Adjustable Clutch-Brake Assembly Spring Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clutch-brake assemblies lack the ability to adjust to varying force and torque requirements across different machines, necessitating a solution that can accommodate diverse operational characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A clutch-brake assembly with a base member, movable clutch and brake surfaces, and a piston that can be urged by springs, allowing for adjustable force transmission through telescopically positioned springs and force transmitting members between spring retainers, enabling the assembly to be adapted for machines with specific requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a clutch-brake assembly is designed for a specific machine with fixed force requirements, then it can reliably transmit the required force, but it cannot accommodate machines with different force and torque requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch-brake assembly incorporates adjustable spring mechanisms that allow the force transmission characteristics to be dynamically modified. The spring pressure can be adjusted to change the engagement force between clutch surfaces and brake surfaces, enabling the same assembly to adapt to different force and torque requirements of various machines while maintaining reliable operation for each specific application
2Device complexity
If the clutch-brake assembly uses fixed spring pressure, then the structure is simple, but it cannot be adjusted to suit different force requirements of different machines
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly incorporates adjustable spring pressure mechanisms that allow operators to modify the force parameters of the clutch and brake surfaces. By changing the spring pressure parameter, the same basic structure can be tuned to meet different force requirements without requiring complete redesign or replacement of the assembly
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The assembly effectively transmits force to rotate a shaft and retain it against rotation, with adjustable spring stiffness and configuration allowing it to suit machines with different force and torque needs, enhancing versatility and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of springs may urge the piston in one of the first and second directions relative to the base member
Implementation Method 2
press a first friction surface against the clutch surface to enable force to be transmitted from the clutch surface
Data Source
AI summary
A clutch-brake assembly transmits force to rotate a shaft and to retain the shaft against rotation. The assembly includes a plurality of force transmitting members which transmit force between a piston and a base member. A plurality of springs urge the piston to move relative to the base member. A plurality of spring retainers are disposed between the base member and the piston. Each of the spring retainers includes a plurality of projecting portions extending from the base portion. Each of the springs is telescopically disposed on one of the projecting portions. Each of the force transmitting members is disposed between adjacent spring retainers.