Clutch Apparatus Latching Elements Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices for motor vehicles face challenges in compact design and easy assembly, particularly in compensating for tilting and radial displacement, while also needing to save space.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with a disc-shaped coupling member featuring latching elements and counter-latching elements that allow for secure attachment to the second shaft member, facilitating assembly without additional space requirements, and enabling non-rotatable coupling with tolerance for slight displacements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a coupling member with latching elements is used to simplify assembly, then assembly ease is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional latching components
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides torque transmission through projections and recesses, enables non-rotatable coupling through the same features, and facilitates easy assembly through integrated latching elements and counter-latching elements. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining assembly simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the coupling member is designed to compensate for tilting and radial displacement, then adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device incorporates dynamic compensation capabilities through the interaction between the projections and recesses on the coupling member and shaft members. The design allows for slight angular and radial misalignments while maintaining functional coupling, adapting to manufacturing tolerances rather than requiring perfect alignment.
3Volume of moving object
If the coupling device is designed to be compact to save space, then volume is reduced, but the ease of assembly deteriorates due to limited space for manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member features an annular edge with latching elements that nest within corresponding counter-latching elements on the shaft member. This nested design allows the coupling components to fit tightly together in a compact arrangement while the latching mechanism provides clear assembly guidance and secure engagement even in limited space.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Clutch apparatus for transmitting a torque from a first shaft member (20) to a second shaft member (22) located axially opposite, having a clutch member (28) which is arranged between the two shaft members (20, 22), wherein the clutch member (28) has a disk-shaped main body (30), wherein the clutch member (28) has an annular rim (32) that encircles the main body (30) and protrudes beyond the main body (30) axially on both sides, wherein first recesses (38) have been introduced into the annular rim (32) on a first side (34) of the clutch member (28), wherein second recesses (40) have been introduced into the annular rim (32) on a second side (36) of the clutch member (28), wherein the first shaft member (20) has a first end portion (24) which has axially extending first protrusions (26), wherein at least one such first protrusion (26) of the first end portion (24) engages in at least one of the first recesses (38) of the clutch member (28), wherein the second shaft member (22) has a second end portion (42) which has axially extending second protrusions (44), wherein at least one such second protrusion (44) of the second end portion (42) engages in at least one of the second recesses (40) of the clutch member (28). In order to make it easier to assemble the clutch apparatus, provision is made for the second end portion (42) to have at least one latching element (48) and for the clutch member (28) to have at least one mating latching element (52), complementary thereto, on the second side (36).