Retainer Snap Ring Radial Axial Retention Clutch Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multiple speed transmissions, existing snap ring configurations require multiple snap rings to securely retain clutch assemblies, which can lead to increased complexity, mass, and the need for additional parts, especially under centrifugal forces, where additional snap rings are necessary to prevent axial displacement.
Innovation Solution
A retainer snap ring with a unique annular main body and radially-extending retention features that engage recesses in a backing plate, allowing it to retain another clutch snap ring radially and cooperate with it to maintain axial retention, thereby reducing the need for additional inner snap rings and simplifying the assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple snap rings are used to retain the backing plate under centrifugal forces, then the retention reliability is improved, but the device complexity and quantity of parts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple snap rings into a single integrated retainer snap ring with multiple retention features. The retainer snap ring includes a first retention feature for radial retention and a second retention feature for axial retention, eliminating the need for separate inner and outer snap rings while maintaining reliable retention under centrifugal forces
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer snap ring is designed as a multi-functional component that performs both radial retention (through the first retention feature engaging the recess) and axial retention (through the second retention feature engaging the clutch snap ring). This universal design replaces multiple specialized snap rings with one versatile component
2Reliability
If multiple snap rings are used to prevent axial displacement, then the retention reliability is improved, but the mass of the assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple snap ring components into a single retainer snap ring structure, thereby reducing the total mass of the assembly while maintaining the necessary retention reliability through its multi-feature design
3Reliability
If multiple snap rings are used to secure the clutch assembly, then the retention reliability is improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer snap ring is designed as a single integrated component with multiple retention features that can be manufactured in one piece, simplifying the manufacturing process compared to producing and assembling multiple separate snap rings
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer snap ring features segmented retention elements (first and second retention features) that can be independently designed and manufactured, allowing for simplified production while maintaining complex retention functionality
Data Source
AI summary
A snap ring is configured to retain components within a clutch assembly. The snap ring has an annular body defining an opening through a center thereof. The annular main body defines a distal-facing surface and an opposite proximal-facing surface. A number of retention features extend from the distal-facing surface of the annular main body. Each retention feature has an axially-extending body portion a radially-extending engagement portion. The engagement portion is configured to engage a backing plate. A friction clutch assembly including a snap ring pair is also provided, which includes a clutch snap ring disposed adjacent to the snap ring including the retention features.