Flexible Shaft-Clutch Connection for High Dynamic Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing connection between the shaft and clutch in processing vessels of household appliances, such as food processors, fails to withstand high dynamic loads during the processing of solid ingredients, leading to loosening and misalignment, which can result in the clutch falling off or becoming misaligned.
Innovation Solution
A flexible connecting element, such as a washer, is used to provide an irreversible connection between the shaft and clutch, adapted to withstand high dynamic loads, with a metal element enhancing the tension and durability of the connection, and a specifically shaped shaft to prevent displacement and ensure continuous holding force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a nut with thread and combination of washers is used to connect shaft and clutch, then the connection can be assembled, but the connection loosens under high dynamic loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by using a flexible connecting element that can dynamically adapt to varying loads. The element transitions from a rigid threaded connection to a flexible membrane structure that can deform and absorb dynamic forces, maintaining connection integrity under high alternative dynamic loads while allowing for assembly and disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the connecting element from rigid (metal nut and washers) to flexible (membrane material). This parameter change allows the connection to maintain stability under dynamic loads by enabling the element to deform and absorb forces, while still providing sufficient friction and mechanical engagement for reliable operation.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional screwing solutions are used, then the connection can be fixed, but vibrations cause unscrewing and loosening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a flexible membrane element as an intermediary between the shaft and clutch, replacing the direct metal-to-metal threaded connection. This intermediary element absorbs vibrations and prevents the unscrewing effect by maintaining continuous contact through flexibility rather than rigid threading, while still providing secure fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible membrane (thin film) as the connecting element instead of rigid threaded fasteners. This flexible film maintains connection stability under vibration by conforming to movements and maintaining friction-based engagement, while being simple to install and remove, thus resolving both ease of manufacture and fixing stability requirements.
3Reliability
If a flexible connecting element is used, then high dynamic loads are absorbed, but the connection must be irreversible during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible membrane element is designed to be dynamically engageable and disengageable. During installation, the element is stretched over the shaft and clutch, creating an irreversible friction-based connection that withstands dynamic loads. For removal, sufficient force applied in the opposite direction overcomes the friction, allowing easy disassembly. This dynamic engagement mechanism resolves both reliability and ease of operation requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the friction engagement of the flexible membrane. During normal operation, the membrane maintains high friction for irreversible connection. During removal, applying sufficient opposite force changes the friction parameter to allow disengagement. This parameter-based control enables both durable operation and simple installation/removal.
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 flexible connecting element effectively absorbs and compensates for high dynamic loads and axial forces, preventing loosening and misalignment, while maintaining durability and ease of installation, and is cost-effective compared to existing solutions.
Implementation Method 1
The flexible connecting element is specifically adapted to withstand high dynamic loads arising from operation... The flexible connecting element effectively absorbs and compensates for high dynamic loads and axial forces
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A system for connection between shaft (2) and clutch (3) of a processing vessel (4) in a motorized household appliance, preferably a food processor (1), which further comprises a flexible connecting element (6) that provides an irreversible connection between said shaft (2) and clutch (3) during normal operation of the household appliance and wherein the connection is specifically adapted to withstand high dynamic loads arising from operation, e.g. during processing of solid food ingredients.