Abstract: A control system and method is disclosed for an electromagnetic clutch brake, including an electromagnetic clutch brake actuator coil surrounding a power input shaft for a multiple-ratio transmission in a vehicle powertrain. A protective circuit of the control system normally monitors data inputs that indicate conditions that are not favorable for clutch brake actuation. The protective circuit prevents actuation of the clutch brake under such conditions. The protective circuit may monitor a plurality of signals including a vehicle speed signal which prevents engagement of the clutch brake unless the vehicle speed is below a predetermined level. The system may further include a transmission neutral switch that permits bypassing monitoring the vehicle speed signal when the transmission neutral switch is actuated.

Abstract: An electromagnetic brake for an input shaft of a vehicle transmission is disclosed. The brake includes an armature separated from an electromagnetic coil pole face by a controlled air gap. A spring release feature ensures precise armature disengagement when the brake is deactivated. A wear compensation feature maintains uniformity of the air gap.

Abstract: An electromagnetic brake, including an electromagnetic brake actuator coil surrounding a power input shaft for a multiple-ratio transmission in a vehicle powertrain, is disclosed. An electromagnetic flux flow path for the actuator coil is electromagnetically isolated from the power input shaft and other elements of the powertrain thereby avoiding residual magnetization.

Abstract: A control system and method is disclosed for an electromagnetic clutch brake, including an electromagnetic clutch brake actuator coil surrounding a power input shaft for a multiple-ratio transmission in a vehicle powertrain. A protective circuit of the control system normally monitors data inputs that indicate conditions that are not favorable for clutch brake actuation. The protective circuit prevents actuation of the clutch brake under such conditions. The protective circuit may monitor a plurality of signals including a vehicle speed signal which prevents engagement of the clutch brake unless the vehicle speed is below a predetermined level. The system may further include a transmission neutral switch that permits bypassing monitoring the vehicle speed signal when the transmission neutral switch is actuated.

Abstract: An electromagnetic brake for an input shaft of a vehicle transmission is disclosed. The brake includes an armature separated from an electromagnetic coil pole face by a controlled air gap. A spring release feature ensures precise armature disengagement when the brake is deactivated. A wear compensation feature maintains uniformity of the air gap.

Abstract: A centrifugal clutch assembly is provided that includes a cover module having a pressure plate for applying a clamping force against a friction plate, a moveable plate adapted to rotate with the cover module, but axially displaceable with respect thereto to apply an axial force on the pressure plate through a preloaded plate spring, a fixed plate secured for rotation with the cover module, and a plurality of weights positioned between the moveable plate and the fixed plate that are adapted to move outward under the effects of centrifugal force to cause axial movement in the movable plate and a clamping force on the friction plate. The cover module also includes at least one return spring configured to apply a return force on the weights through the moveable plate, the return force being generally parallel to the axis of rotation of the cover module and independent of weight position.

Abstract: An electromagnetic brake, including an electromagnetic brake actuator coil surrounding a power input shaft for a multiple-ratio transmission in a vehicle powertrain, is disclosed. An electromagnetic flux flow path for the actuator coil is electromagnetically isolated from the power input shaft and other elements of the powertrain thereby avoiding residual magnetization.

Abstract: A centrifugal clutch assembly is provided that includes a cover module having a pressure plate for applying a clamping force against a friction plate, a moveable plate adapted to rotate with the cover module, but axially displaceable with respect thereto to apply an axial force on the pressure plate through a preloaded plate spring, a fixed plate secured for rotation with the cover module, and a plurality of weights positioned between the moveable plate and the fixed plate that are adapted to move outward under the effects of centrifugal force to cause axial movement in the movable plate and a clamping force on the friction plate. The cover module also includes at least one return spring configured to apply a return force on the weights through the moveable plate, the return force being generally parallel to the axis of rotation of the cover module and independent of weight position.

Abstract: A frictional clutch for a motor vehicle includes a cover, a pressure plate, a biasing member, an adjustment mechanism and a dust shield assembly. The cover has an axis of rotation. The pressure plate is coupled to the cover for rotation therewith about the axis. The pressure plate has a frictional engagement surface substantially normal to the axis. The biasing member is interposed between the cover the pressure plate, and biases the pressure plate toward an engaged pressure plate position. The adjustment mechanism is centered about the axis and is located at a first radial distance from the axis. The adjustment mechanism is operably disposed between the biasing member and one of the pressure plate and the cover. The dust shield assembly includes an annular wall disposed radially within the adjustment mechanism. The annular dust shield assembly is in axial alignment with the adjustment mechanism.

Abstract: A frictional clutch for a motor vehicle includes a cover, a pressure plate, a biasing member, air adjustment mechanism and an annular shield. The cover has an axis of rotation. The pressure plate is coupled to the cover for rotation therewith about the axis. The pressure plate has a frictional engagement surface substantially normal to the axis. The biasing member is interposed between the cover the pressure plate, and biases the pressure plate toward an engaged pressure plate position. The adjustment mechanism is centered about the axis and is located at a first radial distance from the axis. The adjustment mechanism is operably disposed between the biasing member and one of the pressure plate and the cover. The annular dust shield is disposed radially within the adjustment mechanism. The annular dust shield is axially alignment with the adjustment mechanism. The shield is sized and oriented to protect the adjustment mechanism from debris radiating outward from a central area of the clutch.