Dynamically Controlled Claw Clutch

Abstract

Dynamically controllable claw coupling arrangement (112, 212, 312, 312', 412) comprising: a pocket plate (113, 213, 313, 413) and a notched plate (116, 216, 316, 416) which are axially oriented towards each other and are mounted for rotation relative to each other about a common axis of rotation, wherein the pocket plate has at least one pocket (115, 215, 415) and the notched plate has at least one notch (117, 217, 317, 417), and a linear actuator (114, 214, 314, 414) with a stator and a translator (120, 220, 320, 420), wherein the translator is coupled to the pocket plate for rotation with it, and an axially projecting hub, a plate extending transversely outwards from the hub, and at least one locking element (123, 223, 323, 423) extending axially from the plate, wherein the hub, the plate and the at least one locking element are formed as a unit, and wherein the translator (120, 220, 320, 420) is axially movable between (i) an engaged position in which the at least one locking element (123, 223, 323, 423) extends axially through the at least one pocket of the pocket plate and engages in the at least one notch of the notch plate to mechanically couple the pocket plate and the notch plate to prevent relative rotation of the pocket plate and the notch plate about the common axis of rotation, and (ii) an disengaged position in which the at least one locking element (123, 223, 323, 423) is disengaged from the at least one notch of the notch plate to mechanically decouple the pocket plate and the notch plate from each other to allow relative rotation of the pocket plate and the notch plate about the common axis of rotation.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to claw couplings and coupling arrangements with linear actuators for controlling and actuating coupling elements of the coupling arrangements. background

[0002] A freewheel clutch (FLK) comprises a first clutch element (e.g., a pocket plate), a second clutch element (e.g., a notched plate), and locking elements between opposing surfaces of the clutch elements. The FLK locks in one direction and allows free rotation in the opposite direction.

[0003] A reversible or controllable clutch (also known as a two-way clutch) additionally features a second set of locking elements in combination with a selector plate. This second set of locking elements, along with the selector plate, gives the clutch several additional functions. A reversible clutch can establish a mechanical connection between rotating or stationary shafts in one or both directions and create a freewheel in one or both directions. A reversible clutch includes an externally controlled selector mechanism for adjusting the selector plate according to the different operating modes of the reversible clutch.

[0004] A static, electrically actuated, switchable FLK (front locking mechanism) has the advantage of being locked in its respective state and requiring no continuous power supply. Two independently controllable locking elements, each with its own electromagnetic actuator, replace the two sets of locking elements and the selection plate. One locking element is used to transmit torque in one direction (e.g., clockwise (CZ)), and the other locking element is used to transmit torque in the opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise (COC)). The electromagnetic actuators each control the locking elements. The independent control of each electromagnetic actuator allows for torque transmission in the CZ direction and freewheeling in the COC direction, and vice versa.Simultaneous engagement of both electromagnetic actuators creates a braking function for the clutch. The electromagnetic actuators are bistable, meaning they lock in their state, thus eliminating the need for a continuous power supply. When a locking element is engaged, the electrical current is switched off, and the magnets in the electromagnetic actuators hold an electromagnetic plunger acting on the locking element in place.

[0005] A jaw coupling comprises a first coupling element with projections and a second coupling element with identical recesses. The projections and recesses are engaged, for example, by moving the first coupling element into contact with the second coupling element to engage the jaw coupling. The projections and recesses are disengaged, for example, by moving the first coupling element away from the second coupling element to disengage the jaw coupling.

[0006] There are two basic types of jaw couplings. In one type of jaw coupling, the coupling elements consist of collars that are movable relative to each other. In the other type of jaw coupling, the coupling elements are end faces that are movable relative to each other.

[0007] A coupling arrangement with a dynamically controllable coupling is known, for example, from US 2021 / 0246950 A1. With reference to the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6A and Fig. Section 6B now describes a coupling arrangement with a dynamically controllable coupling (DCC) 12 according to the prior art. The DCC 12 has a radially internal rotating bearing ring, i.e., a first coupling element in the form of a pocket plate 13 (in the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5), as well as a radially outer rotating race, i.e., a second coupling element in the form of a notched plate 16. The pocket plate 13 comprises a set of radial locking elements 26 for clockwise (UCS) engagement and another set of radial locking elements 26 for counterclockwise (C2C) engagement. During the engaged state, at least one of the sets of locking elements 26 simultaneously bears against contact surfaces of the pockets and notches of the pocket or notched plate, 13 or 16 respectively, thereby enabling the DSK 12 to transmit a torque.

