Compact Pulse Vacuum Hub Lock with Multi-Row Clutch Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic locking hub systems for four-wheel drive vehicles are complex and costly due to their design, requiring numerous parts and being difficult to assemble, which complicates their integration into vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A compact pulse vacuum live spindle hub lock with a cartridge design that uses a clutch ring with multi-row engagement teeth and external splines on a constant shaft, along with a two-spring pulse vacuum engagement/disengagement system, reducing axial travel and vacuum usage, allowing for a more robust and aesthetically pleasing assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional automatic locking hub systems are used, then the hub lock function is achieved, but the device complexity increases and assembly becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The hub lock system is divided into modular components including a clutch ring assembly, actuator assembly, and spring mechanisms that can be assembled separately and then integrated, reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining functional reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch ring serves multiple functions simultaneously: it transmits torque when engaged, provides a locking mechanism when disengaged, and interfaces with both the constant velocity shaft and wheel hub, reducing the need for separate components and simplifying the overall system
2Length of moving object
If multi-row engagement teeth and external splines are used, then axial travel is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-row splines and engagement teeth are designed with optimized local geometries that distribute loading across multiple contact points, allowing for reduced axial travel while maintaining acceptable manufacturing tolerances through strategic placement and shaping of engagement surfaces
3Duration of action of stationary object
If pulse vacuum engagement method is used, then vacuum system durability is improved, but engagement force may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The pulse vacuum system applies vacuum in periodic cycles rather than continuously, creating repeated engagement pulses that accumulate mechanical advantage over time to achieve full clutch engagement, thereby reducing the force requirement per pulse while maintaining system durability
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement mechanism incorporates dynamic elements including spring-loaded pistons and movable clutch plates that leverage inertial forces and elastic energy storage to amplify the effect of periodic vacuum pulses, converting intermittent vacuum application into reliable mechanical engagement
4Reliability
If two-spring system is used, then vacuum level separation is increased and tolerances are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The two-spring system uses springs with different stiffness characteristics and pre-load values to create distinct vacuum pressure thresholds for engagement and disengagement, establishing a hysteresis effect that provides stable operation and tolerance compensation without requiring complex control mechanisms
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 design achieves a minimal axial stack, making it a dense package that can be easily integrated behind a traditional wheel center cap, with improved durability and reduced energy consumption, while maintaining efficient operation and reduced rotational drag.
Implementation Method 1
pulse vacuum actuated locking hub cartridge
Implementation Method 2
diaphragm reacted against by a secondary spring
Implementation Method 3
A larger, full range spring is used throughout a full stroke of a primary piston
Implementation Method 4
A secondary spring is used to help reduce the full stroke of the primary piston
Data Source
AI summary
A pulse vacuum hub lock system for selectively engaging a wheel hub to an axial shaft includes a cartridge housing assembly received in a bore in the wheel hub. The cartridge housing assembly supports a clutch ring for movable engagement between splines in the wheel hub and directly on the axle shaft. A diaphragm is connected to a piston assembly and is responsive to a vacuum pressure to activate the piston assembly to engage or disengage a latch mechanism that holds the clutch ring in an engaged or disengaged position. A piston spring and a helper spring are provided between primary and secondary pistons of the piston assembly and allow for separation in the vacuum levels required to activate the latch mechanism. The vacuum hub lock system is compact so as to be disposed inboard of an opening in the exterior surface of a wheel rim.