Torque Limiter Hub Segmentation for Variable Shaft Diameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current torque limiters require replacement of the entire unit when used with rotary drive shafts of different diameters, posing challenges in large structures due to the size and complexity of these systems.
Innovation Solution
A torque limiter design where the hub fitted to the rotary drive shaft can be easily changed to accommodate different diameters, with the first flange fixed to the hub at an annular portion supporting modules for torque transmission, and appendages projecting radially to secure the flange, allowing for use with larger shafts without altering other components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the entire torque limiter is changed to accommodate a different diameter rotary drive shaft, then the torque limiter can be used with shafts of different diameters, but the complexity and time required for replacement increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The torque limiter is divided into separable components: a hub that fits the drive shaft, a first flange fixed to the hub, and modules connecting the flanges. The hub can be independently replaced to accommodate different shaft diameters while keeping the rest of the torque limiter assembly intact, thus reducing replacement complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The first flange and modules are designed to be compatible with multiple hub configurations. By standardizing the flange and module interface, the same flange-module assembly can work with different hub sizes, allowing universal use across various shaft diameters without replacing the entire torque limiter.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the entire torque limiter is replaced to use a different diameter shaft, then compatibility is achieved, but the time and operational downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hub is designed as a separate, quickly replaceable component that interfaces with the drive shaft. When a shaft diameter change is needed, only the hub needs to be swapped out, not the entire torque limiter, significantly reducing replacement time and operational downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
Hubs are pre-manufactured in different sizes to match various shaft diameters. These pre-fabricated hubs can be immediately installed when needed, eliminating the need for custom fabrication or extensive modification work during replacement operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the entire torque limiter is replaced for different shaft diameters, then proper fit is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By making the hub a separate replaceable component, the cost of adapting to different shaft diameters is reduced to only the price of the hub itself, rather than the entire torque limiter. The expensive flange and module assemblies can be reused across multiple hubs.
Solution Approach 2:
The first flange and modules are designed as universal components that can interface with multiple hub types. This allows a single set of flanges and modules to serve multiple shaft diameter configurations, reducing the need to purchase multiple complete torque limiter assemblies.
Data Source
AI summary
A torque limiter for transmitting motion from a drive shaft to a driven member, and for selectively disconnecting the driven member from the drive shaft when a predetermined transmitted twisting torque value is exceeded. The torque limiter has a hub fitted to the drive shaft; a rotary first flange fixed to an axial end of the hub; a second flange fixed to the driven member; and a number of modules fitted to the first flange. The first flange is fixed to the hub. The modules are equally spaced along the annular portion of the first flange, and one appendage is located between each two adjacent modules.