Pneumatically Actuated Clutch for Low Current Control

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing clutches, particularly in low current systems, are limited by the high current requirements for actuation, restricting independent control in applications like corn planters with the advent of GPS, leading to inefficiencies.

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 the clutch plates, requiring significantly less current (approximately 15 milliamps) for operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering 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 (30 amps to pull in, 1 amp to hold)

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the electrical solenoid actuation system with a pneumatic actuation system. The clutch is now actuated by compressed air pressure acting on a piston, which mechanically engages or disengages the clutch plates. This substitution eliminates the high current consumption of solenoids while maintaining reliable clutch actuation through pneumatic pressure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a pneumatic actuation mechanism where compressed air is supplied to a piston to move the clutch plates into engagement or disengagement. The pneumatic system uses air pressure to generate the necessary force for clutch actuation, replacing the electrical-mechanical solenoid system and dramatically reducing electrical current requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

2Use of energy by moving object

If one clutch is used to activate several corn planters, then the electrical system limitations are addressed, but independent control of each planter is lost creating inefficiencies

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

By using pneumatic actuation with compressed air supply to each individual clutch, the system enables independent control of multiple clutches without being constrained by electrical current limitations. Each planter can be controlled separately through its own pneumatic actuator, restoring adaptability and versatility while maintaining low electrical current consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

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 independent control of multiple clutches with reduced current consumption, enhancing operational efficiency and flexibility in systems like corn planters and automobiles.

Implementation Method 1

a pneumatic actuating member that is operably connected to a source of compressed air

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPneumatic pressure: Pressure Increase

Implementation Method 2

Positioned to engage the release ring is a pneumatic actuating member that is operably connected to a source of compressed air

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic expansion: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS7661516B2Pneumatically actuated clutch

Publication Date: 2010.02.16

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.