With Electric Signal Device Patents (Class 81/479)
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Patent number: 7367250Abstract: A digital beam-type torque wrench has a main beam and a stationary beam having a distal end thereof fixedly attached at or near a distal end of the main beam. A sensing assembly is disposed generally at a proximal end of the main beam and includes a displacement sensing element carried by the proximal end of the stationary beam and a sensing element actuator disposed on said main beam. The sensing element actuator and sensing actuator cooperate to generate a variable output voltage, whose magnitude is proportional to the amount of flexure of the main beam upon application of torque upon a rotating element by the wrench. In one embodiment, the sensing assembly comprises a potentiometric rotary position sensor including an arcuate rack gear coupled to the main beam and engaged with a pinion gear coupled to the stationary beam, with rotation of the pinion gear in turn causing rotation of a potentiometer.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2006Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Assignee: Brown Line Metal Works, LLCInventors: Michael D. Rainone, Thomas E. Crippen
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Patent number: 7313990Abstract: An electronic torque wrench includes a head portion, a handle portion connected to the head portion and having a tubular wall that defines a receiving space, a strain sensor unit disposed in the head portion, and an indicator unit disposed in the receiving space and including a rotary member having a rotatable portion, a first indicator connected to the tubular wall, and a second indicator fixed to the rotatable portion. The first and second indicators strike each other to produce a sound when the rotatable portion is rotated. A controlling unit is connected electrically to the strain sensor unit and the rotary member, and actuates the rotatable portion to rotate when the strain sensor unit detects a torque that is larger than a reference torque level.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2006Date of Patent: January 1, 2008Inventor: Hsuan-Sen Shiao
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Patent number: 7313974Abstract: A support is for supporting electrical and/or electronic structure and/or electrical power supply structure for a hand dynamometer tool, in particular for a torque wrench operating by breaking mechanical equilibrium. A body of a substantially cylindrical shape that extends along a longitudinal axis, defined by two end faces, recesses and/or seats suitable for receiving electrical power supply members and/or electrical/electronic circuit boards are arranged and distributed around the axis, on or close to a periphery of the support. The support can be applied to a support module for a hand dynamometer tool and to a dynamometer tool.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2005Date of Patent: January 1, 2008Assignee: FacomInventors: Bertrand Cupif, Philippe Praudel, Jocelyn Vecchio
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Patent number: 7284451Abstract: A means for detecting a break in mechanical equilibrium comprised of a measurement means that delivers a signal corresponding to a measurement of a torque applied to a fastener element, an electronic processing means for electronically processing a signal, and a computation processing means for computationally processing data output from the electronically processing of the signal. Application to a hand dynamometer tool.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2005Date of Patent: October 23, 2007Assignee: FacomInventors: Bertrand Cupif, Philippe Praudel, Jocelyn Vecchio
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Patent number: 7234378Abstract: A digital torque wrench is disclosed having a transducer beam with a reduced thickness web therein. At least one strain gauge sensor is mounted to the internal web to measure the shearing stress within the web as the wrench is rotated. By using such a reduced thickness web, mounting the sensors in opposed orientations, mounting the transducer beam to the torque wrench handle using first and second longitudinal flanking pins, and providing the transducer beam in a tapered shape, the resulting measurement of the torque wrench is very accurate. Moreover, a rotational interface module with digital display is provided to facilitate reading of the display by the user.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2006Date of Patent: June 26, 2007Assignee: Ryeson CorporationInventor: John L. Reynertson, Jr.
