Reverse Input Cut-Off Clutch With Integrated Engaging Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing reverse input cut-off clutches with complex mechanisms and multiple parts result in high production costs and management challenges, making it difficult to smoothly switch between locked and unlocked states.
Innovation Solution
A reverse input cut-off clutch design featuring a pressed member, input member, output member, and engaging element with specific geometric configurations and frictional engagement mechanisms that allow for smooth switching between locked and unlocked states while minimizing the number of parts and production costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex mechanism with multiple parts (engaging element main body and link member) is used to achieve reverse input cut-off, then the torque cutting-off function is reliable, but the device complexity increases and production costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the engaging element main body and link member into a single integrated engaging element structure. The engaging element includes an engaging portion that engages with the output member and a pressing portion that presses against the pressed member, eliminating the need for separate link members and reducing part count while maintaining the torque cutting-off function.
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging element is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it engages with the output member to transmit torque, presses against the pressed member to enable reverse input cut-off, and switches between locked and unlocked states. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
2Reliability
If a complex mechanism with multiple parts is used, then the torque transmission function is reliable, but the production costs and parts management become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging element integrates multiple functional portions (engaging portion and pressing portion) into a single component, reducing the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, managed, and assembled. This directly lowers production costs and simplifies parts management while maintaining reliable torque transmission.
3Reliability
If the pressing surface is always pressed against the pressed surface, then the reverse input cut-off is effective, but the switching between locked and unlocked states becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging element is designed to dynamically change its position and state based on the direction of torque input. When torque is input to the input member, the engaging element rotates and the pressing portion separates from the pressed surface (unlocked state). When torque is reversely input to the output member, the pressing portion is pressed against the pressed surface (locked state). This dynamic behavior enables smooth switching between states.
Solution Approach 2:
The frictional engagement between the pressing surface and pressed surface is controlled by changing the contact pressure parameter. In the unlocked state, the contact pressure is reduced or eliminated, allowing smooth rotation. In the locked state, the contact pressure increases through frictional engagement, preventing reverse torque transmission. This parameter change enables smooth state transitions.
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 enables efficient torque transmission and effective torque cutting-off, reducing production costs and stabilizing operations by simplifying the mechanism and reducing the number of parts, allowing for smooth switching between locked and unlocked states.
Implementation Method 1
the pressing surface is frictionally engaged with the pressed surface by pressing the pressing surface against the pressed surface on the basis of the engagement between the output-side engaging part and the output-side engaged part
Data Source
AI summary
In a predetermined first state, a distance (D1) in a second direction between a contact portion (Pin) between a input-side engaging part (9) and an input-side engaging part (17) and a rotation center (O) is larger than a distance (D2) in the second direction between a contact portion (Pout) between an output-side engaging part (12) and an output-side engaged part (14) and the rotation center (O). In a locked state or a semi-locked state, a contact portion (C1) between the output-side engaging part (12) and the output-side engaged part (14) is located closer to the rotation center (O) of the output member (4) in a first direction than an imaginary straight line (L) connecting a contact portion (C2) between one pressing surface (13) of the pair of pressing surfaces (13) and a pressed surface (6) to the rotation center (O) of the output member (4).