Torque Limiter and Coil Spring Hatchback Position Holding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hatchback switching devices for vehicles face challenges in compact design due to the need for electromagnetic clutches and separate overload prevention systems, leading to increased space and cost requirements, and lack of protection against obstacles during operation.
Innovation Solution
An angular position holding apparatus combining a torque limiter with a coil spring for braking torque and a cylindrically-rolled thin-plate elastic piece for overload prevention, allowing for compact integration of both functions in a single mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an electromagnetic clutch is used to hold the hatchback at stopping position, then the hatchback can be held reliably without falling by its own weight, but the device requires additional space for installing the electromagnetic clutch and separate electrical wirings and control system, resulting in increased device size and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic clutch (electrical system) with a torque limiter mechanism that uses a coil spring and friction elements to create a braking torque, thereby holding the hatchback at the stopping position. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for electrical wirings and control systems, reducing device complexity while maintaining holding reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque limiter mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the torque applied to the output shaft. When the electric motor stops, the coil spring automatically generates braking torque to hold the hatchback. When the motor restarts, the torque overcomes the braking force and the mechanism self-activates without external control,实现ing self-service operation.
2Reliability
If an electromagnetic clutch is used to hold the hatchback, then the holding function is achieved, but separate electrical wirings and control system are required, leading to increased cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic clutch (electrical system) with a torque limiter mechanism that uses a coil spring and friction elements to create a braking torque, thereby holding the hatchback at the stopping position. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for electrical wirings and control systems, reducing device complexity while maintaining holding reliability.
3Device complexity
If no overload prevention system is provided, then the device remains simple and compact, but if an obstacle is caught between the hatchback and the vehicle, the caught article may be damaged by the drive of the electric motor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the angular position holding function and the overload prevention function into a single torque limiter mechanism. The same friction elements and coil spring that provide holding torque also serve as the overload prevention system. When an obstacle is detected, the torque limiter automatically disconnects the motor from the load, preventing damage without requiring separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque limiter mechanism performs multiple functions: it holds the hatchback at the stopping position by generating braking torque, and it prevents overload by disconnecting the motor from the load when excessive torque is detected. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate holding and overload prevention systems, maintaining device simplicity while providing comprehensive protection.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a torque limiter is added for overload prevention, then safety is improved, but the device requires additional space for installing the overload prevention system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the angular position holding function and the overload prevention function into a single torque limiter mechanism. The same friction elements and coil spring that provide holding torque also serve as the overload prevention system. When an obstacle is detected, the torque limiter automatically disconnects the motor from the load, preventing damage without requiring separate systems.
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 apparatus effectively holds the angular position of a hatchback without external power when not in use and prevents damage from excessive torque by disconnecting the rotation, ensuring safety and reducing the overall size and cost of the device.
Implementation Method 1
a coil spring mounted on an outer peripheral surface of the outer race member, the coil member in a free state having an inner diameter smaller than an outer diameter of the outer race member, the coil spring having hooks at both ends of the coil spring that are locked to a fixed member so as to apply the braking torque
Implementation Method 2
the coil spring... so as to apply a braking torque to the outer race member
Implementation Method 3
a cylindrically-rolled thin-plate elastic piece installed between an inner peripheral surface of the outer race member and an outer peripheral surface of the inner race member so as to transmit a rotation torque larger than the braking torque from the outer race member to the inner race member
Data Source
AI summary
A small and compact rotation transmitter includes a torque limiter and an angular position holding apparatus. An outer race member is installed in a housing, and a coil spring is mounted on the outer peripheral surface thereof. Inside the outer race member, an internal space is formed, and an inner race member is installed concentrically with the outer race member. In the annular space between the outer and inner race members, a thin-plate elastic piece is pressed against the outer and inner race members, and either the outer or inner race member is connected to an input-side device while the other is connected to an output-side device. Even without rotation torque, the position of the output-side device is held by the coil spring. When the rotation torque from the input-side device becomes excessive, slippage occurs on the thin-plate elastic piece, whereby the outer and inner race members are disconnected.