Vehicle Coupling Disc With Return Spring and Position Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing differential type transmission systems for vehicles are complex, costly, and bulky due to the multiple parts required for coupling and uncoupling functions, which complicates torque transmission and distribution to wheel shafts.
Innovation Solution
A simplified transmission system incorporating a disc with an annular portion and elastic blades that serves as both a target for position detection and a recall mechanism, reducing the number of components and complexity by using a single disc to transmit torque and recall the coupling part to its unlocked position, while also acting as a sensor to deliver a representative signal of the coupling state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional coupling device with separate target and return mechanisms is used, then the coupling function is reliable, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the target component and return spring mechanism into a single integrated assembly. The target is formed as part of the coupling device structure, and the return spring is positioned within the same component, eliminating the need for separate return mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining coupling reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the coupling interface, houses the target for position detection, and incorporates the return spring mechanism. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed while ensuring reliable operation
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate components are used for coupling mechanism, then each component can be optimized independently, but the manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the target, coupling interface, and return spring housing into a single integrated component. This reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled, while critical surfaces and features are still optimized for their specific functions through precise manufacturing processes
3Reliability
If separate target and return mechanisms are used, then the position detection and return function are reliable, but the size of the coupling device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The return spring is nested within the housing that contains the target, and the target is integrated into the coupling device structure. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional elements to occupy the same spatial envelope, reducing the overall volume of the coupling device while maintaining reliable position detection and return functions
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 solution reduces the cost, complexity, and size of the transmission system by integrating the recall function and position sensing into a single disc, enhancing the system's efficiency and reliability in torque transmission and distribution.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic return portion which is configured to deform elastically during the movement of the first coupling part from the uncoupled position to the coupled position and to exert a return force capable of elastically returning the first coupling part to the uncoupled position
Implementation Method 2
The annular target is arranged axially opposite a sensor, such as a Hall effect sensor, which delivers a signal representative of an axial distance between the sensor and the annular target
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a transmission system (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising: - a first element (4) and a second element (5) which are able to rotate with respect to one another about an axis X; and - a coupling device (6) which comprises: - a first coupling part (18) which is constrained to rotate with the first element (4) and is movable with respect thereto between a coupled position and a decoupled position; - a disc (36) which comprises a fastening region which is fastened axially to the first coupling part (18), the disc (36) comprising an annular portion (37), forming a target (34), and at least one elastic return portion (41) which is configured to elastically return the first coupling part (18) to the decoupled position; and - a sensor (35) which is arranged facing the annular portion of the disc (36).