Torque Clutch Steering Mechanism for Trolling Motor Impact Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steering control systems for trolling motors are prone to damage and failure due to unplanned impact loads from external forces, such as wind, waves, or propeller contact with obstructions, which can cause immediate failure or latent defects.
Innovation Solution
A steering control system featuring a torque clutch that automatically decouples the steering motor from the steering shaft when subjected to high external loads, using mechanisms like ball and spring or slip tooth mechanisms to disconnect and reconnect based on predetermined torque thresholds, thereby protecting the gear train and motor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the steering motor is energized opposite the direction of the load or if the load is applied too quickly, then the torque and inertia of the trolling motor can cause damage to the gear train and steering motor, but if the steering motor is not energized, the load will simply back drive the steering motor
Solution Approach 1:
A torque clutch mechanism is introduced as an intermediary component between the steering motor and the steering shaft. This clutch includes friction discs and friction pads that engage and disengage based on torque thresholds, automatically protecting the motor and gear train from damage during high-load conditions without requiring complex control electronics or modifying the existing steering system architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The torque clutch is pre-configured with friction elements and spring mechanisms that activate before damage occurs. When torque exceeds a predetermined threshold, the friction pads engage to slip or disengage the connection, cushioning the impact load before it can reach the motor or gear train, thereby preventing latent defects or immediate failure
2Reliability
If a torque clutch mechanism is added to protect the steering system, then damage prevention capability is improved, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The torque clutch mechanism is designed to operate automatically based on torque conditions without requiring external control signals or complex sensing systems. The spring-loaded friction pads self-engage and self-disengage in response to torque threshold exceedance, providing protection through passive mechanical response that minimizes control system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The friction pads in the torque clutch are designed as consumable components that can wear or fail independently of the expensive motor and gear train. By positioning the friction elements as the sacrificial component, the system allows for economical replacement of wear parts rather than replacing the entire steering control system after damage
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 system effectively prevents damage to the steering control system by decoupling the motor and shaft during high loads, reducing the risk of immediate failure and extending the system's lifespan by allowing safe operation within predetermined torque limits.
Implementation Method 1
a spring mechanism including a spring and a ball adapted to be disposed within a detent formed on the clutch hub when the clutch is in the engaged state
Implementation Method 2
a friction clutch mechanism including a friction disc adapted to be coupled to the output shaft of the motor and a friction pad adapted to be coupled to the clutch hub
Data Source
AI summary
This application describes clutch mechanisms for use in a steering control system, e.g., a steering control system used to steer a trolling motor for a boat. Such clutch mechanisms can reduce and avoid damage to the steering control system (e.g., a steering motor) when the system is subjected to unusually large impact loads (e.g., when the trolling motor or boat contacts an obstruction). The clutches described in this application can be used to decouple the steering control system from a steering shaft (or other drive mechanism) upon application of a large impact load, thus reducing damage to and increasing the lifespan of such system. In some cases, the clutch is a ball and spring mechanism. In other cases, the clutch is a slip tooth mechanism.