Multi-Pack Clutch Assembly for Lower Differential Speed Wear
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Solution Overview
Problem
Friction clutches in powertrains experience reduced lifespan and inoperability due to high differential rotational speeds during disengagement, leading to increased friction and wear.
Innovation Solution
A clutch assembly with multiple clutch packs rotationally coupled via a mechanical linkage, featuring an actuation piston that reduces differential speed across the clutch assembly, utilizing a bearing for axial movement and lubrication to enhance longevity and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If friction clutches are used in electrified powertrains with high rotational speeds, then power transmission capability is improved, but clutch lifespan decreases due to increased friction and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch assembly is divided into multiple clutch packs (first clutch pack, second clutch pack, etc.) that are rotationally coupled through a rotational connection component. Each clutch pack operates at different differential speeds, segmenting the total speed differential across multiple friction interfaces. This reduces the friction and wear on each individual clutch pack while maintaining the overall power transmission capability of the system.
2Speed
If high differential rotational speeds occur across friction clutches during disengagement, then clutch actuation speed is improved, but friction and wear increase causing inoperability
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch assembly segments the speed differential across multiple clutch packs. During disengagement, the rotational connection component allows each clutch pack to rotate at different speeds, distributing the harmful friction and wear across multiple friction interfaces rather than concentrating it on a single clutch pack. This maintains actuation speed while reducing the harmful effects of friction.
3Reliability
If multiple clutch packs are used to reduce differential speed, then clutch longevity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple clutch packs are merged through a common rotational connection component that couples them rotationally. This merging approach allows the clutch packs to be actuated together while maintaining their individual rotational freedom, reducing differential speed across the assembly. The shared actuation mechanism and rotational coupling reduce the overall structural complexity compared to having completely independent clutch packs.
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 effectively reduces clutch wear and increases longevity by minimizing differential speed and friction, resulting in a more robust and reliable clutch system.
Implementation Method 1
wet friction clutches experience friction between the plates during disengagement. Higher differential speeds across the clutch will therefore cause increased friction
Implementation Method 2
the first clutch pack is coupled to the component via a first set of separator plates and coupled to the rotational connection component via a first set of friction plates
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for a clutch assembly. The clutch assembly includes a first clutch pack coupled to a component via a rotational connection component and a second clutch pack coupled to a drum via the rotational connection component. The clutch assembly further includes an actuation piston configured to actuate the first clutch pack and the second clutch pack.