Clutch Device External Support Segmentation for High Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clutch devices for motor vehicles face limitations in transmitting large torques due to the presence of a leakage channel orifice in the external support, which degrades mechanical characteristics and restricts the thickness of the support, making it difficult to handle high torque transmission.
Innovation Solution
The clutch device eliminates the orifice in the external support, allowing for two external supports to transmit high torque by using a leakage channel that is entirely on one side of the external medium, with an elastic return member and spacer means to maintain piston position and ensure fluid flow for pressure balance and cooling, while the external supports are designed to be floating axially and radially for oil flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If a leakage channel orifice is present in the external support, then the pressure difference between chambers is reduced, but the mechanical characteristics of the external support are degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The leakage channel is segmented into two separate channels: a first leakage channel in the first external support and a second leakage channel in the second external support. This segmentation allows each support to maintain its structural integrity while still providing the necessary pressure equalization function through its dedicated leakage channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The leakage channel function is extracted from being a single integrated feature and distributed to separate leakage channels in each external support. Each external support independently provides pressure equalization for its associated clutch mechanism, eliminating the need for a single large orifice that would compromise structural strength.
2Power
If the thickness of the external support is increased to improve torque transmission, then the torque capacity increases, but the available space in the limited internal volume is exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch device is segmented into two independent clutch mechanisms, each with its own external support, internal support, and leakage channel. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for torque transmission while maintaining a compact overall structure that fits within the limited internal volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The second clutch mechanism is nested within the same internal volume as the first clutch mechanism, with the second external support positioned inside the first external support. This nested arrangement allows both clutch mechanisms to coexist in a compact configuration, maximizing torque transmission capability within the available space.
3Device complexity
If a single leakage channel with orifice in external support is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the torque transmission capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into two independent clutch mechanisms with separate external supports and leakage channels. This segmentation enables each support to be optimized for high torque transmission without the compromise of a single integrated orifice, while the overall device complexity remains manageable due to the modular and symmetric design.
Solution Approach 2:
Each external support serves multiple functions: providing structural strength for torque transmission, containing a leakage channel for pressure equalization, and supporting the clutch mechanism components. This multi-functionality allows the design to achieve high torque capability without proportionally increasing 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
This design enables the clutch device to effectively transmit high torques without compromising mechanical characteristics, ensuring balanced dynamic pressures and cooling, thus overcoming the limitations of previous designs.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic return member being mounted between the support member and the first piston, said elastic return member being designed to return the first piston to its disengaged position
Implementation Method 2
A leakage channel connects the first counter-pressure chamber and the internal volume housing the clutch mechanisms... makes it possible to reduce the pressure difference between the pressure chamber and the counter-pressure chamber
Implementation Method 3
The first support member is floating axially and radially with respect to the external support so as to allow an oil flow between the first support member and the external support
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a clutch device (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising torque input means (2) intended to be coupled to a crankshaft, a first torque output shaft (31), a second torque output shaft (37), a first clutch mechanism capable of coupling or decoupling the torque input means (2) and the first torque output shaft (31), a second clutch mechanism capable of coupling or decoupling the torque input means (2) and the second torque output shaft (37),