Clutch Drag Ring Radial Segments Wear Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clutches face challenges in effectively managing wear and torque transmission between components, particularly in bi-directional overrunning applications, where existing designs may not adequately prevent wear and ensure efficient torque transfer.
Innovation Solution
A clutch assembly featuring a drag ring with radially protruding and inward segments, integrated with a cage and housing, and a steel sleeve to prevent wear, along with a ramped profile on the inner race for enhanced torque transmission, and the use of rollers or sprags as blocking elements for efficient torque transfer between shafts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a steel sleeve is fitted between the housing and drag ring, then wear resistance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A steel sleeve is fitted between the aluminum housing and the drag ring to act as an intermediary wear-resistant layer. The steel sleeve prevents direct contact and wear between the aluminum housing and drag ring, while the drag ring still effectively engages the housing through the steel intermediary layer.
2Power
If the drag ring is axially offset from the outer race, then torque transmission efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drag ring is positioned at a different axial location than the outer race, utilizing the axial dimension to optimize torque transmission. This axial offset allows the drag ring to engage the housing at a position that maximizes frictional torque transfer while maintaining structural integrity.
3Reliability
If blocking elements are used in the cage, then torque transfer control is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cage contains multiple discrete blocking elements (rollers or sprags) that are distributed around the circumference. These segmented blocking elements can independently engage and disengage to control torque transfer in different directions, providing reliable bi-directional torque control through the segmented architecture.
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 solution enhances wear resistance and torque transmission efficiency by preventing aluminum wear and ensuring bi-directional torque transfer, thereby improving the clutch's performance and longevity in overrunning applications.
Implementation Method 1
a drag ring arranged to frictionally engage a housing for the clutch assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A drag ring for a clutch includes an axis, a circumferential surface extending about the axis and first and second pluralities of segments. The first plurality of segments includes first and second ends integrally joined with the circumferential surface and a first center segment protruding radially outward from the circumferential surface. The second plurality of segments includes third and fourth ends integrally joined with the circumferential surface and a second center segment protruding radially inward from the circumferential surface. In an example embodiment, the first and second pluralities of segments are circumferentially distributed about the circumferential surface. In an example embodiment, the circumferential surface includes first and second continuous edges with a distance therebetween. A circular line extending about the circumferential surface at a midpoint of the distance is interrupted by the first and second pluralities of segments.