Clutch Actuation Unit Layout for Compact Centrifugal Pressure Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuation units for clutch systems in motor vehicle drivetrains are bulky, occupying excessive space.
Innovation Solution
The compensation chamber plate is fixed to the drive plate instead of the input shaft, eliminating the need for a connection between the compensation chamber plate and the input shaft, and utilizing protruding fixation elements and preloading elements like disc springs or spring packs for rotational locking and preloading, respectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If the compensation chamber plate is fixed to the input shaft as in prior art systems, then the connection provides stable rotational support, but the actuation unit occupies excessive space within the drivetrain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the compensation chamber plate with the drive plate by fixing the compensation chamber plate to the drive plate instead of the input shaft. This integration eliminates the need for separate connection components between the compensation chamber plate and input shaft, reducing the overall volume of the actuation unit while maintaining functional stability
Solution Approach 2:
The drive plate serves multiple functions: it transmits rotational movement from the input shaft and simultaneously serves as the mounting base for the compensation chamber plate. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing the space occupied by the actuation unit
2Reliability
If fixation elements are used to connect the compensation chamber plate to the drive plate, then rotational movement is securely transmitted, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the compensation chamber plate and drive plate is achieved through distributed fixation elements (such as protrusions and recesses) rather than a single complex connection mechanism. This segmentation allows for simpler individual components that are easier to manufacture and assemble while collectively providing secure rotational movement transmission
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation elements are designed to automatically align and engage with each other (e.g., protrusions fitting into recesses), eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures or additional fastening operations. This self-aligning feature simplifies the manufacturing and assembly process while ensuring reliable rotational movement transmission
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
This configuration results in a more compact actuation unit that securely transmits rotational movement while reducing space requirements, enhancing the overall efficiency and compactness of the clutch system.
Implementation Method 1
said preloading element can for example comprise a disc spring
Implementation Method 2
said preloading element may comprise a spring pack including a plurality of springs arranged between a first ring element and a second ring element
Implementation Method 3
said pressure chamber contains a hydraulic fluid for hydraulically actuating said clutch piston
Implementation Method 4
said compensating chamber being arranged to compensate centrifugal force pressure on said clutch piston
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3b
Figure 3c
AI summary
Actuation unit (3) for a clutch system of a motor vehicle drivetrain comprising: - a drive plate (4) mounted on an input shaft (1) of said clutch system; - a clutch piston (15) arranged to actuate a clutch (2) of said clutch system; - a compensation chamber plate (16) defining a compensation chamber (17); wherein said clutch piston (15) separates a pressure chamber (18) between said drive plate (4) and said clutch piston (15) from said compensation chamber (17) between said clutch piston (15) and said compensation chamber plate (16), said pressure chamber (18) containing a hydraulic fluid for hydraulically actuating said clutch piston (15), and said compensating chamber (17) being arranged to compensate centrifugal force pressure on said clutch piston (15), whereby said compensation chamber plate (16) is fixedly connected to said drive plate (4).