The client was seeking a safe and ergonomic torque reaction solution for a tank assembly process on an agricultural vehicle.
GCI designed a long-reach carbon fiber torque reaction arm with a custom tool mount. The 20′ reach is possible because of the significant weight difference between carbon fiber and steel. This also means less mass for the operator to move laterally. The main rotation joint is leveled so no unnecessary resistance is added to the side-to-side movements.
At the end of the arm, a custom socket tray makes tool changes convenient for the operator. If the tool needs to be repositioned, a pin lock allows the mount to rotate right or left.
To help improve ergonomics, a load-balancing system cancels out the tool and arm weight. This is like a float mode making it easy for the operator to position the tool. Once in position on the fastener, the remote start and BEV circuit lock up the end rotation to ensure the arm absorbs the reactive torque forces.