Engine-Transmission Coupling Element for Precise Shaft Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional engine and transmission assemblies in utility vehicles require complex alignment and coupling processes, often necessitating the use of jigs and larger bolt holes to accommodate deviations, which can lead to errors in center distance and affect the accuracy of the positional relationship between the engine and transmission.
Innovation Solution
The assembly features a coupling element with first and second fitting portions on the engine and transmission cases, respectively, that surround the output and input shafts, allowing for precise axial alignment and fixing of the center distance between the shafts without the need for a jig, using flat face portions and bolt holes that accommodate slight dimension errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the engine and transmission are mounted to the frame with a jig for alignment, then the center distance can be accurately set, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling plate serves as an intermediary component between the engine and transmission. It includes a first coupling portion that couples to the engine and a second coupling portion that couples to the transmission. The coupling plate pre-establishes the accurate center distance relationship through its structural design, eliminating the need for complex alignment jigs during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling plate is designed in advance with predetermined coupling portions that already establish the correct center distance. This preliminary preparation of the coupling relationship allows the engine and transmission to be directly mounted without requiring complex alignment operations during the assembly process.
2Ease of operation
If larger diameters of bolt holes are used to accommodate position deviation, then ease of assembly is improved, but center distance accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling plate features localized coupling portions with precise geometric shapes that engage with corresponding features on the engine and transmission. These localized coupling areas provide self-aligning characteristics, allowing for easy assembly while maintaining accurate center distance through the precise local geometry rather than relying on large bolt holes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the coupling plate is mounted after positioning the engine and transmission, then flexibility in positioning is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling plate integrates multiple functions into a single component: it serves as both the coupling element and the positioning element. The first and second coupling portions are structurally integrated into the coupling plate, combining the functions of connecting the engine and transmission while simultaneously establishing their positional relationship. This merging simplifies the assembly process by reducing the number of separate operations required.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly of an engine and a transmission is disclosed. An output shaft of the engine and an input shaft of the transmission extends in parallel to protrude from the assembly. The assembly typically comprises a first fitting portion that is formed in a crankcase of the engine and is configured to surround the output shaft, a second fitting portion that is formed in a housing of the transmission and is configured to surround the input shaft, and a coupling element having a first opening fitted to the first fitting portion and a second opening fitted to the second fitting portion. A center distance between the output shaft and the input shaft is fixed with the coupling element fitted to the first and second fitting portions.