Clutch Device Radial Cam Mechanism Axial Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clutch devices with a cam mechanism between the clutch center and pressure plate cannot narrow the interval between these components, limiting the reduction of clutch plates for cost and production efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A clutch device configuration where the cam mechanism is positioned on the same side as the clutch center and pressure plate in the axial direction, allowing the pressure applying part to move towards the pressure receiving part, thereby narrowing the interval and increasing clutch engaging force, even with fewer clutch plates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the cam mechanism is disposed between the clutch center and the pressure plate, then the clutch engaging force can be increased, but the interval between the clutch center and the pressure plate cannot be narrowed
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is repositioned from the axial direction (between clutch center and pressure plate) to the radial direction (on the outer periphery of the clutch center). This dimensional change allows the cam mechanism to function without occupying axial space, enabling the pressure plate to be positioned closer to the clutch center while maintaining the force multiplication function.
Solution Approach 2:
A cam follower mechanism is introduced as an intermediary element that translates the rotational motion of the clutch center into axial movement of the pressure plate. The cam follower engages with the cam mechanism's cam surface, allowing force transmission without direct mechanical interference in the axial path between clutch center and pressure plate.
2Productivity
If the number of clutch plates is reduced, then production cost and manufacturing efficiency are improved, but the interval between clutch center and pressure plate must be increased
Solution Approach 1:
By relocating the cam mechanism to the radial direction, the axial space requirement is reduced, allowing fewer clutch plates to be used without increasing the overall axial interval. This enables manufacturers to reduce clutch plate count for cost and production efficiency while maintaining compact dimensions.
3Length of moving object
If the cam mechanism is disposed on the outer periphery of the clutch center, then the interval between clutch center and pressure plate can be narrowed, but the clutch engaging force may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cam follower acts as a mediator that efficiently transmits the force generated by the radially disposed cam mechanism to the pressure plate. This intermediary ensures that the clutch engaging force is maintained despite the cam mechanism's peripheral location, as the cam follower converts radial cam motion into effective axial pressing force.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism utilizes curved cam surfaces that convert rotational motion into axial force multiplication. The curved geometry of the cam profile ensures that force is effectively transmitted to the pressure plate through the cam follower, maintaining high engaging force despite the peripheral positioning of the cam mechanism.
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 enables a reduction in the number of clutch plates while maintaining or increasing clutch engaging force, allowing for a more compact design and improved production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The cam mechanism includes a first cam part and a second cam part. The first and second cam parts are disposed on the first side of the clutch center and the pressure plate in the axial direction. The first cam part includes a first slope. The second cam part includes a second slope opposed to the first slope. When the first cam part is rotated relatively to the second cam part in a first direction making up a circumferential direction, the first slope and the second slope are pressed against each other in the axial direction whereby the first cam part is moved relatively to the second cam part so as to separate from the second cam part in the axial direction.
Data Source
AI summary
A clutch center includes a pressure receiving part. A pressure plate includes a pressure applying part. A clutch part is disposed between the pressure receiving part and the pressure applying part. A cam mechanism includes a first cam part and a second cam part. The first cam part and the second cam part are offset from the clutch center and the pressure plate in an axial direction. The first cam part includes a first slope. The second cam part includes a second slope opposed to the first slope. When the first cam part is rotated relatively to the second cam part in a first direction making up a circumferential direction, the first and second slopes are pressed against each other and separate from each other. The pressure applying part moves toward the pressure receiving part as the first cam part and the second cam part separate.