Single-Piece Retainer Torsional Vibration Damper Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torsional vibration dampers are complex and costly to manufacture, with multiple parts requiring assembly and limited construction space, especially in the radial direction, which affects their efficiency and design flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A simplified torsional vibration damper design featuring a single-piece retainer that is rotatable and centered on the axis of rotation, eliminating the need for additional support elements and allowing for a more compact and cost-effective configuration by integrating a meshing element with axially directed toothing, and incorporating a turbine for efficient torsional vibration damping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If multiple parts are used to construct the retainer and support elements, then the structural functionality is achieved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retainer and support elements into a single integrated component made of one piece of material. This merging eliminates the need for separate support elements and reduces the number of assembly steps, directly addressing the contradiction by simplifying manufacturing while maintaining all necessary structural functions including radial support, axial positioning, and torque transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The single-piece retainer performs multiple functions simultaneously: it supports the elastic element radially, positions it axially, transmits torque, and provides guiding surfaces. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by consolidating what would traditionally require multiple specialized parts into one universal component, reducing manufacturing complexity without sacrificing functionality.
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple parts are assembled to form the retainer, then the structural requirements are met, but the assembly process becomes more complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the retainer and support elements into a single monolithic component, the patent eliminates all assembly operations between these parts. The single-piece construction removes the need for fasteners, welding, or other joining processes, directly reducing assembly cost and complexity while maintaining all required structural support and positioning functions.
3Area of stationary object
If the retainer is fixed relative to the output flange, then the structural stability is ensured, but the construction space is limited especially in the radial direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the retainer rotatable relative to the output flange while maintaining radial support through the elastic element. This dynamic positioning allows the retainer to be centered on the axis of rotation and supported by the output flange's outer circumferential surface, optimizing construction space in the radial direction while ensuring stability through the elastic element's radial support function.
4Strength
If additional guiding devices are added to handle radial and axial loads, then the load handling capability is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single-piece retainer handles both radial and axial loads through its integrated structure. The radial support function is provided by the elastic element braced by the retainer, while axial positioning is achieved through the retainer's structure supported by the output flange. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate guiding devices, maintaining load handling capability while reducing overall device complexity.
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 design reduces manufacturing complexity and costs, optimizes construction space, and enhances the torsional vibration damping capabilities by providing a compact and efficient arrangement that can handle radial and axial loads without additional guiding devices.
Implementation Method 1
one or more elastic elements which behave as short-term energy storage devices in the event of fluctuation in the torque that is to be transmitted
Implementation Method 2
the retainer having a contact element to engage the first end of the first elastic element
Data Source
AI summary
A torsional vibration damper comprises an input side and an output side which are arranged rotatably around an axis of rotation, an intermediate plate, and two elastic elements which are arranged on different circumferences around the axis of rotation, where the first elastic element is set up to transmit a power from the input side to the intermediate plate and the second elastic element is set up to transmit a power from the intermediate plate to the output side. Furthermore, the torsional vibration damper includes a single-piece retainer to support the first elastic element on a radially outer surface, while the retainer includes a contact element for engaging with one end of the first elastic element.