Gearbox Clutch Sensor Stop for Precise Position Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The accuracy of clutch position detection in utility vehicle gearboxes is compromised due to the lack of precise positioning of position sensors during installation, leading to potential air gaps and reduced efficiency in automated shift sequences.
Innovation Solution
A clutch device with a sensor stop and an elastic element that holds the sensor in a fixed position relative to the clutch actuator housing, eliminating air gaps and enabling precise detection, and featuring a floating mounting system for vibration compensation and easy replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the sensor is installed blindly during servicing without a predetermined reference position, then the installation process is simple and quick, but the accuracy of position detection deteriorates due to air gaps and improper positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor stop enables the sensor to self-position against a fixed reference surface during installation. The sensor automatically finds its predetermined reference position when pressed against the sensor stop, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures or specialized installation tools while ensuring accurate positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the manual alignment and positioning mechanism with a mechanical stop system. Instead of requiring installers to manually position the sensor at a precise location, the sensor stop provides a physical reference surface that mechanically defines the correct position, substituting complex mechanical alignment procedures with a simple contact-based positioning system.
2Measurement precision
If the sensor is firmly fixed to ensure precise positioning, then the measurement accuracy improves, but the ease of repair and replacement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor mounting system transitions from a static fixed state to a dynamic removable state. The sensor can be easily inserted and removed from the sensor stop without tools, allowing the system to adapt between secure positioning during operation and easy accessibility during maintenance, achieving both precision and repairability.
3Measurement precision
If additional fasteners are used to secure the sensor in position, then the positioning accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the positioning function from the fastening system. Instead of using additional fasteners that would require holes, threads, or clips, the solution uses a simple stop surface that the sensor contacts directly. This separates the positioning function (achieved by the stop surface) from the securing function (achieved by the elastic element), eliminating the need for complex fastening mechanisms.
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
Improves the accuracy of clutch position detection, enhances the efficiency of automated shift sequences, and simplifies sensor installation and replacement by ensuring the sensor is held in a predetermined reference position without the need for additional fasteners.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor is holdable in a fixed position relative to the sensor stop in the distance direction via an elastic element
Data Source
AI summary
A clutch device for a gearbox of a utility vehicle, including: a clutch actuator; a sensor for detecting a position of the clutch actuator; and a sensor stop having a stop surface, which defines a predetermined position of the sensor in a distance direction to the clutch actuator; in which the sensor is holdable via an elastic element in a distance direction in a positionally fixed relationship with the sensor stop.