Patents by Inventor Brian Kappler

Brian Kappler has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Electromagnetic clutch assembly having solenoid type operator
    Patent number: 6905008
    Abstract: An electromagnetic clutch assembly having a solenoid activated ball ramp operator provides reduced power consumption and improved control. The electromagnetic clutch assembly includes a primary or pilot friction clutch pack and a secondary or main friction clutch pack. An annular solenoid coil cooperates with an annular operator or plunger. When the coil is energized, the annular plunger translates and compresses the primary or pilot friction clutch pack. Activation of the pilot clutch pack retards motion of one of the members of the ball ramp operator which, in turn, compresses a secondary or main friction clutch pack disposed across the input and output members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: BorgWarner, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Kowalsky, Larry A. Pritchard, Brian Kappler
  • Electromagnetic clutch assembly having solenoid type operator
    Publication number: 20050034950
    Abstract: An electromagnetic clutch assembly having a solenoid activated ball ramp operator provides reduced power consumption and improved control. The electromagnetic clutch assembly includes a primary or pilot friction clutch pack and a secondary or main friction clutch pack. An annular solenoid coil cooperates with an annular operator or plunger. When the coil is energized, the annular plunger translates and compresses the primary or pilot friction clutch pack. Activation of the pilot clutch pack retards motion of one of the members of the ball ramp operator which, in turn, compresses a secondary or main friction clutch pack disposed across the input and output members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Publication date: February 17, 2005
    Inventors: Christopher Kowalsky, Larry Pritchard, Brian Kappler