Claw coupling, method for manufacturing couplings, system for selecting a coupling model, and coupling kit

Abstract

The present invention pertains to the field of mechanical engineering, and more precisely, to the area of mechanical couplings. More specifically, the present invention discloses claw couplings with elastic elements, for joining shafts of rotating machines. The present invention provides: lower mass or weight in relation to the prior art couplings intended for the same transmitted power ranges; higher torque / weight ratio; smaller claws, with improved load distribution and without thereby compromising the capacity for transmitted torque and power; lower moment of inertia; superior capacity to withstand contact pressure; greater heat transfer capacity; greater durability in operation at high temperatures; greater resistance to wear and / or abrasion; and / or efficient operation even when there is substantial radial and / or axial misalignment in operation.

Description

Descriptive Report of Invention Patent CLAMP COUPLING, COUPLING MANUFACTURING PROCESS, COUPLING MODEL SELECTION SYSTEM AND COUPLING KIT Field of Invention

[0001] The present invention is in the field of Mechanical Engineering, more precisely in the field of mechanical couplings. More specifically, the present invention discloses claw couplings with elastic elements for joining rotating machine shafts. The present invention provides: lower mass or weight compared to its predecessors intended for the same transmitted power ranges; higher torque-to-weight ratio; smaller claws, with improved load distribution without compromising the transmitted torque and power capacity; lower moment of inertia; superior contact pressure capacity; greater heat transfer capacity; greater durability in operation at high temperatures; greater resistance to wear and / or abrasion; and / or efficient operation even when there is substantial radial and / or axial misalignment during operation.In one embodiment, the coupling of the invention has flat load transfer pawl(s) present only in the regions remote from the shaft. In one embodiment, the coupling of the invention has wedge-shaped pawls, in which the majority of the torque is concentrated. Background of the Invention

[0002] Mechanical couplings are devices used to join the shafts of rotating machines, connecting a drive shaft and a driven shaft. Among the various types of couplings, flexible couplings have an elastic center and are generally arranged between two metal hubs.

[0003] The elastic center can be fixed to the hubs using bolts, which allows for a large number of bolts to better distribute the torque load between the drive shaft hub and the elastic center.

[0004] Elastic couplings with claws consist of two segments that are axially coupled, so that the claws of one segment fit between the claws of the other segment. Between the pairs of claws, an elastic segment, usually made of polymeric material, is placed, preventing direct contact between the coupling claws and contributing to the transfer of torque from the equipment.

[0005] Elastic segments are commonly used in cylindrical or parallelepiped geometry.

[0006] Furthermore, the polymeric elastic segment acts, in a way, as a sacrificial material for the claw coupling, preserving the coupling claws.

[0007] Couplings with elastic elements do not usually have a constant geometry. Ideally, the stiffness of the coupling and elastic element assembly should match the desired operating stiffness.

[0008] Couplings with cylindrical elements, such as those produced by Ringfeder TNB, Vulkan GBND, Henfel HDF, Wegcestari C, Ecotork, Rathi RB, among others, are widely known in the art. Couplings with flat parallelepiped elastic elements, such as the Antares HR, are also known, which comprise long flat claws and flat prismatic elements, as illustrated in Figure 8.

[0009] Furthermore, it should be noted that there are several coupling models in the art, so to join rotating machines that require higher torque transmission, it is also necessary to use couplings with larger jaws. These larger couplings have larger jaws than their smaller counterparts, which requires the production of larger polymer elastic segments to accommodate the increased geometric dimensions of the jaws.

[0010] Thus, to produce a plurality of coupling sizes, aiming to meet a plurality of torque transmission demands, it is also necessary to produce a plurality of elastic segments that are compatible with the variation in claw size, making their production more expensive and time-consuming.

[0011] Coupling grippers come in a variety of geometries. A common geometry is the use of grippers in a wedge arrangement. The larger the wedge size (length), the greater the difference. Furthermore, machining conventional couplings with wedge-shaped grippers can be very complex and / or costly, particularly when it comes to maintaining the parallelism of the n faces over 360 degrees. In this context, the longer the grippers, the more difficult it is to solve the parallelism problem.

[0012] The coupling of the present invention differs from those mentioned above and from the rest of the prior art, providing several advantages and technical benefits. Searches of the patent literature did not reveal any documents particularly relevant to the present invention, which are summarized below:

[0013] Patent application CN1 15789118 describes an elastic claw coupling with wedge-shaped geometry. This coupling features annular elastic blocks made of polyurethane, nylon, or rubber, positioned around the claws. These elastic blocks have a more complex geometry to manufacture and install in the couplings than flat elastic elements.

[0014] Patent application DE10059548 describes a coupling designed to attenuate large impacts, vibrations, and / or noise from load shifting. The coupling has claws formed by an upper region and a lateral region. The upper region of the claw has a curved surface with rounded edges. Furthermore, DE10059548 describes that the spacing between each claw is greater than the width of each claw, in order to accommodate the elastic element.

[0015] Background US5524738 describes a clutch coupling designed to engage quickly and with low wear over a range of rotational speeds. The coupling has claws with an upper region curved at predetermined angles, with a sharp edge and regions sides that extend from the sharp edge. Furthermore, the lateral regions have rounded ends to reduce stress.

[0016] Patent document CN2020481 13U describes a tongue-type shaft coupling for torque transmission, with claws made of elastic material (rubber) and trapezoidal geometry, which can be easily detached and replaced. The claws are fixed in pairs and spaced apart by a determined spacing, and each pair is spaced from the next pair by a spacing different from the first determined spacing.

[0017] Patent application PI0700070, filed by the present applicant, is titled "Flexible Coupling." This document discloses a coupling variation that allows for larger resistant sections precisely where the stress on the flexible element is greatest, thus reducing stress at these points.

[0018] Patent PI0804046 B1 belongs to the present applicant and is entitled "Coupling and coupling fastening system." The document discloses a coupling with a fastening system created by fitting and pressing its components together, which include profiles that join the other parts, clamping rings, and flanges with fittings.

[0019] Patent PI 0901879 B1, owned by the current applicant, is entitled "Coupling Hub and said coupling." The document discloses a hub for preferred use in a split-joint center, with a shaft-mounting system for installation in cases where the distances between the machine shaft faces are small, facilitating coupling assembly and maintenance. The proposed solution includes a hub with a protrusion on its inner fitting portion, allowing assembly with smaller shaft spacings.

