Segmented Link Guide Clutch Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clutch arrangements for motor vehicle drive trains are complex and inefficient in setting and releasing locking devices, leading to high loads and undesired hysteresis phenomena.
Innovation Solution
A clutch arrangement with a link guide having different guide sections allows for simplified setting and releasing of the locking position, using a mechanical locking device to absorb high forces and a spring arrangement to facilitate movement, thereby reducing complexity and hysteresis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single link guide is used for both setting and releasing the locking position, then the device structure is simplified, but high forces (up to 20 kN) cause excessive wear and potential failure
Solution Approach 1:
The link guide is divided into two separate link guides: a first link guide for setting the locking position and a second link guide for releasing it. This segmentation allows each link guide to be optimized for its specific function, with the first link guide designed to withstand high forces during locking and the second link guide designed for smoother release operation, thereby resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and strength requirements.
2Reliability
If the locking device is made stronger and more massive to withstand high forces, then the locking reliability is improved, but the overall device size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the locking mechanism into separate first and second link guides, the force-bearing responsibilities are distributed. The first link guide handles the high forces during locking without requiring the entire locking device to be massively reinforced, thus maintaining reliability while reducing overall weight compared to a unified over-engineered solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual link guide system allows dynamic optimization where the first link guide is designed for high-force locking operations and the second link guide for lower-force release operations. This dynamic functional separation enables each component to be sized appropriately for its specific load requirements rather than designing for maximum load throughout the entire system.
3Ease of operation
If the actuator section is moved directly to the locking position without intermediate steps, then the actuation process is simplified, but hysteresis phenomena occur leading to positioning inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation process is segmented into two distinct phases using separate link guides: the first link guide guides the actuator section to the locking position with precise control, and the second link guide handles the release phase. This segmentation eliminates hysteresis by providing different optimized paths for locking and releasing, ensuring positioning accuracy while maintaining operational simplicity.
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 solution enables a more compact, lighter, and efficient clutch arrangement that can withstand high forces and vibrations, maintaining a locked position with minimal energy supply and reducing operational complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the actuator section is coupled to the clutch via a spring arrangement, so that the step of moving in the forward direction beyond the closed position from which the clutch is closed
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~8
AI summary
The arrangement (14) has a locking device (40) for locking an actuator portion i.e. pressing portion (34), in a locking position to keep a clutch (28) in a closed state. The locking device comprises a link guide (44) that is provided with two L-shaped guide sections for guiding the actuator portion. The locking position and an actuator position are reached from the actuator position and the locking position over the two guide sections, respectively. The actuator portion is coupled with the clutch over a spring assembly (36) and comprises a gearing portion (48). The clutch is designed as a wet multi-disk clutch or a dry friction clutch. An independent claim is also included for a method for actuating a coupling arrangement.