Electromechanical Coupling Assembly for Reducing Parasitic Losses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current one-way clutches in vehicular transmissions lack the ability to efficiently control operating modes and suffer from parasitic losses, complexity, and the need for hydraulic systems, limiting their functionality and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An electromechanical assembly with a stator and subassembly that uses electromagnetically inductive coils and actuators to selectively couple and decouple rotating members via bi-directionally movable rods, allowing for controlled mode switching between locked and unlocked states, reducing parasitic losses and eliminating the need for hydraulic systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional one-way clutches are used in vehicular transmissions, then the structure is simple, but parasitic losses occur and functionality is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch assembly is divided into multiple independent clutch packs, each capable of independent control. This segmentation allows different clutch packs to handle different functions (overrunning, locking, torque transmission) separately, reducing parasitic losses in each individual clutch while maintaining overall functionality through coordinated operation of multiple segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch assembly is designed to perform multiple functions including overrunning clutch operation, locked clutch operation, and torque transmission. By integrating these functions into a single multi-functional assembly with selectable operating modes, the system eliminates the need for separate hydraulic systems while reducing overall parasitic losses through electro-mechanical control.
2Ease of operation
If hydraulic systems are used to control clutch operation, then complex control is achieved, but device complexity and parasitic losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional hydraulic control systems with an electro-mechanical actuation system. Electric motors or actuators directly control the engagement and disengagement of clutch packs, eliminating the need for hydraulic pumps, valves, and fluid systems. This substitution reduces device complexity while maintaining precise control capability through electronic control signals.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional one-way clutches are used, then the structure is simple, but the ability to control operating modes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch assembly incorporates dynamic control capabilities that allow real-time switching between different operating modes (overrunning, locked, torque transmission). The system can dynamically adjust which clutch packs are engaged or disengaged based on operational requirements, enabling multiple selectable operating modes while managing complexity through coordinated control of modular clutch packs.
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 near-zero parasitic losses in the 'off' state, allows for electro-mechanical activation, and provides multiple functional modes without the complexity of hydraulic systems, enhancing the efficiency and control of one-way clutches in vehicular transmissions.
Implementation Method 1
a stator having at least one electromagnetically inductive coil to create a magnetic flux when the at least one coil is energized
Data Source
AI summary
An electromechanical assembly to control the operating mode of a coupling apparatus is provided. The assembly includes a first subassembly including a stator having at least one electromagnetically inductive coil to create a magnetic flux when the at least one coil is energized. At least one bi-directionally movable rod has a free end adapted for connection to a strut of the coupling apparatus for selective, small displacement strut movement. An actuator is operatively connected to the at least one rod for selective bi-directional shifting movement along a rotational axis between a first position of the actuator which corresponds to a first mode of the coupling apparatus and a second position of the actuator which corresponds to a second mode of the coupling apparatus. A magnetic control force is applied to the actuator when the at least one coil is energized to cause the actuator to move between positions.