Dual Torque Limiter for Utility Vehicle Drivetrain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive train systems for utility and off-road vehicles are inadequately protected against overload torque conditions, which can lead to component failure, particularly when both front and rear wheels experience torque overload during recontact after airborne maneuvers.
Innovation Solution
A dual torque limiter system with independently functioning front and rear slip clutch assemblies, utilizing friction discs and Belleville washers to secure the main shaft, disengaging when torque exceeds predetermined values to prevent damage to the drive train components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If friction discs are used in the slip clutch assembly, then torque can be limited through friction engagement, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The slip clutch assembly employs a nested structure where multiple friction discs are stacked between Belleville spring packs. The friction discs are arranged in alternating patterns with keyed and unkeyed discs nested within each other, creating a compact layered configuration that maximizes torque limiting capability while minimizing axial space requirements.
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
Effectively protects both the front and rear drive trains from overload torque conditions by ensuring torque disengagement before component failure, ensuring continued vehicle operation and reducing the risk of driveline damage.
Implementation Method 1
friction discs or other slip clutch mechanisms releasably engaging the front slip clutch assembly to the main shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A dual torque limiter on a utility vehicle having a gear train connected to a main shaft through a first slip clutch assembly that releases the gear train from the main shaft if torque exceeds a predetermined limit. The main shaft is connected to a rear drive train. The front drive train is connected to the main shaft through a second slip clutch assembly that releases the front drive train from the main shaft if torque exceeds a predetermined limit.