Torque Converter Helical Bolt Linear Rotary Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rotary actuators do not fully maximize work or torque output due to their compact nature and complex manufacturing requirements, which limits customization and expansion, and they require specialized seals to prevent fluid leaks in high-pressure environments.
Innovation Solution
A torque converter design featuring an elongate housing with a piston assembly and axially extending helical bolts that convert linear motion into rotary motion, utilizing a torque accumulator to combine individual torques and generate increased output torque, with both hydraulic and mechanical embodiments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the piston face area is increased to maximize work output, then the torque output is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for specialized seals and housing modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into multiple independent helical rotation assemblies, each with its own piston and helical bolts. This segmentation allows each component to use standard seals and housing designs, reducing the complexity of specialized seals while maintaining high torque output through cumulative effect of multiple assemblies
Solution Approach 2:
The helical rotation assembly serves multiple functions: it converts linear piston motion to rotary motion, accumulates torque from multiple pistons, and provides a standardized interface for seals and housing. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components
2Volume of moving object
If conventional helical components are used to convert linear motion to rotary motion, then the actuator is compact, but the manufacturing complexity increases due to multiple helixes that need to be machined
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of machining complex internal and external helixes, the invention uses helical bolts with standard external threads that are copied from conventional fasteners. This eliminates the need for specialized helix machining while maintaining the compact helical rotation mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The conventional approach machines helixes into components; this invention inverts the approach by using standard helical bolts and machining the receiving housing instead, which is easier to manufacture and assemble
3Power
If the piston travel distance is increased to maximize work output, then the torque output is improved, but the actuator length increases reducing its compactness
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple helical rotation assemblies are merged into a single torque accumulation system. The combined torque from multiple assemblies with shorter travel distances achieves the same work output as a single assembly with long travel, maintaining compactness while maximizing torque
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 torque converter effectively maximizes work output by exposing the entire piston face to hydraulic forces and using a simpler, more cost-effective design that allows for greater torque accumulation, reducing manufacturing complexity and enhancing customization options.
Implementation Method 1
The helical bolts mate with a rotator in a helical rotation assembly, converting linear motion into rotation
Implementation Method 2
When hydraulic force acts on the face of the piston, this causes the piston to reciprocate within the housing and rotate the drive shaft
Data Source
AI summary
The torque converter includes an elongate housing having a main section and a collar section. A piston assembly is reciprocable inside the main section. A plurality of elongate helical bolts with outer helix extends axially from one side of a piston. The opposite side of the piston is entirely exposed to hydraulic forces to maximize potential work thereon. The helical bolts are mated with a rotator in a helical rotation assembly, converting linear motion into rotation, each mated pair generating a given torque. A torque accumulator combines the given torque to generate total output torque greater than the given torque. One or more output endcaps can be provided on the ends of the housing to produce work from the greater output torque.