Two-Way Clutch Layout With Overlapping Engaging Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional two-way clutches are bulky in the axial direction due to the axial arrangement of engaging elements, which limits their compactness.
Innovation Solution
The design includes overlapping engaging elements in the axial direction, with swingable retainers allowing the first and second engaging elements to engage and disengage with cam surfaces, reducing the axial size by allowing partial overlap in a side view orthogonal to the axial direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the first engaging element and the second engaging element are axially arranged in two rows, then the engaging elements can lock rotation in both directions, but the two-way clutch becomes large in the axial direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional axial arrangement of engaging elements to an overlapping arrangement where the first and second engaging elements are positioned to overlap in the axial direction when viewed from the side. This dimensional reconfiguration allows both engaging elements to occupy the same axial space rather than requiring sequential axial positioning, thereby reducing the overall axial size of the two-way clutch while maintaining the ability to lock rotation in both directions through the separate first and second retainers
2Ease of operation
If the first retainer and the second retainer are separate components, then each engaging element can be independently controlled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control functions of the first and second retainers into a single integrated retainer component. This merged retainer structure simultaneously controls both the first engaging element and the second engaging element, eliminating the need for separate first and second retainers. The integration reduces the number of components and simplifies the device structure while preserving the independent control capability through the retainer's ability to selectively engage or disengage either or both engaging elements as needed
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a two-way clutch capable of making a size in an axial direction thereof compact. A first engaging element and a second engaging element are arranged in a first wedge-shaped space and a second wedge-shaped space between an outer member and an inner member. The first engaging element is held by the first retainer and the first retainer is enabled to swing to the outer member. The second engaging element is held by the second retainer and the second retainer is enabled to swing to the outer member. In a side view orthogonal to an axial direction of the first engaging element and the second engaging element, at least a part of the first engaging element and at least a part of the second engaging element overlap in the axial direction.