Multi-Disc Clutch Pressing Member for Lower-Cost Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clutch devices with multiple disc clutches require extensive machining and assembly, leading to high production costs.
Innovation Solution
A clutch device configuration that includes a cylindrical clutch housing with a pressing member that moves axially to press the multiple disc clutch, featuring an annular portion and protruding portions that are integral and easily producible, reducing the complexity and cost of manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a piston with standing portions and snap rings is used to press the multiple disc clutch, then the clutch device can function properly, but the machining and assembly complexity increases, leading to higher production costs
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing member integrates the annular body and multiple pressing portions into a single molded resin component, eliminating the need for separate standing portions and snap rings. This merging of components reduces assembly steps and machining complexity while maintaining the clutch pressing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a molded resin pressing member instead of a metal piston with complex machining. The resin material allows for easier, cheaper manufacturing through molding processes, reducing production costs while sufficient for the application's functional requirements.
2Force
If multiple separate components (piston, standing portions, snap rings) are used for the pressing mechanism, then the clutch can be pressed effectively, but the number of assembly steps and machining operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing member combines the annular body and multiple pressing portions into one integrated component manufactured by molding. This eliminates multiple assembly steps involving separate standing portions and snap rings, significantly improving assembly efficiency and productivity.
3Ease of operation
If conventional piston design with standing portions is used, then the clutch plates can be pressed, but the machining time and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventionally machined metal piston with a molded resin pressing member. The molding process is simpler and more cost-effective than precision machining, reducing manufacturing complexity and production costs while maintaining adequate performance for clutch engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The material parameter changes from metal to resin, allowing for different manufacturing methods (molding vs. machining). This parameter change enables easier manufacture while the geometric parameters of the pressing portions are optimized to maintain effective clutch plate engagement.
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
This configuration significantly reduces the man-hours and costs associated with machining and assembly, while maintaining the functionality of the clutch device.
Implementation Method 1
The multiple disc clutch is pressed by a pressing member that moves in an axial direction with respect to the clutch housing to press the multiple disc clutch from the bottom side toward the receiving member
Data Source
AI summary
A clutch device includes a clutch housing including a cylindrical portion and a bottom, a multiple disc clutch, a receiving member and a pressing member that moves in an axial direction with respect to the clutch housing to press the multiple disc clutch from the bottom side toward the receiving member. The pressing member includes an annular portion disposed radially inward or outward of the bottom and a plurality of protruding portions protruding in a radial direction from the annular portion, the annular portion being provided integrally with the protruding portions. The bottom of the clutch housing has a plurality of cutouts that accommodate the protruding portions. The protruding portions move in the axial direction within the cutouts to press the multiple disc clutch.