Reverse Input Blocking Clutch With Pivoted Engaging Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional reverse input blocking clutches face difficulties in smoothly switching from a locked or semi-locked state to an unlocked state due to the inclined direction of the translational load acting on the engaging elements when rotational torque is inputted to the input member.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a pressed member, an input member, an output member, and engaging elements with a pivot support shaft and link member, allowing the engaging elements to move radially away from the pressed surface when torque is inputted, enabling smooth transition between states by aligning the load direction parallel to the radial direction of the engaging elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the engaging elements are designed with a conventional structure, then the clutch can maintain a locked or semi-locked state, but the switching from locked to unlocked state is not smooth due to the inclined direction of the translational load
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging element is designed with a pivot support shaft that allows it to dynamically change its orientation and position. When torque is applied to the input member, the engaging element pivots about the pivot support shaft, causing the pressing surface to move away from the pressed surface in a controlled manner. This dynamic movement enables smooth transition from locked to unlocked state by allowing the engaging element to naturally follow the direction of the applied load.
2Reliability
If the pressing surface is positioned close to the pressed surface for effective torque blocking, then the clutch can effectively block reverse torque, but the transition to unlocked state becomes difficult due to the inclined load direction
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging element is designed to move in multiple dimensions: radially (away from the pressed surface) and axially (parallel to the pressed surface). The pivot support shaft enables the pressing surface to move not only radially outward when unlocked but also axially parallel to the pressed surface, providing an additional degree of freedom that facilitates smooth transition while maintaining effective torque blocking capability when engaged.
3Device complexity
If the engaging element structure is simplified, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to achieve smooth state switching is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot support shaft serves as an intermediary element that mediates between the pressing surface and the pressed surface. It provides a pivot point that allows the engaging element to smoothly transition between locked and unlocked states while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. The pivot support shaft absorbs the complexity of the motion requirements, allowing the engaging element itself to remain structurally simple.
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
This configuration allows for efficient and smooth switching from a locked or semi-locked state to an unlocked state when rotational torque is inputted to the input member, enhancing the clutch's operational performance.
Implementation Method 1
the pair of pressing surfaces frictionally engage with the pressed surface
Data Source
AI summary
A reverse input blocking clutch has: a pressed member having a pressed surface; an input member having an input-side engaging portion; an output member having an output-side engaging portion; and an engaging element having an engaging element main body and a link member to move in the first direction away from or toward the pressed surface. The engaging element main body has a pair of main body plates arranged to overlap in the axial direction, and a pivot support shaft arranged on the side in the first direction closer to the pressed surface than the input-side engaging portion with the both side portions supported by the pair of main body plates. One pressing surface facing the pressed surface is provided on one main body plate, and the other pressing surface is provided on the other main body plate.