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Patent number: 7194940Abstract: An enhancing structure of an electronic torsional tool having an electronic strain gauge for measuring a torsional force applied thereon; wherein the electronic torsional tool having a main body comprising: an extending rod mounted in the main body and extended through a longitudinal length of the main body, so as to enhance flexibility of the main body. The main body is provided with a hole to enhance flexibility of the main body. The extending rod is extended through a longitudinal length of the hole of the main body, so as to enhance the strength of the hole of the main body. The strain gauge is mounted in the hole of the main body.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsieh
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Patent number: 7107884Abstract: An electronic torque wrench has a tubular core with elongated apertures therein which respectively removably receive user interface assembly and power assembly modules, the modules being exposed through openings in a surrounding grip sheath. A workpiece-engaging head is coupled to a beam member which may received in a tapered opening in a shim member received in an end of the tube. A sensor on the beam member is connected by wires extending to the user interface assembly, which in turn has a display device producing a bar graph display indicating the proximity of a measured torque value to a preset torque level.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2004Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Assignee: Snap-on IncorporatedInventors: Brian Cutler, David Duvan, Charles Davis, Zoltan Pavlakovich
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Patent number: 7093522Abstract: A wrench comprises a casing and a rod. The rod has a driven portion, a driving tip, and a straight section which extends therebetween. The driven portion has a clamped section, a rotating section and a cantilever section connected therebetween, the clamped section being securely clamped in the casing. The rotating section being rotatable, between a free position and a biased position, wherein in the biased position the rod closes an electric circuit, thereby activating an indicator.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2004Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Assignee: E.T.M. Precision Tool Manufacture Ltd.Inventors: Hanoch Guy, Yehoshua Weinstein
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Patent number: 7089834Abstract: A torque wrench is disclosed having torque range indicators. The torque wrench includes a handle, a torquing tool, a mounting bar and a programmable interface module. At least one torque sensor is communicatively coupled to the interface module. The interface module includes an input device able to receive at least one predetermined torque value, a torque value indicator, a torque range indicator, and a controller. The torque value indicator, the torque sensor, and the torque range indicator are communicatively coupled to the controller, and the controller is programmed to activate the torque range indicator based on a torque range calculated by comparing a torque value received from the torque sensor to the at least one predetermined torque value.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2004Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Assignee: Ryeson CorporationInventors: John Reynertson, Jerome M. Gauthier
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Patent number: 7082866Abstract: A torque-angle wrench has a torque preset alert circuit which provides a first signal when a predetermined torque level is reached, an angle sensing circuitry providing a second signal corresponding to angular rotation, output circuitry responsive to the second signal for providing an indication of angular rotation, and switch circuitry for preventing the second signal from reaching the output circuitry until the occurrence of the first signal.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2003Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignee: Snap-on IncorporatedInventor: Thomas P. Becker
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Patent number: 7082865Abstract: A digital torque wrench is disclosed having a transducer beam with a reduced thickness web therein. At least one strain gauge sensor is mounted to the internal web to measure the shearing stress within the web as the wrench is rotated. By using such a reduced thickness web, mounting the sensors in opposed orientations, mounting the transducer beam to the torque wrench handle using first and second longitudinal flanking pins, and providing the transducer beam in a tapered shape, the resulting measurement of the torque wrench is very accurate. Moreover, a rotational interface module with digital display is provided to facilitate reading of the display by the user.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2003Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignee: Ryeson CorporationInventor: John L. Reynertson, Jr.
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Patent number: 7047849Abstract: A wrench includes a pipe, a lever, a first wedge, a second wedge, an elastic element, a counter and a sensor. The lever includes a portion put in and pivotally connected with the pipe. The first wedge is attached to the portion of the lever. The second wedge is in contact with the first wedge. The elastic element biases the second wedge against the first wedge. The counter is installed on the pipe. The sensor signals the counter every time it senses movement of the first wedge past the second wedge.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2004Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Assignee: King Tony Tools Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ching-Hua Lai
