Selectable Clutch Disconnect Using Torque-Driven Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing disconnect clutches require a dedicated actuator, worm gear mechanism, and selecting mechanism, leading to increased component count, assembly complexity, size, and manufacturing costs, along with complicated control systems.
Innovation Solution
A selectable clutch with a first clutch mechanism using a two-way roller clutch and a second clutch mechanism as a one-way cam clutch, operated by controlling the magnitude and direction of rotational torque on a selector, eliminating the need for actuators and selectors, and allowing mode switching through a simple structure with reduced parts and simplified control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a dedicated actuator, worm gear mechanism, and selecting mechanism are used to operate the clutch, then the clutch can be controlled to switch between engagement and disengagement, but the number of components increases, assembly complexity increases, and the size of the unit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the dedicated actuator, worm gear mechanism, and selecting mechanism from the clutch system. Instead, it uses the input shaft element itself to directly operate the selector through rotational torque, extracting the unnecessary intermediate components while retaining the essential control function.
Solution Approach 2:
The input shaft element is given multiple functions: it serves as both the rotational drive element and the operator of the selector. By making the input shaft element universal, the patent eliminates the need for separate actuating mechanisms, reducing component count while maintaining control capability.
2Ease of operation
If a dedicated actuator, worm gear mechanism, and selecting mechanism are used to operate the clutch, then the clutch can be controlled to switch between engagement and disengagement, but the manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes multiple expensive components (actuator, worm gear mechanism, selecting mechanism) from the system. This reduction in component count directly lowers manufacturing costs, material costs, and assembly costs while preserving the essential clutch control functionality through the simplified input shaft element operation.
3Ease of operation
If a dedicated actuator, worm gear mechanism, and selecting mechanism are used to operate the clutch, then the clutch can be controlled to switch between engagement and disengagement, but the size of the unit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the space-consuming components (actuator, worm gear mechanism, selecting mechanism) from the clutch assembly. This extraction of unnecessary components directly reduces the volume occupied by the clutch unit while maintaining the ability to control engagement and disengagement through the compact input shaft element rotation.
4Ease of operation
If a dedicated actuator and selecting mechanism are used to operate the clutch, then the clutch can be controlled to switch between engagement and disengagement, but the control system becomes more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the complex control elements (dedicated actuator, selecting mechanism) from the system. The control is simplified to direct rotation of the input shaft element, which eliminates the need for complex control systems while maintaining the ability to switch between engagement and disengagement modes.
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 reduces component count, assembly complexity, and size while ensuring a longer lifespan and maintenance-free operation, enabling smooth and quick mode switching in four-wheel drive vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member that biases the rollers radially inward
Implementation Method 2
a engaging mechanism having a circumferential play permitting a relative rotation with respect to the outer race within a predetermined range of rotational angle
Data Source
AI summary
A selectable clutch includes a selector that performs ON/OFF operations of a first clutch mechanism. The first clutch mechanism includes a power-transmitting element that transmits or cuts off power between an input-side rotating element and an output-side rotating element in both rotational directions. The selector is coupled to an input shaft element, and coupled to the input-side rotating element by an engaging mechanism having a circumferential play permitting a relative rotation with respect to the input-side rotating element within a predetermined rotational angle range. A disconnect mechanism is configured such that the output-side rotating element is coupled to an auxiliary driving wheel axle, and the selector is coupled to the motor shaft of an auxiliary driving motor.