Clutch Transport Securing via Annular Resilient Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clutch units face challenges in producing transport securing means that are simple, cost-effective, and easily integratable, which are essential for ensuring the automatic adjustment device is securely locked during transport and unlocked upon installation in a vehicle.
Innovation Solution
The integration of an annular, axially resilient element that can be elastically clamped between the housing and lever elements, allowing the lever elements to be held in a predetermined pivoted position, effectively securing the adjusting device until the clutch is actuated for the first time, thereby ensuring the securing function and releasing the adjusting function automatically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex transport securing means are used to block the adjusting device during transport, then the securing function is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a simple, inexpensive transport securing means that performs its function during transport and then becomes obsolete after the first actuation of the clutch. The securing means is designed to be discarded or rendered inactive after serving its temporary purpose, eliminating the need for complex, permanent securing mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjusting device is pre-blocked in a predetermined position during manufacturing to ensure proper functioning during transport. This preliminary blocking action is automatically released upon first actuation of the clutch, eliminating the need for manual intervention or complex unlocking mechanisms.
2Reliability
If manual intervention is required to unlock the adjusting device after transport, then the securing function is maintained, but the ease of operation and assembly time are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The transport securing means is designed to automatically unlock or become inactive through the first normal actuation of the clutch device. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual intervention, special tools, or additional steps to release the blocking, allowing the adjusting device to function normally immediately after installation.
3Reliability
If multiple components are used for transport securing, then the securing function is improved, but the manufacturing cost and production time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transport securing means is integrated into the existing structure of the clutch device, combining the securing function with existing components rather than adding separate, dedicated securing mechanisms. This merging approach reduces the total number of parts, simplifies manufacturing, and lowers production costs while maintaining adequate securing functionality during transport.
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 solution allows for a cost-effective and simple integration of transport securing means, ensuring the clutch unit's adjusting device is securely locked during transport and automatically unlocked upon installation, enhancing the reliability and ease of assembly while maintaining the clutch's functionality.
Implementation Method 1
the transport securing means are formed by at least one annular, axially resilient element, which is functionally effective between the housing and the lever elements and can be brought into an elastically clamped state
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The clutch assembly (1) has a friction clutch (2,3) with a pressure plate, which is rotationally fixed to the housing, but displaceable to a limited extent in the axial direction. A transport safety unit is formed by a ring-shaped, axial spring-loaded element, which is functionally effective between the housing and the lever elements. The lever elements are held in a predetermined deviating position inside the non-mounted clutch assembly.