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Patent number: 7021179Abstract: The power screwdriver comprises a functional part (11) with a housing (14) through which a shaft (17) passes. The shaft (17) is provided with a toothing (18), into which a ratchet lever of the functional part (11) engages. A splined shaft toothing (20) of the shaft (17) has an insertion recess (21) that changes into a cavity (22). The wall of the cavity (22) is provided with a torsion sensor (23) and forms a measuring section (25) that is located in the area of the shaft (17) covered by the housing (14). A torsion measurement is effected in the measuring section (25). Due to the measuring section (25) being located in the area of the shaft covered by the housing (14), the shaft (17) is relatively short whereby it may be used under tight spatial screwing conditions involving a low head height above the screw. The power wrench is additionally provided with an angle measuring device (33) whereby torque and angle of rotation can be simultaneously provided and can be used for controlling and recording.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2002Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Assignee: Paul -Heinz WagnerInventors: Ulf Sittig, Bernd Thelen
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Patent number: 7000508Abstract: Disclosed is a torque wrench comprising a signal generator including a spring biased against a trigger member, a sensor, and a disc biased between the spring and the sensor, a setting assembly including a cylindrical member for receiving the disc and the sensor, a cap, a knob through the cap to threadably couple to the cylindrical member, and a sliding pin inserted through a groove on a handle into the cylindrical member for coupling, and a numeric display mounted around the handle. A maximum torque of the wrench can be preset by rotating the knob and shown on the display. Also, an amount of torque being exerted by wrench can be shown on the display. The wrench may trip when the amount of torque has reached the preset maximum torque.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2004Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: Industrial Technology Research InstituteInventors: Ming-Hua Li, Li-Hsia Lin, Mei-Chin Chou
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Patent number: 6981436Abstract: An electronic torque wrench has inner and outer telescoping housing portions and a battery tray assembly telescopically receivable in the inner housing portion and a bezel assembly receivable in an aperture in the outer housing portion and interconnected with the housing portions and the battery support assembly by a single fastener. The bezel assembly carries torque measuring circuitry.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2004Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Assignee: Snap-on IncorporatedInventors: Thomas P. Becker, David F. Brekke, David D. Curry, Brian J. Cutler, Jay Kurtovic, Charles P. Davis
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Patent number: 6968759Abstract: An electronic torque wrench has inner and outer telescoping housing portions and a battery tray assembly telescopically receivable in the inner housing portion and a bezel assembly receivable in an aperture in the outer housing portion and interconnected with the housing portions and the battery support assembly by a single fastener. The bezel assembly carries torque measuring circuitry including a microcontroller, and a four-key pad including arrow keys for incrementing and decrementing a preset torque level at any time, an on/zero key and a units key for toggling among plural different units of torque measurement. The preset torque level is displayed until torque is applied or a key is pressed and can be changed and displayed at anytime.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2002Date of Patent: November 29, 2005Assignee: Snap-on IncorporatedInventors: Thomas P. Becker, David F. Brekke, David Duvan, Rolf Segger
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Patent number: 6948410Abstract: A torque wrench is provided having body and a handle that is rotatably mounted to the body for adjusting the torque setting, and an axially movable sleeve operable to selectively lock the handle. The sleeve includes a rigid member and an elastomeric member, such as an O-ring, and the sleeve is configured to act against a locking ball held in a bore of the handle. The sleeve is selectively movable between two positions: (a) a locked position wherein the rigid member firmly retains the locking ball seated in one of several detents in the body, thereby preventing rotation of the handle; and (b) an unlocked position wherein the elastomeric member biases the locking ball inwardly, deflecting when the locking ball unseats from the detent to permit handle rotation. When the sleeve is in the unlocked position, the locking ball can incrementally “click” over the detents during handle rotation.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2004Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: Precision Instruments, Inc.Inventor: John Andrew Larson
