Switchable Freewheel Clutch Assembly With Single-Sleeve Torque Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switchable clutches for vehicles require complex mechanics and additional actuators for controlling torque transmission, which increases component count and costs, while being less robust and efficient in handling high torques.
Innovation Solution
A clutch assembly with a switchable freewheel mechanism using spring-loaded blocking bodies and a sliding sleeve for axial movement, allowing simple actuation and integration of a freewheel without additional actuators, featuring a compact design and robust torque transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex mechanics and additional actuators are used for controlling torque transmission, then the clutch can achieve reliable torque control, but the component count and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the actuation mechanism for both clutch partners into a single sliding sleeve. The sliding sleeve simultaneously controls the first clutch partner (via direct engagement) and the second clutch partner (via the second actuator mechanism integrated into the sleeve), eliminating the need for separate actuators and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable torque control
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding sleeve serves multiple functions: it acts as the actuator for the first clutch partner, guides the second actuator, and provides structural support for the entire clutch assembly. This multi-functional design reduces the number of dedicated components needed, thereby reducing component count and cost while maintaining control reliability
2Reliability
If additional actuators are used for controlling the freewheel, then the freewheel can be reliably controlled, but the device complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control mechanism for the freewheel is merged with the existing sliding sleeve structure. The sliding sleeve's axial movement directly controls the engagement and disengagement of the blocking bodies with the blocking contour, eliminating the need for a separate actuator while ensuring reliable freewheel control through the same actuation motion that controls the clutch partners
3Device complexity
If a compact design with fewer components is used, then costs are reduced and robustness is improved, but the complexity of controlling torque transmission increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch assembly is segmented into distinct functional zones: the sliding sleeve for axial actuation, the blocking bodies for radial engagement, and the blocking contour for torque transmission control. This segmentation allows each component to perform its function simply, reducing overall control complexity despite the compact design with fewer components
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 clutch assembly achieves efficient, cost-effective, and robust torque transmission with fewer components, enabling easy switching between connected and disconnected states, suitable for vehicle drivetrains.
Implementation Method 1
The freewheel has a plurality of spring-loaded blocking bodies, which are fixed at least in the circumferential direction on the one clutch partner and interact form-fittingly with a ramp-shaped blocking contour arranged on the other clutch partner
Data Source
AI summary
A clutch assembly comprises: first and second clutch partners; a switchable freewheel arranged between the first and second clutch partners, wherein the freewheel comprises a plurality of spring-loaded blocking bodies which are circumferentially fixed to the first clutch partner and selectively interact with a blocking contour arranged on the second clutch partner; a sliding sleeve for controlling the clutch assembly, wherein, in a blocking position of the sliding sleeve, the two clutch partners are interconnected for conjoint rotation in one direction of rotation and in the opposite direction of rotation via the sliding sleeve, and in a freewheeling position of the sliding sleeve, the two clutch partners are interconnected for conjoint rotation in precisely one direction of rotation via the freewheel.