Frustoconical Torque Limiter for High-Torque Release and Re-Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torque limiters are complex, expensive, and have relatively low transmission limit forces for given dimensions, necessitating a simpler, more cost-effective solution that can transmit high torque.
Innovation Solution
A torque limiter with inner and outer limited-retaining elements having frustoconical contact surfaces and a reversible retaining configuration, allowing for a simple construction and adjustable torque limit, featuring a clamping mechanism that transitions between engaged and release configurations based on torque levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional torque limiters use pistons or balls with springs, then the torque limiting function is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The torque limiter is divided into two independent bodies (first body and second body) that can be manufactured separately and assembled. Each body contains simplified tooth structures that interact to provide the limiting function, eliminating the need for complex internal spring mechanisms while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using springs to actively push limiters into engagement, the invention inverts the approach by using elastic deformation of the tooth structures themselves during engagement. The elasticity is inherent in the tooth geometry and material, not in separate spring components, thereby reducing device complexity
2Reliability
If conventional torque limiters use multiple moving parts, then the torque limiting function is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functions of multiple separate components (pistons, springs, housings) into two integrated bodies with built-in tooth structures. This consolidation reduces the number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled, lowering manufacturing cost while maintaining the torque limiting function through the interaction of the tooth structures
Solution Approach 2:
The tooth structures on the first and second bodies serve multiple functions: they transmit torque during normal operation, provide the limiting action when torque exceeds the threshold, and enable re-meshing capability. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate limiting mechanisms, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost
3Force
If conventional torque limiters are designed for high torque transmission, then the transmission limit force increases, but the device dimensions and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses frustoconical (truncated conical) contact surfaces on the tooth structures instead of flat or cylindrical surfaces. The conical geometry concentrates the contact area and directs forces more efficiently along the axis, enabling high torque transmission with smaller, simpler device dimensions and reducing the need for complex reinforcement structures
4Reliability
If conventional torque limiters are designed with fixed torque limits, then the torque transmission is controlled, but the adaptability to different torque requirements decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes the torque limiter adaptable by allowing the tooth structures to be re-meshed at different engagement points along the frustoconical surfaces. By changing the meshing position, the effective lever arm and contact geometry change, thereby adjusting the torque limit dynamically without requiring physical replacement of components, enhancing versatility while maintaining reliable torque control
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 torque limiter that is both cost-effective and capable of transmitting high torque, with a simple design that allows for easy re-meshing and re-engagement, preventing damage to downstream components by allowing free rotation when torque exceeds the limit.
Implementation Method 1
the outer contact surface has a frustoconical shape of revolution and wherein the inner contact surface has a frustoconical shape of revolution
Data Source
AI summary
A torque limiter including a first body and a second body extending about a central axis. The first body supports first limiter teeth and the second body supports second limiter teeth. The first and second limiter teeth define an engaged configuration and a release configuration. The torque limiter includes limited-retaining means retaining the first and second limiter teeth in the engaged configuration thereof when the torque is less than a transmission torque limit and yielding when the torque exceeds the transmission torque limit. The limited-retaining means include an inner limited-retaining element having an outer contact surface, and an outer limited-retaining element having an inner contact surface mating with the outer contact surface. The inner and outer limited-retaining elements having a retaining configuration wherein the inner limited-retaining element is clamped into the outer limited-retaining element, and a yielded configuration wherein the inner limited-retaining element is loosened from the outer limited-retaining element.