[0020] Patent application PI1 105999 is from the present applicant and is entitled “Tire-type elastic center for couplings”. The document discloses an elastic center formed by smooth-faced flanges, which allow for better distribution of tension in the rubber (originating from the bolted joint between the hub and flange), avoiding the accumulation of tension in this region of the part. This increases the service life of the elastic center and consequently increases the torque capacity transmitted by the coupling.

[0021] Patent application BR102012021356, titled "Flexible Coupling," is filed by the present applicant. This document discloses a flexible tire-type coupling that provides high durability and high torque transmission capacity. The coupling comprises two hubs and a toroidal elastic element arranged between the two hubs. Each hub comprises a body portion and a flange extending radially from the body portion. The flange has an external contact surface. The toroidal elastic element comprises two contact faces, each contacting the external contact surface of the flange of one respective hub. The external contact surface of the flange of each hub extends radially beyond the respective face of the elastic element, thus eliminating stress points between the flange and the elastic element.

[0022] Patent application BR102012030505, filed by Henfel Indústria Metalúrgica, is titled "Improvement in quick-release coupling for hydrodynamic couplings and similar products." The document discloses a quick-release coupling assembly consisting of a front tapered bushing, a rear hub with split details, a ferrule fitting, and a rear cover. These are quick-release couplings used in radial hydrodynamic coupling (AHD) assembly, constructed with a flange fitted with recesses and symmetrically spaced holes, accommodating the screws for proper fastening. The quick-release coupling assembly offers significant advantages in maintenance time, a fast and fully interchangeable process, and allows for quick assembly and disassembly without the risk of damaging the machine shaft to which it is attached, preventing breakage of hydrodynamic coupling (AHD) components during removal of the front tapered bushing and the split rear hub.The quick coupling assembly provides a reduction in changeover time when compared to the coupling. conventional.

[0023] Patent application BR102014003077, filed by Henfel Indústria Metalúrgica, is titled "Split elastic coupling for high torque and low speeds." The document discloses a coupling designed for the flexible coupling segment for rotation and power transmission, such as equipment, conveyors, mills, elevators, and others. The coupling comprises a split plain hub, a split toothed hub, and a split flange, also with teeth. The fastening between the split parts of each plain hub and each toothed hub, as well as the fastening between the split parts of the toothed flange, is achieved using bolts or fasteners, tangential to the shaft.

[0024] Patent application BR102019025422, filed by Vulkan do Brasil, is titled "Flexible Coupling." The document discloses a flexible, torsionally elastic coupling comprising two coupling hubs, each hub configured for mounting on a respective shaft to be coupled. At least one of the hubs is completely sectioned with a cross-section, forming a first hub section and a second hub section. In this coupling, the axial locking of the hub is achieved without a temperature difference. The hub is cross-sectioned, allowing the total weight to be divided into two sectioned parts, providing greater assembly and disassembly safety.

[0025] Chinese patent application CN218063138U, filed by Wuxi Vulkan Tech Co., is titled “Parallel torsion transmission high-elastic coupling suitable for small installation space.” The document discloses a parallel torsion transmission high-elastic coupling suitable for small installation space. The parallel torsion transmission high-elastic coupling comprises a connecting disc, an annular transition disc, a tubular connecting shell, and a connecting disc arranged sequentially from left to right. The axes of the connecting disc The connecting disc, the transition disc, the connecting housing, and the connecting disc are located on the same straight line. The connecting disc, the transition disc, and the connecting housing are fixedly connected in sequence; an annular intermediate disc is arranged in the connecting housing, and the left and right sides of the intermediate disc are each symmetrically provided with a set of elastic parts.

[0026] Chinese patent application CN 219282276U, filed by Wuxi Vulkan Tech Co, is titled "Double-layer elastic coupling for high torque working condition in limited installation space". Said document discloses a coupling comprising an installation disc with a plurality of groups of rubber components installed on the inner side of the installation disc. Each rubber component is formed by the attachment of an outer iron piece, a rubber layer 1, an intermediate aluminum casting piece, a rubber layer 2 and an inner iron piece arranged sequentially from top to bottom.The first rubber layer is installed on the inner side face of the installation disc, the thickness of the first rubber layer is greater than that of the second rubber layer, the outer iron piece and the inner iron piece are fixedly connected, the longitudinal sections of the ends of the outer iron piece and the inner iron piece are opposite, and the longitudinal sections of the end faces of the outer iron piece and the inner iron piece are L-shaped.Through the design, the elastic torque transmission device can be installed and used in the narrow space of the cabin of an electric propulsion ship generator set. The fan-shaped limiting disc is connected with the inner iron piece and the outer iron piece in parallel. The entire disc and the aluminum casting intermediate piece are connected and integrated to output power. Elastic torque transmission operation is achieved under the condition of high torque working in limited installation space.

[0027] Chinese patent application CN 215861405U, filed by Wuxi Vulkan Tech Co, is titled “Elastic elastic coupling with gradual rigidity characteristic and applied to heavy hanging occasions." The aforementioned document discloses an elastic coupling with a gradual stiffness characteristic, used in heavy suspension occasions. The elastic coupling comprises an adapter plate, an outer iron piece, an S-shaped rubber assembly, a bearing, a sleeve, a support shaft, and a connecting disc. In which the first fastener penetrates through the adapter plate and the S-shaped rubber assembly to be connected to the outer iron piece. The S-shaped rubber assembly is arranged between the adapter plate and the outer iron piece. A through hole is formed in the middle of the outer iron piece. The bearing is arranged in the through hole. The support shaft is coated with the sleeve, and the sleeve is connected to the bearing. The end of the support shaft, remote from the adapter plate, is connected to the connecting disc through a second fastener.The adapter plate is connected to the universal joint shaft assembly, and the connecting disc is used to connect it to the host flywheel. Based on the elastic coupling with the gradual stiffness characteristic applicable to heavy suspension situations, the flywheel and universal joint shaft can be fixed and connected through the adapter plate and connecting disc, thus achieving the effect of suspending the universal joint's weight. This also prevents the S-shaped rubber joint from being damaged due to large deformation generated in the radial direction of the universal joint shaft.

