abutting surface; and a detent member whose front end is pivotally connected to a second pivotal connection end of the shank and whose rear end forms a convexly curved contact surface in elastic contact with the curved abutting surface of the abutting block. The torque wrench bends, or collapses, rapidly when the torque applied to the torque wrench reaches a preset torque value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Assignee: KABO TOOL COMPANY
    Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsieh
  • Patent number: 11338415
    Abstract: The invention relates to a guidance device for guiding a worker through a process of installing flanges by fastening a plurality of bolts with a torque wrench. The guidance device is arranged to communicate with the torque wrench and the worker via a user interface. The guidance device is arranged to a) obtain flange information about a flange to be installed, the flange information comprising a required torqueing pattern of the bolts to be fastened and required torque values, b) output via the user interface of an indication of a first bolt of the required torqueing pattern, c) receive an applied torque value from the torque wrench, d) output via the user interface of an indication of a next bolt of the required torqueing pattern, repeat c) and d) until a last applied torque value is received and e) transmit a torque record to a remote computer or data storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Assignee: CUMULUS DIGITAL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Paul Sorensen, Angela Ann Ackroyd, Angela Nagelin, Meghan Golden, Chiz Chikwendu
  • Patent number: 11300195
    Abstract: Separate structural units for an inner gear and a housing of a planetary gear device include an inner gear with a first raised portion formed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner gear, where the first raised portion extends towards in a direction that is inclined with respect to the axial direction of the inner gear. A housing includes a second raised portion formed on an inner peripheral surface, where the second raised portion extends in a direction that is inclined in respect to the axial direction. The housing contains the inner gear such that there is a gap formed between the inner peripheral surface of the housing and the outer peripheral surface of the inner gear. Movement of the inner gear within the interior of the housing is limited through linear contact of the first raised portion and the second raised portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignee: ENPLAS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Toshiki Kawada, Shohei Ishida, Takuya Kaneko
  • Patent number: 11156286
    Abstract: Separate structural units for an inner gear and a housing of a planetary gear device include an inner gear with a first raised portion formed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner gear, where the first raised portion extends towards in a direction that is inclined with respect to the axial direction of the inner gear. A housing includes a second raised portion formed on an inner peripheral surface, where the second raised portion extends in a direction that is inclined in respect to the axial direction. The housing contains the inner gear such that there is a gap formed between the inner peripheral surface of the housing and the outer peripheral surface of the inner gear. Movement of the inner gear within the interior of the housing is limited through linear contact of the first raised portion and the second raised portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Assignee: ENPLAS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Toshiki Kawada, Shohei Ishida, Takuya Kaneko
  • Patent number: 11141842
    Abstract: Disposable torque-limiting mechanisms with upper shank component with a torque-limiting interface, a lower shank component with a torque-limiting interface, and a washer assembly biasing element. Torque-limiting interfaces having a plurality of undulations arranged around an axial bore or drive socket and separated by a plurality of transition regions, with each undulation having an upslope, a peak, and a downslope. The torque-limiting interfaces are configured to engage and disengage to provide torque transmission with predetermined torque limits at various rotational speeds and for amounts of actuations while remaining within a specified operational range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Assignee: ECA Medical Instruments
    Inventors: John Nino, David Ivinson, David Tory
  • Patent number: 10940577
    Abstract: In a torque control system and method for power impact torque tool, first establish a curve showing the relationship between the high/low working voltages of the tool in normal operation and the high/low torque values that are correspondingly output by the tool at the high/low working voltages. Input a target torque value that falls between the highest and the lowest torque value on the relationship curve to obtain a working voltage corresponding to the target torque value for performing a tightening operation. During the tightening process, a microprocessor of a torque control device receives and uses sensing signals instantly and continuously sent by a torque sensing device and changes in voltage, current and motor temperature continuously detected by a voltage/current sensing element and a temperature sensing element to stably control, via a voltage control module, the working voltage within a preset allowable range of variation for tightening torque control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Assignee: CHINA PNEUMATIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yu-Wei Chu, Tai-Yun Chiang
  • Patent number: 10800013
