Clutch Brake Segmented Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clutch brake systems for tractor trailer trucks require time-consuming and costly replacement procedures, especially when dealing with two-piece designs that use screw fasteners, which can be difficult to connect and disconnect, and are prone to breakage at junctures.
Innovation Solution
A clutch brake design featuring first and second sections that can be configured between connected and disconnected states, allowing for installation and removal without disconnecting the shaft from the transmission, utilizing a hinge pin for pivotal movement and a fastening mechanism with a movable fastener body and centrifugal-assist member for secure engagement and easy release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional one-piece clutch brake is used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the replacement requires disconnecting the transmission which is time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch brake is divided into two separate sections (first clutch brake section and second clutch brake section) that can be independently installed and removed. This segmentation allows the clutch brake to be replaced without disconnecting the transmission, as the sections can be accessed and replaced from the engine side only.
2Ease of operation
If a two-piece clutch brake with screw fasteners is used, then the replacement is easier, but the fasteners are difficult to connect and disconnect and are prone to breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The screw fasteners are extracted and replaced with a detent-based locking mechanism. The detent members engage with slots in the lock plates to secure the two sections together, eliminating the need for screws that are difficult to install and prone to breakage. This provides both ease of operation and high reliability.
3Ease of operation
If detent members are used to lock the clutch brake, then the installation is easier, but the detent members are prone to break at their junctures with lock plates
Solution Approach 1:
The detent members are designed to be resilient and movable rather than rigid and fixed. They can flex during installation and operation, absorbing stresses that would otherwise cause breakage at the junctures with the lock plates. This dynamic design maintains ease of operation while significantly improving strength and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A clutch brake for use in association with a braking mechanism for braking rotation of a shaft connecting an engine to a transmission. The clutch brake includes first and second clutch brake sections having first and second lock plates. The first and second clutch brake sections are selectively configurable in a disconnected configuration and a connected configuration. The clutch brake further comprises a fastening mechanism on the first and second lock plates for fastening the first and second clutch brake sections in the connected configuration. The fastening mechanism includes a first fastening component on the first lock plate and a second fastening component on the second lock plate. The first fastening component further includes a fastener body movably mounted in an opening in the first lock plate, and a fastening arm extending from the fastener body. The fastener body is movable from a fastening position, to a release position.