Clutch Torque Distribution via Split Disk Pack
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-plate clutches face issues with leaf spring buckling and reduced lifespan due to high torque transmission, leading to clutch slipping and limited performance, as the entire input torque is transmitted through leaf springs, resulting in insufficient buckling resistance and self-reinforcing effects.
Innovation Solution
The clutch is designed with a divided second disk pack, utilizing two separate torque paths: one with a leaf spring for torque amplification and another without, allowing direct torque transmission to the transmission input shaft, reducing the load on leaf springs and enhancing buckling resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the entire input torque is transmitted through leaf springs to achieve self-reinforcing effect, then the contact pressure is increased, but the leaf springs are subjected to high load which reduces their buckling resistance and lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The second disk pack is divided into two separate disk sets: a first disk set connected to the leaf spring and a second disk set connected directly to the transmission input shaft. This segmentation allows the input torque to be distributed across two separate torque paths, reducing the load on the leaf spring while maintaining effective contact pressure for clutch engagement.
2Power
If the leaf spring is designed with small set-up angle to achieve large self-reinforcing effect, then the contact pressure increases, but the load on leaf springs becomes very high which reduces their lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch is divided into two torque paths: one through the leaf spring (first torque path) and one direct path (second torque path). This allows the self-reinforcing effect to be utilized without concentrating the entire torque load on the leaf spring, thereby extending its operational lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using the leaf spring for the complete torque transmission, only a portion of the torque is routed through the leaf spring while the remaining torque is transmitted directly. This partial action through the leaf spring maintains the self-reinforcing effect while preventing excessive loading.
3Reliability
If the leaf spring transmits high torque to achieve adequate contact pressure, then the clutch engagement is sufficient, but the leaf spring may buckle or settle earlier leading to clutch slipping
Solution Approach 1:
The second disk pack is segmented into two separate disk sets that create two distinct torque paths. This segmentation ensures that the leaf spring does not bear the entire torque load, maintaining structural stability and preventing buckling or settling that would compromise clutch engagement reliability.
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 design reduces the torque transmitted through leaf springs, enhancing their durability and the clutch's performance by distributing the input torque effectively, thereby reducing the risk of buckling and improving the clutch's overall efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least one leaf spring is provided, which is designed to increase the contact pressure
Implementation Method 2
the first and second friction elements can be brought into frictional engagement with one another by a contact pressure in order to transfer the input side to the output side
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a clutch (1), having an input side (2) which is prepared for the introduction of torque, and an output side (3) which is prepared for the forwarding of torque to at least one transmission input shaft (4), having first friction elements (5) as part of a first multiple disc assembly (6) and having second friction elements (7) as part of a second multiple disc assembly (8), wherein the first friction elements (5) are connected to the input side (2) in a torque-transmitting manner and the second friction elements (7) are connected to the output side (3) in a torque-transmitting manner, and wherein the first and second friction elements (5, 7) can be brought into frictional engagement with one another by way of a pressing force (F), in order to transmit a torque (M) from the input side (2) to the output side (3), wherein at least one leaf spring (9) is provided which is configured to boost the pressing force (F), wherein the second multiple disc assembly (8) is split and the friction elements (7) thereof are attached to two torque forwarding devices (45, 46) which are separate from one another, in such a way that a torque flow to the transmission input shaft (4) runs via a first torque path (DW1) which contains the at least one leaf spring (9), and a second torque path (DW2) which is separate therefrom.