Dual Mass Flywheel Coupling for Automatic Start-Phase Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dual mass flywheel systems face challenges in distinguishing between the engine start phase and normal running phase, leading to complex and expensive actively controlled solutions for locking and unlocking the primary and secondary masses during engine starting.
Innovation Solution
A dual mass flywheel coupling member with a central aperture and resiliently deformable members that attach to the primary mass, allowing for simple and cost-effective locking and unlocking of the primary and secondary masses through engagement features that engage upon deformation, eliminating the need for active control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an actively controlled solution is used to distinguish between engine start phase and normal running phase, then the reliability of mass coupling control is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member utilizes the existing mechanical environment (starter motor pinion engagement) to automatically activate the locking mechanism. The resiliently deformable member self-actuates when compressed by the pinion, coupling the primary and secondary masses without requiring external control systems, sensors, or active decision-making logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member is pre-configured with the resiliently deformable member in a compressed state during assembly. When the starter motor pinion engages the coupling member during engine starting, the pre-positioned resilient member immediately activates the locking action, ensuring the masses are coupled before engine operation begins.
2Device complexity
If a centrifugal clutch arrangement is used to lock the primary and secondary masses, then the simplicity of the mechanism is improved, but the ability to distinguish between start phase and running phase deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member acts as an intermediary element between the starter motor pinion and the secondary mass. It translates the mechanical presence of the pinion (which occurs only during starting) into the activation of the resiliently deformable member, which then engages the secondary mass. This intermediary mechanism converts an easily detectable condition (pinion engagement) into the required locking action.
3Ease of manufacture
If the coupling member uses resiliently deformable members that require deformation to engage, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the force required for engagement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resiliently deformable member transitions from a static component to a dynamic actuator. During engine starting, the starter motor pinion applies force to compress the resilient member, storing elastic potential energy. When the pinion releases, the resilient member dynamically rebounds, converting stored energy into the locking force needed to engage the secondary mass. This dynamic behavior reduces the peak force required compared to a purely mechanical spring-loaded system.
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 provides a straightforward and cost-effective method to couple and decouple the primary and secondary masses during engine start-up, reducing stress on the drivetrain and eliminating the need for complex active control systems.
Implementation Method 1
at least one resiliently deformable member, the resiliently deformable member comprising a fixing point attachable to the primary mass to rigidly couple the resiliently deformable member, e.g., one end of the resiliently deformable member, to the primary mass
Data Source
AI summary
A dual mass flywheel coupling member for selectively coupling a primary mass and a secondary mass of a dual mass flywheel, the coupling member comprising: a central aperture for enabling axial alignment with the primary mass and the secondary mass; at least one resiliently deformable member, the resiliently deformable member comprising a fixing point attachable to the primary mass to rigidly couple one end of the resiliently deformable member to the primary mass; and at least one engagement feature coupled to the coupling member at a point remote from the fixing point, wherein the engagement feature is configured to engage the secondary mass upon deformation of the resiliently deformable member in an installed configuration.