Universal Flywheel Locking for Mixed Tooth Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flywheel locking devices require a large assortment of configurations to match different flywheel sizes and tooth patterns, and they often need to be bolted in place, making them cumbersome and inefficient for various engine setups.
Innovation Solution
A universal flywheel locking device with an arched locking member that engages with flywheel teeth at two points, eliminating the need for specific tooth patterning matching and featuring a design that can be wedged between the flywheel and a fixed feature without bolting, allowing for quick installation and use across various engine configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If flywheel locks are designed with teeth that fit perfectly between the teeth of the flywheel, then secure locking is achieved, but a large assortment of different flywheel lock configurations is required to match different flywheel sizes and tooth patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple flywheel configurations through a single device design. The curved surface and two-point engagement system allow the same locking device to work with various flywheel sizes and tooth patterns, eliminating the need for multiple specialized locking devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the engagement parameters from requiring precise tooth-to-tooth matching to a more flexible two-point contact system. By pressing one end into the gap between two teeth and having the opposite end contact any portion of two adjacent teeth, the system accommodates variations in flywheel parameters (size, curvature, tooth pattern) without requiring different locking device configurations.
2Reliability
If flywheel locking devices are fixedly attached in place by attachment with a preexisting bolt, then the device is secured, but the device requires removal and installation of bolts which varies with different automotive systems
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the bolt attachment mechanism from the locking device design. Instead of requiring bolts to be passed through holes in the device, the locking device is designed to be wedged directly between the flywheel and a fixed feature, eliminating the need for bolt removal and installation operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is designed to be self-installing through a wedging action between the flywheel and a fixed feature. The device secures itself in place without requiring external fastening operations, making the installation process simpler and more consistent across different automotive systems.
3Reliability
If the locking device interfaces with a long section of the teeth, then precise tooth patterning matching is required, but this increases device complexity and requires multiple configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the requirement for extensive tooth pattern matching from the locking mechanism. By reducing the interface to just two contact points (one end in the gap between two teeth, opposite end contacting any portion of two adjacent teeth), the device eliminates the complexity of matching specific tooth patterns while maintaining reliable locking engagement.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal flywheel locking device which is configured to fit flywheels with a variety of sizes and tooth patterns. The device may feature an arched locking member and two guide members attached to the sides of the locking member. The locking member is configured to wedge the device between a fixed feature or bolt and a flywheel so as to prevent rotation of the flywheel. The first end of the locking member may be configured to fit within a gap between two of a plurality of teeth of the flywheel so as to lock the flywheel.