Pedal-Linked Clutch Assembly for Slip-Free Torque Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clutch systems in vehicles, particularly automatic transmission vehicles, face issues with low torque transmission efficiency, slipping during ramp starts, and vulnerability to sudden unintended acceleration, which are exacerbated by the need for a clutch pedal and fluid-based torque transmission.
Innovation Solution
A clutch assembly that includes an out-cam interlocking with accelerator and brake pedals, an in-cam rotating with the engine, and a forked part supporting rotary members, allowing for sequential and mechanical transmission of rotational force without a clutch pedal, ensuring 100% torque transmission and preventing unintended acceleration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If fluid-based torque transmission is used in automatic transmission vehicles, then automatic operation is achieved, but torque transmission efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the fluid-based torque transmission system with a direct mechanical connection system. The clutch assembly includes a clutch plate with friction surfaces that directly contact the flywheel, eliminating the need for fluid coupling. This mechanical substitution restores efficient torque transmission while maintaining automatic operation through the clutch actuator mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If clutch pedal is installed for manual operation, then torque transmission control is achieved, but slipping during ramp starts occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a clutch actuator as an intermediary mechanism between the driver's input and the clutch plate. This actuator provides controlled, gradual engagement of the clutch plate with the flywheel, preventing sudden slips during ramp starts. The actuator mechanism ensures smooth torque transmission while maintaining operational control.
3Use of energy by moving object
If mechanical friction clutch is used in automatic transmission vehicles, then fuel efficiency is improved, but vulnerability to sudden unintended acceleration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a control system that monitors the clutch assembly's operation and provides feedback to prevent sudden unintended acceleration. The control mechanism detects abnormal engagement patterns and adjusts the clutch actuator's operation accordingly, ensuring safe and controlled torque transmission while maintaining the fuel efficiency benefits of mechanical friction clutch 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
The clutch assembly enhances torque transmission efficiency, eliminates slipping during ramp starts, and prevents sudden unintended acceleration, providing a mechanically operated power transmission system that can be applied to both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
an out-cam interlocking with an accelerator pedal and a brake pedal of a vehicle and rotating in one direction or the other direction; an in-cam rotating according to rotation of an engine of the vehicle; rotary members contacted with the out-cam and selectively contacted with the in-cam by moving in a height direction according to rotation in one direction or the other direction of the out-cam
Implementation Method 2
a clutch plate having first and second friction surfaces that face each other; a flywheel having a friction surface; wherein the first friction surface of the clutch plate is separated from the friction surface of the flywheel
Data Source
AI summary
The clutch assembly of the clutch system according to the present invention can precisely transmit or cut off power from an engine to a transmission by pressing and releasing of an accelerator pedal and a brake pedal.