Clutch Locking Mechanism to Prevent Saddle Vehicle Rollback

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Solution Overview

Problem

In saddle type vehicles equipped with normally-open clutches, the clutch disengages when the vehicle is stopped, leading to potential sliding on sloping roads, and existing solutions like parking brakes increase cost and weight.

Innovation Solution

A clutch locking mechanism that includes a locking mechanism with an operator to forcibly engage the clutch independently of the actuator, using existing parts like a pressure plate and a wire-connected arm to mechanically connect and rotate a clutch operating rod, allowing engagement without electric power consumption, and is designed to be operated only when the vehicle is stopped.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a parking brake system is installed to prevent vehicle sliding, then vehicle stability on slopes is improved, but cost and weight increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevehicle stabilityVSAvoidvehicle weight

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The clutch mechanism is designed to serve dual functions: its normal function of power transmission during vehicle operation, and an additional function of preventing vehicle sliding when engaged. This eliminates the need for a separate parking brake system, thereby reducing weight while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a parking brake system is installed to prevent vehicle sliding, then vehicle stability on slopes is improved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevehicle stabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If the clutch is designed to remain engaged to prevent sliding, then vehicle stability is improved, but the ability to control power transmission is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevehicle stabilityVSAvoidclutch control flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The clutch engagement state is made dynamic rather than fixed. The clutch can be engaged or disengaged based on operational requirements, and when disengaged, the release mechanism ensures it remains disengaged until intentionally re-engaged, providing adaptability while maintaining stability when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11512746B2Clutch locking mechanism

Publication Date: 2022.11.29 HONDA MOTOR CO LTD

AI summary

A clutch locking mechanism is a clutch locking mechanism (80) mounted in a saddle type vehicle (1) and includes a clutch (26) which enters an engaged state where power can be transmitted when an actuator (28) is operated and returns to a disengaged state where power cannot be transmitted when the actuator (28) is not operated, and a locking mechanism (100) having an operator (101) which is able to bring the clutch (26) into the engaged state separately from an operation of the actuator (28).