Torque Limiter Self-Resetting Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing torque limiter devices require complex and time-consuming disassembly and reassembly to reset after excessive torque application, making them inconvenient for aerospace applications.

Innovation Solution

A torque limiter device with captive torque transmission elements and resilient biasing means that allows the elements to return to their transmission position upon reverse drive application, utilizing gently sloped disengagement pockets and a support cage to facilitate easy resetting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the torque limiter device uses a clutch with balls located within pockets in flanges that are spring biased towards one another, then torque transmission is achieved, but re-setting requires disassembly and reassembly which is complex and time consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque transmissionVSAvoidre-setting

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention makes the torque transmission element dynamically movable between engaged and disengaged positions through the interaction of the ramped pocket surface and spring biasing, eliminating the need for static disassembly. The element can transition freely between states based on operational conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The torque transmission element automatically returns to its engaged position through the combined action of the ramped pocket surface and spring biasing after disengagement, enabling self-resetting without external intervention or disassembly operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If the pockets are of asymmetric shape to allow disengagement, then torque limiting function is achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque limiting functionVSAvoidpocket structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention applies asymmetry to the pocket geometry with a ramped surface that facilitates automatic return of the torque transmission element to the engaged position. This asymmetric design enables the torque limiting function while providing a controlled reset mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The ramped pocket surface utilizes a curved geometric profile that guides the torque transmission element back to the engaged position. The curved surface provides a smooth transition path that reduces mechanical complexity compared to sharp edges or multiple components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Stability of the object's composition

If the torque transmission element is held captive to a support element, then the element is retained in position, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelement retentionVSAvoidsupport structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The torque transmission element is nested within the pocket structure and held captive by the support element, creating a compact integrated assembly. This nesting approach retains the element securely while minimizing the overall structural footprint.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The support element combines multiple functions: holding the torque transmission element captive, providing a mounting interface for spring biasing, and facilitating movement between engaged and disengaged positions. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 simple and efficient resetting of the torque limiter device without disassembly, ensuring reliable torque transmission and limiting in both operating directions.

Implementation Method 1

a first resilient biasing means (204) arranged to hold the first torque transmission element (28) in a transmission position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic potential energy: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the resilient biasing means is arranged to bias the support element, and hence the torque transmission element, towards a predetermined angular position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring energy storage and release: Spring

Data Source

PatentEP2535612B1Torque limiter

Publication Date: 2018.11.28 GOODRICH ACTUATION SYST

Figure 1~5
Figure 4a~4f

AI summary

A torque limiter device comprises a rotatable input (10) having an input flange (20) associated therewith, a rotatable output (12) having an output flange (22) associated therewith, the input flange (20) and the output flange (22) having opposing transmission pockets (26a, 26b) formed therein, a torque transmission element (28) locatable within the opposing transmission pockets (26a, 26b) of the input and output flanges (20, 22) to transmit torque therebetween, at least one disengagement pocket (32) arranged to receive the torque transmission element (28) when the torque transmission element (28) is in a disengaged position in which torque is not transmitted between the input flange (20) and the output flange (22), and resilient biasing means (34) biasing the torque transmission element (28) towards a transmission position in which it is located within the opposing transmission pockets (26a, 26b).