Patent ID: 6843326
Filing Date: 2005-01-18
Classification: B25B,G01D

Abstract:
1. Apparatus for use in a pulsed output tightening tool for determining when fastener being tightened by a rotatable output means of the tool is tightened to a predetermined tightness, the apparatus comprising a detectable means for mounting on the rotatable output means of the tool and being rotatable therewith for providing a detectable characteristic as the output means rotates about its rotational axis, and a monitoring means for monitoring the detectable means for determining rotational angular displacement of the output means, characterized in that the detectable means provides the detectable characteristic as a characteristic which alternately and smoothly cycles between a minimum value and a maximum value as the output means rotates, and a pair of monitor means are disposed at angularly spaced apart locations around the detectable means operating with the detectable means for outputting signals indicative of the absolute angular position of the output means, for facilitating a determination of the angular displacement of the output means in response to each pulsed output of the output means for determining when the fastener is tightened to the predetermined tightness.