1. What is the Offset Torque Formula?

The offset torque formula calculates the effective torque component when a force is applied at an angle to a reference axis. This is particularly important in mechanical engineering and physics applications where torque direction affects system performance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the offset torque formula:

Where:

• \( T \) — Applied torque (Nm)
• \( \theta \) — Angle between torque vector and reference axis (degrees)
• \( T_{offset} \) — Effective torque component along the reference axis (Nm)

Explanation: The cosine function extracts the component of torque that acts along the desired direction, with maximum effect at 0° and no effect at 90°.

3. Importance of Offset Torque Calculation

Details: Accurate torque calculation is essential for designing mechanical systems, analyzing rotational forces, and ensuring proper functioning of machinery with angled force applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter torque in Newton-meters (Nm) and angle in degrees (0-360). The calculator will compute the effective torque component along the reference axis.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What happens when θ = 90°?
A: At 90°, cos(90°) = 0, so the offset torque becomes zero as the force is perpendicular to the reference axis.

Q2: Can the offset torque be greater than the applied torque?
A: No, since |cos(θ)| ≤ 1, the offset torque magnitude is always less than or equal to the applied torque.

Q3: How is this different from vector projection?
A: This calculation is essentially the scalar projection of the torque vector onto the reference axis direction.

Q4: What are typical applications of this calculation?
A: Used in mechanical design, robotics, automotive systems, and anywhere torque is applied at an angle to a rotational axis.

Q5: Does the formula work for negative angles?
A: Yes, since cos(-θ) = cos(θ), negative angles produce the same result as their positive equivalents.