Threaded-Shaft Clutch Assembly for Shock-Load Locking Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clutch assemblies face issues with unintended deployment of locking elements during shock load events, leading to improper engagement or disengagement of stationary and rotatable members.
Innovation Solution
A clutch assembly design featuring a locking element that is threadably received on a threaded shaft, supported on one of the members, and movable between engaged and disengaged positions, utilizing a motor and leadscrew to control the locking element's linear motion and prevent unintended deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the locking element is not rigidly connected to the stationary member, then the locking element can move between engaged and disengaged positions, but during shock load events the locking element can unintentionally extend and engage the second member
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is made movable along the threaded shaft, transitioning between engaged and disengaged positions based on operational needs. The threaded connection allows controlled movement while maintaining connection to the stationary member, enabling dynamic adjustment without rigid fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional direct mechanical connection between the locking element and stationary member is replaced with a threaded shaft mechanism. This substitution provides controlled movement through threading while preventing unintended deployment through the friction and mechanical advantage of the threaded connection.
2Reliability
If the locking element is rigidly connected to the stationary member, then unintended deployment is prevented, but the locking element cannot move between engaged and disengaged positions
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic threaded connection, allowing controlled movement between positions while maintaining stability during operation. The threaded shaft enables the element to be positioned as needed while remaining securely connected.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded shaft acts as an intermediary mechanism between the locking element and stationary member. It provides both movement capability and stability, mediating between the conflicting requirements of mobility and rigid connection through its threaded geometry.
3Reliability
If a threaded shaft mechanism is used to control locking element movement, then unintended deployment during shock loads is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded shaft serves multiple functions: it controls the movement of the locking element, provides mechanical advantage for actuation, and prevents unintended deployment during shock loads. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, offsetting the added complexity with consolidated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded shaft mechanism is self-regulating during shock loads, using its own mechanical properties (thread friction, mechanical advantage) to prevent unintended deployment without requiring additional active control systems or sensors.
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 effectively prevents unintentional deployment of the locking element during shock loads, ensuring reliable coupling and decoupling of the clutch assembly members by maintaining the locking element in its intended position.
Implementation Method 1
The locking element is threadably received on the threaded shaft
Data Source
AI summary
In some implementations, the device may include stationary and rotatable members. A locking element supported on the stationary member moves between an engaged, torque hold or transfer position where the locking element holds or transfers torque between the stationary member and the rotatable member and a disengaged, torque-free position where the locking element holds or transfers no torque between the stationary member and the rotatable member. The device may include a threaded shaft, with the locking element threadably received on the threaded shaft.