[0008] The DSK 12 is electrically actuated by an actuation system in the form of a linear motor (“linear actuator”) 14. The linear actuator 14 can control the locking elements 26 while the pocket plate 13 and / or the notched plate 16 rotate. The linear actuator 14 comprises a stator 22 and a translator 20, also referred to as a rotor.

[0009] The stator 22 is stationary and attached to the gearbox housing (not shown) via brackets 47. The stator 22 comprises two induction coils 44 and 46 made of copper wire, as well as steel plates 48, 50, and 52. The steel plates 48, 50, and 52 provide or form a housing for the stator coils 44 and 46. The stator coils 44 and 46 are wound in series with opposite polarity relative to each other (opposite series winding).

[0010] The translator 20 is linearly movable between lateral positions (i.e., in the axial direction). The translator 20 is attached to the pocket plate 13 and rotates with it. The translator 20 comprises a ring of segmented permanent magnets 21, steel plates 23 and 25, and rigid plungers 30. The plungers 30 actuate the locking elements 26. The plungers 30 extend through holes formed by a slide 51 of the translator 20 and are biased by springs 34. The plungers 30 are threaded at their ends and are secured in the respective holes by internally threaded nuts 35. Conical ends of the plungers 30 extend through openings in a ring 55.

[0011] The Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 shows in detail how the locking elements 26 are controlled by the linear actuator 14. The plungers 30 in the translator 20 come into direct contact with the locking elements 26 and cause them to pivot upwards or downwards, depending on the direction of actuation. The linear actuator 14 has an "off" position (in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 4 shown), as well as an "On" setting (in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 5 shown). The linear actuator 14 switches between the “off” and “on” positions by causing the translator 20 to be moved laterally, in this case between a position all the way to the right (in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 4 shown) and a position on the far left (in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 5 shown).

[0012] When the translator 20 is moved from "off" to "on," the plungers 30 each come into contact with the underside or underside surface of the corresponding locking element 26, allowing it to engage in the notched plate 16. Once the locking elements 26 are engaged, the DSK 12 can transmit torque. During the engaged state, a return spring 28 is compressed under each locking element 26. When the "off" command is received, the translator 20 is moved back to the "off" position, and the plungers 30 are released from the locking elements 26. The compressed return springs 28 generate a force that causes the locking elements 26 to pivot downwards or disengage. When a torque reversal occurs, the locking elements 26 can disengage, and the DSK 12 is in freewheeling mode.

[0013] To change the state from "off" to "on", the stator coil 46 closest to the translator 20 is energized with an electric current. The energized induction coil 46 generates a magnetic field that repels the stationary field generated by the permanent magnets 21, while the more distant stator coil 44 generates an attractive magnetic field. The combination of repulsive and attractive forces caused by the stator coils 44 and 46 causes the translator 20 to move.

[0014] As soon as the translator 20 passes the middle steel plate 50 of the stator, the permanent magnet 21 attempts to fully align the stator steel plate 48 on the far left. A mechanical stop 53 ( Fig. 4 and Fig. 5) prevents complete alignment, creating a preload force that holds the translator 20 in the "on" position. The translator 20 is magnetically locked in the "on" position.

[0015] Similar to a bistable electromagnet, a magnetic lock allows the electrical power to be switched off whenever the device is not actively changing its position. The electrical current is "switched off" once the desired state change has occurred and is no longer needed. The magnetic locking force eliminates energy consumption in the steady state.

[0016] To disengage the DSK 12, current is applied to the stator coil 44 closest to the translator 20 (previously the furthest stator coil 46), and the linear actuator 14 moves from the "on" stop 53 to a ring that serves as the "off" stop 42, in a manner similar to previously described. The mechanical "off" stop 42 prevents complete alignment between the permanent magnet 21 and the rightmost steel plate 52 of the stator, so that the "off" position remains magnetically locked. Summary

[0017] A dynamically controllable jaw coupling assembly comprises a pocket plate and a notched plate, which are axially oriented towards each other and mounted for rotation relative to each other about a common axis of rotation, wherein the pocket plate has at least one pocket and the notched plate has at least one notch. The DSKK further comprises a linear actuator with a stator and a translator, wherein the translator is connected to the pocket plate for rotation with it.The translator is axially movable between (i) an engaged position in which a locking element extends axially through the at least one pocket of the pocket plate and engages in the at least one notch of the notch plate to mechanically couple the pocket plate and the notch plate to prevent relative rotation of the pocket plate and the notch plate about the common axis of rotation, and (ii) an disengaged position in which the locking element is disengaged from the at least one notch of the notch plate to mechanically decouple the pocket plate and the notch plate from each other to allow relative rotation of the pocket plate and the notch plate about the common axis of rotation.

