Compact Transmission with Nested Brake and Clutch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transmissions are bulky and cannot switch gears during operation due to the simultaneous closure of brake and clutch, which results in a blocked system and inefficient space utilization.
Innovation Solution
A compact transmission design where the planetary gear set and clutch are housed within a single unit, with a brake disc positioned externally to minimize space usage and disengaging means allowing for axial movement of the brake disc to open the clutch, enabling operation and disengagement of input/output shafts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the brake and clutch are arranged in the known configuration, then the transmission can achieve gear reduction and direct coupling, but the transmission takes up relatively much space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the brake and clutch into a single integrated assembly where the brake disc is arranged between the clutch portions. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate brake and clutch housings, reducing overall space occupation while maintaining both braking and clutching functions. The brake disc is fixedly connected to the third rotatable member, and the clutch portions are positioned on either side of it, creating a compact unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The brake disc is nested between the two clutch portions in the axial direction, with the first clutch portion connected to one rotatable member and the second clutch portion connected to another rotatable member. The brake disc sits axially between these clutch portions, creating a nested arrangement where the brake is effectively housed within the clutch assembly space, maximizing space utilization.
2Ease of operation
If the brake and clutch are closed simultaneously in the known transmission, then the system is blocked, but switching during operation becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces disengaging means that can axially displace the brake disc, dynamically changing the system state. This allows the transmission to transition between different operational modes: when the brake disc is in its normal position, the brake is engaged; when axially displaced by the disengaging means, the brake opens and the clutch can engage. This dynamic displacement mechanism enables smooth transitions without blocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The disengaging means act as an intermediary mechanism between the brake and clutch systems. By axially displacing the brake disc, this intermediary component coordinates the disengagement of the brake and engagement of the clutch, preventing simultaneous closure and eliminating system blocking while maintaining operational flexibility.
3Ease of manufacture
If the planetary gear set is arranged outside the housing, then space utilization is poor, but lubrication and oil bath coupling become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The planetary gear set is merged with the housing by fixing the third rotatable member (annulus gear) to the housing. This integration creates a unified structure where the housing serves dual purposes: as the structural enclosure and as the mounting structure for the planetary gear set. The annulus gear is fixedly connected to the housing, eliminating the need for separate mounting structures and simplifying lubrication access.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is given multiple functions: it serves as the structural enclosure for the transmission, as the mounting structure for the planetary gear set (with the annulus gear fixedly connected to it), and as the container for the lubrication system. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall lubrication architecture.
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
The solution results in a more compact and robust transmission that can switch gears during operation, reducing space requirements and allowing for lubrication and coupling of oil baths, thereby enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a brake pad fixedly connected to the firm object in the direction of rotation of the brake disc and movably connected to the firm object in axial direction of the brake disc
Implementation Method 2
a planetary gear set comprising three rotatable members of which a first rotatable member is connected to the first input/output shaft and a second rotatable member is connected to the second input/output shaft
Implementation Method 3
a clutch having a first clutch portion which is connected to one of the rotatable members, a second clutch portion which is connected to another one of the rotatable members
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission has a housing and two input/output shafts. Inside the housing is a planetary gear set with three rotatable members which are connected to the housing and the two input/output shafts. Inside the housing is a clutch which can connect two out of three of the rotatable members. When the clutch is closed the input/output shafts are connected together one to one. The pressure plate of the clutch is connected to a brake disc of a brake system that is connected to one of the rotatable members. When the brake system is closed the input/output shafts are connected via the planetary gear set. The transmission further includes a lever which can move the brake disc in axial direction and can thus open the clutch during operation.