Research On The Structure Optimization And Characteristic Simulation Of The Diaphragm Spring In The Clutch

With the progress of technology, the auto parts industry is experiencing ahitherto unknown change. Due to the advantages of small axial size, stabletransmission torque, and small separation force, diaphragm spring has beenwidely used in automobile clutch. Whether the size of the diaphragm springstructure is reasonable or if it can meet the job requirements, have an importantimpact on the clutch performance. Therefore, simulation study on structureoptimization and characteristics of diaphragm spring has important significancefor improving the comprehensive performance of clutch.In the traditional design method of the diaphragm spring, there are manydisadvantages, such as process complex, time-consuming, and high cost. In viewof the above problems, firstly, using modern optimization method to optimizethe structure of diaphragm spring. Analysis the objective functions, and choosethe average minimum separation force and the absolute value of the differencebetween the clamping force of average minimum. Using the combinationcoefficient method and the minimax method to establish the optimization model.Using the toolbox in MATLAB software to solve the optimization model. Theresults show that combination coefficient method is better than the maximumand minimum value method. And then through the HyperMesh simulation of thediaphragm spring engagement and separation process, we found out that the diaphragm spring satisfy the strength requirement of the material, and thatduring the separation because of the elastic deformation of the release finger, thepressure plate which is in contact with the spring big end is lagging behindwhen lifting. Considering the low stiffness of the release finger in the diaphragmspring in the practical work, which results in a long release trip, so we punchedreinforcement structure on the release finger in the diaphragm spring,and thendo some simulation analysis to the spring, which proved that the new structurecan satisfy the strength requirements, and can reduce the separation distance,improve the separation.Finally we found out the structure of the diaphragmspring which can meet the working requirements and improve the designefficiency and reduce the cost.