[0018] A dynamically controllable jaw coupling assembly comprises a pocket plate and a notched plate, which are axially oriented towards each other and mounted for rotation relative to each other about a common axis of rotation, wherein the pocket plate has at least one pocket and the notched plate has at least one notch. The DSKK further comprises a linear actuator with a stator, a translator, and a nose plate. The stator generates a magnetic flux when energized with an electric current. The translator and the nose plate are coupled to the pocket plate for rotation. The nose plate comprises, or is coupled to, an axially extending locking element and a return spring, and the nose plate is arranged axially between the translator and the pocket plate. The translator is axially movable between (i) an engaged position,in which the translator presses the nose plate towards the pocket plate, so that the locking element extends axially through the at least one pocket of the pocket plate and engages in the at least one notch of the notched plate, thereby mechanically coupling the pocket plate and the notched plate to each other to prevent relative rotation of the pocket plate and the notched plate about the common axis of rotation, and (ii) a disengaged position in which the translator does not press against the nose plate, allowing the return spring to push the nose plate away from the pocket plate, thereby releasing the locking element from the at least one notch of the notched plate to mechanically decouple the pocket plate and the notched plate to allow relative rotation of the pocket plate and the notched plate about the common axis of rotation.

[0019] A dynamically controllable jaw coupling assembly comprises a pocket plate and a notched plate, which are axially oriented towards each other and mounted for rotation relative to each other about a common axis of rotation, wherein the pocket plate has at least one pocket and the notched plate has at least one notch. The DSKK further comprises a linear actuator with a stator and a translator. The stator generates a magnetic flux when excited with an electric current. The translator is connected to the pocket plate for rotation.The translator is axially movable depending on the magnetic flux between (i) an engaged position in which a locking element extends axially through the at least one pocket of the pocket plate and engages in the at least one notch of the notch plate to mechanically couple the pocket plate and the notch plate to prevent relative rotation of the pocket plate and the notch plate about the common axis of rotation, and (ii) an disengaged position in which the locking element is disengaged from the at least one notch of the notch plate to mechanically decouple the pocket plate and the notch plate from each other to allow relative rotation of the pocket plate and the notch plate about the common axis of rotation.In response to the magnetic flux, the translator can be moved axially into the engaged position and, as a result of a preload of the pocket plate, can be moved axially away from the translator into the disengaged position by means of one or more return springs. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 shows an exploded view of a dynamically controlled coupling (DSC) with a linear actuator according to the state of the art; Fig. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the DSK according to the state of the art, partially broken open and in cross-section, with the linear actuator in an “off” position, thus placing the DSK in a free-running mode; Fig. Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the DSK according to the prior art, partially broken open and in cross-section, with the linear actuator in an “on” position, which puts the DSK in a locking mode; Fig. Figure 4 shows a side view of the DSK according to the prior art, partially broken open and in cross-section, wherein a translator of the linear actuator is magnetically locked in the "off" position, wherein the Fig. 2 and Fig. 4 refer to the same state of the DSK; Fig. Figure 5 shows a side view of the DSK according to the prior art, partially broken open and in cross-section, wherein the translator of the linear actuator is magnetically locked in the "on" position, wherein the Fig. 3 and Fig. 5 refer to the same state of the DSK; the Fig. 6A and Fig. Figure 6B represents a perspective view or a further exploded view of the DSK according to the state of the art; Fig. Figure 7A shows a perspective view of a dynamically controllable claw coupling (DSKK) with a linear actuator with a claw coupling (“the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling”) according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 7B shows an exploded view of the DSKK with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling according to the first embodiment; Fig. Figure 7C shows a perspective view of the DSKK with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling according to the first embodiment; Fig. 7D shows an exploded view of the DSKK with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling according to the first embodiment; Fig. 7E shows a perspective view of the DSKK with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling according to the first embodiment; Fig. 8 shows a cutaway side view of the DSKK with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling according to the first embodiment; the Fig. 9A and Fig. Figure 9B shows a cutaway side view or an exploded view of the DSKK with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling according to a second embodiment of the present invention; the Fig. 10A and Fig. Figure 10B shows a cutaway side view in the engaged state or a cutaway side view in the disengaged state of the DSKK with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling according to the second embodiment; the Fig. 11A, Fig. 11B and Fig. Figure 11C represents a cut side view in the coupled state, a cut side view in the uncoupled state, and another cut side view in the coupled state of the DSKK with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling according to a third embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 12 represents a nose plate used as part of the DSKK according to the third embodiment; the Fig. 13A, Fig. 13B and Fig. Figure 13C represents a cut side view in the coupled state, a cut side view in the uncoupled state, and another cut side view in the coupled state of the DSKK with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling according to a variant of the third embodiment; Fig. 14 represents a nose plate, which is part of the DSKK according to the [document / guidelines / etc.]. Fig. 13A, Fig. 13B and Fig. The variant of the third embodiment shown in 13C is used; Fig. Figure 15 shows an exploded view of the DSKK with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling according to a fourth embodiment; Fig. Figure 16 shows an exploded view of the DSKK with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling according to the fourth embodiment; the Fig. 17A, Fig. 17B and Fig. Figure 17C shows side views of the DSKK with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling according to the third embodiment, while it is being moved from the disengaged position to the engaged position; the Fig. 18A, Fig. 18B and Fig. Figure 18C shows side views of the DSKK with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling according to the third embodiment, while it is moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position; and Fig. Figure 19 presents three different views of the DSKK with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling according to the first embodiment for four different states of the DSKK. Detailed description

