Linear Inductive Clutch Position Sensing Through Housing Gaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current clutch-position sensing systems in automatic transmissions face challenges with accuracy due to non-contact measurements, which can be compromised by gaps or tolerances, and existing systems are complex and energy-intensive, especially in hot oil environments.
Innovation Solution
A non-contact, linear inductive position sensor is integrated into a coupling and control assembly, using an electromagnetic source and a translator structure with a coupler element made of electrically conductive material to induce eddy currents, providing precise position feedback without direct contact and reducing energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If non-contact position sensing is used, then mechanical wear is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to gaps and tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based position sensing with a magnetic field-based inductive sensing system. The inductive sensor detects the position of the translator through magnetic coupling without physical contact, eliminating mechanical wear while maintaining measurement precision through magnetic field interaction rather than mechanical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the sensor and the translator. The inductive sensor uses magnetic coupling to detect translator position through the housing wall, allowing non-contact measurement that overcomes the gap and tolerance issues while maintaining accuracy through the mediating magnetic field.
2Measurement precision
If complex position sensing systems are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical position sensing mechanisms with a simplified inductive sensor system. The inductive sensor provides accurate position detection through magnetic field coupling, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages, contacts, or multiple sensing elements while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the sensing parameter from mechanical contact to magnetic field induction. This parameter change allows the system to achieve accurate position measurement through electromagnetic coupling, simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining or improving measurement precision compared to mechanical systems.
3Measurement precision
If contact-based position sensing is used, then measurement precision is improved, but mechanical wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical contact-based sensing with magnetic field-based inductive sensing. The inductive sensor detects translator position through magnetic coupling without physical contact, eliminating mechanical wear on both the sensor and the translator while maintaining measurement precision through electromagnetic interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary that transmits position information without physical contact. The inductive sensor detects changes in magnetic coupling as the translator moves, allowing precise position measurement while the magnetic field intermediary prevents direct mechanical contact and associated wear.
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
The solution enhances clutch position sensing accuracy and reduces energy usage by correlating the sensor's output with the translator's linear position, enabling effective gear shifting and transmission control while minimizing mechanical wear and energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor is configured to create a magnetic field to induce eddy currents in the electrically conductive material of the coupler element wherein movement of the coupler element changes a magnetic field caused by the eddy currents
Implementation Method 2
The sensor is configured to create a magnetic field to induce eddy currents in the electrically conductive material of the coupler element
Implementation Method 3
The net translational force comprises a first translational force caused by energization of the at least one electromagnetic source and a magnetic latching force
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling and control assembly including a non-contact, linear inductive position sensor is provided. The assembly includes a coupling housing and a stator structure disposed within the coupling housing and including a stator housing. A translator structure is coupled to a coupling member of the assembly to rotate therewith about a rotational axis. The sensor is mounted on one of the housings. The translator structure includes a coupler element made of an electrically conductive material. The sensor is configured to create a magnetic field to induce eddy currents in the electrically conductive material. Movement of the coupler element changes a magnetic field caused by the eddy currents. The sensor provides a position feedback signal for vehicle transmission control. The signal is correlated with the linear position of the translator structure along the rotational axis.