Elastic Shaft Coupling with Radially Removable Claws
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing claw couplings require separate manufacturing for each hub diameter due to fixed elastomer rings, limiting the replacement of flexible coupling elements and increasing production costs, as entire elastomer rings must be replaced and specific claws are needed for each hub size.
Innovation Solution
The design features radially removable claws with identical mounting surfaces across different hub sizes, allowing the same claws to be used across various diameters, enabling the production of multiple clutch sizes from standardized components and facilitating the individual replacement of elastomer elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If elastomer rings are integrally bonded together as a complete unit, then the coupling structure is simplified, but the replacement of wear parts becomes difficult requiring axial separation
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomer ring is divided into individual elastic coupling elements that are not integrally bonded but can be separated and replaced independently. Each element can be accessed and replaced without requiring axial separation of the coupling halves, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and ease of repair.
2Manufacturing precision
If claws are manufactured specifically for each hub diameter, then the connection precision is optimized, but the manufacturing cost and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The claws are designed with a universal mounting surface geometry that allows them to be used with hubs of different diameters. The mounting surfaces on the hubs are designed to accommodate standard claws regardless of hub size, enabling one set of claws to serve multiple hub diameters while maintaining adequate connection precision.
3Ease of repair
If radially removable claws are implemented, then the replacement of coupling elements is facilitated, but the hub design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hub design is segmented to include distinct mounting surfaces that allow claws to be radially removable. The mounting surfaces are designed as separate features on the hub that accept claws with corresponding mounting geometries, enabling radial removal while keeping the overall hub design relatively simple through modular surface design.
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 approach reduces production effort and storage needs by allowing the same claws to be used for different hub diameters, enabling the production of various clutch sizes with reduced costs and simplifying the replacement of wear-prone components.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic coupling element is inserted between each adjacent claw
Data Source
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AI summary
The coupling (10) has a first shaft hub and a second shaft hub (13) including first and second claws (12, 14). The first and second claws are engaged to one another into intermediary spaces between the claws. Elastic coupling elements (15) are arranged between the claws. An outer circumferential surface of the first and second shaft hubs are provided with mounting surfaces for the first claws or the second claws. The first claws or the second claws are supported by the first and second shaft hubs, which are arranged on mounting surfaces of the shaft hubs in a form-locking manner.