[0020] Detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is understood that these detailed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention and that the latter can be realized in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of certain components. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as an illustrative basis to demonstrate to a person skilled in the art the diverse applications of the present invention.

[0021] Let us now turn to the Fig. 7A, Fig. 7B, Fig. 7C, Fig. 7D, Fig. 7E and Fig. Reference 8, these show a first embodiment of a dynamically controllable claw coupling (DSCC) 112, which comprises a linear actuator with a claw coupling (“the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling”). The DSCC 112 comprises a pocket plate 113, a notched plate 116 and a linear actuator 114 with a translator 120 (in the Fig. 7B, Fig. 7D, Fig. 7E and Fig. 8 shown) and a stator 122 (in the Fig. 7A, Fig. 7B and Fig. (8 shown). The translator 120 is linearly movable between lateral positions (i.e., in the axial direction), and the stator 122 is stationary. The stator 122 sets the translator 120 in motion and locks it in either the on or off position.

[0022] In the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling, the pocket plate 113 and the notch plate 116 are axially oriented towards each other, the pocket plate 113 comprises a set of axially oriented pockets 115, the notch plate 116 comprises a set of axially oriented notches 117, and the linear actuator 114 further comprises a nose plate 121, a set of (e.g., three) locking elements (e.g., noses) 123, and a set of (e.g., three) return springs 125. The translator 120 and the nose plate 121 are attached to the pocket plate 113 and rotate with it, the nose plate 121 being arranged axially between the translator 120 and the pocket plate 113. The springs 125 are pre-tensioned in such a way that they push the nose plate 121 away from the pocket plate 113 and thereby move the locking elements 123 away from the notches 117 of the notch plate 116.

[0023] The translator 120 is movable towards the pocket plate 113 into an engaged ("on") position of the DSKK 112 and away from the pocket plate 113 into a disengaged ("off") position of the DSKK 112. When the translator 120 is moved into the engaged position, it overcomes the force of the springs 125 and displaces the nose plate 121 so that it is positioned adjacent to the pocket plate 113. In the engaged position, the locking elements 123 extend through the pockets 115 of the pocket plate 113 and engage in the notches 117 of the notch plate 116, allowing the DSKK 112 to transmit a torque. When the translator 120 is moved into the disengaged position, the springs 125 can move the nose plate 121 so that it is positioned away from the pocket plate 113.In the disengaged position, the locking elements 123 do not extend through the pockets 115 of the pocket plate 113 and therefore do not engage in the notches 117 of the notched plate 116 (instead, the locking elements 123 extend into the pockets 115, but do not extend through the pockets 115 and into the notches 117 of the notched plate 116). With reference to... Fig. 7B, the DSKK 112 with the disclosed linear actuator with jaw coupling, does not have the struts 26 of the prior art DSK 12 and does not incorporate any separating loads, but it does have the return springs 125. The DSKK 112 has three load-bearing elements and can be actuated with low force at any speed. The engagement of the DSKK 112 is the same as the engagement of a radial DSKK with a rigid plunger, such as the prior art DSK 12. The disengagement of the DSKK 112 is also the same as the disengagement of a radial DSKK with a rigid plunger, such as the prior art DSK 12. The DSKK 112 has a ratchet function (functional reliability) and low locking requirements.

[0024] Further information regarding the DSKK 112 with the disclosed linear actuator with jaw coupling is given below. Garage circuits: in radial DSKKs with a rigid plunger, this is achieved by the "spring" provided by the linear actuator; the translator can self-align and fall into the locking position when ready. If the transition point of the passive locking is before the first contact point between the locking element and the notch plate, it will fall into the notch when possible. Detection of the coupling state: a problem with a DSK using a conventional linear actuator is detecting when the coupling is "open" or "closed"; a sensor on the nose plate 121 directly reports the state of the coupling (the nose plate 121 is never in the off position while the coupling is still holding torque).