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Patent number: 6655242Abstract: A torque wrench (40) with a variable-arm clicker mechanism, comprises a substantially tubular body (41), equipped with a handgrip (18) from which protrudes a ratchet gear element (4), suited for engaging with the blocking device which must be tightened. Inside the tubular body (41) is the clicker mechanism, which comprises a main lever (2) ending with the ratchet gear element (4), with fulcrum on the same tubular body (41) by means of a pin (3). The clicker mechanism has a pair of parallel intermediate levers (6), hinged on a fulcrum (10), integral with a mobile carriage (9), where the parallel intermediate levers (6) extend within the carriage (9) through slots (31, 32) which act as guides for the levers and are connected by means of a pin (12) to small levers (22) which command a push rod (20) that operates a spring (16).Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2001Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Assignee: Tecnogi S.r.l.Inventor: Lorenzo Gambarini
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Publication number: 20030094081Abstract: An electronic torque wrench has inner and outer telescoping housing portions and a battery tray assembly telescopically receivable in the inner housing portion and a bezel assembly receivable in an aperture in the outer housing portion and interconnected with the housing portions and the battery support assembly by a single fastener. The bezel assembly carries torque measuring circuitry including a microcontroller, and a four-key pad including arrow keys for incrementing and decrementing a preset torque level at any time, an on/zero key and a units key for toggling among plural different units of torque measurement. The preset torque level is displayed until torque is applied or a key is pressed and can be changed and displayed at anytime.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2002Publication date: May 22, 2003Inventors: Thomas P. Becker, David F. Brekke, David D. Curry, Brian J. Cutler, David Duvan, Jay Kurtovic, Charles P. Davis, Rolf Segger
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Patent number: 6526853Abstract: An electromechanical releasing torque wrench which includes an electronic controller (50) and transducers (32) or (34) to measure and actuate a release of the wrench with physical, audible and visual signals. In operation, the user sets the desired torque-release-point on the keypad (60) of the electronic controller and then attaches the wrench to a workpiece with the ratchet means which pivotally protrudes from the enclosure (20). The user tightens the workpiece, normally a threaded fastener, and the force sensing means attached to the ratchet (28) produce an analog signal which is applied to the controller. When the release point is reached the controller sends a signal to a solenoid (44) creating linear mechanical motion causing the mechanical advantage locking latch and trigger means to disconnect the ratchet producing a momentary reduction of force felt by the operator and an audible clicking sound as the ratchet strikes the enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2001Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Inventor: Bradley G. Jenkins
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Publication number: 20020152849Abstract: An electromechanical releasing torque wrench which includes an electronic controller (50) and transducers (32) or (34) to measure and actuate a release of the wrench with physical, audible and visual signals. In operation, the user sets the desired torque-release-point on the keypad (60) of the electronic controller and then attaches the wrench to a workpiece with the ratchet means which pivotally protrudes from the enclosure (20). The user tightens the workpiece, normally a threaded fastener, and the force sensing means attached to the ratchet (28) produce an analog signal which is applied to the controller. When the release point is reached the controller sends a signal to a solenoid (44) creating linear mechanical motion causing the mechanical advantage locking latch and trigger means to disconnect the ratchet producing a momentary reduction of force felt by the operator and an audible clicking sound as the ratchet strikes the enclosure.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2001Publication date: October 24, 2002Inventor: Bradley G. Jenkins
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Publication number: 20010022121Abstract: A torque wrench (40) with a variable-arm clicker mechanism, comprises a substantially tubular body (41), equipped with a handgrip (18) from which protrudes a ratchet gear element (4), suited for engaging with the blocking device which must be tightened. Inside the tubular body (41) is the clicker mechanism, which comprises a main lever (2) ending with the ratchet gear element (4), with fulcrum on the same tubular body (41) by means of a pin (3). The clicker mechanism has a pair of parallel intermediate levers (6), hinged on a fulcrum (10), integral with a mobile carriage (9), where the parallel intermediate levers (6) extend within the carriage (9) through slots (31, 32) which act as guides for the levers and are connected by means of a pin (12) to small levers (22) which command a push rod (20) that operates a spring (16).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2001Publication date: September 20, 2001Inventor: Lorenzo Gambarini