[0028] Patent application BR102023019267, filed by José Roberto Rodrigues Martins Filho, is titled "Polymeric composition in coupling elements for mechanical power transmission." This document discloses a polymeric composition for coupling elements consisting of a mixture of natural rubber (polyisoprene) and synthetic rubber (styrene-butadiene), the surface of which is fully or partially coated with a copolymer coating material of butyl rubber, more specifically isobutylene copolymer.

[0029] Patent application BR202022009300, filed by Eduardo Borges Pessoa, is titled "Flexible Protection for Couplings." The document describes a flexible protection system for coupling rotating equipment, including a component with adjustable height and length, and adjustments on uneven surfaces using individual adjustment brackets, steel, and gaps for access to the rolling parts, providing safe, stable, and impact-resistant protection.

[0030] Based on the patent and non-patent literature, it is clear that new solutions are needed to overcome existing coupling limitations. Optimizing the geometry of various gripper coupling sizes is desirable, preferably concentrating the coupling mass in the areas of greatest mechanical stress. Furthermore, it is desirable to overcome the technical limitation of having different elastic segment sizes to accommodate the varying gripper coupling sizes. The present invention provides a solution to these problems.

[0031] Thus, from what can be inferred from the literature researched, no documents were found anticipating or suggesting the teachings of the present invention, so that the solution proposed here has novelty and inventive step compared to the state of the art. Summary of the Invention

[0032] Thus, the present invention solves the problems of the state of the art based on claw couplings with optimized geometry, whose mass concentration is displaced from the center of the coupling to its periphery, contributing to a reduction in the moment of inertia, by increasing the internal diameter and reducing the external diameter in relation to its previous counterparts, bringing efficiency gains in the transmission of torque from the coupling.

[0033] Thus, with the geometric optimization achieved, the claw couplings of the present invention are capable of transmitting higher values ​​of volumetric power density, when using prior art couplings intended for the same applications.

[0034] For the purposes of the present invention, to determine the volumetric power density of a claw coupling, the nominal power transmitted by the claw coupling (measured in kW) must be divided by the outer diameter of the claw coupling (in mm) raised to the square root of 3, as indicated by the following formula I: I. Volumetric Power Density = - j= - D ext^ 3

[0035] Furthermore, the present invention is capable of maintaining the size of the coupling claws as the coupling size varies (to meet greater torque demands), concentrating the mass more externally to the coupling, varying the number of claws and, thus, maintaining the elastic elements with the same dimensions to meet all sizes of claw couplings from a wide range of power demands, bringing great gains in production, logistics and maintenance of the couplings, by requiring the same size of elastic element for several different sizes of claw couplings.

[0036] The present invention solves these and other problems of the prior art.

[0037] It is an object of the present invention to provide a coupling (1) of claws (2), provided with two segments (1.1) that are axially associable, each segment (1.1) being provided with the same number of claws (2) as the segment (1.1) to which it is coupled, each claw (2) of the segment (1.1) being spaced from the next claw (2) by a cavity (1.2) for receiving a claw (2) of the opposite segment (1.1) and a pair of elastic elements (3), so that elastic elements (3) are arranged between the claw (2) of one segment (1.1) and the claw (2) of the other segment (1.1), when the segments (1.1) are associated, said coupling (1) being capable of transmitting a volumetric power density greater than or equal to 100, the volumetric power density being obtained as a function of the external diameter of the coupling (1).

[0038] It is an object of the present invention to provide a process of manufacturing of a coupling (1) of claws (2) provided with elastic elements (3) between the claws (2) comprising the steps of: producing at least one pair of axially associable coupling segments (1.1); producing claws (2) in each segment (1.1), so that each claw (2) of the segment (1.1) is spaced from the next claw (2) by a cavity (1.2) for receiving a claw (2) of the opposite segment (1.1) and a pair of elastic elements (3), and each segment (1.1) having the same number of claws (2) as the segment (1.1) to which it is coupled; and associating elastic elements (3) between the claw (2) of one segment (1.1) and the claw (2) of the other segment (1.1), when the segments (1.1) are associated; where the volumetric power density transmitted by the coupling (1 ) is between 75 and 150, with the volumetric power density being obtained as a function of the external diameter of the coupling (1 ).

[0039] It is also an object of the present invention to provide a system for selecting a coupling model (1) of claws (2) that comprises the steps of: obtaining the power demand that the coupling (1) must transmit; based on a predefined dimension of the size of the claw (2), assigning the number of claws (2) that the coupling (1) must have to meet the power demand; and determining the coupling model (1) of claws (2) based on the number of claws (2) assigned.

[0040] It is another object of the present invention to provide a kit of mechanical couplings (1) for various power demands to be transmitted, in which the couplings (1) of the kit have claws (2) of a predefined fixed size, with their quantity varying between each coupling model (1) of the kit.

[0041] The inventive concept common to the objects of the invention is a coupling (1) in which flat claw(s) (2) for load transfer are present only in the regions away from the axis, having a shorter length in this direction. This approach allows the choice of different geometries, in addition to enabling, at the same time, lower mass or weight and great resistance to stress. Thus, the couplings (1) of the present invention have claws (2) with a lower height compared to their counterparts of the prior art.

[0042] In one embodiment, the claws (2) of the coupling (1) of the present invention have a wedge shape, in which most of the torque is concentrated, that is, in the part furthest from the shaft.

[0043] These and other objects of the invention will be immediately valued by those skilled in the art and by companies with interests in the segment, and will be described in sufficient detail for their reproduction, in the following description. Brief Description of the Figures

[0044] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a plurality of coupling segments (1.1) of claws (2) of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 2 shows a front view of the embodiment of a plurality of segments (1.1) of coupling (1) of claws (2) of the present invention illustrated by figure 1, where the numbers below each segment (1.1) represent the value of the external diameter of that segment (1.1) in millimeters.

[0046] Figure 3 shows a comparative graph of the volumetric power density as a function of the outer diameter of claw couplings, in which the top line illustrates the volumetric power density for varying outer diameters of couplings (1) of the present invention, while the three bottom lines illustrate the volumetric power density of claw couplings of the prior art.

[0047] Figure 4 shows details of an embodiment of a segment (1.1) of a coupling (1) of the invention with emphasis on the height difference of the claw (2). In A) a front view of a coupling segment of the prior art is shown; and in B) a front view of a segment (1.1) of the coupling (1) of the present invention is shown.