[0025] Let us now turn to the Fig. 9A, Fig. 9B, Fig. 10A and Fig. Reference 10B shows a second embodiment of a DSKK 212 with the disclosed linear actuator with claw coupling. The DSKK 212 comprises a pocket plate 213, a notched plate 216, and a linear actuator 214 with a translator 220 and a stator (not shown). The in Fig. Figure 9A shows the side view of the DSKK 212 in its coupled position. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9A, the locking elements 223 each extend through a pocket 215 of the pocket plate 213 and engage in a notch 217 of the notch plate 216.

[0026] The notched plate 216 and the stator of the DSKK 212 are designed identically or analogously to the notched plate 116 and the stator 122 of the DSKK 112. In the second embodiment, however, the translator 220 integrally includes the set of locking elements 223 (i.e., the locking elements 223 are directly attached to the translator 220). Accordingly, the DSKK 212 does not have a nose plate such as the nose plate 121 and no return springs such as the return springs 125. Furthermore, the translator 220 has connecting tabs 227 integrally formed on it. The pocket plate 213 also has connecting recesses 229. The connecting tabs 227 of the translator 220 engage in corresponding connecting recesses 229 of the pocket plate 213 to connect the translator 220 and the pocket plate 213. Accordingly, the pocket plate 213 moves laterally in accordance with the lateral movement of the translator 220.

[0027] As described and illustrated, the DSKK 112 according to the first embodiment, for which on Fig. 7B is referenced, and in the DSKK 212 according to the second embodiment, for which reference is made Fig. 9B refers to a planar DSKK in which a linear actuator meets a claw coupling.

[0028] In the second embodiment, for which reference is made to the Fig. 9A, Fig. 9B, Fig. 10A and Fig. Reference is made to Section 10B. The DSKK 212 with the disclosed linear actuator with jaw coupling does not include springs such as the springs 125 of the DSKK 112, nor struts such as the struts 26 of the DSK 12 from the prior art, and does not include any separating loads. Particular attention is drawn to the Fig. 10A and Fig. Reference is made to Figure 10B, which shows a side view in the engaged state and a side view in the disengaged state of the DSKK 212 with the disclosed linear actuator with jaw coupling. The DSKK 212 has three load-bearing elements and can be actuated with low force at any speed. Engaging the DSKK 212 is similar to engaging a radial DSKK with a rigid plunger, such as the DSK 12, according to the prior art. Disengaging the DSKK 212 requires a disengagement command, during which a torque reversal occurs. The DSKK 212 has a ratchet function (functional reliability) and low locking requirements.

[0029] Further information regarding the DSKK 112 with the disclosed linear actuator with jaw coupling is given below. Garage circuits: In radial DSKKs with a rigid plunger, this is achieved by the "spring" provided by the linear actuator; the translator can self-align and fall into the locking position when ready. If the transition point of the passive locking is before the first contact point between the locking element and the notch plate, it will fall into the notch if possible. Disengagement: The disengagement signal should be given during a torque reversal; linear actuators move very quickly, so this should not be a problem; with an 8.5 ms stroke time of the linear actuator and 2° transition play, the maximum acceleration during the torque reversal is 9227 rpm per second.Clutch status detection: One problem with a DSKK using a conventional linear actuator is to detect when the clutch is "open" or "closed"; a sensor on the translator 220 directly reports the clutch status (the translator 220 is never in the off position while the clutch is still holding torque).

[0030] Let us now turn to the Fig. 11A, Fig. 11B and Fig. 11C reference, these show a side view in the engaged state ( Fig. 11A), a side view in the disengaged state ( Fig. 11B) as well as another view in the engaged state ( Fig. 11C) a DSKK 312 with a linear actuator with a jaw coupling. The DSKK 312 may further include a mechanical “push” spring between a pocket plate 313 and a nose plate 321 to assist disengagement, and / or a magnetic “pull” spring between a translator 320 and the nose plate 321 to assist disengagement. The DSKK 312 also includes a notched plate 316 with notches 317.

[0031] With further reference to the Fig. 11A, Fig. 11B, Fig. 11C will now be used on Fig. Reference is made to Figure 12, which shows the nose plate 321 having three locking elements 323 projecting axially from a side surface of the nose plate 321. In at least some implementations, the three locking elements 323 are formed integrally with the nose plate 321.

