Wedge Chain Clutch Assembly for Selective Torque Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clutch technologies face challenges in efficiently coupling and decoupling rotating members with the need for selective engagement and disengagement modes, particularly in applications requiring high torque and flexibility, such as hybrid vehicles and torque converters.
Innovation Solution
A wedge clutch assembly is developed, comprising a wedge chain formed by interconnecting wedges with links, allowing relative movement and radial disposition between inner and outer races, with adjustable biasing mechanisms to achieve various engagement modes through the use of resilient members and actuation systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wedge clutch is designed to provide selective coupling and decoupling of rotating members, then the clutch can achieve flexible operation in different modes (locked, unlocked, one-way), but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple engagement modes and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch is divided into multiple independent wedge elements (first wedge, second wedge, third wedge, fourth wedge) that can operate independently or in combination. Each wedge can be selectively engaged or disengaged to achieve different operational modes (fully locked, one-way, unlocked), allowing complex functionality through simple modular components without requiring complex control mechanisms.
2Reliability
If a wedge clutch uses multiple wedges and links to provide selective engagement, then the reliability of power transmission is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase due to the need for accurate alignment and assembly of multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch design combines multiple wedge elements and links into an integrated assembly where the components work together as a unified system. The first and second wedges are connected by a first link, while the third and fourth wedges are connected by a second link, creating a coordinated mechanism that maintains reliable power transmission through the combined action of all components rather than requiring each individual component to achieve high precision independently.
3Ease of operation
If the wedge clutch includes resilient members for biasing, then the ease of operation is improved through automatic engagement and disengagement, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient members (springs) are positioned to automatically bias the wedges into engaged or disengaged positions based on the rotational direction and load conditions. The first resilient member biases the first wedge, the second resilient member biases the second wedge, and the third resilient member biases the third wedge, allowing the clutch to automatically control its own engagement and disengagement without requiring external control mechanisms or additional complex components.
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 wedge clutch provides efficient power transfer and torque management by selectively locking or unlocking the rotational directions between the inner and outer races, enabling flexible operation in different modes, including fully locked, one-way, and unlocked states, suitable for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
A first resilient member is positioned between the first and second wedges and is configured to bias the first and second wedges radially outward. A second resilient member is positioned between the third and fourth wedges and is configured to bias the third and fourth wedges radially outward.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of assembling a clutch includes assembling a wedge chain by connecting a plurality of wedges together with links such that the wedges are movable relative to each other, and wrapping the wedge chain around an inner race. The method further includes connecting an end one of the links to an end one of the wedges to secure the chain to the inner race. The may also include installing the inner race into an outer race such that the wedge chain is radially disposed between the inner and outer races.