Linear Inductive Coupling Sensor for Direct Clutch State Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current clutch-position sensing systems in automatic transmissions face inaccuracies due to the need to indirectly infer coupling states and are prone to mechanical wear, especially when not in physical contact with the object, and they are often complex and energy-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A non-contact, linear inductive position sensor is integrated into the coupling and control assembly, utilizing an electromagnetic source and a translator structure with a coupler element made of electrically conductive material to induce eddy currents, providing direct feedback on the translator's position and correlating with the clutch state for precise vehicle transmission control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a non-contact position sensor is used to detect translator position, then mechanical wear is eliminated and measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the addition of electromagnetic components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based position sensing with a non-contact linear inductive position sensor that uses electromagnetic fields to detect translator position. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear between sensing components while providing precise position feedback through inductive coupling between the sensor and the translator's conductive elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electromagnetic field as an intermediary between the sensor and the translator. The linear inductive position sensor creates an electromagnetic field that interacts with conductive elements on the translator, allowing position detection without direct mechanical contact. This intermediary field enables accurate measurement while avoiding the wear problems of mechanical systems.
2Measurement precision
If indirect inference methods are used to determine coupling state, then system simplicity is maintained, but measurement precision and reliability of coupling state detection deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements direct feedback from the linear inductive position sensor to the control system. The sensor provides real-time position feedback of the translator, which directly indicates the coupling state. This feedback mechanism eliminates the need for indirect inference methods, providing accurate and reliable coupling state detection through direct measurement of translator position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces indirect mechanical inference methods with direct electromagnetic sensing. Instead of inferring coupling state from mechanical parameters, the system directly measures translator position using the linear inductive sensor, providing accurate coupling state detection through electromagnetic field interaction rather than mechanical observation.
3Reliability
If traditional contact-based position sensing is used, then device complexity is reduced, but mechanical wear increases and reduces reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based sensing with a non-contact linear inductive position sensor. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear between the sensor and the translator components, significantly improving reliability and durability. The electromagnetic field-based sensing method has no moving parts that wear, providing long-term reliable operation in the demanding transmission environment.
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 offers precise detection of 'fully connected' and 'fully disconnected' coupling states without mechanical wear, reduces energy consumption, and simplifies the system by eliminating the need for indirect inference, enhancing transmission control and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor is configured to create a magnetic field to induce eddy currents in the electrically conductive material of the coupler element wherein movement of the coupler element changes a magnetic field caused by the eddy currents
Implementation Method 2
induce eddy currents in the electrically conductive material of the coupler element wherein movement of the coupler element changes a magnetic field caused by the eddy currents
Implementation Method 3
The net translational force comprises a first translational force caused by energization of the at least one electromagnetic source
Implementation Method 4
a magnetic latching force based upon linear position of the translator structure along the rotational axis relative to the stator housing
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling and control assembly including a non-contact, linear inductive position sensor is provided. The assembly includes a coupling housing and a stator structure disposed within the coupling housing and including a stator housing. A translator structure is coupled to a coupling member of the assembly to rotate therewith about a rotational axis. The sensor is mounted on one of the housings. The translator structure includes a coupler element made of an electrically conductive material. The sensor is configured to create a magnetic field to induce eddy currents in the electrically conductive material. Movement of the coupler element changes a magnetic field caused by the eddy currents. The sensor provides a position feedback signal for vehicle transmission control. The signal is correlated with the linear position of the translator structure along the rotational axis.