Multi-shaft Drive Device with Radial Selector Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-shaft drive devices for vehicle seats, which use a mechanical clutch to drive multiple output shafts with a single motor, face challenges in reducing weight and space while maintaining efficient operation, as they often lack a simplified structure for selector mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A multi-shaft drive device with a compact structure that includes an input member, output members, a selector member with an action portion, and a rotary operational member, where the selector member is rotated to selectively engage output members with the input member, allowing for weight and space reduction through a simplified mechanical clutch mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a mechanical clutch is used to drive multiple output shafts with one motor, then cost is reduced, but weight and space of the selector mechanism cannot be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism is segmented into modular components: a selector member with multiple selector portions, each corresponding to a specific output shaft; output members with engagement portions; and a input member with transmission portions. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component's weight and function while maintaining overall system efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The selector member is designed to extend in multiple directions (radially and axially) from the central input member, utilizing three-dimensional space efficiently. Output members are arranged around the input member in a radial configuration, allowing compact packaging that reduces both weight and spatial footprint compared to linear arrangements.
2Ease of manufacture
If a mechanical clutch is used to drive multiple output shafts with one motor, then cost is reduced, but space of the selector mechanism cannot be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The output members are nested around the central input member in a radial configuration, with each output member positioned at a different radial distance or angular position. The selector member extends through the central region, nesting the selection mechanism within the existing structural footprint rather than adding external space.
Solution Approach 2:
The input member serves multiple functions: it receives power from the motor, transmits power to multiple output members through different transmission portions, and provides a central structural element around which the entire mechanism is organized. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby reducing overall space requirements.
3Ease of operation
If one motor is connected to each output shaft, then each movable part can be driven independently, but the number of motors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical clutch mechanism acts as an intermediary between the single motor and multiple output shafts. The selector member with its multiple selector portions functions as a switching mechanism that selectively engages the input member with specific output members, enabling independent control of each output shaft while maintaining a single power source.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch mechanism provides dynamic engagement and disengagement capabilities, allowing the system to switch between different operational modes (different output shafts activated) based on control signals. This dynamic switching capability enables independent drive control without requiring physically separate motors for each output.
Data Source
AI summary
Output gears are disposed so as to be movable toward and counter to plural second input gears to which rotation of the motor is transmitted, and so as to be biased toward the plural second input gears. A cam, which has plural recesses provided at the periphery thereof, is disposed at the inside of the output gear. The cam is rotated, and a pin of the output gear enters the recess, so that the output gear is moved toward the second input gear, and the output gear is engaged with the second input gear.