Double-Layer Planetary Reduction Clutch for Compact Helicopter Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing helicopter transmission systems are large, heavy, and complex due to the independent arrangement of multi-stage speed reducers and hydraulic multi-plate friction clutches, which are required for speed reduction and clutch functions.
Innovation Solution
A changeable linear speed reduction clutch is formed by connecting a changeable linear speed double-layer planetary gear train and a brake, allowing the planetary gear train to function as both a speed reducer and a clutch, with a simple and lightweight structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multi-stage speed reducers and hydraulic multi-plate friction clutches are independently arranged, then speed reduction and clutch functions are achieved, but the transmission system becomes large, heavy, and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the speed reducer and clutch into a single integrated planetary gear train system. The planetary carrier serves dual purposes: as the input component for speed reduction and as the clutch engagement point. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate multi-stage speed reducers and hydraulic clutches, directly reducing structural complexity while maintaining both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The planetary gear train is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously. The same planetary mechanism provides both speed reduction through its gear ratios and clutch functionality through the brake engagement with the planetary carrier. This multi-functionality allows a single component to replace what were previously separate dedicated components.
2Speed
If multi-stage speed reducers are used for speed reduction, then the required speed reduction ratio is achieved, but the transmission system size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a multi-stage sequential speed reduction approach to a single-stage planetary speed reduction. By utilizing the planetary mechanism's inherent ability to achieve high reduction ratios in a single stage through its geometric configuration, the system eliminates multiple sequential stages, thereby reducing the overall transmission system volume and weight while maintaining the required speed reduction ratio.
3Ease of operation
If hydraulic multi-plate friction clutches are used for clutch function, then power transmission control is achieved, but the transmission system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the clutch control function from a separate hydraulic multi-plate friction clutch mechanism and integrates it directly into the planetary gear train. The brake that engages with the planetary carrier serves as the clutch mechanism, eliminating the need for separate hydraulic control systems and multi-plate friction components, thereby simplifying the overall transmission system structure while maintaining power transmission control capability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a changeable linear speed reduction clutch, which is formed by connecting a changeable linear speed double-layer planetary gear train and a brake, and is transmission machinery with functions of both a speed reducer and a clutch. A planetary carrier of the changeable linear speed double-layer planetary gear train is used as an input end, one central gear as an output end, the other central gear as a braking end, and the braking end is directly connected to the brake; and the changeable linear speed double-layer planetary gear train adopts one of two types of planetary gear trains. The brake at least has two states, that is, braking and non-braking states, wherein the braking state of the brake is equivalent to an engaged state of the clutch, and the non-braking state of the brake is equivalent to a disengaged state of the clutch. The method of setting the changeable linear speed double-layer planetary gear train, and the application method of the present invention are provided herein. Compared with a device in which a multi-stage speed reducer and a clutch are arranged independently, the changeable linear speed reduction clutch in the present invention is small and light and has a simple structure.