Multiple Clutch Encoder Integration for Reliable Speed Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multiple clutches in vehicle drive trains are either complex and bulky or generate unreliable measurement data due to the placement of the transmitter part outside the dual-mass flywheel.

Innovation Solution

The transmitter part is integrated as a non-rotatably connecting element between the first and second clutch components, simplifying the structure and enabling reliable rotation state detection, with a compact design and radial arrangement of the rotational speed and position detection geometry.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the sensor element is arranged outside the multiple clutch on the side of the dual-mass flywheel, then the multiple clutch can be simpler in design, but the measurement data becomes unreliable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultiple clutch design complexityVSAvoidmeasurement data reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor element is integrated directly into the multiple clutch assembly, merging the sensing function with the clutch structure. This eliminates the need for separate external sensor mounting while ensuring reliable measurement by placing the sensor in direct proximity to the rotating components whose speed is being measured.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Volume of moving object

If the multiple clutch is designed to be compact, then space requirements are reduced, but the design becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultiple clutch volumeVSAvoiddesign complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor element is nested within the existing structural components of the multiple clutch, specifically utilizing the space within the clutch assembly. This nesting approach allows the sensor to be housed within the clutch structure without increasing the overall volume, while the modular integration keeps the design manageable rather than overly complex.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Volume of moving object

If the encoder element extends between overlapping connection areas in the axial direction, then the installation space is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation spaceVSAvoidencoder element positioning precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The encoder element is pre-positioned and integrated into the clutch assembly during the manufacturing process, with its location predetermined by the overlapping connection areas design. This preliminary integration ensures that the encoder element is correctly positioned before final assembly, reducing the need for high-precision field adjustments while maintaining compact dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP3743634B1Multiple clutch with encoder part for rotational speed detection; and clutch arrangement with multiple clutch and dual-mass flywheel
Publication Date: 2023.02.08 SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES AG & CO KG
  • EP3743634B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3743634B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3743634B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

The invention relates to a multiple clutch (1) for a drivetrain of a motor vehicle, having a first clutch (2) and a second clutch (3), wherein each clutch (2, 3) has a first clutch component (4a, 4b) and a second clutch component (5a, 5b) which is selectively rotationally connectable to the first clutch component (4a, 4b), and having an encoder part (8) which has a rotational speed and/or rotational position detection geometry (6) and which is operatively connected to a sensor (7), wherein the encoder part (8) is used as a connecting element (8) which rotationally conjointly connects the first clutch component (4a) of the first clutch (2) to the first clutch component (4b) of the second clutch (3). The invention also relates to a clutch arrangement (21) having a multiple clutch (1) and having a dual-mass flywheel (22).