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Patent number: 6276243Abstract: An electromechanical releasing torque wrench which includes an electronic controller (50) and transducers (32) or (34) to measure and actuate a release of the wrench with physical, audible and visual signals. In operation, the user sets the desired torque-release-point on the keypad (60) of the electronic controller and then attaches the wrench to a workpiece with the ratchet means which pivotally protrudes from the enclosure (20). The user tightens the workpiece, normally a threaded fastener, and the force sensing means attached to the ratchet (28) or (62) produce an analog signal to the controller. When the release point is reached the controller sends a signal to a solenoid (44) or linear actuator (66) creating linear mechanical motion causing the mechanical advantage locking latch and trigger means to disconnect the ratchet producing a momentary reduction of force felt by the operator and an audible clicking sound as the ratchet strikes the enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2000Date of Patent: August 21, 2001Inventor: Bradley G. Jenkins
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Patent number: 6234051Abstract: A manual or powered screwing tool comprising a body to which is coupled one of different removable inserts and a sensor for detection of the torque exerted on the mechanical member which sends a data signal directed to calculation means to obtain significant tool action parameters. On each insert is mounted a sender of signals designed to identify the insert in a manner differentiating it from other inserts and with the body is associated a circuit comprising an antenna member designed to receive signals sent by the sender mounted on the insert coupled to the tool with the antenna signal being directed to the calculation means to influence calculation of said parameters.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2000Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Assignee: BLM S.A.S. Di L. Bareggi & C.Inventor: Luigi Bareggi
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Patent number: 6119562Abstract: An electromechanical releasing torque wrench which includes an electronic controller (50) and transducers (32) or (34) to measure and actuate a release of the wrench with physical, audible and visual signals. In operation, the user sets the desired torque-release-point on the keypad (60) of the electronic controller and then attaches the wrench to a workpiece with the ratchet means which pivotally protrudes from the enclosure (20). The user tightens the workpiece, normally a threaded fastener, and the force sensing means attached to the ratchet (28) or (62) produce an analog signal to the controller. When the release point is reached the controller sends a signal to a solenoid (44) or linear actuator (66) creating linear mechanical motion causing the mechanical advantage locking latch and trigger means to disconnect the ratchet producing a momentary reduction of force felt by the operator and an audible clicking sound as the ratchet strikes the enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 1999Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Inventor: Bradley G. Jenkins
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Patent number: 6109150Abstract: A torque applying and indicating wrench is comprised of a pawl with a torque sensing end for both ratcheting, and direct sensing of torque during application. The torque sensing end is bifurcated into a cantilevered flexing beam and an optional reference beam. The flexing beam engages one or more ratchet teeth from a ratchet wheel contained in the wrench head of an elongated tool body. Torque is then transduced and indicated either mechanically or electronically.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 1999Date of Patent: August 29, 2000Inventor: Matthew Saccomanno, III
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Patent number: 6070506Abstract: A ratcheting electronic torque wrench has an input beam in the form of a hollow housing with a handle end and a work end, a ratchet head disposed within the work end of the housing and rotatable relative thereto and a reaction beam disposed within the housing and having one end fixed to the ratchet head for pivoting therewith about the axis thereof and an input end resiliently urged to a neutral position relative to the housing by two bias springs respectively engaging opposite sides of the reaction beam. A Hall-effect sensor carried by the input end of the reaction beam is disposed between two permanent magnets and is powered by a battery for producing an output indicative of reaction beam movement, which is proportional to applied torque. A display circuit can display the applied torque or a predetermined torque level set by a preset circuit. An alarm signal is generated when the applied torque reaches the predetermined level.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 1998Date of Patent: June 6, 2000Assignee: Snap-on Tools CompanyInventor: Thomas P. Becker
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Patent number: 5890406Abstract: An improved combined torque limiting and part marking wrench according to the present invention includes: a torque-applying handle; a housing pivotally mounted to the handle, the housing adapted to receive a releasably mounted, replaceable, part-engaging head assembly at a second end thereof; and a part-marking mechanism mounted within the housing. The part-marking mechanism includes a marking tip which passes through a bore in the head assembly for marking a part. A mechanical linkage arm is pivotally connected to the torque-applying handle. A pivotable cam is pivotally connected to the linkage arm and in operative engagement with the part-marking mechanism for moving the marking tip through the bore, such that, when torque on a part has reached a predetermined value, the torque applying handle moves the linkage arm, which pivots the pivotable cam, thus forcing the pivotable cam against the part marking mechanism, which causes the marking tip to extend outwardly from the housing to mark the part.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 1996Date of Patent: April 6, 1999Assignee: Jane FigueiredoInventor: Brent Thorn