    Abstract: An electric socket ratchet wrench includes a body, a driving device rotatably mounted in the body, a pawl device coupled with the driving device, a power device providing a torque, a transmission device between the driving device and the power device, and a clutch device. The driving device includes a driving member having a non-circular hole for coupling with a fastener. The driving member includes an annular toothed portion coupled with the pawl device and an end toothed portion coupled with the transmission device. When a resistance smaller than the torque is encountered while the driving member is driving the fastener, the driving member continuously drives the fastener. When a large resistance larger than the torque is encountered at a position, the body is manually rotatable by a torque larger than the large resistance to forcibly drive the fastener through the position via the driving member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Inventor: Bobby Hu
  • Patent number: 10744626
    Abstract: A slip type torque wrench has a driving head. The driving head includes a fixing seat and a guiding seat therein. The fixing seat is provided with a rolling member. The guiding seat is provided with a press member. The press member is biased by an elastic unit to abut against the rolling member. A peripheral side of the guiding seat is formed with a guiding slope. The driving head has a tightening hole. A tightening member is locked to the tightening hole. One end of the tightening member abuts against the guiding slope and pushes the guiding seat for tightening the fixing seat. Thereby, the rolling member and the press member stably operate to achieve the purpose of stabilizing the output torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: TORQUE-TECH PRECISION CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Tien-Lung Lin
  • Patent number: 10744625
    Abstract: A socket having functions of torque sensing, angle sensing, and signal transmitting is provided. The socket includes a socket body, a circuit board module, a deformation strain sensing unit, an output/input module, a power supply module, and a protection device. Wherein, the socket body has variable structures to accommodate the circuit board module, the deformation strain sensing unit, the power supply module and the output/input module, and to protect the accommodated elements by the protection device. Accordingly, the socket has the functions of torque sensing, angle sensing, and signal transmitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: China Pneumatic Corporation
    Inventor: Hsiu-Feng Chu
  • Patent number: 10724913
    Abstract: A method of monitoring the clamping of an assembly by a threaded fastener. One element of the threaded fastener is rotated by a driver while the other is held stationary by a holding tool. The screwing torque and reaction torque of the holding tool are measured. Analyzing their evolution as a function of a third parameter makes it possible to determine accurately the pre-tension in the assembly. The disclosure herein further relates to a clamping method employing a real-time monitoring method of this kind. The disclosure herein also relates to a corresponding device for implementing a method of this kind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: Airbus Operations (S.A.S.)
    Inventors: Clément Chirol, Patricia Morgue, Manuel Paredes, Simon Dols
  • Patent number: 10688634
    Abstract: Disposable torque-limiting mechanisms with upper shank component with a torque-limiting interface, a lower shank component with a torque-limiting interface, and a washer assembly biasing element. Torque-limiting interfaces having a plurality of undulations arranged around an axial bore or drive socket and separated by a plurality of transition regions, with each undulation having an upslope, a peak, and a downslope. The torque-limiting interfaces are configured to engage and disengage to provide torque transmission with predetermined torque limits at various rotational speeds and for amounts of actuations while remaining within a specified operational range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: ECA Medical Instruments
    Inventors: John Nino, David Ivinson, David Tory
  • Patent number: 10585405
    Abstract: A communication port interface facilitates downloading of torque and/or angle log information from an electronic torque tool to an external device. Torque and/or angle preset job information may be entered in client software and uploaded from the external device to the electronic torque tool via the communication port interface. Additional information including real time clock information and wrench system parameters may be uploaded to the electronic torque tool via the communication port interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2020
    Assignee: Snap-on Incorporated
    Inventors: Jie Li, Jerry A. King, Tingwen Wu, Nathan J. Lee
  • Patent number: 10299869
    Abstract: A reaction torque transducer for mounting a motor of an instrument drive unit includes a motor plate, a mounting plate, and a flex ring. The motor plate is fixed to the motor and the mounting plate is fixed to a fixed structure. The flex ring is positioned between the motor plate and the mounting plate. The flex ring includes a body having a first end and a second end that are moveable relative to one another. The first end of the body is fixed to the motor plate and the second end of the body is fixed to the mounting plate. The body is configured to flex in response to the first and second ends moving with respect to one another. A strain gauge is positioned on the body of the flex ring and is configured to measure flexation of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Robert Allen, Chi Min Seow, Michael Zemlok
  • Patent number: 10234413