[0032] Let us now turn to the Fig. 13A, Fig. 13B and Fig. 13C reference, these show a side view in the engaged state ( Fig. 13A), a side view in the disengaged state ( Fig. 13B) and another view in the engaged state ( Fig. 13C) a DSKK 312' with a linear actuator with a claw coupling according to a variant of the third embodiment. In this variant, the nose plate 321' is similar to the nose plate 321 of the DSKK 312, except that the nose plate 321' further comprises an axially projecting hub 328, which may be cylindrical or frustoconical. The hub 328 is arranged radially in an intermediate position between the pocket plate 313 and the translator 320, as shown in the respective views of the Fig. 13A, Fig. 13B and Fig. 13C is shown.

[0033] With further reference to the Fig. 13A, Fig. 13B, Fig. 13C will now be used on Fig. Reference is made to Figure 14, which shows the nose plate 321', which has the axially projecting hub 328 and three locking elements 323 that project axially from a side surface of the nose plate 321'. The three locking elements 323 are formed integrally with the nose plate 321' in at least some implementations.

[0034] Let us now turn to the Fig. References 15-16 show an exploded view of a dynamically controllable jaw coupling (DSKK) 412 with a linear actuator with a jaw coupling (“the disclosed linear actuator with jaw coupling”) according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. The DSKK 412 comprises a pocket plate 413, a notched plate 416 with notches 417, a nose plate 421, locking elements 423, return springs 425, a linear actuator 414 with a translator 420, and a stator 422. The translator 420 comprises a mechanical part in the form of a guide collar 454 and an electrical part in the form of an armature collar 456, and the translator 420 is linearly movable between lateral positions (i.e., in the axial direction), and the stator 422 is stationary. The stator 422 sets the translator 420 in motion and locks it either in the on or off position.

[0035] The guide collar 454 of the translator 420 has a smaller-diameter section 455, which is held radially within the anchor collar 456, and a larger-diameter section 457, which has a larger diameter (i.e., a greater radial extent) compared to the smaller-diameter section 455. The guide collar 454 is arranged axially between the anchor collar 456 and the nose plate 421, with the smaller-diameter section 455 being axially adjacent to the anchor collar 456 and the larger-diameter section 457 being axially adjacent to the nose plate 421. A plurality of grooves 459 are formed by sloping or pointed-arch walls extending radially inward from the larger-diameter section 457 and the smaller-diameter section 455.The nose plate 421 has a plurality of recesses 463, with an opening formed in a first, axially oriented side surface of the nose plate 421. The recesses 463 are each pentagonal in shape and, in particular, house-shaped with five vertices (i.e., like a pentagon formed from a triangle whose hypotenuse sits on one side of a rectangle) – in the illustrated embodiment, one vertex of the pentagon is flat and truncated. The recess 463 can be pentagonal throughout or can change its shape halfway through the nose plate 421. The nose plate 421 also includes a plurality of guide pins or projections 467, which are aligned with the multiple grooves 459 of the guide collar 454 and are designed to be received by them. The projections 467 and grooves 459 can be triangular or angular in cross-section, corresponding to each other.The multiple grooves 459 can be arranged at uniform intervals around the common axis of rotation and extend axially from the second axially oriented surface of the nose plate 421. In the illustrated embodiment, six grooves 459 are provided, each of which engages one of the six projections 467 of the nose plate 421. Of course, a different suitable number of grooves and projections can be used in other embodiments. Furthermore, in some embodiments, including those shown in the [reference], the following are also shown: Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figures 15-16, the projections 467 are each arranged at a location where one of the recesses 463 is situated. For example, an inner surface of the respective recesses 463 corresponds to or merges into an outer surface of a corresponding projection 467.

[0036] The locking elements 423 are separate parts that are not formed as part of a plate, i.e., they are not integrally formed with, for example, the nose plate 421 or the translator 420, but are separate components arranged between the nose plate 421 and the pocket plate 413. Each locking element 423 has a pocket plate engagement section 469 that engages at a first axial end in a corresponding recess 463 of the nose plate 421, and a nose plate engagement section 471 that engages at a second axial end in an axially oriented pocket 415 of the pocket plate 413. The pocket plate engagement section 469 is elongated in the axial direction and extends axially from the nose plate engagement section 471.The locking elements 423 each have two flanges or ears 473 extending outwards and perpendicularly from an outer surface of the locking element 423. The flanges 473 are configured to bear against corresponding shoulders in a corresponding recess 463 of the nose plate 421 to align the locking elements 423 axially with respect to the nose plate 421. The nose plate engagement section 471 also comprises an axially extending section 475 that extends axially beyond the flanges 473 and engages a recess in a hub that extends axially away from a flange of the nose plate 421.A plurality of fastening elements can be aligned circumferentially with the recesses 463 of the nose plate 421 and extend radially through the flange of the nose plate 421 and engage with radially outer sections of the locking elements 423 to fasten the locking elements 423 to the nose plate 421.

