Electromechanical Coupling Assembly with Actuated Locking Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing one-way clutches in automatic transmissions fail to enable engine braking and are prone to overrunning, leading to increased manufacturing costs and quality defects, while also requiring additional space and being inefficient at low startup temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A controllable coupling assembly with a bi-directional, electrically-powered actuator and transmission assembly that includes a rotary output shaft and interconnected transmission elements, allowing the locking member to pivot between uncoupling and coupling positions, and utilizing non-contact position sensors for feedback, enabling efficient torque transfer and disengagement under load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional one-way clutch designs are used, then the structure is simple, but the clutch cannot enable engine braking and is prone to overrunning
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch assembly is divided into multiple functional segments: traditional one-way clutch elements for free-wheeling operation, friction packs for engine braking, and controllable coupling elements for selective engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specialized function without interfering with others, resolving the contradiction between reliability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch assembly is designed to perform multiple functions within a single integrated structure: it provides free-wheeling capability through one-way clutch elements, engine braking through friction packs, and selective torque transfer through controllable coupling elements. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate clutch mechanisms, maintaining structural simplicity while achieving reliable engine braking.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate external parts are mounted on the OWC, then the clutch gains additional functions, but manufacturing time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple clutch functions are merged into a single integrated assembly where one-way clutch elements, friction packs, and controllable coupling elements are combined in one manufacturing process. This eliminates the need for separate workstations to assemble additional parts, maintaining high manufacturing efficiency while achieving versatile operating modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated clutch assembly provides multiple operating modes (free-wheeling, engine braking, selective torque transfer) within a single universal component structure. This eliminates the need for separate external parts and assemblies, reducing manufacturing steps and costs while maintaining adaptability across different operating conditions.
3Ease of operation
If a large distance is provided between the locking member and actuator, then the actuator can effectively move the locking member, but the assembly occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator and locking member are positioned in a three-dimensional arrangement that optimizes the actuation path. By utilizing vertical and radial dimensions rather than only axial distance, the design achieves effective locking member movement with minimal overall assembly volume, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and space occupation.
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 enables non-hydraulic disengagement under load, conserves space, reduces manufacturing costs, and improves the clutch's ability to function effectively at low startup temperatures, while maintaining efficient torque transfer and engine braking capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a bi-directional, electrically-powered, actuator and transmission assembly (84) including a rotary output shaft (83) and a set of interconnected transmission elements
Implementation Method 2
at least one non-contact position sensor (98) supported on the static pocket plate (97) to provide a position feedback signal as a function of the position of one of the transmission elements (88, 92, 398') or the locking member (86, 386)
Implementation Method 3
The set of transmission elements may include a threaded screw shaft and a nut threaded onto the screw shaft
Implementation Method 4
The input transmission element may include a first cam and the set of transmission elements may include a second cam coupled to the nut to rotate therewith and ride on the first cam
Data Source
AI summary
An electromechanical apparatus for use with a controllable coupling assembly and a coupling and electromechanical control assembly are provided. The apparatus includes a locking member pivotable between an uncoupling position and a coupling position characterized by abutting engagement with a load-bearing shoulder of the coupling assembly. Also included is a bi-directional, electrically-powered, actuator and transmission assembly including a rotary output shaft and a set of interconnected transmission elements including an input transmission element coupled to the output shaft to rotate therewith. An output transmission element translates upon rotation of the output shaft to actuate the locking member and cause the locking member to pivot between the coupling and uncoupling positions which correspond to different operating modes of the coupling assembly.