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Patent number: 5874681Abstract: A device for signal transmission between components supported so as to be movable relative to one another is proposed. A first conductor is partly accommodated in a first component, while a second conductor is partly disposed in a second component, which is supported rotatably relative to the first component via a bearing. The bearing (21) is electrically insulated from the components by means of an insulating body and an insulating sheath. The first conductor and the second conductor are electrically conductively connected to one another via the bearing. In this way, an interruption-free contact between the first conductor and the second conductor (15) is assured.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1997Date of Patent: February 23, 1999Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Michael Habele
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Patent number: 5737983Abstract: A dynamometric wrench comprises a handle part (1) and an elongated torsion body (2) which at a first end (3) is co-rotatively connected with the handle part (1) and at the opposite end (4) has means for connecting the torsion body (2) with a screw or similar. In the region of the latter end (4), the torsion body (2) is co-rotatively connected with a socket- or ring-like part (8) which is rotatable relative to the handle part (1) when the body (2) is submitted to torsion due to it being loaded with a torque. A stop element (10) is connected with the handle part (1), which element is arranged to cooperate with at least one shoulder (12') on the socket part (8), more specifically in such a way that the stop element is brought into contact with the shoulder when a predetermined, optimal torque has been applied upon the screw, which torque confers an elastic, but not a plastic distortion to the torsion body.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1996Date of Patent: April 14, 1998Assignee: Torque System Sweden ABInventor: Gustav Rennerfelt
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Patent number: 5537877Abstract: A torsion wrench includes a tubular casing, a drive unit pivoted to the casing and adapted to engage a workpiece, a knocker for generating an alarm sound when torsion force that is applied by the drive unit on the workpiece reaches a predetermined torsion force limit, a biasing unit for biasing the knocker toward the drive unit, and an adjusting unit for adjusting initial biasing force of the biasing unit. The biasing unit includes a push piece and a spring disposed between the push piece and the knocker. The adjusting unit includes a tubular handle member which has a connecting end sleeved rotatably on one end of the casing, and a push rod unit having a first end portion extending into the handle member and a second end portion extending into the casing and connected to the push piece. Rotation of the handle member results in axial movement of the push rod unit in the casing.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 1995Date of Patent: July 23, 1996Inventor: Frank Hsu
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Patent number: 5520076Abstract: A socket for turning a threaded connector by a power tool comprises a socket body, connecting formations for connecting a socket body to a power tool, engaging formations provided in the socket body for engaging with a threaded connector, and strain measuring formations arranged in the socket body so that when the socket body engages a threaded connector and a tool is connected with the socket body and turns the socket body and therefore the threaded connector, the strain measuring formations measure a turning resistance of the socket relative to a power applied by the power tool for turning the threaded connector.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1994Date of Patent: May 28, 1996Inventor: John K. Junkers
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Patent number: 5394775Abstract: A precision tuning tool for use in tuning a tunable lug rotatably mounted on a musical drum includes an elongated handle, a torque applying mechanism engageable with the lug for applying torque to the lug so as to tune the lug by pivoting the elongated handle relative thereto, a torque calibrating mechanism mounted to the elongated handle for defining a desired preset amount of torque to be applied to the lug by the torque applying mechanism, a preset torque indicating mechanism mounted to the elongated handle and mounting and supporting the torque applying mechanism adjacent to one end of the elongated handle and, in response to application of torque to the lug by the torque applying mechanism, being operable for producing an indication when the desired preset amount of torque has been applied to the lug, and a biasing mechanism mounted to the elongated tubular member and to the torque calibrating mechanism for applying a desired level of biasing force to the preset torque indicating mechanism in response toType: GrantFiled: February 10, 1994Date of Patent: March 7, 1995Inventor: Jon E. Fagerstrom
