Electromagnetic Ratchet Speed Converter for Bidirectional Shaft Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for controlling the speed and direction of a vehicle's output shaft are limited, as they require additional reversing apparatus and cannot achieve both forward and reverse directions without additional components, and lack the ability for engine braking.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a stator coil and permanent magnets into the Goldfinch speed converter to enable electro-magnetic ratchet control, allowing for both clockwise and counter-clockwise direction control of the output shaft, and neutral operation, eliminating the need for one-way clutch bearings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional reversing apparatus is used to achieve reverse direction control, then direction control capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the reversing function with the existing one-way clutch bearing assembly by adding electromagnetic actuators that can actively control the clutch in both locking and unlocking directions. This merges the previously separate reversing apparatus function into the existing speed converter structure, eliminating the need for additional reversing components while maintaining bidirectional control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces passive mechanical one-way clutch bearings with an active electromagnetic control system. The electromagnetic actuators (solenoids or voice coil motors) substitute for the mechanical spring-loaded clutch mechanism, enabling bidirectional control through electrical signals rather than relying on additional mechanical reversing apparatus
2Speed
If one-way clutch bearings are used for speed control, then speed conversion is achieved, but reverse direction and engine braking are not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static, passive one-way clutch bearing into a dynamic, actively controlled electromagnetic clutch system. The electromagnetic actuators can dynamically adjust the clutch state (locked, unlocked, partially engaged) based on control signals, enabling the output shaft to achieve reverse rotation and engine braking functions while maintaining speed conversion capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the clutch mechanism from passive mechanical engagement to active electromagnetic control. By varying the electromagnetic field strength and polarity through the stator coil, the system can control the permanent magnet's orientation and the clutch's engagement state, enabling multiple operational modes including forward speed control, reverse direction, and engine braking
3Adaptability or versatility
If electro-magnetic ratchet control is implemented, then reverse direction and engine braking are achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the electromagnetic control system to perform multiple functions (reverse direction control, engine braking, and forward speed control) through a single integrated actuator assembly. The same stator coil and permanent magnet combination enables all three operational modes, reducing the need for multiple specialized components and simplifying the manufacturing process compared to implementing separate mechanisms for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic control system utilizes the existing magnetic field infrastructure of the Goldfinch speed converter (permanent magnets already present in the variable pitch cam assembly) and adds stator coils that leverage this existing magnetic environment. The system serves itself by using the converter's own magnetic components as part of the electromagnetic clutch mechanism, reducing the need for entirely new manufacturing processes
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 infinitely variable speed and direction control, including reverse direction and engine braking, with a more compact and cost-effective design by using electro-magnetic ratchet control, enhancing the flexibility and efficiency of vehicle transmission systems.
Implementation Method 1
an electric coil that may change the polarity of a permanent magnet
Implementation Method 2
a permanent magnet attached to an output shaft will slow or speed up a forward or reverse vehicular motion
Data Source
AI summary
A speed converter converting infinitely variable reciprocating input to uni-directional output, for example, comprising a driver, the driver comprising a variable pitch cam and a rack gear and one-way clutch bearings or Sprags and output shaft, the driver having an oblong shape may be converted to provide direction control in either of two directions and free-wheeling. The one-way clutch bearings or Sprags of a first Goldfinch speed converter are modified to comprise, concentric with the output shaft, a permanent magnet imbedded in a driven gear and direction controlling stator coils. A plurality of four (or more) electrical pulses (sine curves) may be applied to the stator coils to provide three possible outputs of desired speed: a forward output direction, a neutral or free-wheeling output and a reverse output direction. In this manner, an electro-magnetic ratchet control system may modify the speed converter to incorporate speed control, engine braking, and clockwise and counterclockwise output shaft direction control as well.