[0037] In the engaged position, the locking elements 423 extend through the axially oriented pockets 415 and into the notches 417 of the notched plate 416. The axially oriented pockets 415 of the pocket plate 413 each represent radially elongated recesses or passages extending axially through the pocket plate 413. The radially elongated shape of the pockets 415 corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the pocket plate engagement section 469. The notches 417 of the notched plate 416 are shaped analogously – i.e., radially elongated. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a considerable number of notches 417 can be provided (e.g., 18 notches, as in Fig. (as shown in Figure 16), however, any other suitable number can also be used. The return springs 425 are arranged between the nose plate 421 and the pocket plate 413 and are designed to push the nose plate 421 away from the pocket plate 413. The illustrated embodiment comprises three return springs 425, but any other suitable number can also be used. The return springs 425 are each associated with a corresponding recess formed in an axial side surface of the nose plate 421 facing the pocket plate 413. The pockets 415 and notches 417 in the pocket plate and in the notched plate, respectively, are designed to ensure that the springs 425 do not fly out due to centrifugal forces during rotation of the plates 413, 416.The pockets 415 and notches 417 are also designed to allow a reduction in axial space compared to using pins instead of recesses for holding the return springs 425. Preferably, the springs 425 should not be compressed to the fixed height, which may also be decisive for the design of the plates 413, 416.

[0038] In embodiments, the translator 120, 220, 320, 420 is actuated to engage the clutch in order to maintain the torque in a specific manner. In the Fig. 10A and Fig. In 10B, for example, the translator 220 is set in motion to the left. Current is supplied to the stator 122 (not shown in the second or third embodiment), which sets the translator 120, 220, 320, 420 in motion to the left. If a butt butt impact occurs (i.e., if the locking element 123, 223, 323, 423 cannot fall into a notch 117, 217, 317, 417 of the notch plate 116, 216, 316, 416), then the passive locking by the linear actuator 114, 214, 314, 414 is strong enough to provide the remaining displacement of the translator 120, 220, 320, 420 to ensure full-depth engagement.

[0039] The disengagement mechanism, which releases the clutch, differs slightly for different embodiments. For example, in the DSKK 112, disengagement occurs by supplying current to the stator 122, which sets the translator 120 in motion to the right, regardless of whether the clutch is holding torque or not. When the clutch releases torque, the return springs 125 between the translator 120 and the nose plate 121 then push the translator 120 into the disengaged position. In the DSKK 212, disengagement occurs by supplying current to the stator during a torque reversal, since, in this embodiment, disengagement cannot occur while torque is being held. It should be noted that the linear actuator 214 used for this clutch provides a spring force between the translator 220 and the stator, and embodiments of the present invention utilize this to engage the clutch in the "on" direction.

[0040] Let us now turn to the Fig. 17A, Fig. 17B and Fig. Referring to 17C, these side views of the DSKK 312 show how it is moved from the disengaged position to the engaged position. The DSKK 312 starts in a disengaged position. Current is supplied to the stator, which sets the translator 320 in motion to the left. In the tooth-butt joint state ( Fig. 17B) the linear actuator 314 then provides the required spring force to move the translator 320 the rest of the way into a engaged state without using electricity.

[0041] Let us now turn to the Fig. 18A, Fig. 18B and Fig. 18C reference, these side views of the DSKK 312 show how it is moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position. The DSKK 312 begins in an engaged position ( Fig. 18A). Current is supplied to the stator, which sets the translator 320 in motion to the right. When torque is maintained ( Fig. 18B), the springs 325 then provide the necessary force to move the translator 320 the rest of the way to a disengaged position 3 without using electricity.

[0042] Let's now begin Fig. 19 Reference, this shows three different views of the DSKK 112 for four different states of the DSKK 112. As in the labeling in Fig. As stated in 19, the four different states of the DSKK 112 include the following: State No. 1 - locking off, clutch disengaged; State No. 2 - locking on, clutch with toothed butt joint, can engage when the clutch is rotated; State No. 3 - locking on, clutch engaged; and State No. 4 - locking off, clutch engaged by torque lock, can disengage when the clutch is rotated.

