Switchable Clutch Actuator Slide Fixation Without Continuous Coil Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuator assemblies for positively locking, switchable clutches or brakes in motor vehicle drive trains face challenges in reliably moving and fixing an actuator slide with high secondary forces due to radial arrangements, leading to resource inefficiency as energy is required for both movement and fixation.
Innovation Solution
An actuator assembly with a stationary coil generating a magnetic field for moving the actuator slide between positions, where the slide is fixed in both positions without the need for a magnetic field, conserving energy and resources by only requiring energy for movement, and utilizing springs and permanent magnets for stable positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the actuator slide is fixed using a magnetic field in both positions, then the actuator slide can be reliably fixed, but energy is continuously consumed for fixation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the magnetic field generation function from the continuous operation state, applying it only during the transition phase. The coil is deactivated once the actuator slide reaches its target position, and mechanical elements (springs, detents, or cam mechanisms) take over to maintain the fixed position without requiring continuous energy input.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field is applied periodically only during the brief transition moments when the actuator slide needs to change position, rather than continuously. The coil is energized momentarily to move the slide, then deactivated, creating a periodic on-off pattern that significantly reduces energy consumption while maintaining reliable positioning.
2Volume of moving object
If a radial arrangement is used between the actuator coil and actuator slide, then the actuator assembly is compact, but high secondary forces are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetric elements such as offset mounting positions, non-uniform air gaps, or asymmetric magnetic circuit paths to counterbalance the radial forces. By creating an intentional asymmetry in the magnetic circuit or mechanical mounting, the secondary forces are redistributed and reduced, allowing the compact radial arrangement to be used without suffering from excessive force generation.
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
Ensures reliable operation with reduced energy consumption by minimizing energy use for fixing the actuator slide, allowing for efficient and resource-saving operation of the clutch or brake.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator which is at least partially stationary and moves the actuator slide between the first position and the second position, the actuator comprising a coil which is stationary and, in the energized state, generates a magnetic field, by way of which the actuator slide can be moved out of the first position into the second position
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator assembly for a positively locking, switchable clutch or a brake includes a shaft that can be rotated with respect to a rotational axis and an actuator slide for actuating the freewheel. The actuator slide is rotationally connected to the shaft and can be moved relative to the shaft in the axial direction between a first position and a second position and an actuator, which is stationary at least in part, that moves the actuator slide between the first position and the second position. The actuator includes a stationary coil, which, in the energized state, generates a magnetic field, in which the actuator slide can be moved out of the first position into the second position or vice versa. The coil is not energized in the first and in the second position. The actuator fixes the actuator slide in the first position and the second position.