[0048] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4, where item A represents a coupling segment of the technique previous and item B represents a coupling segment (1.1) (1) of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 6 shows a comparison between a parallelepiped elastic element of the prior art, indicated by A, and an embodiment of the elastic element (3) of the present invention, indicated by B, both for couplings (1) of equivalent nominal torque. Thus, it is evident that, the larger the external diameter of the coupling (1), the height h' and width b' of the elastic elements of the prior art become significantly greater than the height h and width b of the elastic element (3) of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of a finite element mesh used in the design of the gripper (2) of the coupling (1) of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the embodiment of two segments of a coupling with long flat elastic elements of the prior art. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0052] The inventive concept common to the objects of the invention is a coupling (1) in which its claws (2) for load transfer are present in regions away from the central axis, that is, they have a smaller height / length in the radial direction compared to their counterparts of the prior art. Thus, the coupling (1) of the present invention has an increased internal diameter and a reduced external diameter in relation to its previous counterparts, resulting in a greater concentration of mass close to the external diameter of the coupling (1), contributing to a reduction in the moment of inertia and gain in efficiency.

[0053] Furthermore, to meet varied torque demands, the models of couplings (1) and claws (2) of the present invention vary only the number of claws (2) between one model and another, maintaining the dimension of the claws (2) at a predefined fixed value, also making it possible for the same size of elastic element (3) is used for different coupling models (1), bringing gains in the manufacturing process of the different coupling models (1), in their distribution and sales logistics and in their maintenance process.

[0054] Couplings in which load transfer between two elements (hubs) is achieved through wedge-shaped jaws are well-known. By using an elastomeric elastic element between the spaces where load transfer occurs, that is, between a pair of jaws, this provides absorption of peak loads during operation and the accommodation of misalignments. Thus, in a sense, the elastic element acts as a sacrificial material for coupling conservation, since its maintenance and replacement are much easier and less costly than maintaining the entire coupling.

[0055] It should be noted that the coupling set (1), claws (2) and elastic elements (3) must be predefined in order to meet the demands for which the set is intended.

[0056] It is an objective of the present invention to provide couplings (1) with lower weight and higher torque / weight ratio than known counterparts.

[0057] It is an object of the invention to provide a coupling (1) with smaller claws (2), with substantially and surprisingly greater load distribution, without thereby compromising torque capacity in relation to previous flat claw couplings.

[0058] It is an object of the invention to provide a coupling (1) that allows the use of shafts with larger diameters while maintaining the diameter of the coupling (1). In one aspect, the same set of coupling elements (1) can be used on different shaft diameters, which provides manufacturing and assembly flexibility in different types of conditions of use.

[0059] It is an object of the invention to provide a coupling (1) with a lower moment of inertia compared to its prior counterparts. In one aspect, the lower moment of inertia provides greater energy efficiency and less overload when starting the motor.

[0060] It is an object of the invention to provide a coupling (1) with superior contact pressure bearing capacity than conventional elastic cylindrical couplings (1).

[0061] It is an objective of the invention to provide a coupling (1) whose claws (2) provide greater resistance to wear of the elastic elements (3).

[0062] It is an object of the invention to provide a coupling (1) that operates efficiently even when there is substantial radial and / or axial misalignment in operation.

[0063] In a first object, the present invention presents a coupling (1) of claws (2), provided with two segments (1.1) that are axially associable, each segment (1.1) being provided with the same number of claws (2) as the segment (1.1) to which it is coupled, each claw (2) of the segment (1.1) being spaced from the next claw (2) by a cavity (1.2) for receiving a claw (2) of the opposite segment (1.1) and a pair of elastic elements (3), so that elastic elements (3) are arranged between the claw (2) of a segment (1.1) and the claw (2) of the other segment (1.1), when the segments (1.1) are associated, said coupling (1) being capable of transmitting a volumetric power density greater than or equal to 100, the volumetric power density being obtained as a function of the external diameter of the coupling (1).

[0064] For the purposes of the present invention, to determine the volumetric power density of a clutch coupling (1) (2), the nominal power transmitted by the clutch coupling (1) (2) (measured in kW) must be divided by the external diameter of the clutch coupling (1) (2) (in mm) raised to the square root of 3, as indicated by the following formula I:

[0065] In one embodiment, the volumetric power density of the coupling (1) of claws (2) of the present invention is greater than or equal to 110. In a preferred embodiment and in a non-limiting manner, the volumetric power density of the coupling (1) of claws (2) of the present invention is greater than or equal to 120.

[0066] In one embodiment, in a non-limiting manner, the coupling (1) of the present invention is produced in metallic material and polymer. In one embodiment, each segment (1.1) of the coupling (1) is produced in cast iron and the elastic element (3) is produced in elastomer polymer.

[0067] The coupling (1) of the present invention has a predefined fixed claw size (2) and variation in the external diameter depending on the power to be transmitted by the coupling (1).

[0068] For the purposes of the present invention, the term “predefined fixed gripper size (2)” should be understood as at least one predefined gripper size (2) that remains fixed even if the outer diameter of the coupling (1 ) may vary. That is, at least two couplings (1 ) with different outside diameters share the same claw size (2), which is a predefined fixed size.

[0069] In order to meet greater torque transmission demands, the coupling model (1) selected will have larger outer diameters. Thus, for the couplings (1) of the present invention, as their outer diameter increases, the number of claws (2) increases, but their size remains the same in comparison with at least one other coupling size (1), so that the elastic element (3) also has the same size for at least two different coupling sizes (1).

[0070] In a preferred embodiment and in a non-limiting manner, the claws (2) of the coupling (1) of the present invention comprise at least two predefined fixed sizes. In this embodiment, a first predefined fixed size of claw (2) is intended for couplings (1) with a smaller outer diameter, while a second predefined fixed size of claw (2), larger than the first size, is intended for couplings (1) with a larger diameter. For this embodiment, it should be noted that the inventive concept of the present invention remains, where at least two sizes of couplings (1) share the same size of claws (2) and, consequently, the same size of elastic elements (3).

[0071] In one embodiment, the height of each predefined fixed size claw (2) of the coupling (1) of the present invention measures between 80mm and 150mm. In another embodiment, the height of each predefined fixed size claw (2) of the coupling (1) of the present invention measures between 90mm and 140mm. In a preferred embodiment and in a non-limiting manner, the height of each predefined fixed size claw (2) of the coupling (1) of the present invention measures between 100mm and 132mm. For this embodiment, the 100mm predefined fixed height claws (2) are intended for couplings (1) of up to 600mm in outer diameter, while the 132mm predefined fixed height claws (2) are intended for couplings (1) of more than 600mm in outer diameter.

