Compensating Coupling Layout for Torque-Independent Axial Rigidity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compensating couplings for rail vehicles experience axial rigidity that is dependent on the transmitted torque, which is undesirable for the design of running gears.
Innovation Solution
A compensating coupling design featuring a three-dimensional coupling region with an elastic coupling element whose longitudinal axis is perpendicular to the rotational axis, allowing for radial and axial displacement without torque-dependent axial rigidity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional compensating coupling with elastic bodies is used to connect two shafts, then the coupling allows relative movement between shafts and transmits torque, but the axial rigidity becomes dependent on the transmitted torque due to force components acting on the shafts
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic coupling elements are oriented with their longitudinal axes perpendicular to the rotational axis of the shafts, transitioning from axial orientation to radial orientation. This dimensional change ensures that elastic forces act radially rather than axially, preventing torque-dependent axial rigidity while maintaining relative movement capability
2Stability of the object's composition
If the elastic coupling elements are oriented with longitudinal axes perpendicular to the rotational axis, then axial rigidity becomes independent of transmitted torque, but the structural configuration becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is divided into distinct functional segments: first and second coupling bodies for shaft connection, and separately oriented elastic coupling elements for movement compensation. This segmentation allows the elastic elements to be independently positioned perpendicular to the rotational axis, achieving torque-independent axial rigidity while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular design
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 design achieves axial rigidity that is independent of the transmitted torque, enabling more stable and efficient drive concepts for rail vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
At least one elastic coupling element, whose longitudinal axis lies in a plane which is oriented perpendicularly with respect to the rotational axis, are arranged between the two coupling bodies
Data Source
AI summary
A compensating coupling connects a first shaft to a second shaft along an axis of rotation. The compensating coupling has a first coupling body connected to an end of the first shaft and a second coupling body connected to an end of the second shaft. At least one elastic coupling element has a longitudinal axis lying in a plane that is oriented perpendicularly to the axis of rotation. The two coupling bodies are arranged with respect to one another to form a three-dimensional coupling region in which the elastic coupling element is arranged. The elastic coupling element is connected to the two coupling bodies such that the two coupling bodies are displaceable in the radial direction with respect to the axis of rotation. The elastic coupling element is displaceable in the axial direction with respect to the axis of rotation.