Reverse Input Cutoff Clutch Linkage for Smooth Unlocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional reverse input cutoff clutches face challenges in smoothly switching from a locked or semi-locked state to an unlocked state due to inclined translational loads acting on the engaging elements when rotational torque is inputted, which affects the efficiency of torque transmission.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a pressed member, an input member, an output member, and engaging elements with a main engaging element body and a link member, where the engaging elements move radially to transmit torque and frictionally engage with a pressed surface to manage torque transmission, allowing for smoother state transitions by aligning loads parallel to the radial direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the engaging elements are designed with conventional structure, then the clutch can achieve torque cutoff function, but the switching between locked and unlocked states is not smooth due to inclined translational loads
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging element is divided into two functional parts: a pressing surface that contacts the pressed surface to manage radial loads, and an input-side engaged portion that interfaces with the input member. This segmentation allows the pressing surface to bear the inclined translational loads while the engaged portion maintains torque transmission, enabling smooth state transitions without compromising reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The design changes the orientation and positioning parameters of the pressing surface relative to the input-side engaged portion. By configuring the pressing surface to face the pressed surface while positioning the engaged portion on the inner side in the radial direction, the structure transforms the direction of load application, allowing loads to act parallel to the radial direction during state transitions, thereby achieving smooth switching
2Productivity
If the engaging elements move radially to transmit torque, then the torque transmission efficiency is improved, but wear and deformation increase due to inclined translational loads
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing surface acts as an intermediary between the engaging element and the pressed surface. It mediates the interaction by providing a dedicated contact surface that faces the pressed surface, allowing the engaging element to move radially for efficient torque transmission while the pressing surface absorbs and distributes the inclined translational loads, thereby reducing wear and deformation on the engaged portions
3Reliability
If the engaging elements are positioned to engage with the output member, then the torque cutoff function is achieved, but the switching to unlocked state becomes difficult due to load inclination
Solution Approach 1:
The design introduces a dimensional separation between the output-side engagement function and the load-bearing function. The engaging element extends in the axial direction to engage with the output member for torque cutoff, while the pressing surface is positioned to contact the pressed surface radially. This dimensional separation allows the element to maintain torque cutoff capability while enabling smooth transition to unlocked state through radial movement
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 configuration enables smooth switching between locked, semi-locked, and unlocked states, improving the efficiency of torque transmission and reducing wear and deformation, thus enhancing the clutch's operational performance.
Implementation Method 1
by pressing the pressing surface against the pressed surface due to engagement between the output-side engaging portion and the output-side engaged portion, causes the pressing surface to frictionally engage with the pressed surface
Data Source
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AI summary
A reverse input cutoff clutch is achieved that is capable of smoothly switching from a locked state or semi-locked state to an unlocked state when rotational torque is inputted to an input member. The reverse input cutoff clutch includes: a pressed member having a pressed surface 20 around the inner peripheral surface; an input member coaxially arranged with the pressed surface 20 and having an input-side engaging portion 8 arranged on the inner side in the radial direction of the pressed surface 20; an output member that is coaxially arranged with the pressed surface 20 and having an output-side engaging portion 11 arranged further on the inner side in the radial direction than the input-side engaging portion 8 on the inner side in the radial direction of the pressed surface 20; and an engaging element 5 arranged on the inner side in the radial direction of the pressed surface 20 and arranged so as to be able to move in a first direction as a direction toward or away from the pressed surface 20. The engaging element 5 is composed of a main engaging element body 30 having a pressing surface 32 and a pivot-support shaft 33, and a link member 31. The link member 31 has a first end portion that is pivotally linked to the pivot-support shaft 33, and a second end portion that is pivotally linked to the input-side engaging portion 8.