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an electronic device comprises a circuit board, an electrical component, and a measurement unit. The circuit board has a first face. The electrical component includes a second face electrically connected to the first face via a bonding material, a first end in a first direction along the second face, and a second end. The second end is opposite to the first end in the first direction. The measurement unit is configured to measure a characteristic changing depending on a conductivity of the bonding material. A first distance between the first face and the first end is shorter than a second distance between the first face and the second end. The measurement unit includes a first measurement unit configured to measure the characteristic of a part of the bonding material. The part is adjacent to the first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Yuu Yamayose, Tetsuya Kugimiya
  • Patent number: 10232495
    Abstract: An electric ratchet wrench includes a driving member rotatably mounted in a body. A pawl device is pivotably mounted to the driving member. A ring gear is rotatably mounted around the driving member. An elastic device is mounted between the ring gear and the driving member. A transmission shaft includes a first end connected to a motor and a second end configured to switch between a meshing state meshed with the ring gear and a disengagement state disengaging from the ring gear. The motor drives the transmission shaft to rotate the driving member. The body can be manually driven to overcome a resistance which is larger than the torque outputted by the motor and which causes a tooth slippage phenomenon between the transmission shaft and the ring gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Inventor: Bobby Hu
  • Patent number: 10203204
    Abstract: A first acceleration sensor is arranged on a crank mounted to a crankshaft so as to be located at a position away from the crankshaft by a distance r1, and the first acceleration sensor detects acceleration a1 in a direction parallel to a longitudinal direction of the crank. A second acceleration sensor is arranged on the crank mounted to the crankshaft so as to be located at a position away from the crankshaft by a distance r2 different from the distance r1, and the second acceleration sensor detects acceleration a2 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the crank. A measurement module control part calculates information regarding a rotation angle of the crank based on a1, a2, r1, and r2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2019
    Assignee: PIONEER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kyoichi Terao, Hideto Endo, Yuji Izuru
  • Patent number: 10139299
    Abstract: Electronic device for measuring the characteristics of fastening devices, comprising a box-shaped body (2) traversed by at least one cylinder (21), rotating with respect to the box-shaped body that transmits the rotary motion received by such a fastening device and a sensor capable of measuring the rotary torque and the rotation angle on said cylinder. Such a device comprises means for detecting the relative rotation between box-shaped body (2) and rotation driving cylinder (21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: ATLAS COPCO BLM S.R.L.
    Inventor: Roberto Molino
  • Patent number: 10094180
    Abstract: A mechanism for twisting off a drill rod includes a front clamping body (J0) and a rear clamping body (J1) both of which are installed at a fixed bracket. Each of the front clamping body (J0) and the rear clamping body (J1) includes a positioning clamping device and a clamping execution device which are respectively installed at two sides of a clamping centerline (JC) and opposite to each other. The front clamping body (J0) is installed within the first fixed bracket element (80) through a rear fixed shaft. The rear clamping body (J1) is installed within an overturn bracket (6) of the second fixed bracket element (81) through a rear fixed shaft. The positioning clamping device and the clamping execution device of both the front clamping body (J0) and the rear clamping body (J1) are asymmetric to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: CHTC JOVE HEAVY INDUSTRY COMPANY
    Inventor: Yanqi He
  • Patent number: 9700970
    Abstract: A fastening device may include a fastening tool body having a fastener on one end; a drive unit installed on the fastening tool body and providing fastening power to the fastener; a gyroscopic sensor that is installed on the fastening tool body and detects the displacement of the fastening tool body and outputs a detection signal thereof; an angle sensor that detects the angle of the fastening tool body and outputs a detection signal thereof to a controller; and the controller that receives the signals output from the gyroscopic sensor and the angle sensor and output a set actuating signal to the drive unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Jaehyun Lee
  • Patent number: 9669527
    Abstract: A digital torque wrench mainly comprises a transmission rod of wrench body provided in a handle, and a tool head provided at the exterior of the handle. An abutment surface on the other end of the transmission rod is to abut with one end of a lever arm. A roller is provided on the other end of the lever arm, and a rolling member opposite to the roller is also provided. A latch member on an actuator is inserted between the roller and the rolling member. Further, a controller is coupled with the actuator and a torque sensing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: National Kaohsiung University of Applied Sciences
    Inventors: Shine-Tzong Ho, Bo-Yi Zhuang
  • Patent number: 9579783
    Abstract: A power tool includes: a drive unit for a tool; an operating device for activating the power tool; a measuring device for measuring a motion of the power tool; and a filter for filtering at least one measured value of the measured motion. The operating device is configured to reduce a power output of the drive unit when the filtered, measured value corresponds to a state of reduced ease of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Bernd Wirnitzer, Christoph Steurer
  • Patent number: 9327390