[0072] In one embodiment, the thickness or depth of each predefined fixed size claw (2) of the coupling (1) of the present invention measures between 70 mm and 1 15 mm. In another embodiment, the thickness or depth of each predefined fixed size claw (2) of the coupling (1) of the present invention measures between 80 mm and 1 10 mm. In a preferred embodiment and in a non-limiting manner, the thickness or depth of each predefined fixed size claw (2) of the coupling (1) of the present invention measures between 87 mm and 101 mm. For this embodiment, the 87 mm thick or predefined fixed depth claws (2) are intended for couplings (1) of up to 600 mm in outer diameter, while the 101 mm thick or predefined fixed depth claws (2) are intended for couplings (1) of more than 600 mm in outer diameter.

[0073] In one embodiment, the elastic element (3) of the present invention comprises a parallelepiped shape, as illustrated in figure 6, item B.

[0074] In one embodiment, the elastic element (3) of the present invention also comprises a predefined fixed size and is defined according to the height of the gripper (2) to which it is associated. In one embodiment, the predefined fixed size of the elastic element (3) is compatible and / or equivalent and / or the same predefined fixed size of the gripper (2) to which the elastic element (3) is associated. In one embodiment, the predefined fixed size of the elastic element (3) corresponds to the height of the elastic element (3), so that its thickness is less than the thickness of the gripper (2) to which it is associated.

[0075] In one embodiment, the height of each predefined fixed size elastic element (3) of the coupling (1) of the present invention measures between 80mm and 150mm. In another embodiment, the height of each predefined fixed size elastic element (3) of the coupling (1) of the present invention measures between 90mm and 140mm. In a preferred embodiment and in a non-limiting manner, the height of each predefined fixed size elastic element (3) of the coupling (1) of the present invention measures between 100mm and 132mm. For this embodiment, the claws (2) and the 100mm predefined fixed height elastic elements (3) are intended for couplings (1) of up to 600mm in outer diameter, while the claws (2) and the 132mm predefined fixed height elastic elements (3) are intended for couplings (1) of more than 600mm in outer diameter.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the elastic element (3) is of the same height as the face of the gripper (2) to which said elastic element (3) is associated. In one embodiment, due to the curvature angle of the gripper (2), its height may be different from the height of the face that is in contact with the elastic element (3). In this embodiment, it is preferable that the elastic element (3) is of the same height as the face of the gripper (2) that is in contact, avoiding excess material. It should be noted that the difference in height between the gripper (2) and the elastic element (3) that is associated with said gripper (2) is a few millimeters and can be considered insignificant.

[0077] In one embodiment, the claws (2) of the coupling (1) of the invention have a wedge-shaped trunk, with most of the torque being concentrated in the part furthest from the center of the shaft.

[0078] The solution of the present invention, by moving the load transfer regions to concentrate only in the region furthest from the axis, It offers many technical benefits. Furthermore, it allows for the choice of different geometries, compatible with the smaller size (and weight).

[0079] When compared to conventional elastic cylindrical couplings (1), the coupling (1) of the invention provides, at the same time, lower weight and a higher ratio of transmitted torque per weight; smaller claws (2), with improved load distribution and without compromising torque capacity; lower moment of inertia compared to its counterparts of the prior art; superior capacity to withstand contact pressure; greater resistance of the elastic elements (3) to wear and / or abrasion; and efficient operation even when there is substantial radial and / or axial misalignment in operation.

[0080] The present invention also contributes to solving the problem of wedge parallelism, which leads to complex machining, making it difficult to produce parts separately that guarantee parallelism at the height of the gripper (2) and the precision of the spacing between them all.

[0081] In a second object, the present invention presents a process for manufacturing a coupling (1) of claws (2) provided with elastic elements (3) between the claws (2) that comprises the steps of: producing at least one pair of axially associable coupling segments (1.1); producing claws (2) in each segment (1.1), so that each claw (2) of the segment (1.1) is spaced from the next claw (2) by a cavity (1.2) for receiving a claw (2) of the opposite segment (1.1) and a pair of elastic elements (3), and each segment (1.1) having the same number of claws (2) as the segment (1.1) to which it is coupled; and associating elastic elements (3) between the claw (2) of one segment (1.1) and the claw (2) of the other segment (1.1), when the segments (1.1 ) are associated; in which the volumetric power density transmitted by the coupling (1 ) is between 75 and 150, with the volumetric power density obtained as a function of the external diameter of the coupling (1 ).

[0082] In one embodiment, the volumetric power density of the coupling (1) of claws (2) produced by the process of the present invention is greater than or equal to 110. In a preferred embodiment and in a non-limiting manner, the volumetric power density of the coupling (1) of claws (2) produced by the process of the present invention is greater than or equal to 120.

[0083] In one embodiment, the step of producing grippers (2) in each segment (1.1) comprises producing grippers (2) with a predefined fixed size.

[0084] In one embodiment, the grippers (2) produced by the process of the present invention are produced with a predefined fixed height between 80 mm and 150 mm. In another embodiment, the height of each gripper (2) of predefined fixed size produced by the process of the present invention measures between 90 mm and 140 mm. In a preferred embodiment and in a non-limiting manner, the height of each gripper (2) of predefined fixed size produced by the process of the present invention measures between 100 mm and 132 mm. For this embodiment, the grippers (2) of 100 mm of predefined fixed height are produced in couplings (1) of up to 600 mm of outer diameter, while the grippers (2) of 132 mm of predefined fixed height are produced in couplings (1) of more than 600 mm of outer diameter.

[0085] In one embodiment, the thickness or depth of each predefined fixed size gripper (2) produced in a coupling (1) by the process of the present invention measures between 70 mm and 1 15 mm. In another embodiment, the thickness or depth of each predefined fixed size gripper (2) produced in a coupling (1) by the process of the present invention measures between 80 mm and 1 10 mm. In a preferred embodiment and in a non-limiting manner, the thickness or depth of each predefined fixed size gripper (2) produced in a coupling (1) by the process of the present invention measures between 87 mm and 101 mm. For this embodiment, the 87 mm thick or predefined fixed depth grippers (2) are produced in couplings (1) of up to 600 mm in outer diameter, while the 101 mm thick or predefined fixed depth grippers (2) are produced in couplings (1) with an outside diameter of more than 600 mm.

