Polygonal Torque Coupling with Functional Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current coupling devices for transmitting torque between non-parallel shafts are complex and expensive to produce, and flexible sleeves suffer from reliability issues due to accelerated aging.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device featuring a male and female element with complementary polygonal shapes and functional clearances, allowing for a simple and reliable ball joint connection between input and output shafts, with optional features such as inscribed circular shapes and adjustable clearance values to adapt torque transmission capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a Cardan joint coupling device is used to transmit torque between non-parallel shafts, then torque transmission capability is improved, but device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into two separate elements: a male element with polygonal external shape and a female element with complementary polygonal internal shape. These segmented components can be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining torque transmission capability between non-parallel shafts
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a second functional clearance between the male element and the shaft end, creating a ball joint mechanism that allows angular movement. This dimensional freedom enables the coupling to accommodate non-parallel shafts without requiring complex Cardan joint structures
2Device complexity
If a flexible sleeve is used instead of Cardan joint, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to accelerated aging
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the material state parameter from deformable (flexible sleeve) to rigid (polygonal elements with functional clearances). This parameter change eliminates the accelerated aging problem associated with deformable materials while maintaining structural simplicity and reliability over time
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive, complex Cardan joints with simpler, more durable polygonal coupling elements. By using rigid materials with functional clearances instead of deformable materials, the design achieves long-term reliability without the aging issues that would require replacement
3Adaptability or versatility
If functional clearances are introduced in the male element, then adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The functional clearances are strategically positioned at specific locations on the male element rather than being uniformly distributed. This local quality approach allows angular adjustment capability where needed while maintaining tighter tolerances in other critical areas, balancing adaptability with manufacturing precision requirements
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a coupling device (1) for transmitting torque between an input shaft (10) and an output shaft (11), each of which comprises one end opposite the other, said device including a male element (2) and a female element (3) for engaging with one another, wherein one (10) of the input shaft and output shaft comprises, at the end (12) thereof, the male element, a section of which has a generally polygonal outer shape, and the other one (11) of the input shaft and output shaft comprises, at the end thereof (15), the female element, one section of which has a generally polygonal inner shape complementary to the outer polygonal shape, both the male and female elements being intended to engage with one another by meshing with a functional play, and the male element being mounted on the end of the shaft on which the same is located, wherein a second functional play exists between the male element and the end of the shaft on which said male element is located, the male element and said end of the shaft engaging with each other by meshing with the second functional play.