Rotational Coupling Device with Electromagnetic Clutch for Bidirectional Torque Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rotational coupling devices are limited in transferring torque to drive components in different rotational directions and speeds, requiring separate structures like motors for direction reversal and fixed speed operations.
Innovation Solution
A rotational coupling device with a hub, output member, and two input members, where a clutch member and electromagnet allow torque transfer from either input member to the output member, enabling rotation in different directions and speeds by switching engagement between input members based on electromagnet activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional rotational coupling device is used to transfer torque to a fan, then the fan can be driven in one rotational direction, but reversing the fan direction requires a separate structure such as a motor
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the torque input into two separate input members (first input member and second input member), where the first input member drives the output member in one rotational direction and the second input member drives the output member in the opposite rotational direction. This segmentation allows bidirectional rotation without requiring a motor, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional rotational coupling device transfers torque to an alternator, then the alternator can be driven at one speed, but driving at different speeds requires additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the speed control function by providing two separate input members: the first input member drives the output member at a first speed, and the second input member drives the output member at a second speed. This segmentation enables variable speed operation without complex control mechanisms, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
3Reliability
If a clutch member is biased towards the first input member by a spring, then engagement with the first input member is maintained in the absence of electromagnet activation, but switching to the second input member requires electromagnet energization
Solution Approach 1:
The device inverts the conventional clutch actuation logic by using a spring to maintain default engagement with the first input member and using the electromagnet to switch to the second input member. This inversion ensures reliable engagement stability through spring bias while minimizing energy consumption, as the electromagnet only consumes energy during switching operations rather than continuous operation.
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
Enables the output member to be driven in different rotational directions and speeds without additional motors, facilitating applications like reversible cooling fan operation and variable alternator speeds.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnet disposed on an opposite side of the second input member relative to the clutch member. Energizing the electromagnet causes the clutch member to engage the second input member
Implementation Method 2
a spring biasing the clutch member towards the first input member. In the absence of energizing the electromagnet, the clutch member engages the first input member
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
A rotational coupling device (10) drives an output (14) synchronous with either of two inputs (22, 24). The device includes a hub (12) disposed about an axis (34) and an output member (14) supported on the hub (12) for rotation about the axis (34). First (22) and second (24) input members disposed about the hub (12) are configured to rotate in first and second rotational directions and at first and second speeds, respectively, with at least one of the directions and speeds differing (99). A clutch member (26) is disposed axially between the input members (22, 24) and coupled to the output member (14). An electromagnet (32) is on an opposite side of the second input member (24) relative to the clutch member (14). When the electromagnet (32) is deenergized, the clutch (26) member engages the first input member (22) and the output member (14) rotates with the first input member (22). When the electromagnet (32) is energized, the clutch member (26) engages the second input member (24) and the output member (14) rotates with the second input member (24).