Hydraulic Clutch Assembly with Fluid Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mechanical clutches face issues such as wear, heat management, power transmission limitations, shock, and damage from prolonged slipping modes, which affect their performance and lifespan in various applications, including marine and hybrid drive systems.
Innovation Solution
The development of a hydraulic actuated clutch system with a fluid coupling mechanism that uses a piston and separator discs, along with serrated Belleville springs, to provide controlled engagement, manage heat through fluid flow, and allow for extended slipping mode operation without adverse consequences, enhancing power transmission and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If mechanical clutches use repeated engagement and disengagement, then power transmission is achieved, but wear of clutch discs occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical engagement and disengagement with hydraulic actuation. A piston driven by hydraulic pressure applies axial force to compress the clutch discs together for engagement, while releasing pressure allows springs to separate the discs for disengagement. This eliminates mechanical wear from repeated engagement operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention substitutes the traditional mechanical clutch operation (direct mechanical contact for engagement) with a hydraulic-mechanical system. The hydraulic piston provides controlled axial compression for engagement, and the system incorporates fluid coupling elements that allow smooth torque transfer without abrupt mechanical contact, reducing wear.
2Power
If axial compression force is increased to transmit higher power, then power transmission capability improves, but heat generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces fluid coupling elements as an intermediary between the driving and driven members. These fluid elements transmit torque through hydraulic coupling rather than direct mechanical contact, allowing high power transmission while dissipating heat through the fluid medium and reducing direct frictional heating of the clutch discs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the properties of fluid coupling where the fluid can transition between different states of engagement. The fluid allows smooth torque transfer and can absorb excess energy through its compressibility and flow characteristics, managing heat generation during high-power transmission.
3Speed
If clutch engagement is made rapid for quick response, then response speed improves, but shock and jarring damage driven devices
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic piston system provides controlled, progressive application of axial force during engagement. The fluid pressure can be modulated to achieve rapid yet smooth engagement, avoiding sudden mechanical impacts. The hydraulic system's inherent compliance allows quick response while dampening shock loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates springs and fluid coupling elements that act as cushioning mechanisms before full engagement occurs. These elements absorb and dampen shock loads during the engagement process, protecting driven devices from jarring while maintaining rapid response capability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If clutch operates in slipping mode for extended period, then flexibility is achieved, but damage to clutch components occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic actuation system provides precise control over the degree and duration of slipping mode operation. By modulating hydraulic pressure, the system can maintain controlled slip conditions for extended periods without the uncontrolled overheating and wear associated with traditional mechanical slipping clutches.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid coupling elements serve as an intermediary that manages heat and stress during slipping operation. The fluid absorbs and dissipates energy during slip conditions, protecting the clutch discs from damage while allowing extended flexible operation.
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 improves power transmission capabilities, extends clutch life, reduces wear and heat-related issues, and enables controlled engagement, making it suitable for marine and hybrid drive systems while maintaining performance and ease of service.
Implementation Method 1
a source of hydraulic pressure selectively actuated to move the piston in the axial direction
Implementation Method 2
the piston is operatively connected to a pressure plate that selectively applies an axial compression force to a separator disc and a clutch disc
Implementation Method 3
The discs in the stack are axially compressed such that the discs connected to the driving member are in pressurized abutting engagement with the discs connected to the driven member. As a result, the driven member is caused to rotate with the driving member
Implementation Method 4
serrated Belleville springs
Data Source
AI summary
Power transmission systems including clutch arrangement and control systems are adapted to be used in numerous different operational environments. Such power transmission systems may include clutch arrangements that provide more effective power transmission capabilities as well as greater durability and longer life. Control arrangements are provided to more effectively control and monitor clutch operation in ways that provide for greater system flexibility and drive options.