    Abstract: An electronic torque wrench includes: a wrench main body including ahead section and a shank body, at least one recess being formed on a wall face of one side of the shank body, a top face of the shank body being inward depressed to form a platform, a rear end of the shank body being inward recessed to form a cavity for placing cells therein, a through hole being formed on the shank body in communication with the platform and the cavity; at least one torque sensor disposed in the recess; and an electronic operation/control device disposed on the platform. The outward protruding volume of the operation/control device is reduced to minify the total volume of the wrench and the platform and the recess enhance the flexion of the shank body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: KABO TOOL COMPANY
    Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsieh
  • Patent number: 9325199
    Abstract: A wireless charging device includes a wireless transmitting module and a wireless receiving module. The wireless transmitting module includes a first outer casing and a wireless transmitting unit disposed inside the first outer casing for generating electromagnetic fields. The wireless receiving module includes a second outer casing, a wireless receiving unit disposed inside the second outer casing for wirelessly receiving the electromagnetic fields generated by the wireless transmitting unit, and at least one electrical connector exposed outside the second outer casing and electrically contacting a portable electronic device. The first outer casing of the wireless transmitting module has at least one first receiving space for receiving the second outer casing and at least one second receiving space for receiving the at least one electrical connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: LIEN CHANG ELECTRONIC ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hsueh-Han Lee
  • Patent number: 9308633
    Abstract: A torque wrench comprises a handle, a wrench head having a ratcheting workpiece engaging portion, and a tensor beam defining a longitudinal axis and having a rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A first strain gauge is coupled to one side of the tensor beam, and a second strain gauge is coupled to another side orthogonal to the one side. A processor coupled to the first and second strain gauges converts an output signal from one of the strain gauges into an equivalent torque value. The tensor beam is intermediate the handle and the wrench head and is rotatably coupled to the wrench head and is rotatable, with respect to the tensor beam, between a first position in which the processor processes an output signal from the first strain gauge and a second position in which the processor processes an output signal from the second strain gauge assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: Apex Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Awad Aly Gharib
  • Patent number: 9259825
    Abstract: A tool for archery broadheads or other fasteners is provided including an engagement end having an aperture, socket or drive feature to accommodate the broadhead or engage a fastener. The tool is constructed at least partially from an elastomeric material. Upon application of a moment to the tool by a user, part of the tool deforms or twists so that indicia elements move relative to one another and output torque or moment information to a user based on the spatial orientation of the indicia elements relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: GRACE ENGINEERING CORP.
    Inventor: Louis Grace, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9212725
    Abstract: Ring gears with a cylindrical ring gear body having a wall with a longitudinal length extending between opposing first and second ends, the wall having an outer surface and an inner surface. The inner surface has a first portion that extends a first sub-length of the ring gear body and a longitudinally spaced apart second portion that extends a second sub-length of the ring gear body. The first portion extends from the first end of the ring gear inward and the second portion extends from the second end of the ring gear inward. The inner surface of the first portion comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending splines and the inner surface of the second portion is devoid of the splines of the first portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Company
    Inventors: John Paul Steckel, Daniel Jay Becker, Timothy Richard Cooper, Gregory Paul Albert
  • Patent number: 9146175
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a device for detecting abnormal changes in play in a transmission unit configured to transfer rotational movements of a motor, having a speed of rotation that depends on a torque reference signal (Tref), to a movable mechanical unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: ABB Research Ltd
    Inventors: Kari Saarinen, Shiva Sander-Tavallaey
  • Patent number: 9097070
    Abstract: Automated make-up and break-up methods and apparatus for rotary oil well drilling are presented. The apparatus includes a drilling database storing tubular type records, a torque wrench having a spinner, and a controller. During make-up, the controller retrieves one or more tubular type records stored in the drilling database in order to configure the torque wrench and/or the spinner to connect an additional tubular section to a tubular string or to disconnect a connection between tubulars in accordance with tubular type parameters. Sensors are employed on various drill rig components and reported sensor values are monitored. Timers are started concurrent with the initiation of various make-up and break-out steps. Exceptions are thrown when sensor values are out-of-range or when steps take too long to complete. Advantages are derived from speeding-up drill rig operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd.
