[M.D. Holloway]

Ok, here goes: I was hoping you could give me some feedback on an idea that a friend proposed:
Here is a bit about the device:

1) It is an automatic open-end wrench developed to automate the tightening of nuts and bolts, a function normally done manually via a two step process of a) using open end wrenches, followed by b) use of a torque wrench to achieve final tightening, for example, in an assembly line or similar environment.

2) The wrench is run by a torque controller. This same electrically-powered torque controller device is programmable for tasks requiring anywhere from 10 Nm to 1000 Nm of torque.

3) A different torque driver--the piece of equipment that actually does the physical nut tightening--would need to be used, depending on the torque requirements of the task (e.g. a hydraulically powered torque driver would be used for tasks with torque values of 80 Nm or higher, whereas an electrically or pneumatically powered torque driver would be used for smaller torque values). The same torque controller, however, can always be used, given the wide range of torque values it can be programmed for (see #2 above).

4) The device is modular, allowing it not only to adapt to different torque settings, but also to different nut sizes.

My friend developed the device to address the following issues:

1) The manual nature of the nut and bolt tightening function leads to operator physical fatigue and uneven application of torque in the tightening process. Operator fatigue and inconsistent and/or inaccurate application of torque can lead to inaccurate/unreliable nut
and bolt tightening. This technology automates the process,
resulting in near zero reaction to the human arm, which reduces physical fatigue for the user.

2) Difficulty accessing the nut or bolt to be tightened can be an issue, creating an additional obstacle to accurate and reliable tightening. This technology is designed to tighten nuts and bolts positioned in locations that are otherwise difficult to access, leading to increased accuracy when tightening nuts and bolts in locations in which accessibility is a challenge.

3) The two step process of initial tightening with an open end wrench, followed by final tightening with a torque wrench, contributes to double work and inefficiency. The technology provides measurably accurate and consistent tightening, within a generally accepted margin of error (+/- 4%), in one step.

My Questions:

1) Are the issues the inventor set out to address by developing this device truly problematic issues the assembly of machinery, pumps, structures, etc. used in your industry? Are there any issues the inventor missed?

2) How are these issues typically addressed? Does the inventor's device sound like something that could address these issues better than the existing solution(s)?

3) Do you think people in your industry would purchase this device?
If not, then in your opinion, why not (e.g. such a device already exists and works fine, some other solution is already in place, etc.)?

4) What is your gut reaction to this device, based on the above?

5) Are there any other thoughts or feedback you would care to share?