Pneumatic Clutch Actuation for Low Current Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clutches in mechanical systems, particularly in low current systems like corn planters, require significant current to actuate, limiting independent control and efficiency, especially with the introduction of GPS technology which demands more precise control.
Innovation Solution
A pneumatically actuated clutch assembly using a pneumatic actuating member connected to a source of compressed air, which engages a release ring to rotatably separate clutch plates, requiring only approximately 15 milliamps of current for activation, allowing for independent control of multiple units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a solenoid is used to actuate the clutch, then the clutch can be reliably actuated, but the current consumption is high (approximately 30 amps to pull in, 1 amp to hold)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrical solenoid actuation system with a pneumatic system using compressed air. A pneumatic actuator (such as a pneumatic motor or pneumatic cylinder) is driven by compressed air stored in a tank, which mechanically actuates the clutch release mechanism. This eliminates the need for high current electrical actuators while maintaining reliable clutch engagement and disengagement.
2Use of energy by moving object
If one clutch is used to activate several corn planters, then current consumption is reduced, but independent control of each planter is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single clutch system into multiple independent clutch units, with each corn planter having its own clutch mechanism. Each clutch can be independently actuated by its own pneumatic actuator controlled by GPS or manual input, allowing selective engagement/disengagement of individual planters while maintaining overall system efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic control system where the pneumatic clutch actuation is controlled by GPS location data or manual switches. The system can dynamically determine which planters should be active based on geographic position, automatically engaging or disengaging clutches as planters enter or exit the planting zone, providing adaptability without requiring continuous high current supply.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a pneumatic actuating member is used, then current consumption is reduced (approximately 15 milliamps), but the system requires a compressed air source
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the pneumatic tank and compressed air system as a multi-functional component that serves both the clutch actuation system and potentially other pneumatic tools or accessories on the vehicle. The compressed air tank, regulator, and filtration system are designed to support multiple pneumatic devices, distributing the complexity across a shared infrastructure rather than dedicating separate systems to each function.
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 efficient and independent control of multiple clutches with reduced current consumption, addressing the inefficiencies in systems like corn planters and other applications by utilizing compressed air to actuate the clutch mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a pneumatic actuating member that is operably connected to a source of compressed air
Data Source
AI summary
A clutch assembly having a drive shaft operably connected to a first hub or clutch plate. A second hub or clutch plate adjacent to the first clutch plate and operably connected to a second drive shaft. A release ring positioned to selectively release both clutch plates. Positioned to engage the release ring is a pneumatic actuating member that is operably connected to a source of compressed air.