Electromagnetic Selectable One-Way Clutch Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional overrunning coupling devices, such as one-way clutches, lack independent control over their operation, requiring high-pressure hydraulic systems for actuation, which is inefficient and limited in functionality.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetically-actuated axial one-way clutch with a configuration that includes a first plate with compartments for housing electromagnetic actuator units, comprising a coil assembly, armature assembly, and a strut, allowing for controlled locking and freewheeling in both rotational directions through electrical actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If high-pressure hydraulic systems are used to actuate the clutch, then the clutch can be shifted between operating modes, but the system complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the hydraulic actuation system with an electromagnetic actuation system. The electromagnetic actuator uses magnetic fields generated by coil assemblies to directly actuate the clutch plates, eliminating the need for high-pressure hydraulic pumps, valves, and fluid lines. This substitution reduces system complexity while maintaining the ability to shift between operating modes (locked, freewheel, and controllable modes).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the hydraulic control system from the clutch assembly, separating the actuation function into a distinct electromagnetic system. This allows the clutch to operate independently of complex hydraulic infrastructure, reducing overall system complexity and energy consumption while preserving mode-shifting capability.
2Device complexity
If conventional one-way clutches are used, then the structure is simple, but the control capability is limited to automatic locking/freewheeling based on torque direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic control capability to the clutch system through electromagnetic actuators that can actively adjust the engagement state of clutch plates. The system transitions from a static, passive one-way clutch to a dynamic, controllable system that can respond to real-time operational requirements. The electromagnetic actuation allows the clutch to adapt its state (locked, freewheel, or controllable) based on varying torque directions and magnitudes, enhancing versatility while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the clutch to perform multiple functions beyond traditional one-way locking and freewheeling. The electromagnetic actuation system allows the clutch to operate in locked mode, freewheel mode, and controllable modes, providing universal applicability across different operational scenarios. This multi-functionality is achieved without significantly increasing structural complexity, as the electromagnetic actuators integrate seamlessly with the existing clutch plate architecture.
3Ease of operation
If high-pressure hydraulics are used for actuation, then the clutch can be controlled, but energy consumption and system inefficiency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the energy-intensive hydraulic system with an electromagnetic actuation system that consumes less energy. The electromagnetic actuators convert electrical energy directly into mechanical motion to actuate the clutch plates, eliminating the energy losses associated with hydraulic fluid compression, leakage, and pump operation. This substitution maintains full control capability while significantly reducing overall energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic actuation system provides self-service by directly converting electrical signals into mechanical actuation without requiring external hydraulic infrastructure. The system efficiently manages its own energy requirements, using only the electrical power needed to generate magnetic fields for actuation, thereby eliminating the continuous energy consumption required to maintain high-pressure hydraulic systems.
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 selective control over the clutch's operation, reducing the need for high-pressure hydraulics and providing enhanced functionality by allowing freewheeling in both directions until actuated, thus improving the efficiency and versatility of automatic transmissions.
Implementation Method 1
at least one coil assembly that is disposed in the core section, at least one armature assembly that has at least one armature finger pivotally moveable in the armature section and extending over the coil section for movement toward and away from the coil in response to the coil being energized
Data Source
AI summary
A selectable one-way clutch apparatus. The one-way clutch apparatus includes a first plate that has an inner surface that defines at least one compartment. A second plate has a ratchet surface aligned axially adjacent with the inner surface of the first plate and presents a plurality of teeth. Each of the compartments is divided into a strut section, an armature section and a core section. At least one electromagnetic actuator unit is received by the compartment. The electromagnetic actuator unit includes a coil assembly, an armature assembly that has at least one armature finger pivotally moveable in the armature section for movement toward and away from the coil assembly in response to the coil assembly being energized, and at least one strut that is pivotally moveable in the strut section for moving in response to engagement by the armature finger between a locked position and a released position.