Powertrain Clutch Torque Limiting Traction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing powertrain protection systems, such as those with inter-axle differentials and slippable friction clutches, are vulnerable to clutch failure due to high-speed slip and do not effectively reduce traction, potentially damaging the powertrain.
Innovation Solution
A powertrain system with an inter-axle differential that selectively locks and unlocks shafts based on torque levels, using a clutch to limit traction by acting as an open differential when excessive torque is detected, thereby preventing damage by allowing traction devices to slip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the friction clutch is designed to slip at predetermined torque values to protect the powertrain, then excessive torque is limited, but the system does not reduce traction effectively, increasing the possibility of damage to the powertrain
Solution Approach 1:
The controller implements a feedback mechanism by continuously monitoring torque levels and comparing them against predetermined thresholds. Based on this feedback, the controller selectively actuates the clutch to reduce traction when torque exceeds safe levels, creating a closed-loop control system that effectively protects the powertrain while maintaining traction when conditions permit
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 system effectively limits torque and traction to prevent powertrain damage by reducing available traction when excessive torque is generated, thereby protecting the powertrain from excessive loads and slip-related failures.
Implementation Method 1
a clutch associated with the differential and configured to selectively reduce a total traction available to the machine by releasing the differential as a function of a torque produced by the power source
Data Source
AI summary
A powertrain for a machine is disclosed. The powertrain has a power source and a transmission that is operably connected to the power source. The powertrain also has a differential that is operably connected to the transmission. The powertrain further has a first and second shaft that are operably connected to the differential. The first and second shaft respectively actuate a plurality of traction devices. The powertrain also has a clutch associated with the differential and configured to selectively reduce a total traction available to the machine by releasing the differential as a function of a torque produced by the power source.