Clutch Device Linear Torque Control via Elastic Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clutch devices using electric actuators face challenges in accurately controlling torque transmission capacity due to abrupt changes in clutch pressure contact force, making precise control difficult without complicating the design or increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A clutch device that incorporates an elastic member between the clutch connection/disconnection member and friction engagement elements, along with position detection and controlling means to accurately control the electric actuator based on detected positions, ensuring a linear relationship between the clutch capacity and stroke amount, thus enabling precise torque transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If an electric actuator is used to control clutch engagement, then the linear relationship between actuator position and clutch capacity is lost, but this enables direct electric control without hydraulic systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by detecting the position of the pressing member and comparing it with the target position. The control unit adjusts the actuator output based on the position deviation, ensuring accurate clutch capacity control despite the non-linear relationship between actuator position and clutch capacity. This closed-loop control system resolves the contradiction by maintaining precision through continuous correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from direct position control to force control. By detecting the position and converting it to相应的 clutch capacity through control algorithms, the system achieves accurate torque transmission control. The control unit calculates the required actuator force based on the detected position and target clutch capacity, transforming the non-linear position-capacity relationship into precise capacity control.
2Device complexity
If the pressing member stroke is used to control clutch capacity, then control is simplified, but abrupt force changes occur at the clutch touch point
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by using the elastic member (push spring) to buffer the abrupt force changes. When the pressing member reaches the clutch touch point, the elastic member compresses gradually, absorbing the sudden force variation and ensuring smooth clutch engagement or disengagement. This prevents shock and vibration while maintaining control simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member acts as an intermediary between the pressing member and the friction engagement elements. It transforms the abrupt stroke changes into gradual force changes, mediating the interaction between the actuator and clutch components. This intermediary element smooths the force transmission while keeping the control system simple.
3Manufacturing precision
If hydraulic actuators are used for clutch control, then linear relationship and control precision are maintained, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the hydraulic actuator system with an electric actuator system. The electric actuator directly drives the pressing member through elastic deformation, eliminating the need for hydraulic fluid, pumps, and pressure control systems. Combined with position detection and feedback control, this mechanical substitution achieves comparable precision while significantly reducing system complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it transmits force from the actuator, provides the necessary compliance for smooth engagement, and enables position detection for feedback control. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate hydraulic components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining control precision.
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 allows for accurate control of torque transmission capacity without increasing design complexity or costs, ensuring reliable and precise engagement and disengagement of friction engagement elements, effectively addressing the abrupt force changes in clutch pressure contact.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member disposed between the clutch connection/disconnection member and the multiple friction engagement elements
Data Source
AI summary
A clutch device which transmits torque by causing multiple friction engagement elements to engage with each other by use of a clutch connection/disconnection member caused to operate by an electric actuator includes: an elastic member disposed between the clutch connection/disconnection member and the multiple friction engagement elements; position detector for detecting a position of the clutch connection/disconnection member; and controller for controlling an operation of the electric actuator on the basis of the position of the clutch connection/disconnection member detected by the position detector. Thus, the position of the clutch connection/disconnection member (i.e. a stroke amount of the elastic member) and a torque transmission capacity of the clutch device have a linear relationship with each other. Hence, the torque transmission capacity of the clutch device can be accurately controlled by the electric actuator.