Reverse Input Cutoff Clutch With Friction-Linked Smooth Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional reverse input cutoff clutches face challenges in smoothly switching from a locked or semi-locked state to an unlocked state due to inclined translational loads acting on the engaging elements, which hinder efficient torque transmission and locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a pressed member, an input member, an output member, and engaging elements with a main engaging element body and a link member, where the engaging elements pivotally link to transmit torque and frictionally engage with a pressed surface to manage torque direction and switching states effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional engaging elements are used with inclined translational loads, then the locking mechanism can be simplified, but the switching from locked to unlocked state becomes rough and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging element is designed to dynamically change its engagement state with the pressed surface. During normal operation, the engaging element is disengaged from the pressed surface for smooth torque transmission. During reverse torque, the engaging element automatically engages with the pressed surface through frictional contact, providing dynamic adaptation to different operational states without complex control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressed surface acts as an intermediary element between the engaging element and the input member. The frictional engagement between the engaging element and pressed surface mediates the torque transmission, allowing smooth transition between locked and unlocked states by controlling the frictional contact rather than relying on direct mechanical engagement with the input member.
2Ease of operation
If frictional engagement with pressed surface is used, then switching between states becomes smooth, but the mechanism requires more precise control of frictional forces
Solution Approach 1:
The design changes the normal force parameter between the engaging element and pressed surface based on torque direction. During reverse torque, the normal force increases to create sufficient frictional engagement. During normal operation, the normal force decreases to allow smooth disengagement. This parameter change is achieved through the geometric relationship between the engaging element and pressed surface, eliminating the need for external force control mechanisms.
3Reliability
If the engaging element is always engaged with the pressed surface, then torque cutoff is effective, but torque transmission from input member becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging element dynamically transitions between engaged and disengaged states with the pressed surface based on torque direction. During reverse torque, the engaging element engages with the pressed surface to provide effective torque cutoff. During normal forward torque transmission, the engaging element disengages from the pressed surface, eliminating frictional resistance and enabling efficient torque transmission from the input member through the engaging element to the output member.
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 enables smooth switching between locked, semi-locked, and unlocked states, ensuring efficient torque transmission and effective torque cutoff, improving the clutch's operational performance and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
the engaging element frictionally engages with a pressed surface to manage torque direction and switching states effectively
Data Source
AI summary
The reverse input cutoff clutch includes: a pressed member having a pressed surface around the inner peripheral surface; an input member coaxially arranged with the pressed surface and having an input-side engaging portion arranged on the radially inner side of the pressed surface; an output member coaxially arranged with the pressed surface and having an output-side engaging portion arranged further on the radially inner side than the input-side engaging portion; and an engaging element arranged so as to be movable in a first direction as a direction toward or away from the pressed surface on the radially inner side of the pressed surface. The engaging element has a main engaging element body having a pressing surface and a pivot-support shaft, and a link member. The link member has a first end portion pivotally linked to the pivot-support shaft, and a second end portion pivotally linked to the input-side engaging portion.