Torque Limiter Axial Space Reduction via Side Plate Extraction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power transmission devices require significant axial installation space due to the configuration of torque limiters, which restricts their compactness and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A torque limiter design that allows only the first side plate to be attached to the flywheel, reducing the installation space in the axial direction by eliminating the need for the second side plate, and incorporates a fastening member configuration that minimizes the formation of recessed portions, thereby reducing inertia loss.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If both the first side plate and the second side plate are attached to the flywheel, then the structural stability is improved, but the installation space in the axial direction increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidinstallation space in axial direction

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the attachment function from the second side plate, allowing only the first side plate to be attached to the flywheel. The second side plate is configured to not overlap the attachment surface in the axial direction, eliminating the need for it to be attached to the flywheel while maintaining structural stability through the first side plate's attachment and the overall assembly configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Ease of operation

If a recessed portion is formed in the flywheel to avoid interference with the first fastening member, then the ease of operation is improved, but the inertia amount decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of fasteningVSAvoidinertia amount

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention moves the first fastening member from a radial position (requiring recessed portions in the flywheel) to an axial position by configuring the first coupling portion to extend in the axial direction. This dimensional change allows the fastening member to be disposed without forming recessed portions in the flywheel, thereby maintaining the inertia amount while still achieving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 design achieves a reduction in axial installation space while minimizing inertia loss, enhancing the compactness and efficiency of power transmission devices.

Implementation Method 1

The biasing member biases the pressure plate toward the friction disc

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 2

The friction disc is disposed between the first side plate and the second side plate in the axial direction. The pressure plate is in contact with the friction disc.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS20240068525A1Torque limiter and power transmission device

Publication Date: 2024.02.29 EXEDY CORP

AI summary

A torque limiter includes a first side plate, a second side plate, a friction disc, a pressure plate, and a biasing member. The first side plate includes an attachment surface. The attachment surface faces in an axial direction so as to be attached to a flywheel. The second side plate has a smaller outer diameter than the outer diameter of the first side plate. The second side plate is disposed so as to not overlap the attachment surface as seen in an axial direction. The second side plate is attached to the first side plate.