Positive Engagement Clutch With Integrated LVDT Sleeve Position Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electromagnetically shiftable positive engagement clutches require indirect methods to determine the shifting sleeve position, necessitating additional components, increased installation space, and higher costs due to complex calibration processes.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a differential transformer sensor, specifically a linear variable differential transformer (LVDT), which directly detects the shifting sleeve position using coils and an electronic module to convert the signal into a direct current, eliminating the need for additional components and reducing installation space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If indirect measurement methods are used to detect shifting sleeve position, then the clutch can determine engagement status, but additional components are required increasing device complexity and installation space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the position detection function directly into the shifting sleeve by integrating a differential transformer sensor within the sleeve structure itself. The sensor housing is formed as an integral part of the shifting sleeve, eliminating the need for separate detection components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a differential transformer sensor as an intermediary measurement element that directly detects the position of the shifting sleeve. This sensor uses a primary coil and secondary coils with a magnetic core that moves with the sleeve, providing direct electromagnetic measurement without requiring additional mechanical linkages or separate sensing components.
2Measurement precision
If indirect measurement methods are used to detect shifting sleeve position, then the clutch can determine engagement status, but installation space is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor housing is formed as an integral part of the shifting sleeve, merging the detection function into the existing moving component. This eliminates the need for separate sensor housings and mounting structures, thereby reducing the installation space required while maintaining accurate position detection capability.
3Measurement precision
If additional components are used for position detection, then measurement can be achieved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The differential transformer sensor is integrated directly into the shifting sleeve structure, with the sensor housing formed as an integral part. This merging of functions reduces the total component count and assembly complexity, leading to lower manufacturing costs despite the added measurement capability.
4Measurement precision
If travel measuring systems with additional components are used, then end position detection is possible, but the system requires precise calibration increasing complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The differential transformer sensor provides direct electromagnetic measurement of the shifting sleeve position through its integrated structure. The sensor automatically detects position changes as the magnetic core moves with the sleeve, eliminating the need for external calibration procedures or complex reference systems that would increase device complexity.
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
Enables precise and direct detection of the shifting sleeve position without additional components, minimizing costs and installation space while ensuring smooth clutch engagement processes.
Implementation Method 1
a differential transformer sensor having coils (42) and an electronic module (44), the differential transformer sensor being configured to detect the engagement position of the shifting sleeve by means of the coils (42)
Implementation Method 2
the electronic module (44) is configured to convert the output signal of the coils into a direct current signal
Implementation Method 3
the adjustment of the shifting sleeve takes place by means of a coil that exerts a magnetic force on the shifting sleeve
Data Source
AI summary
An electromagnetically shiftable positive engagement clutch is shown. The positive engagement clutch has a shifting sleeve which is arranged on a shaft for joint rotation therewith and is linearly displaceable along the shaft between a clutch engagement position and a clutch disengagement position, and at least one clutch body which is aligned coaxially with the shaft. For adjustment of the shifting sleeve along the shaft, the positive engagement clutch includes a stator having at least one energized drive coil. In the clutch engagement position there is a positive engagement between the shifting sleeve and the clutch body and thus a rotary connection between the shaft and the clutch body. In addition, the positive engagement clutch includes a differential transformer sensor having coils and an electronic module, the differential transformer sensor being configured to detect the engagement position of the shifting sleeve by means of the coils. Here, the electronic module is configured to convert the output signal of the coils into a direct current signal.