Segmented Clutch Coupler for Intermittent Torque Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clutch technologies are inefficient in providing a compact, weight-efficient solution for intermittent torque transmission in applications like motorized wheelchairs and electric bicycles, where a battery-powered motor is not in constant use, as they often require constant power and weight considerations.
Innovation Solution
A clutch design featuring a ring-shaped coupler with an engaging and non-engaging section, allowing axial movement to switch between engaged and disengaged configurations, utilizing a lever and spring mechanism for efficient power transfer without constant electrical input, and suitable for compact, battery-powered systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional clutch designs are used for intermittent torque transmission, then reliable power transfer is achieved, but weight and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch is segmented into two functional sections within the coupler: an engaging section with a first cross-sectional shape for power transmission and a non-engaging section with a second cross-sectional shape for weight reduction. This segmentation allows the clutch to maintain reliability during engagement while reducing overall weight when disengaged.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the coupler have different cross-sectional shapes and properties tailored to their specific functions. The engaging section has a shape optimized for torque transmission, while the non-engaging section has a different shape that reduces weight. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between reliability and weight.
2Reliability
If conventional clutch designs are used for intermittent torque transmission, then reliable power transfer is achieved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is divided into engaging and non-engaging sections along its axial length. This segmentation allows compact arrangement of functional zones, enabling reliable power transmission when needed while minimizing the overall volume of the clutch assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the axial dimension of the coupler to differentiate between engaging and non-engaging sections. By varying the cross-sectional shape along the axial direction rather than using a uniform cylindrical form, the design achieves compact volume while maintaining reliable engagement characteristics.
3Weight of moving object
If battery-powered motors are used in applications like motorized wheelchairs and electric bicycles, then weight reduction is achieved, but power availability decreases when motor is not in constant use
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch enables periodic engagement and disengagement of the motor, allowing the battery-powered system to operate only when power is needed. This periodic action reduces overall energy consumption and allows for smaller, lighter battery capacity while maintaining adequate power availability during active use periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch provides dynamic control over power transmission, switching between engaged and disengaged states based on operational requirements. This dynamic capability allows the system to optimize between weight reduction and power availability by engaging the motor only when necessary.
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 efficient intermittent torque transmission with reduced power consumption and weight, suitable for applications like motorized wheelchairs and electric bicycles by allowing power transfer only when needed, using a compact and lightweight design.
Implementation Method 1
a spring configured to move the coupler from the disengaged configuration of the clutch to the engaged configuration
Implementation Method 2
The slide assembly can be formed so that the slide members move either axially or radically relative to the slide assembly body
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a clutch. The clutch of the invention includes a coupler, that is a ring or hollow structure surrounding a lumen. The lumen of the coupler has an engaging section and a non-engaging section. In an engaged configuration of the clutch, a driving member and a driven member are located in the engaging section of the coupler and rotation of the driving member in the engaging section generates rotation of the coupler and rotation of the coupler generates rotation of the driven member. In a disengaged configuration of the clutch, one or both of the driving member and the driven member is not located in the engaging section of the coupler and either rotation of the driving member does not generate rotation of the coupler or rotation of the coupler does not generate rotation of the driven member.