Designing a Torque Wrench: Seeking Help for Calculations

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the design of a torque wrench capable of measuring 300 ft-lb of torque using a gear locker and a spring mechanism. The user seeks assistance in calculating spring tension and gear ratios to ensure the wrench can accurately sense the applied torque. Key calculations involve determining the maximum torque load based on material strength, calculating the gear ratio for desired torque output, and applying the formula F = kx for spring tension. Consulting with a mechanical engineer is recommended for ensuring design accuracy and safety.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of torque mechanics and measurement
  • Familiarity with gear ratios and their calculations
  • Knowledge of spring constants and Hooke's Law (F = kx)
  • Basic principles of mechanical engineering design
NEXT STEPS
  • Research gear ratio calculations for torque wrenches
  • Explore online calculators for torque and spring tension
  • Study material strength properties relevant to torque wrench components
  • Consult resources on mechanical engineering principles for safety factors in design
USEFUL FOR

Mechanical engineers, product designers, and anyone involved in the design and calibration of torque measurement tools will benefit from this discussion.

flashlaser
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Hi I'm designing a torque wrench. But i need some help.

I have a drawing torque3.jpg

the gear connects to the socket. If I'm putting 300ft/lb torque on a nut using the socket connected to the gear. and the gear connection to the handl thru the gear locker, and the gear locker can push against the weight. Will the gear locker push against the weight with 300ft/lb? the weight is actually a sensor. I want the sensor to be able to sense that there is 300ft/lb of torque being exerted on the nut

Now my second drawing torque2.jpg uses a spring like a normal torque wrench.

at the end of the handle there will be a dial that will tighten and losen the spring which pushes against the gear locker, which in turn keeps the gear connected to the handle. say i put the wrench of 150lb/ft torque using the dial, then the spring pushes the gear locker with enough force to keep it connected up to 150lb/ft torque, if it goes over, the gear's teeth push the locker and spring back and it disconnects form the handle.

how would i calculate the spiring tension, etc to get this working. Can someone give me links, leading me to the right direction.

Thanks for any answers.
 

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Designing a torque wrench can be a complex process, and it's great that you are seeking help with the calculations. It's important to make sure that your design is accurate and can withstand the designated torque load.

To start, you will need to determine the maximum torque load that your wrench will be able to handle. This will depend on the strength and materials of the gear, socket, and handle. Once you have determined this, you can calculate the necessary gear ratio to achieve your desired torque output. This will ensure that the gear locker will be able to apply the necessary force to the weight sensor.

For the second drawing with the spring, you will need to consider the spring constant and the amount of force it can exert. This will determine the amount of torque that can be applied before the gear locker disconnects from the handle. You can use the formula F = kx, where F is the force, k is the spring constant, and x is the distance the spring is compressed.

There are also online calculators and formulas available that can help with these calculations. It's important to also consider safety factors and make sure that your design can handle a higher torque load than what it is intended for.

I would recommend consulting with a mechanical engineer or doing further research on torque wrench design to ensure the accuracy and safety of your design. Good luck with your project!
 

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