Modular Torque Wrench Extension with Heads-up Display

Published in: Engineering, Integration, and Alliances for a Sustainable Development. Hemispheric Cooperation for Competitiveness and Prosperity on a Knowledge-Based Economy: Proceedings of the 18th LACCEI International Multi-Conference for Engineering, Education and Technology
Date of Conference: July 27-31, 2020
Location of Conference: Virtual
Authors: Juan Aguirre Rodriguez (Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, US)
Juan Castano (Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, US)
Atif Saeed (Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, US)
Full Paper: #203

Abstract:

Torque control is a critical component of the assembly process within the manufacturing industry. Costly repairs and damages arise if not properly addressed. Once a product is put into service and a fastening error is detected, it can result in severe damages to the structure and even fatalities. Incorrect torqueing of a fastener can cause a manufacturer millions of dollars in repairs and liabilities. However, the solution to this problem is to utilize a torque wrench during the assembly process, but as the current technology stands, they are expensive. Torque wrenches are unnecessarily bulky and still run under the high probability of over or under torqueing a bolt because they rely on mechanical parts that require calibration after a period of use. A distracted user can also increase the likelihood of a fastening error. The objective of this project is to design a compact, affordable, and precise torque wrench extension with a heads-up display. The product aims to provide modularity between a variety of ratcheting wrenches and provide the user with live torque feedback displayed on safety glasses to prevent any fastening error.