On the use of mechatronics for intelligent screw insertions

The results of a study on the use of mechatronics for improving the intelligence of small electric powered screw drivers (SEPS) is presented. The aim of the research is to implement control and monitoring strategies to enhance the performance of SEPS. A novel, low cost, torque sensor based on capacitance measurements is integrated with SEPS and used for torque control and monitoring of the screw insertion process. An analytical model for an ideal screw insertion operation is developed. The paper describes the monitoring and control strategies employed to improve the performance of SEPS.