Stamped Support Element for Twin-Clutch Rigidity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing twin-disc clutches face challenges in manufacturing the support element due to its T-shape and significant thickness, making it expensive and difficult to control dimensions, which are incompatible with stamping processes.
Innovation Solution
A support element produced by stamping, featuring a cylindrical tubular section, flat strip configuration, and stamped stiffening means, allowing for sufficient rigidity while using thin and not very rigid sheets, with surface hardening treatments like carbonitriding or carburizing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the support element is produced by a foundry process with T-shape and significant thickness, then sufficient rigidity and structural strength are obtained, but manufacturing cost increases and dimensional control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the manufacturing process from foundry to stamping, and modifies the geometric parameters of the support element (reducing thickness from 6mm to thin sheet material) while compensating for the loss of rigidity through stamped stiffening means and surface hardening treatments
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies local quality by adding stamped stiffening means (ribs, folds, or加强 structures) only in specific locations where rigidity is needed, rather than making the entire support element thick. The surface hardening treatment is also applied locally to enhance strength at critical areas
2Strength
If the support element is produced by a foundry process with T-shape and significant thickness, then sufficient rigidity is obtained, but dimensional control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the manufacturing process to stamping, which offers superior dimensional control compared to foundry processes. The stamping process allows for precise control of the support element's geometry, hole positions, and overall dimensions, eliminating the dimensional control difficulties associated with traditional foundry methods
3Ease of manufacture
If a thin and not very rigid sheet is used for stamping, then manufacturing cost decreases and dimensional control improves, but sufficient rigidity becomes difficult to obtain
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by incorporating stamped stiffening means (such as ribs, folds, or加强 structures) at specific locations on the thin sheet support element. These localized features provide the necessary rigidity and structural strength without requiring the entire sheet to be thick, thus maintaining the cost and dimensional control advantages of stamping while achieving the required mechanical properties
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes curvature and three-dimensional forming through stamping to create stiffening structures on the thin sheet. The stamped features create geometric curvature and structural complexity that significantly enhance the rigidity of the thin material, allowing it to perform the lift distribution function effectively despite the reduced thickness
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 the production of a robust support element with controlled dimensions and reduced manufacturing costs, overcoming the limitations of traditional molding processes.
Implementation Method 1
the sheet of the support element undergoes a treatment of surface hardening, in particular carbonitriding or carburizing after drawing
Implementation Method 2
the sheet of the support element undergoes a treatment of surface hardening, in particular carbonitriding or carburizing after drawing
Data Source
Figure 1~6
Figure 2~3
Figure 7~12
AI summary
The clutch (10) has a supporting element (38) fixed to a periphery of an intermediate plate (24) and supported on a lever (36) between joints such that the lifting of the intermediate plate corresponds to a lifting portion of a main plate (28) to ensure the release of clutch disks (22, 26). The supporting element comprises two walls, where one of the walls fastens the intermediate plate, and the other wall comprises an embossing part to contact with the lever. The walls of the supporting element are integral with each other, where the supporting element is made by stamping a steel sheet.