Piece-Wise Linear Dynamic Systems With One-Way Clutches

Abstract

One-way clutches and clutch bearings are being used in a wide variety of dynamic systems. Motivated by their recent use as ratchets in piezoelectric actuators and decoupling devices in serpentine belt drives, a method of analysis of systems containing one-way clutches is presented. Two simple systems are analyzed. The goal of the first is the power transmission which would be of concern in an actuator. The goal of the second is decoupling large inertia elements to reduce loads in an oscillating system, the objective of the clutch in a serpentine belt drive. Results show how system parameters can be tuned to meet the desired performance of these piece-wise linear systems.