Electromechanical Actuator Overrunning Coupling for Transmission Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing one-way clutches and coupling assemblies in vehicular automatic transmissions are complex to control and manipulate, lacking a simplified method for switching between locking and free-wheeling modes.

Innovation Solution

An overrunning coupling and control assembly featuring first and second coupling members with locking formations and an electromechanical actuator subassembly, including an inductive coil and biasing members, allows controlled shifting between locked and overrun modes by applying a control force to move the armature member along the rotational axis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional one-way clutch mechanisms are used in automatic transmissions, then torque flow control is achieved, but the control and manipulation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque flow controlVSAvoidcontrol manipulation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional complex mechanical control mechanisms with an electromechanical actuator system. The actuator uses electromagnetic fields to control the locking device, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages and manual manipulation mechanisms while maintaining reliable torque flow control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the control parameter from mechanical position/force to electrical current. By controlling the electromagnetic actuator through electrical signals, the system achieves simplified control manipulation while maintaining precise torque flow management through parameter-based control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If traditional one-way clutch mechanisms are used in automatic transmissions, then torque flow control is achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque flow controlVSAvoidmechanism structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The electromechanical actuator serves multiple functions: it controls the locking device engagement, provides precise positioning, and enables both locked and free-wheeling modes through a single integrated component, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining functional reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If electromechanical actuator subassembly is implemented, then control efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol efficiencyVSAvoidassembly fabrication

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the coupling assembly into distinct functional modules: the electromechanical actuator subassembly, the locking device, and the coupling members. This modular segmentation allows for specialized manufacturing of each component using appropriate processes, improving overall control efficiency while managing manufacturing complexity through standardized module production.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 simplified and efficient control of the coupling assembly, allowing for precise management of torque flow and engine braking during gear shifts, enhancing the operational reliability and efficiency of automatic transmissions.

Implementation Method 1

The subassembly includes an electromagnetically inductive coil to create a magnetic flux when the coil is energized

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8720659B2Overrunning coupling and control assembly including an electromechanical actuator subassembly

Publication Date: 2014.05.13 MEANS IND INC

AI summary

An overrunning coupling or clutch and control assembly including first and second coupling members and an electromechanical actuator subassembly having an electromagnetically inductive coil which creates a magnetic flux when the coil is energized is provided. A control force caused by the magnetic flux is applied to an armature member of the subassembly to move the armature member and cause the coupling members to be either coupled to or uncoupled from each other by means of struts.