[0043] In summary, a dynamically controllable jaw coupling (DSKK) is disclosed, comprising a pocket plate, a notched plate, and a linear actuator with a stator and a translator. The translator is axially movable between (i) an engaged position in which a locking element extends axially through a pocket of the pocket plate and engages in a notch of the notched plate to mechanically couple the pocket plate and the notched plate to prevent relative rotation of the pocket plate and the notched plate about a common axis of rotation, and (ii) a disengaged position in which the locking element is disengaged from the at least one notch of the notched plate to mechanically decouple the pocket plate and the notched plate from each other to allow relative rotation of the pocket plate and the notched plate about the common axis of rotation.

[0044] Finally, the subject matter of this application has been disclosed in connection with various explicitly illustrative embodiments and modifications thereof, using various terms. All terms used herein are merely descriptive and not necessarily restrictive, and are to be interpreted and construed according to their customary and established meanings in the field, unless used in a context that requires a different interpretation. Furthermore, for convenience, each explicitly illustrative embodiment and modification is hereby incorporated by reference into one or more of the other explicitly illustrative embodiments and modifications.Therefore, many further embodiments, modifications, and equivalents of this already exist or remain to be discovered, and it is neither intended nor possible to describe at present all such subject matter which will be obvious to a person skilled in the art in view of the present disclosure. Rather, the present disclosure is intended to encompass all such embodiments and modifications of the subject matter of the present application and equivalents thereof which fall within the broad scope of protection of the appended claims.

Claims

[1] Dynamically controllable claw clutch arrangement (112, 212, 312, 312', 412) comprising: a pocket plate (113, 213, 313, 413) and a notch plate (116, 216, 316, 416) facing each other in the axial direction and mounted for rotation relative to each other about a common axis of rotation, wherein the pocket plate has at least one pocket (115, 215, 415) and the notch plate has at least one notch (117, 217, 317, 417), and a linear actuator (114, 214, 314, 414) having a stator and a translator (120, 220, 320, 420), the translator being coupled to the pocket plate for rotation therewith, and having an axially projecting hub, a plate extending transversely outwardly from the hub, and at least one locking element (123, 223, 323, 423) extending axially from the plate, the hub, the plate, and the at least one locking element being formed as a unit, and wherein the translator (120, 220, 320, 420) is axially movable between (i) an engaged position in which the at least one locking element (123, 223, 323, 423) extends axially through the at least one pocket of the pocket plate and engages the at least one notch of the notch plate, thereby mechanically coupling the pocket plate and the notch plate to one another to prevent relative rotation of the pocket plate and the notch plate with respect to one another about the common axis of rotation, and (ii) a disengaged position in which the at least one locking element (123, 223, 323, 423) is disengaged from the at least one notch of the notch plate, thereby mechanically decoupling the pocket plate and the notch plate from one another to enable relative rotation of the pocket plate and the notch plate with respect to one another about the common axis of rotation. [2] Dynamically controllable claw clutch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the linear actuator has no springs (125). [3] A dynamically controllable dog clutch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the pocket plate (213) has at least one connecting recess (229) and the translator (220) has at least one connecting tab (227) which engages the at least one connecting recess (229) to connect the pocket plate to the translator such that the translator and the pocket plate move laterally together. [4] Dynamically controllable dog clutch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the pocket plate (113, 213, 313) has a pocket plate hub and a plate extending radially away from the pocket plate hub, and wherein the hub of the translator (120, 220, 320) is movably mounted on the pocket plate hub. [5] A dynamically controllable dog clutch assembly according to claim 4, wherein the at least one pocket (115, 215, 415) comprises three pockets, the at least one notch comprises three notches, and the at least one locking element (123, 223, 323, 423) comprises three locking elements, and wherein the plate of the pocket plate (213) has three circumferentially spaced, radially projecting bulges carrying the three pockets. [6] Dynamically controllable dog clutch assembly according to claim 5, wherein the pocket plate has at least three connecting recesses (229) arranged offset in the circumferential direction with respect to the three pockets. [7] Dynamically controllable claw clutch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the stator of the linear actuator is located radially outside an outer diameter of the translator and circumscribes the latter. [8] A dynamically controllable dog clutch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the pocket plate comprises a pocket plate hub with pocket plate internal teeth and the notch plate comprises notch plate internal teeth having a larger inner diameter than that of the pocket plate internal teeth. [9] A dynamically controllable dog clutch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the outer diameters of the pocket plate and the notch plate are equal. [10] A dynamically controllable dog clutch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the notch plate has an outer diameter and the at least one notch has a circumferentially extending array of circumferentially closed passages disposed radially inward of the outer diameter. [11] A dynamically controllable dog clutch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the at least one notch is circumferentially closed, and wherein the at least one pocket is circumferentially closed.

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