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Patent number: 5172616Abstract: This torque wrench includes an operating lever, an output shaft rotatable with the operating lever, a one-way rotation restricting system that rotates a threaded part in only one direction, a torque measuring system for measuring clamping torque, a rotating parts group which rotates with an output shaft, a stationary parts group restricted for relative displacement with an object by means of clamping the object, a rotating angle measuring system for measuring a rotating angle toward the object and a measuring output system for outputting values measured by the rotating angle measuring system and the torque measuring system.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 1991Date of Patent: December 22, 1992Assignee: TEAC CorporationInventor: Masaki Negishi
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Patent number: 5130700Abstract: A torque wrench has a battery-powered sensing circuit which produces a torque signal proportional to the level of the torque applied. A reference signal corresponding to a predetermined torque level is subtracted from the torque signal to produce a difference signal which is, in turn, compared with a compensation signal which is proportional to the rate of change of the torque signal and is produced by differentiating the torque signal. When the value of the difference signal exceeds the value of the compensation signal, an indicator is triggered to produce a tactile indication, the indication being produced prior to the time that the torque signal reaches the reference level by a predetermined time period.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 1991Date of Patent: July 14, 1992Assignee: Snap-on Tools CorporationInventors: Jeffrey R. Annis, Timm R. Herman, Ronald T. Strobel
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Patent number: 4958541Abstract: An electronic torque wrench has a hollow handle portion in which are disposed a DC motor mechanically coupled to the handle portion with a mass eccentrically mounted on its shaft, a control circuit for the motor and a battery for powering the motor and the control circuit. A strain sensor on the wrench produces an output signal when the torque applied to a workpiece equals or exceeds a predetermined torque level for causing the control circuit to actuate the motor to vibrate the handle portion and provide a tactile indication to the user.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 1989Date of Patent: September 25, 1990Assignee: Snap-on Tools CorporationInventors: Jeffrey R. Annis, Timm R. Herman, Ronald T. Strobel
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Patent number: 4808976Abstract: A torsion member (12) has opposing protruding end elements (4, 6) configured for transmitting torque therebetween. A first contact mechanism (20, 26) is mounted to a surface (10) of one end (4) of the torsion member (12). The first contact mechanism includes a movable contact (26') disposed between the end elements (4, 6) of the torsion member. A second contact mechanism (18, 28) is mounted to a surface (11) of the other end element (6) of the torsion member (12). The second contact mechanism includes a movable contact (28') disposed near the first contact (26'). The first contact (26') and second contact (28') move toward each other whenever torsion is applied to the torsion member (12). Means (30, 40) are provided for changing the distance between the first and second contacts (26', 28'), and for producing a signal whenever the first and second contacts touch.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 1988Date of Patent: February 28, 1989Assignee: Kiefers, Ltd.Inventors: Walter J. Kiefer, Michael R. Cross
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Patent number: 4791839Abstract: Apparatus and a method are presented for determining the torque load applied to a fastening element by a fluid powered wrench, and displaying a digital readout of the torque. The operating pressure of the wrench, after compensation for the temperature of the pressure transducer, is converted to a torque measurement by programmed microprocessor and the torque value is displayed on a digital readout. The system is useable with and adjusts for wrenches of several sizes by an input selector switch connected to the microprocessor.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 1986Date of Patent: December 20, 1988Assignee: Raymond Engineering Inc.Inventors: John H. Bickford, Jesse R. Meisterling, Milton O. Smith
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Patent number: 4759225Abstract: A combination torque tool and torque tool analyzer that includes a housing and a portable tool that can be mounted on the housing. The housing has a control panel with indicator lights and control buttons on an upper surface thereof and contains inside it a torque transducer and torque level alarm circuitry. The portable tool can be used as a torque tool, such as a screwdriver, or a torque tool analyzer.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1987Date of Patent: July 26, 1988Assignee: Ryeson CorporationInventors: John L. Reynertson, Raymond J. Blattner
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Patent number: 4709182Abstract: A method and apparatus for tightening or loosening screw-type connections, in which the screw bolt is stimulated to oscillate longitudinally, the natural frequency of the bolt is measured and the excitation frequency is made to follow the changing natural frequency during the bolting process with a minimum, necessary excitation energy, so that the screw bolt attains a permanent state of resonance.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 1986Date of Patent: November 24, 1987Assignee: VEB Chemieanlagenbaukombinat Leipzig/GrimmaInventors: Hanno Wenske, Arnold Gallien, Martin Kauschinger, Klaus Unger, Josef Brendel, Lutz Lampe
