Top-Driven Jack Clutch Structure for Manual-Electric Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing jacks require disassembly and assembly of parts to switch between manual and electric operation, leading to inconvenience and potential loss of parts during vehicle use.
Innovation Solution
A top-driven jack design featuring a clutch mechanism with a movable sleeve and lead screw, allowing seamless switching between manual and electric operation without disassembly, using a non-centrosymmetric cross-section connection and a spring for stable positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the handle is fixedly mounted on the lead screw for manual operation, then the jack can be manually operated, but the handle falls off easily due to vibration during vehicle driving
Solution Approach 1:
The handle mounting structure transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic selectable connection. The movable sleeve allows the handle to be securely mounted during manual operation and easily removed when electric operation is needed, adapting the connection state to different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle mounting structure serves multiple functions: it provides secure manual operation when mounted, allows easy removal for electric operation, and prevents accidental detachment through the movable sleeve mechanism. This multi-functional design resolves the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the handle is quickly disassembled from the lead screw to enable electric tool operation, then switching between manual and electric operation is achieved, but the disassembly and assembly bring other use defects
Solution Approach 1:
The movable sleeve enables dynamic switching between manual and electric operation modes. The sleeve can be moved along the lead screw to either secure the handle for manual cranking or clear the path for electric tool insertion, providing adaptability without requiring complete disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable sleeve acts as an intermediary element between the handle and the lead screw. It facilitates the transition between operation modes by being movable along the lead screw, allowing the handle to be secured or released without complex disassembly procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the handle is removed from the lead screw for electric operation, then electric tool driving is enabled, but the handle needs to be stored after being removed, which brings inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The movable sleeve provides a nesting solution where the handle can be positioned along the lead screw when not in use for manual operation. Instead of complete removal and storage, the handle remains nested within the accessible area of the jack structure, eliminating the need for separate storage.
4Reliability
If a clutch mechanism with movable sleeve is used to enable mode switching without disassembly, then product integrity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism is segmented into simple, functional components: a movable sleeve that can slide along the lead screw and a corresponding groove structure. This segmentation allows the complex function of mode switching to be achieved through simple, manageable parts rather than a monolithic complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable sleeve introduces dynamic capability to the otherwise static handle mounting structure. By allowing the sleeve to move along the lead screw, the system gains the ability to switch between manual and electric modes without disassembly, improving reliability while keeping the mechanism simple.
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 stable and efficient switching between manual and electric operation without part disassembly, preventing misalignment and prolonging the jack's service life.
Implementation Method 1
a spring (25), a bearing (26); the spring is mounted on the lead screw and is positioned between the movable sleeve and the fixed seat
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a top-driven jack, including an outer pipe, an inner pipe, a lead screw, a nut, a fixed part, and a handle; the inner pipe extends into the outer pipe; the nut is fixedly mounted on the inner pipe; the lead screw is movably mounted in the outer pipe through the fixed part and extends into the inner pipe, and is engaged with the nut; the fixed part includes a fixed seat and a movable sleeve; a connecting hole and an accommodating hole are formed in the movable sleeve; a connecting section is arranged at one end of the lead screw; the movable sleeve is movably connected with the fixed seat and embedded into the connecting hole through the connecting section and synchronously moves with the lead screw in the circumferential direction around the central line of the lead screw.