Shaft Coupling With Reciprocating Linkage for Axial Displacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling arrangements between rotatable shafts in vehicles primarily enable angular displacement but lack the capability for linear displacement, limiting flexibility and application in steering column connections.
Innovation Solution
A coupling arrangement that includes a first rotatable portion connected to a first shaft, a reciprocating element transforming rotating motion to linear motion, a second rotatable portion connected to a second shaft, and a connecting element allowing relative rotation between the reciprocating elements, enabling both angular and axial displacements by converting rotational motion into reciprocating motion and vice versa.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional coupling arrangement is used for connection between rotatable shafts, then angular displacement is enabled, but linear displacement capability is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling arrangement is divided into distinct functional segments: a first rotatable portion connected to the first shaft, a first reciprocating element for linear motion, a second rotatable portion connected to the second shaft, and a connecting element. Each segment performs a specific function (rotation or reciprocation), allowing the system to achieve both angular and linear displacement while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling arrangement incorporates dynamic motion transformation mechanisms where the first reciprocating element converts rotational motion from the first rotatable portion into linear reciprocating motion, and the second reciprocating element converts linear motion back into rotational motion at the second rotatable portion. This dynamic conversion enables the system to adapt between different displacement types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the coupling arrangement includes reciprocating elements for motion transformation, then both angular and linear displacement are enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it connects the first reciprocating element to the second reciprocating element, allows relative rotation between them, and transmits power between the two shafts. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity despite enabling both angular and linear displacement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The reciprocating elements act as intermediary components between the rotatable portions and the connecting element. They transform rotational motion into linear motion and vice versa, serving as mediators that enable the coupling between the two shafts while accommodating both angular and linear displacement requirements without direct rigid connection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the connecting element allows relative rotation between reciprocating elements, then flexibility is improved, but stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is designed to allow relative rotation within specific parameter ranges, enabling flexibility for angular and linear displacement while maintaining stability through defined rotational limits and controlled motion parameters. The reciprocating elements transform motion within controlled parameters, ensuring stable power transmission despite the allowed relative movements.
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
This solution provides increased flexibility and stability for power transfer between shafts, allowing for both angular and axial displacements, enhancing the adjustability and safety of steering column systems by enabling individual driver settings and simplified retraction.
Implementation Method 1
a first reciprocating element mechanically connected to the first rotatable portion at a first interconnecting portion for transforming a rotating motion from the first rotatable portion to a linear motion of the first reciprocating element
Implementation Method 2
a second reciprocating element mechanically connected to the second rotatable portion at a second interconnecting portion for transforming a linear motion from the second reciprocating element to a rotating motion of the second rotatable portion
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling arrangement for connection between a first rotatable shaft and a second rotatable shaft includes a first rotatable portion connectable to the first rotatable shaft, and a second rotatable portion connectable to the second rotatable shaft. The coupling arrangement includes a first reciprocating element mechanically connected to the first rotatable portion at a first interconnecting portion for transforming a rotating motion from the first rotatable portion to a linear motion of the first reciprocating element and a second reciprocating element mechanically connected to the second rotatable portion at a second interconnecting portion for transforming a linear motion from the second reciprocating element to a rotating motion of the second rotatable portion. The coupling arrangement includes a connecting element rotatably connected to each of the first reciprocating element and the second reciprocating element for allowing a relative rotation between the connecting element and the first and second reciprocating elements, respectively.