[0086] In one embodiment, the elastic element (3) of the present invention is also produced with a predefined fixed size, which is defined according to the height of the gripper (2) to which the elastic element (3) is associated. In one embodiment, the predefined fixed size of the elastic element (3) is compatible and / or equivalent and / or the same predefined fixed size of the gripper (2) to which the elastic element (3) is associated. In one embodiment, the predefined fixed size of the elastic element (3) corresponds to the height of the elastic element (3), so that its thickness is smaller than the thickness of the gripper (2) to which it is associated.

[0087] In one embodiment, the height of each predefined fixed size elastic element (3) produced for a coupling (1) by the process of the present invention measures between 80 mm and 150 mm. In another embodiment, the height of each predefined fixed size elastic element (3) produced for a coupling (1) by the process of the present invention measures between 90 mm and 140 mm. In a preferred embodiment and in a non-limiting manner, the height of each predefined fixed size elastic element (3) produced for a coupling (1) by the process of the present invention measures between 100 mm and 132 mm. For this embodiment, the grippers (2) and the elastic elements (3) of 100 mm of predefined fixed height are produced and associated with couplings (1) of up to 600 mm of external diameter, while the grippers (2) and the elastic elements (3) of 132 mm of predefined fixed height are produced and associated with couplings (1) of more than 600 mm of external diameter.

[0088] In a preferred embodiment, the elastic element (3) is of the same height as the face of the gripper (2) to which said elastic element (3) is associated. In one embodiment, due to the curvature angle of the gripper (2), its height may be different from the height of the face that is in contact with the elastic element (3). In this embodiment, it is preferable that the elastic element (3) is of the same height as the face of the gripper (2) that is in contact, avoiding excess material. It should be noted that the difference in heights between the gripper (2) and the elastic element (3) which is associated with the aforementioned claw (2) and is only a few millimeters long and can be considered insignificant.

[0089] In one embodiment, the process of the present invention comprises the manufacture of couplings (1) in metallic material and polymeric material. In a preferred embodiment and in a non-limiting manner, the process of the present invention produces each segment (1.1) of the coupling (1) in cast iron and produces each elastic element (3) in an elastomeric polymer. In other embodiments, the couplings (1) are manufactured with alternative materials.

[0090] In one embodiment, the manufacturing process of the coupling (1) of the present invention comprises at least one of the steps of: casting each segment (1.1) of the coupling (1) in metallic material, machining and / or calendering of the claws (2) and cavities (1.2) of each segment (1.1) of the coupling (1); and polymerization of the elastic element (3).

[0091] In one embodiment, the process of the present invention makes it possible to produce a plurality of couplings (1) having a predefined fixed claw (2) size and variation of the external diameter depending on the power to be transmitted by the coupling (1). Thus, in order to meet a wide diversity of torque transmission demands, the process of the present invention is capable of producing different sizes of couplings (1) of claws (2), varying their external diameter and the number of claws (2) they have, while the claws (2) and the elastic elements (3) maintain their predefined fixed size between the models.

[0092] In a third object, the present invention presents a system for selecting a coupling model (1) of claws (2) that comprises the steps of: obtaining the power demand that the coupling (1) must transmit; based on a predefined dimension of the size of the claw (2), assigning the number of claws (2) that the coupling (1) must have to meet the power demand; and determining the coupling model (1) of claws (2) based on the number of claws (2) assigned.

[0093] In one embodiment, through the system of the present invention, the predefined dimension of the gripper size (2) remains fixed and predefined for the coupling models (1) provided by the system.

[0094] In one embodiment, the system of the present invention operates with a plurality of models of couplings (1) of claws (2) with predefined external diameter and number of claws (2), in which at least two models of couplings (1) share the same predefined fixed size of claws (2) and elastic elements (3) and, based on the nominal power demand that the coupling (1) transmits, the system of the present invention is capable of indicating which model of coupling (1) is most suitable, that is, what number of claws (2) it has and, therefore, its external diameter.

[0095] In another embodiment, the system of the present invention is capable of providing customized models of couplings (1) of claws (2) according to a nominal power demand. Based on a predefined fixed size of the claws (2) and, consequently, of the elastic elements (3), the system of the present invention is capable of indicating the number of claws (2) and, consequently, the external diameter of the coupling (1) necessary to meet the requested power demand.

[0096] Thus, at least two models or sizes of couplings (1) of claws (2) provided by the system of the present invention share the same size of claws (2) and elastic elements (3), bringing several gains in its manufacturing process, sales and transportation logistics and maintenance, since the same model of elastic element (3) serves several models of couplings (1).

[0097] In a preferred embodiment and in a non-limiting manner, the system of the present invention comprises at least two predefined fixed sizes of grippers (2), so that at least two couplings (1) provided by the system of the present invention comprise the same size of grippers (2) and, consequently, of elastic elements (3), while at least two couplings (1) provided by the system of the present invention comprise different sizes of grippers (2) and, consequently, of elastic elements (3). In this embodiment, a first predefined fixed size of gripper (2) is intended for couplings (1) with a smaller external diameter, while a second predefined fixed size of gripper (2), larger than the first size, is intended for couplings (1) with a larger diameter. For this embodiment, it should be noted that the inventive concept of the present invention remains, where at least two sizes of couplings (1) share the same size of grippers (2) and, consequently, the same size of elastic elements (3).

[0098] In a fourth object of the present invention, the present invention presents a kit of mechanical couplings (1) for various power demands to be transmitted, in which the couplings (1) of the kit have claws (2) of a predefined fixed size, with their quantity varying between each coupling model (1) of the kit.

[0099] In one embodiment, the kit of the present invention comprises at least two couplings (1) of claws (2) with different external diameters between the couplings (1), but sharing the same predefined fixed size of claws (2), so that the number of claws (2) varies from one model to the other model of coupling (1).

[0100] In this embodiment, the elastic elements (3) arranged between the claws (2) also comprise a predefined fixed size, so that the quantity of elastic elements (3) varies along with the variation in the number of claws (2) between couplings (1) of different external diameter of the kit of the present invention.

