Dual Torsion Spring VCR Phaser With Compact Rotary Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rotational phasing systems require significant axial force and increased packaging size to achieve desired relative rotation between components, leading to high costs and inefficient design.
Innovation Solution
A variable compression ratio phasing system utilizing a planetary actuator and torsion springs to selectively control relative rotation between a crankshaft and an eccentric shaft, reducing the axial height and force required for phasing by using rotary displacement instead of linear displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional rotational phasing systems use linear displacement mechanisms, then desired relative rotation between components is achieved, but axial height and force requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional linear displacement mechanisms with a planetary actuator system that uses rotary displacement to achieve the same rotational phasing function. The planetary actuator converts rotary input motion into controlled rotary output motion, eliminating the need for axial linear displacement and significantly reducing the axial height requirement of the phasing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from one-dimensional linear displacement along the axial direction to two-dimensional rotary displacement in the tangential direction. By using the planetary actuator's rotary input shaft and planet gears, the system achieves rotational phasing through circumferential motion rather than axial motion, effectively changing the dimension of actuation.
2Ease of operation
If conventional rotational phasing systems apply significant axial force, then desired relative rotation is achieved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes complex linear force application mechanisms with a simpler planetary gear-based rotary actuation system. The planetary actuator uses inherent mechanical advantage through gear ratios to achieve the required torque multiplication, eliminating the need for complex linear force transmission components and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The planetary actuator serves as an intermediary mechanism that decouples the input and output shafts, allowing independent rotation while providing controlled relative phasing. This intermediary device simplifies the overall system architecture by consolidating multiple functions (torque transmission, phasing control, and motion conversion) into a single integrated component.
3Ease of operation
If conventional systems use linear displacement for phasing, then rotational control is achieved, but packaging size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from axial linear displacement to tangential rotary displacement, utilizing the circumferential space around the input shaft more effectively. The planetary actuator's compact gear train arrangement allows the same phasing function to be achieved within a smaller overall volume, reducing packaging requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The planetary actuator employs a nested gear arrangement where planet gears are positioned around and mesh with the sun gear, and the ring gear encloses the entire planetary set. This nested configuration maximizes space utilization and achieves compact packaging while maintaining the required mechanical functionality for rotational phasing control.
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 system achieves efficient and cost-effective selective rotational phasing with reduced axial height and force requirements, enhancing the longevity and performance of rotational systems in applications like internal combustion engines.
Implementation Method 1
A first torsion spring and a second torsion spring can be coupled between the gear hub and the cradle rotor. The first and second torsion springs can be configured to apply a first torque load in a first direction between the gear hub and the cradle rotor
Data Source
AI summary
A phasing system for varying a rotational relationship between a first rotary component and a second rotary component includes a gear hub and a cradle rotor. A spider rotor is arranged between the gear hub and the cradle rotor to selectively lock and unlock relative rotation between the gear hub and the cradle rotor. A torsion spring is coupled between the gear hub and the cradle rotor to apply a torque load between the gear hub and the cradle rotor. A planetary actuator is coupled to the gear hub and the spider rotor. The planetary actuator is operable between a steady-state mode, in which relative rotation between the gear hub and the cradle rotor is inhibited, and a phasing mode, in which the planetary actuator receives a rotary input at a predetermined magnitude to selectively provide a relative rotation between the gear hub and the cradle rotor.