Dual-Coupling Clutch Assembly With Electromagnetic Torque Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle powertrains with clutch assemblies face inefficiencies in controlling power flow and torque transmission, particularly in managing directional torque transfer and synchronization between multiple output members, often relying on hydraulic actuators that are bulky and slow.
Innovation Solution
A clutch assembly with a dual coupling system and a linear actuator mechanism that uses electromagnetic actuation to control the deployment of struts for selective torque transfer between input and output members, allowing independent operation of inner and outer output shafts, and incorporating an electromagnetic friction clutch for speed synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydraulic actuators are used for clutch actuation, then reliable torque transfer control is achieved, but the system becomes bulky and slow in response
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the hydraulic actuation system with an electromagnetic actuation system. The electromagnetic actuator uses magnetic fields to directly actuate the clutch locking elements, eliminating the need for hydraulic fluid, pumps, and complex valve systems. This substitution provides faster response times while maintaining reliable torque transfer control through precise electromagnetic field modulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes the hydraulic actuation components from the clutch system, eliminating the source of bulk and slow response. By taking out the hydraulic system entirely and replacing it with a compact electromagnetic actuator, the patent achieves both reduced size and improved response speed while preserving the essential function of controlled torque transfer.
2Reliability
If hydraulic actuators are used for clutch actuation, then reliable torque transfer control is achieved, but the system becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic actuation system replaces the bulky hydraulic system with compact electromagnetic components. The electromagnetic actuator requires no hydraulic reservoirs, hoses, or heavy metal housings, resulting in a significantly reduced actuator system volume while maintaining the same level of torque transfer control reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental actuation parameter from hydraulic pressure to electromagnetic field strength. This parameter change enables a transition from a high-volume hydraulic system to a low-volume electromagnetic system, achieving the same control function with dramatically reduced space requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple coupling assemblies are used for independent output member control, then versatile power flow control is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple coupling assemblies into a single integrated clutch mechanism with multiple locking elements that can independently engage different output members. This consolidation achieves the same versatile power flow control as separate assemblies but with reduced overall complexity, as the locking elements share common actuation and structural support systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch assembly is designed with multi-functional locking elements that can selectively engage different output members based on actuation signals. Each locking element serves multiple purposes: torque transfer, output member selection, and speed synchronization, eliminating the need for separate dedicated assemblies for each function and thereby reducing overall device complexity.
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
Enables efficient, compact, and responsive torque transmission with independent control over power flow directions, reducing reliance on hydraulic systems and enhancing synchronization capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a linear actuator mechanism that uses electromagnetic actuation to control the deployment of struts
Implementation Method 2
incorporating an electromagnetic friction clutch for speed synchronization
Data Source
AI summary
A clutch assembly includes a first coupling assembly and a second coupling assembly. The first and second coupling assemblies have a common input member wherein the first coupling assembly couples/decouples the input member and a first output member, and the second coupling assembly couples/decouples the input member and a second output member. In the first position, the first coupling assembly decouples the input member and the first output member, and the second coupling assembly couples the input member and the second output member. In the second position, the first coupling assembly couples the input member and the first output member, and the second coupling assembly decouples the input member and the second output member.