Decoupler Torque-Limiting Spring Engagement for Carrier Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Decouplers, particularly those subjected to high torque transients, are prone to failure due to stress on the carrier, which holds the wrap spring clutch and isolation spring, leading to reduced operational life.
Innovation Solution
A decoupler design incorporating a helical torsion spring with a radial projection that engages the isolation spring at a selected radial size, allowing direct torque transfer parallel to the one-way clutch, reducing stress on the carrier.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a carrier holds both wrap spring clutch and isolation spring in traditional decoupler design, then the decoupler can function with compact structure, but the carrier becomes susceptible to failure after many cycles of torque transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the torque transfer function by introducing a radial projection that creates a separate friction engagement interface with the isolation spring. This divides the torque transfer path into two parallel routes: through the wrap spring clutch and through the friction engagement, reducing the load concentration on the carrier and improving reliability without significantly increasing overall structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The radial projection acts as an intermediary element between the decoupler input member and the isolation spring. It provides a friction-based torque transfer interface that mediates the torque flow, allowing direct torque transfer to the isolation spring and reducing the stress cycles experienced by the carrier, thereby improving reliability
2Power
If decoupler is subjected to high torque transients, then it can handle higher power applications, but it becomes more susceptible to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic friction engagement mechanism where the radial projection contacts the isolation spring's radially outer surface. This friction-based connection dynamically adjusts torque transfer based on loading conditions, allowing the decoupler to handle high torque transients while distributing stresses to improve reliability in high-power applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the torque transfer mechanism by adding frictional engagement between the radial projection and the isolation spring. This parameter change creates a parallel torque transfer path that modifies how torque is distributed through the system, enabling higher torque handling capacity while reducing failure susceptibility through stress distribution
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
Enhances the decoupler's resistance to failure by distributing torque transfer, thereby extending its operational life and reducing fatigue-related issues.
Implementation Method 1
The isolation spring is a helical torsion spring... The isolation spring changes size radially based on how much torque is being transferred through the isolation spring
Implementation Method 2
The decoupler input member includes a radial projection that is positioned to frictionally engage one of the radially outer and radially inner surfaces of the isolation spring... Frictional engagement of the radial projection with the isolation spring generates torque transfer directly from the decoupler input member to the isolation spring
Data Source
AI summary
In an aspect, a decoupler is provided and includes an input member, an output member, a one-way clutch and an isolation spring. The one-way clutch receives torque from the input member. The isolation spring is helical, having a first helical end and a second helical end, and has first and second axial ends, and radially outer and inner surfaces. The isolation spring receives torque from the clutch, and transmits torque to the output member. The isolation spring changes size radially based on torque. The input member includes a radial projection that is positioned to frictionally engage one of the radially outer and inner surfaces of the spring when the spring reaches a selected size. Frictional engagement of the radial projection with the spring generates torque transfer directly from the input member to the spring in parallel with torque transfer from the input member to the spring through the clutch.