Desoutter has added the so-called eCompass function to its electronically controlled offset screwdrivers from the EAD range:
A gyroscope integrated into the tool compensates for the movement of the worker during assembly, so that the intended angle of rotation is always introduced into the screw connection. This increases flexibility and lowers costs, since users do not need to use reaction supports or installation devices for the screwdrivers.
The movement of the screwdriver during assembly influences the angle of rotation to a large extent. The new eCompass function, which is now available for the controlled offset screwdrivers from Desoutter's EAD range, eliminates the movements made by an employee. As a result, this eliminates the need for reaction torque supports or guided systems for screw connections controlled or monitored by the angle of rotation. “This solution is much easier to implement and use than a built-in screwdriver, and the use of this solution largely eliminates the influence of the worker”, explains Michael Loosen, Product Manager at Desoutter GmbH in Maintal. “Fixing devices are expensive, complicated to install, and require more maintenance. In addition, such solutions restrict the freedom of movement of the operator and thus the flexibility of assembly”.
The situation is different with the new EAD offset screwdrivers from Desoutter. A gyroscope is now integrated ex factory into these tools in the models up to 200 Newton metres (Nm). The measuring instrument determines the movement of the tool relative to the tightening point and compensates for it in real time. “This allows flexibility and product quality to be improved on the one hand, and assembly problems to be detected the other”, emphasises Loosen. The tool can be used at various workplaces without the need for an additional fixing device. Under certain circumstances, this would allow users to manage with fewer tools. Extra work is also prevented and warranty costs could possibly be reduced, according to Loosen.
The eCompass in the EAD tightening tool is activated via a special licence. The function is programmed in just a few steps. With just one click it is then available for all levels of the set of parameters. The desired limit values can then be set up to a maximum of ± 180°. The tool stops as soon as it exceeds the correction limit values during screwing. This prevents further rotation in the event of abrupt slipping and increases the safety of the worker.
Results are displayed on the monitor of the tightening control unit
The results of the eCompass are displayed on the monitor of the CVI tightening control unit. The final angle of rotation, the compensation value and any errors can be read here by exceeding the set limit values. The gyroscope is also adjusted within a few seconds using the CVI monitor.
The use of an EAD screwdriver with eCompass makes sense wherever an exact detection of the angle of rotation is important - both for angle-controlled screw connections with torque monitoring and for torque-controlled assembly with monitoring of the angle of rotation.