[0101] The diversity of coupling models (1) of claws (2) of the kit of the present invention aims to meet a plurality of demands of torque to be transmitted.

[0102] In one embodiment, any coupling (1) of claws (2) of the kit of the present invention comprises volumetric power density greater than or equal to 100.

[0103] For the purposes of the present invention, to determine the volumetric power density of a coupling (1) of claws (2), the power must be divided nominal transmitted by the clutch coupling (1) (2) (measured in kW) by the external diameter of the clutch coupling (1) (2) (in mm) raised to the square root of 3, as indicated by the following formula I.:

[0104] In one embodiment, the volumetric power density of each coupling (1) of claws (2) of the kit of the present invention is greater than or equal to 110. In a preferred embodiment and in a non-limiting manner, the volumetric power density of each coupling (1) of claws (2) of the kit of the present invention is greater than or equal to 120.

[0105] In a preferred embodiment and in a non-limiting manner, the couplings (1) of the kit of the present invention comprise at least two predefined fixed sizes of claws (2). In this embodiment, a first predefined fixed size of claw (2) is intended for the couplings (1) with a smaller external diameter, while a second predefined fixed size of claw (2), larger than the first size, is intended for the couplings (1) with a larger diameter. For this embodiment, it should be noted that the inventive concept of the present invention is maintained, where at least two sizes of couplings (1) share the same size of claws (2) and, consequently, the same size of elastic elements (3).

[0106] In one aspect, the invention provides improved uniformity of load transmission, a condition greatly improved over currently known couplings (1) which do not transmit load uniformly.

[0107] In one aspect, the invention provides advantages over the hub (the hub material being irrelevant), notably with regard to the mechanisms for accommodating elastic elements intended for torque control, since this is intended for a known space for load transfer. In the coupling (1) of the invention, the loading region is concentrated on the periphery of the circular region, its positioning being more amenable to choice (and also the correct elastomer) according to the intended purpose. Consequently, the coupling (1) of the invention provides the choice of a specific elastic element for each application, according to the effort and / or mode of use.

[0108] In one aspect, the invention provides advantages in relation to the loading conditions, which are benefited by the concept of the invention. The coupling (1) of the invention is suitable for use in oil-immersed applications, varied weather conditions, exposure to sunlight, and is also suitable for the concepts of Soft start and Auto reverse. Examples

[0109] The examples shown below are intended only to exemplify some of the ways of implementing the invention without, however, limiting its scope. Example 1 - Coupling of the Present Invention - Characteristics and manufacturing process

[0110] In this embodiment, seven different embodiments of coupling (1) of the invention were prepared, each with a different diameter, as illustrated in figures 1 and 2. It should be noted that the numbers 500, 580, etc., below each segment (1.1) of the coupling (1) of the present invention illustrated in figure 2 indicate the external diameter of the hubs and the element holder, in mm.

[0111] In the present example, said couplings (1) were manufactured in cast iron and the elastic element (3) in polyurethane. In other embodiments, the couplings (1) are manufactured with alternative materials. The manufacturing process of the coupling (1) of the present invention involves the following steps: casting, machining and calendering of each segment (1.1) of the coupling (1), its claws (2) and cavities (1.2), as well as polymerization of the elastic element (3).

[0112] Table 1 below shows the characteristics of the seven coupling embodiments (1) of the invention, illustrated in figures 1 and 2. Table 1 - Models, diameters and mass (or weight) of seven coupling embodiments (1) of the invention

[0113] Referring to figures 4 and 5, it can be seen that, in figure 4, details of this embodiment of coupling (1) are shown, highlighting the difference in height of the claw (2): in A) a front view of a coupling segment of the prior art is shown; and in B) a front view of a segment (1.1) of the coupling (1) of the invention is shown. In figure 5, details of this same embodiment are shown, in perspective view: in A) a top perspective view of a segment of the coupling of the prior art is shown; and in B) a top perspective view of a segment (1.1) of the coupling (1) of the invention is shown.

[0114] Couplings (1 ) according to this embodiment were subjected to several evaluations before and after their manufacture. Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of a finite element mesh used in the design of the gripper (2) of the coupling (1 ) of the present invention. Based on the inventive concept described above, the reduction in the height of the grippers (2) was calculated using finite element software. In addition, elastoplastic calculations were performed, deviating from the traditional design within the elastic regime. The use of stress calculations in the plastic regime validated that the reduction in The height of the claw (2) proposed by the present invention supports the increase in transmitted power.

[0115] Other characteristics of the couplings (1) considered in this patent application include: nominal torque (TKN) based on an infinite fatigue life; maximum torque (TKmax) is based on low cycle fatigue and meets up to 50,000 load cycles; maximum rotation was calculated based on a peripheral speed of 40 m / s. Example 2 - Coupling of the present invention and its comparison with prior art Reference 2 couplings

[0116] The seven different coupling embodiments (1) of the invention, as described in example 1 and illustrated in figures 1 and 2, were compared with couplings (1) of equivalent dimensions from the prior art. Table 2 below shows one of these comparisons. Table 2 - Mass data of the models of the invention, of the Reference 2 models of the prior art and percentage variation.

[0117] In Table 2 above, each row illustrates two couplings designed to transmit the same or equivalent nominal torque. Thus, the comparison in each row is accurate.

[0118] As demonstrated in Table 2 above, the coupling (1) of the present invention provides a weight reduction of up to 45% compared to the coupling (1) of the prior art models (Reference 2). On average, the weight reduction is 29%.

[0119] These same couplings (1) were then subjected to torque evaluations. The results are shown in Table 3. Table 3 - Torque, mass and power / weight ratio data for the invention models, the Antares HR models and percentage variation in the power / weight ratio.

[0120] In Table 3 above, each row illustrates two couplings intended for transmit the same or equivalent nominal torque. Thus, the comparison in each line is accurate. It should be noted that the coupling model (1) with an outer diameter of 580 mm meets the same needs as the models HR809 and HR901 of Reference 2 of the prior art.

[0121] As demonstrated in Table 3, the coupling (1) of the present invention provides a power / weight ratio up to 11 1% greater than that of the models of the preceding Reference 2, being, on average, 60% greater.

