Solenoid Clutch Control Using AC Phase Difference Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clutch systems in rotary machines, such as those used in vehicles, face issues with unreliable connection and disconnection due to positional misalignment of clutch teeth and viscosity or magnetization, leading to unpredictable operation and increased costs with additional detection mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a solenoid to generate magnetic flux, driving a thrust member between connection and disconnection positions, with an electric circuit applying alternating-current power to detect phase differences and determine the clutch's state without additional structural elements, utilizing inductance changes to assess the clutch's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a detector with structural elements (e.g., pull switch) is added to the carrier to detect clutch connection state, then the reliability of clutch state detection is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical detection elements (pull switches, structural detectors) with an electromagnetic detection system. The solenoid actuator's existing magnetic flux generation capability is utilized to detect clutch connection state by monitoring changes in magnetic flux or electrical characteristics, thereby eliminating the need for separate mechanical detectors and reducing device complexity while maintaining detection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The solenoid actuator is designed to serve dual functions: (1) generating magnetic flux to drive the thrust member for clutch connection/disconnection, and (2) detecting clutch connection state through monitoring its magnetic flux or electrical characteristics. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate detection devices, reducing overall system complexity and cost
2Device complexity
If pulse currents are applied to solenoids to detect actuator states electrically, then the device complexity is reduced by avoiding additional structural elements, but the actuator generates mechanical or acoustic noise and may become unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic alternating current excitation at a specific frequency to the solenoid. By monitoring the solenoid's response at this periodic frequency, the system can detect clutch connection state without using high-amplitude pulse currents that would generate noise and mechanical stress, thus reducing harmful effects while maintaining electrical detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection approach from using high-amplitude pulse currents to using low-amplitude alternating current at a specific frequency. This parameter change in the excitation signal reduces the energy input to the solenoid, thereby minimizing mechanical vibration, acoustic noise, and potential instability while still enabling detection of clutch state through changes in electrical characteristics or magnetic flux
3Reliability
If additional structural elements are added to the carrier for clutch state detection, then the clutch state can be detected, but the assembly complexity and installation work increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the detection function with the existing solenoid actuator structure. The solenoid's magnetic flux path and electrical circuit are utilized for detection purposes, combining the actuation and detection functions into a single integrated component. This eliminates the need for separate structural elements on the carrier, simplifying both manufacturing and assembly processes
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
Enables reliable and cost-effective determination of clutch connection or disconnection without generating driving force or noise, simplifying assembly and operation, and reducing energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid generating a magnetic flux in response to input of electric power
Implementation Method 2
a controller electrically connected to the electric circuit and configured to detect a phase difference of an electric current relative to an electric voltage in the alternating-current power added to the electric power
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling a clutch is provided with: a thrust member movable between a first position for disconnecting the clutch and a second position for connecting the clutch; a solenoid generating a magnetic flux in response to input of electric power; a movable element drivingly coupled with the thrust member and set into motion by the magnetic flux to drive the thrust member between the first position and the second position; an electric circuit configured to add alternating-current power to the electric power and apply the electric power with the alternating-current power to the solenoid; and a controller configured to detect a phase difference of an electric current relative to an electric voltage in the alternating-current power added to the electric power and compare the detected phase difference with a reference value to determine whether the thrust member is at the first position or at the second position.