Torque Transmission Assembly Locking Element Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing torque transmission assemblies in motor vehicles, particularly those involving dual mass flywheels and dual clutches, face issues with tabs breaking due to vibrations and mechanical stresses, leading to incorrect positioning and premature deterioration of return springs, which complicates correct operation and resetting.

Innovation Solution

A torque transmission assembly with a separate locking element and elastic return means mounted between the locking element and the backlash element, allowing for improved resistance, reliability, and correct positioning, featuring a locking element that can unlock via relative movement between the locking and backlash elements, and a backlash element that can rotate in reverse direction to facilitate assembly and operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If tabs are used to lock the backlash element in its first position, then the locking function is achieved, but the tabs break due to vibrations and mechanical stresses

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking function reliabilityVSAvoidtab strength
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The locking function is segmented into two independent components: the backlash element and the locking element. The locking element is a separate component that can be independently optimized for strength and locking function, while the backlash element focuses on taking up play. This segmentation allows the locking element to be designed with greater robustness against vibrations and mechanical stresses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking element acts as an intermediary between the backlash element and the driving member. It mediates the locking function by engaging with the driving member to prevent rotation in the first position, while allowing controlled movement for unlocking. This intermediary structure distributes mechanical stresses more effectively than direct tab engagement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If return springs are mounted to exert circumferential action on the backlash element, then the backlash element is urged towards its second position, but the return springs position themselves incorrectly and flex, leading to premature deterioration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebacklash element positioningVSAvoidreturn spring durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking element serves as an intermediary that guides and constrains the action of the return springs. The springs act on the locking element rather than directly on the backlash element, which stabilizes their positioning and prevents incorrect placement. The locking element's structure provides stable mounting points that eliminate flexing and premature deterioration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a static spring-backlash element connection to a dynamic three-component system (springs-locking element-backlash element) where the locking element moves and rotates to facilitate proper spring positioning. This dynamic interaction ensures the springs are always correctly oriented and positioned during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If the locking element is separate from the backlash element, then the locking function is more reliable and resistant, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking function reliabilityVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking element is designed to perform multiple functions: it locks the backlash element in the first position, guides the return springs, and enables controlled unlocking through relative rotation. By consolidating these functions into a single component rather than multiple separate tabs or mechanisms, the overall complexity is managed while maintaining enhanced reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This design enhances the reliability and durability of the torque transmission assembly by preventing tab breakage and incorrect positioning, ensuring smooth operation and reducing wear and noise, while allowing for easier assembly and maintenance.

Implementation Method 1

elastic return means urging the backlash element towards its second position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

Each pressure plate, urged by the corresponding diaphragm, is intended to clamp a friction disc on a corresponding reaction plate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 3

A torsion damper is usually mounted between the primary and secondary flywheels to transmit rotational torque between the flywheels by absorbing and damping vibrations and rotational acyclics generated by the engine

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDamping: Damping

Data Source

PatentEP2711579B1Torque transmission assembly, in particular for a motor vehicle
Publication Date: 2015.11.04 VALEO EMBRAYAGES SAS
  • EP2711579B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2711579B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2711579B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a torque transmission assembly comprising a driving member having splines engaged with clearance in complementary splines (7) of a driven member (2), a backlash compensation element (8) mounted movable between a first position in which it exerts no constraint on the driven member (2) or driving member and a second position in which it constrains the splines of one of said members against the splines of the other member, elastic return means (14) urging the backlash compensation element (8) towards its second position, and locking means (23) movable between a locking position, in which they immobilize the backlash compensation element (8) in its first position, and an unlocking position in which they release the backlash compensation element (8).