One-Way Differential Clutch for Easier Torque Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing differential device requires strict adjustment of the clutch timing to connect and disconnect torque transmission between the drive wheels and power transmission mechanism, making it cumbersome to switch between enabling and disabling torque transmission.
Innovation Solution
A differential device incorporating a one-way clutch and a clutch device with an actuator, allowing for easy switching of torque transmission between the drive wheels and power transmission mechanism by controlling the relative rotation direction and using an electric motor to manage the clutch device's connection/disconnection state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a dog clutch with engaging concave-convex portions is used to disconnect drive wheels during coasting, then fuel efficiency is improved, but the clutch device requires strict timing adjustment and becomes difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch members are segmented into multiple engaging concave-convex portions arranged circumferentially. This segmentation allows the clutch to engage through multiple potential contact points, increasing the probability of successful engagement regardless of relative rotational positioning, thereby eliminating the need for strict timing adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member acts as an intermediary between the clutch members, providing resilient contact that facilitates engagement. The elastic member can deform to accommodate slight misalignments and then restore to complete the engagement, making the clutch operation more tolerant of timing variations.
2Power
If the clutch device is connected at high relative rotational speed, then torque transmission is enabled, but the convex portions repel each other and engagement is inhibited
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the engagement interface into multiple concave-convex portions distributed around the circumference, the system ensures that at least some portions will be in favorable engagement position even at high rotational speeds, preventing complete engagement failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The periodic arrangement of concave-convex portions creates multiple engagement opportunities during each rotation cycle. This periodic structure ensures that engagement can occur at regular intervals, maintaining reliability even when relative rotational speed causes continuous movement through different engagement phases.
3Ease of operation
If the engaging concave-convex portions are brought close at matched rotational speeds, then connection is attempted, but the tip end surfaces contact and engagement fails
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic member provides beforehand cushioning by being pre-compressed or pre-positioned to create a compliant contact interface. This cushioning effect prevents hard contact between tip end surfaces by absorbing the impact through elastic deformation, allowing the engagement process to continue smoothly without failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member changes the mechanical parameters of the engagement interface by introducing compliance and deformation capability. This parameter change transforms the rigid contact into a flexible interaction, allowing the system to accommodate positioning variations and achieve successful engagement.
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
Enables effortless switching of torque transmission between the drive wheels and power transmission mechanism, improving power efficiency by allowing the vehicle to coast without disconnecting from the power source, thus extending the coasting distance and enhancing fuel efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a one-way clutch arranged between the input member and the case member and transmitting torque between the input member and the case member only when the input member attempts to rotate relative to the case member in the normal rotation direction
Implementation Method 2
an elastic member arranged between the nut and the pressing member and compressing in an axial direction when the sleeve is displaced toward the other side in the axial direction
Data Source
AI summary
A differential device includes: an input member; a case member arranged coaxially with the input member; a one-way clutch arranged between the input member and the case member and transmitting torque therebetween only when the input member attempts to rotate in a normal rotation direction; a pinion gear supported by the case member to rotate about the axis perpendicular to the center axis of the case member; and a pair of side gears supported coaxially with the input member to rotate relative to the input member and the case member and meshing with the pinion gear.