Starter Motor Mounting Member for Engine Compartment Space Optimization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing electric starters for internal combustion engines face challenges in optimizing space usage within limited engine compartments and ensuring easy access for maintenance or replacement, as they are mechanically and directly linked to the flywheel, necessitating a configuration that provides both mechanical and electrical advantages while accommodating various engine sizes and shapes.
Innovation Solution
A mounting member with flanges extending past the housing perimeter to securely position the motor, electromagnetic switch, and auxiliary switch, allowing for efficient arrangement and easy access, featuring apertures for component alignment and fastening, and a patterned seal for sealing, which supports the assembly of the starter components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the starter is placed in close proximity to the engine flywheel to ensure mechanical linkage, then the mechanical connection for torque transfer is improved, but the space availability in the engine compartment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting member utilizes multi-dimensional positioning with flanges extending in different directions from the housing perimeter, allowing the starter to be securely attached while optimizing its spatial footprint in the engine compartment
2Volume of stationary object
If the housing is configured to receive all components (motor, electromagnetic switch, auxiliary switch) within a compact structure, then the space requirements are reduced, but the accessibility for maintenance and replacement is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is segmented into multiple sections with strategically positioned apertures that provide access to internal components, allowing maintenance personnel to reach and service the motor, electromagnetic switch, and auxiliary switch without complete disassembly
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting member acts as an intermediary structure with flanges that extend beyond the housing perimeter, providing external attachment points and access pathways that bridge the gap between the compact housing and the need for component accessibility
3Adaptability or versatility
If the mounting member includes flanges extending past the housing perimeter to provide mounting locations, then the adaptability for various engine configurations is improved, but the device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The flanges on the mounting member serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, enable mounting in various engine configurations, and offer attachment points for additional components, thereby reducing the need for separate specialized mounting structures
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 configuration optimizes space usage within the engine compartment, facilitates easy access for maintenance, and ensures proper alignment and sealing of the starter components, enhancing the operational efficiency and reliability of the engine starter system.
Implementation Method 1
When current from the battery is applied to the electromagnetic switch either through turning of a key or by pressing a start button, current is applied to the electric motor. Upon energization, the solenoid engages a lever that pushes a drive pinion
Implementation Method 2
A mounting member with flanges extending past the housing perimeter to securely position the motor, electromagnetic switch, and auxiliary switch, allowing for efficient arrangement and easy access, featuring apertures for component alignment and fastening, and a patterned seal for sealing
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An engine starter including a motor, an electromagnetic switch, an auxiliary switch, a housing, and a mounting member for the auxiliary switch. The mounting member is disposed at the housing between the housing and the motor and electromagnetic switch. The mounting member includes a flange including a tab to mount the auxiliary switch.