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Patent number: 4671364Abstract: A power-screwdriver device with variable torque adjustment consists essentially of a drive mechanism, transmission, and cutoff mechanism. In order to provide a power screwdriver that is strong and inexpensive and in which the torque can be controlled with no need for a torque clutch, there is a bearing site on a transmission shaft. The bearing allows the shaft to move radially. There is a sensor that emits a motor-cutoff signal when the shaft does move radially. The radial deviation is employed as a measure of torque. The measure is adjusted with an adjusting device.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1985Date of Patent: June 9, 1987Assignee: C. & E. Fein GmbH & Co.Inventors: Manfred Fink, Klaus M. Junginger
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Patent number: 4664001Abstract: A torque wrench, basically exemplified by a torque beam having a driver at one end, a grip at its other end and apparatus associated with said driver and beam providing an observable read-out of any torque that may be developed during use of the wrench, particularly distinguished by a system for defining a prescribed torque limit in use thereof having means associated therewith for producing a highly distinctive alarm signal the nature of which is such to produce an instantaneous torque limiting response of the user at precisely that time the level of the torque applied to said beam reaches said prescribed limit. In a preferred embodiment the system for producing said signal is located in connection with a housing which is releasably based on and secured to said beam immediately of its grip, the means through which the signal is triggered is functionally related to a portion of said read-out apparatus and the alarm signal is preferably provided by a source of light and optionally by a source of sound.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 1985Date of Patent: May 12, 1987Assignee: Deuer Manufacturing Inc.Inventor: Stephen A. Denman
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Patent number: 4561332Abstract: A torque wrench having a reaction bar and an arm extending laterally in the same direction from a work engaging head. The arm is flexed in response to torque applied to the head through the bar and cooperable members on the bar and arm respectively engage as a consequence of that flexing. The member on the bar is a pivoted lever which responds to the aforementioned engagement to swing towards a signal generating position at which it causes a switch to operate to close a circuit contained within a handle part of the bar. The circuit includes audible and visible signal means and those means are energized while the circuit remains closed. The switch is normally urged towards a circuit closed position but is prevented from reaching that position by a blocking member, and the aforementioned pivoted lever renders that blocking member inoperative when the pivoted lever is swung into its signal generating position.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 1984Date of Patent: December 31, 1985Assignee: Repco LimitedInventor: Harold L. Wood
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Patent number: 4328709Abstract: A device is used for indicating a preset torque on a conventional torque wrench. The device has a front part and a back part, which are held together by a U-shaped bracket. The bracket serves to secure the front part and back part of the device on opposite sides of the torque wrench's dial. The device includes a battery which is electrically connected to a copper plate on the back part of the device. This copper plate electrically connects to the pointer of the torque wrench by way of the indicating plate and rod. When the pointer is deflected an amount determined by the positioning of the device on the indicating plate, the pointer will contact and electrically connect to a resilient terminal on the device. This contact will connect the battery to a circuit in the device, causing the device to generate an audible and turn on a light. A test switch is included and used for bypassing the pointer arm in determining that the circuit is still operative.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 1980Date of Patent: May 11, 1982Inventor: Wayne E. Schramm
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Patent number: 4324158Abstract: An illuminable wrench of the ratchet type in which the tool handle defines a receptacle for battery cells. A lamp or bulb is retained in the head of the tool and is connected in a circuit to the batteries and may be actuated to illuminate a work area. In one embodiment of the present invention, the bulb is secured in a rotatable assembly adjacent the head so the bulb may be rotatably positioned to direct illumination to the desired work area. In still another embodiment, the battery housing and light are adapted to be detachably secured to a conventional wrench.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 1980Date of Patent: April 13, 1982Inventor: Alfred N. Le Roy
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Patent number: 4314490Abstract: A torque wrench is provided in which a removably attached alarm indicator produces an audible buzzing or visual indication when a pre-selected torque is applied by the torque wrench. In a preferred embodiment, an audible buzzer has a magnet in its base to facilitate removable attachment to a faceplate on the wrench, and also to make possible the use of the same audible buzzer on other torque wrenches. The audible buzzer may include an electrical circuit having a switch, battery, and buzzer all connected in series.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1980Date of Patent: February 9, 1982Inventor: Gregory M. Stone