Compact Servo for Gear Change Using Cam Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing servo-assisted gear change systems are cumbersome and costly due to complex hydraulic actuator configurations, which hinder their compactness and cost-effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A compact servo system is designed with a first hydraulic actuator for axial displacement of the control shaft and a second actuator that uses a cam mechanism with a tubular element and solenoid valve to control rotation, eliminating the need for direct coupling and reducing the number of solenoid valves required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If both hydraulic actuators are directly coupled to the control shaft and act independently, then the gear change function is achieved, but the construction becomes cumbersome and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of two hydraulic actuators by coupling them to a common cam mechanism. The first actuator displaces the cam axially while the second actuator rotates the cam, and both actions are transmitted through the cam to control the gear change. This consolidation reduces the number of independent actuator-c shaft couplings from two to one, simplifying the construction and reducing costs while maintaining full gear change functionality.
2Quantity of substance
If a cam mechanism with tubular element and solenoid valve is used for rotation control, then the number of solenoid valves is reduced, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism serves multiple functions: it converts axial displacement from the first actuator into rotational motion, and also responds to the second actuator's rotational input. The tubular element with its conical friction surface acts as a universal coupling that can transmit both axial and rotational forces. This multi-functionality allows the system to control gear changes with fewer solenoid valves while the cam's geometric design inherently manages the complexity through its ability to perform multiple mechanical transformations.
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 results in a simpler, more cost-effective, and compact servo system that is easier to produce, with reduced complexity and lower production costs while maintaining functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a first hydraulic actuator (5), mechanically coupled to the control shaft (2) for axial displacement of the control shaft (2)
Implementation Method 2
a second hydraulic actuator (6), mechanically coupled to the control shaft (2) for rotating the control shaft (2) about the central axis (3)
Implementation Method 3
the first hydraulic actuator (5) is directly coupled to the control shaft (2) for displacing the control shaft (2) axially, whilst the second hydraulic actuator (6) is coupled to a cam (12) engaged by a pin (11) fixed to the control shaft (2)
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a servo for a gear change provided with a control shaft; the servo has: a first actuator, which displaces the control shaft axially along a central axis thereof and is directly coupled to the control shaft; and a second actuator, which renders a cam engaged by a pin projecting from the control shaft angularly fixed to a fixed frame to cause rotation of the control shaft about its central axis during the axial displacement; a cylindrical tubular element is provided, which is coaxial to the control shaft, receives inside it an end portion of the control shaft, supports the cam, and is pushed axially by the second actuator against the fixed frame.