    Inventor: Douglas A. Hunter
  • Patent number: 9021896
    Abstract: A method for determining the quality of a screw joint tightening process performed by means of a torque impulse wrench, comprising clamp load determination via calculation of the time of flight for ultra sonic waves induced into the screw joint, and comparing of a total rotation movement of the screw joint with predetermined angle limit values as a target axial load level has been indicated by the time of flight of ultra sonic waves induced in the screw joint. Occurring discrepancies between the obtained total rotation movement of the screw joint and the angle limit values would indicate a faulty screw joint and/or a malfunctioning ultra sonic wave flight time measurement, which means an unacceptable tightening process quality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Atlas Copco Industrial Technique AB
    Inventors: Carl-Gustaf Carlin, Tobias Axel Lindback
  • Publication number: 20150107373
    Abstract: A process for measuring the friability of a material, such as a polymer bale, may include measuring the amount of force required to break-up a portion of the material. A corresponding testing apparatus for measuring the friability may include a device configured for breaking-up the portion of the material and measuring the force required to cause the break-up to occur.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventors: Errol OLIVIER, Dilipkumar PADLIYA, Samuel Douglas STONE, Bruce STONE, Mark KUIJPERS
  • Patent number: 8991266
    Abstract: A threaded member capable of detecting tightening force includes a head section, a threaded rod section and at least one strain sensor. The head section has a bottom face, a skirt section and a receiving space. The threaded rod section is disposed under the bottom face of the head section. A sink section is formed on the bottom face of the head section. The strain sensor is disposed on the bottom face of the head section and positioned in the receiving space. Due to the sink section, when the head section is strained and deformed, the strain sensor can sensitively and precisely detect the strain capacity of the head section and provide the tightening force of the threaded member for a user to more precisely tighten the threaded member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Kabo Tool Company
    Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsieh
  • Patent number: 8991518
    Abstract: A portable power wrench is controlled by an operation control unit and comprises a housing (10;50) with a rotation motor, a gear casing (15;55) including a gearing (18;56,57) and a drive spindle (19;60} and being releasably and/or rotatably connected to the housing via a swivel or multi-position connection, an operation parameter sensing device (22,23;68) is associated with the drive spindle (19,60). The sensing device (22,23;68) communicates with the operation control unit via a first signal transferring device (28;82) which is disposed between the drive spindle (19;60) and the gear casing (15;55), and a second signal transferring device (31;84) is disposed between the gear casing (15;55) and the housing (10;50), wherein the second signal transferring device (31;84) communicates with the operation control unit. At least the first signal transferring device (28;82) between the drive spindle (19;60) and the gear casing (15;55) comprises a contact free transfer device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Atlas Copco Industrial Technique Aktiebolag
    Inventor: Karl Johan Lars Elsmark
  • Publication number: 20150053022
    Abstract: An electronic socket is provided. The electronic socket includes a body, a strain gauge, an electronic control module, and a display unit. The body has a driving groove and a passive groove. The driving groove and the passive groove are connected to each other through a channel, wherein the body includes a containing space located on an outside and a recessed groove located in the containing space corresponding to the channel. The strain gauge is disposed in the recessed groove. The electronic control module and a display unit are disposed in the containing space, and the display unit is for showing a data sensed by the electronic control module which obtains from the strain gauge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventor: Chih-Ching HSIEH
  • Publication number: 20150013475
    Abstract: A torque wrench comprises a handle, a wrench head having a ratcheting workpiece engaging portion, and a tensor beam defining a longitudinal axis and having a rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A first strain gauge is coupled to one side of the tensor beam, and a second strain gauge is coupled to another side orthogonal to the one side. A processor coupled to the first and second strain gauges converts an output signal from one of the strain gauges into an equivalent torque value. The tensor beam is intermediate the handle and the wrench head and is rotatably coupled to the wrench head and is rotatable, with respect to the tensor beam, between a first position in which the processor processes an output signal from the first strain gauge and a second position in which the processor processes an output signal from the second strain gauge assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Awad Aly Gharib
  • Patent number: 8869630
    Abstract: A torque measuring vise, including a body for operatively supporting one or more movable clamping members defining a clamping axis for releasably securing an object; one or more sensors disposed about the torque measuring vise; and an electronic circuit in communication with the one or more sensors for producing one or more load responsive measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Brock Watson, Greg A. Kliewer, Roger L. Schultz, Robert G. Watson
  • Patent number: 8844381
