Electromagnetic Overrunning Coupling Control System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional overrunning coupling assemblies, such as one-way clutches, often fail to enable engine braking and are prone to quality defects and increased manufacturing costs due to complex designs and separate external parts, with limited space for control elements and activators, leading to performance issues under extreme conditions.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetic system is introduced that controls the operating mode of overrunning coupling assemblies using a stator structure with electromagnetic sources and a magnetic translator structure, allowing for selective displacement and latching between stable end positions to manage torque locking and free-wheeling modes, reducing the need for additional parts and improving manufacturing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate external control parts are mounted on the overrunning coupling assembly, then the control functionality is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases and quality defects increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control mechanism is integrated directly into the overrunning coupling assembly structure. The control element is formed as part of the assembly during the same manufacturing process, eliminating the need for separate external control parts that would require additional mounting operations and increase manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The overrunning coupling assembly structure is designed to perform both the coupling function and the control function through integrated features. The same structural components serve multiple purposes, reducing the total number of parts needed and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining full control functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate external control parts are mounted on the overrunning coupling assembly, then the control functionality is achieved, but the manufacturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control mechanism is integrated directly into the overrunning coupling assembly structure. The control element is formed as part of the assembly during the same manufacturing process, eliminating the need for separate external control parts that would require additional mounting operations and increase manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The control element is pre-formed as an integral part of the assembly during the primary manufacturing process, rather than being added as a separate component afterward. This preliminary integration eliminates subsequent assembly steps and reduces total manufacturing time.
3Device complexity
If the distance between control element and activator is large, then the control mechanism is simpler, but the available space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control element and activator are positioned in a nested or closely integrated arrangement within the assembly structure. The control mechanism utilizes the internal space of the existing assembly components, allowing for effective control action without requiring additional external space.
Solution Approach 2:
The control mechanism utilizes vertical or radial positioning within the existing assembly footprint rather than requiring additional horizontal space. By using the depth or radius dimensions already present in the assembly, the design achieves effective control element-activator interaction without increasing the overall assembly footprint.
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 solution enhances the control of overrunning coupling assemblies by enabling efficient engine braking, reducing manufacturing costs, and improving durability under extreme conditions by integrating the control mechanism within the assembly, thus addressing the limitations of traditional designs.
Implementation Method 1
A stator structure includes at least one electromagnetic source to create a magnetic force when energized
Implementation Method 2
The translator structure completes a path of magnetic flux to magnetically latch in at least one of the end positions
Data Source
AI summary
An electromagnetic system for controlling the operating mode of an overrunning coupling assembly is provided. A control member is mounted for controlled shifting movement between coupling faces of coupling members and a stator structure including at least one electromagnetic source to create a magnetic force when energized. A magnetic or ferromagnetic translator structure is coupled to the control member for selective, small displacement, control member movement. The translator structure is magnetically coupled to the stator structure across an air gap and is supported for translational movement relative to the stator structure along a path between first and second stable end positions. The translator structure completes a path of magnetic flux to magnetically latch in at least one of the end positions and to translate along the path between the end positions upon experiencing a net translational force.