[0122] In addition to the substantial benefits illustrated in tables 2 and 3 above, this embodiment of coupling (1) of the invention also provides, when compared to the couplings (1) of Reference 2 of the prior art, a lower moment of inertia. Due to the smaller claws (2) (as illustrated in figures 4 and 5), the coupling (1) of the invention has a larger internal diameter and a smaller external diameter than the prior art, resulting in a lower moment of inertia and better distribution of the claws (2). Example 3 - Coupling of the invention and its comparison with or competing coupling (Reference 1)

[0123] Seven different embodiments of coupling (1) of the invention, as described in example 1, were compared with couplings (1) of equivalent dimensions from the prior art. Table 4 shows one of these comparisons. Table 4 - Mass (or weight) data of the invention models, competitor models and percentage variation

[0124] In Table 4 above, each row illustrates two couplings designed to transmit the same or equivalent nominal torque. Thus, the comparison in each row is accurate. It should be noted that the coupling model (1) with an outer diameter of 1100 mm of the present invention did not find equivalents of Reference 1 capable of delivering the same torque for comparison.

[0125] As demonstrated in Table 4, the coupling (1) of the present invention provides a weight reduction of up to 34% in relation to the coupling (1) of the competitor's models Reference 1. On average, the weight reduction is 16.3%.

[0126] These same couplings (1) were then subjected to torque evaluations. The results are shown in Table 5. Table 5 - Torque, mass and power / weight ratio data for the invention models, competitor models and percentage variation in the power / weight ratio.

[0127] In Table 5 above, each row illustrates two couplings designed to transmit the same or equivalent nominal torque. Therefore, the comparison in each row is accurate. Since the previous Reference 1 does not have models on the market larger than 1200 mm, the comparison of this outer diameter was made with the 880 mm and 980 mm models of the present invention.

[0128] It is worth noting that the coupling model (1) with an external diameter of 1100mm of the present invention did not find equivalents of Reference 1 capable of delivering the same torque for comparison.

[0129] As demonstrated in Table 5, the coupling (1) of the invention provides a power-to-weight ratio up to 67% higher than that of the main competitor, being, on average, 32.6% higher. This is even more surprising when one takes into account that for each model of the invention the diameter is always substantially smaller than that of the corresponding model of the competitor Reference 1 used in the comparison (approximately 20% smaller diameter). Example 4 - Volumetric Power Density Comparison of the invention in relation to prior art models

[0130] According to the graph illustrated in figure 3, the volumetric power density values ​​were obtained for seven different values ​​of external diameter of couplings (1) of the present invention, indicated by the values ​​in the upper line.

[0131] The volumetric power density values ​​were also collected for 3 sets of couplings of the prior art, being, respectively from top to bottom, the antecedent Reference 1, Reference 2 and Reference 3. Each value indicated in the graph is compatible with a coupling intended to transmit the same torque as the coupling (1) of the present invention whose diameter is indicated at the base of the graph, since the external diameter of technique models varies.

[0132] It is noted that the volumetric power density obtained is greater than or equal to 120, while the volumetric power density of all the prior art couplings measured (Reference 1, Reference 2 and Reference 3) are below 80, evidencing the high efficiency achieved by the coupling (1) of the present invention.

[0133] It should be noted that the antecedents selected for comparison and referred to in this report as Reference 1, Reference 2 and Reference 3 correspond to the couplings widely known and used in the art, which were cited in paragraph

[0008] of this report.

[0134] Those skilled in the art will appreciate the knowledge presented herein and will be able to reproduce the invention in the presented embodiments and in other variants and alternatives, covered by the scope of the following claims.

Claims

Claims 1. Coupling (1) of claws (2), provided with two segments (1.1) that are axially associable, each segment (1.1) being provided with the same number of claws (2) as the segment (1.1) to which it is coupled, each claw (2) of the segment (1.1) being spaced from the next claw (2) by a cavity (1.2) for receiving a claw (2) of the opposite segment (1.1) and a pair of elastic elements (3), so that elastic elements (3) are arranged between the claw (2) of one segment (1.1) and the claw (2) of the other segment (1.1), when the segments (1.1) are associated, the coupling (1) being characterized in that said coupling (1) of claws (2) is capable of transmitting a volumetric power density greater than or equal to 100, the volumetric power density being obtained as a function of the external diameter of the coupling (1 ).

2. Coupling (1), according to claim 1, characterized by comprising a predefined fixed claw size (2) and variation of the external diameter depending on the power to be transmitted by the coupling (1).

3. Coupling, according to claim 1, characterized in that the height of each claw (2) measures between 80 mm and 150 mm.

4. Coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that the depth of each claw (2) measures between 70 mm and 1 15 mm.

5. Coupling, according to claim 1, characterized in that the height of each elastic element (3) measures between 80 mm and 150 mm, according to the height of the claw (2) where it is associated.

6. Manufacturing process of a coupling (1) of claws (2) provided with elastic elements (3) between the claws (2), characterized by comprising the steps of: a. production of at least one pair of axially associable coupling segments (1.1); b. production of claws (2) in each segment (1.1), so that each claw (2) of the segment (1.1) is spaced from the next claw (2) by a cavity (1.2) for receiving a gripper (2) of the opposite segment (1.1) and a pair of elastic elements (3), and each segment (1.1) having the same number of grippers (2) as the segment (1.1) to which it is coupled; and c. association of elastic elements (3) between the gripper (2) of one segment (1.1) and the gripper (2) of the other segment (1.1), when the segments (1.1) are associated; in which the volumetric power density transmitted by the coupling (1) is between 75 and 150, the volumetric power density being obtained as a function of the external diameter of the coupling (1).

7. Process, according to claim 6, characterized by producing a plurality of couplings (1) equipped with a predefined fixed claw size (2) and variation of the external diameter depending on the power to be transmitted by the coupling (1).

8. System for selecting a coupling model (1) of grippers (2) characterized by comprising the steps of: a. obtaining the power demand that the coupling (1) must transmit; b. based on a predefined dimension of the size of the gripper (2), assigning the number of grippers (2) that the coupling (1) must have to meet the power demand; and c. determining the coupling model (1) of grippers (2) based on the number of grippers (2) assigned.

9. System, according to claim 8, characterized in that the predefined dimension of the size of the claw (2) remains fixed and predefined for the coupling models (1) provided by the system.

10. Mechanical coupling kit (1) for various power demands to be transmitted, characterized by the fact that the couplings (1) in the kit have claws (2) of a predefined fixed size, with the quantity varying between each coupling model (1) in the kit.

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