    Abstract: A torque wrench comprises a handle, a wrench head having a ratcheting workpiece engaging portion, and a tensor beam defining a longitudinal axis and having a rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A first strain gauge is coupled to one side of the tensor beam, and a second strain gauge is coupled to another side orthogonal to the one side. A processor coupled to the first and second strain gauges converts an output signal from one of the strain gauges into an equivalent torque value. The tensor beam is intermediate the handle and the wrench head and is rotatably coupled to the wrench head and is rotatable, with respect to the tensor beam, between a first position in which the processor processes an output signal from the first strain gauge and a second position in which the processor processes an output signal from the second strain gauge assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Apex Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Awad Aly Gharib
  • Publication number: 20140251027
    Abstract: A threaded member capable of detecting tightening force includes a head section, a threaded rod section and at least one strain sensor. The head section has a bottom face, a skirt section and a receiving space. The threaded rod section is disposed under the bottom face of the head section. A sink section is formed on the bottom face of the head section. The strain sensor is disposed on the bottom face of the head section and positioned in the receiving space. Due to the sink section, when the head section is strained and deformed, the strain sensor can sensitively and precisely detect the strain capacity of the head section and provide the tightening force of the threaded member for a user to more precisely tighten the threaded member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: KABO TOOL COMPANY
    Inventor: Chih-Ching HSIEH
  • Patent number: 8806961
    Abstract: The portable pneumatic impact wrench testing machine is a portable torque tester that tests the torque output of a pneumatic impact wrench. The machine includes a first member that is hingedly attached to a second member via a hinge member. A hydraulic jack is positioned between the first member and the second member, and includes a gauge that translates compression or pressure imposed on the hydraulic jack into torque that an impact wrench is inputting. A bolt member is positioned between the hinge member and hydraulic jack, and the bolt member passes across the first member and the second member. A nut extends on an outer surface of the second member, and is threadably engaged to the bolt member. The impact wrench rotates said nut thereby squeezing the first member towards the second member in order to compress the hydraulic jack positioned there between.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventor: Thomas W. Reilly
  • Patent number: 8800387
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of evaluating the play between two threaded components, a first component comprising an internal thread, and a second component comprising an external thread that corresponds to the internal thread of the first component, the components are engaged with each other the method comprising the steps of: applying a torque from a motor to said components such that a first side of the internal thread is in contact with an opposing first side of the external thread wherein the two components are mutually rotated, which mutual rotation yields a mutual translation movement of the two threaded components; fixing the components with respect to each other, such that no mutual translation movement is allowed, whereas mutual rotation is still allowed; withholding the applied torque to one of said components, until a second side of the internal thread is in contact with an opposing second side of the external thread, monitoring the applied torque during the above steps by determining the pow
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: TIAP AB
    Inventor: Kjell Pernestål
  • Patent number: 8794114
    Abstract: An electronic torque wrench (10) comprising a grip body (11) with a user interface (12) and a control electronics (13) for controlling the wrench. From one extremity of the grip body protrudes a mechanical connection element (14) that terminates at one extremity with a tightening head (16). In the connection element are torque sensors (18) for determining the torque transmitted between the grip body and the head and the connection element (14) is connected in a removable and replaceable way to the grip body (11) and comprises memory means (19) containing data for calibrating the wrench to such connection element (14) and means for transferring such data to the control electronics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Atlas Copco BLM S.R.L.
    Inventor: Angelo Chiapuzzi
  • Publication number: 20140150568
    Abstract: A portable torque verification system for testing the accuracy of hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and manual torque wrenches. A first torque sensor is utilized for hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical torque wrenches. A preferred second torque sensor measures the torque of manual torque wrenches. The second torque sensor is preferably supported by a support the height of which is preferably adjustable. Hydraulic connections to an external source of hydraulic fluid are provided so that the housing preferred for the components of the system may be closed for safety when an hydraulic wrench is tested. Electrical connections permit the use of an external torque meter. Within the housing the system additionally includes a reaction point, preferably removable and slidable, and a hydraulic pressure gauge. Also preferably, a rigid base plate is attached to the bottom of the housing and holds, inter alia, the first torque sensor, the support cylinder, and the reaction point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Inventor: Sterling L. Delbridge
  • Patent number: 8726743
    Abstract: A method of connecting a first threaded tubular to a second threaded tubular includes: engaging threads of the tubulars; and rotating the first tubular relative to the second tubular, thereby making up the threaded connection. The method further includes, during makeup of the threaded connection: detecting a shoulder position; and after detection of the shoulder position, monitoring for potential yielding of the threaded connection. The method further includes terminating the makeup according to: a first criterion in response to detection of the potential yielding; or a second criterion in response to absence of the potential yielding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Rainer Ruehmann, Graham Myles Ruark