Lubricant Or Coolant Between Engaging Surfaces Patents (Class 192/113.34)
  • Patent number: 7891473
    Abstract: A three-channel torque converter in which an additional wall is mounted, thereby creating a third space which hydraulically connects the end of the plates that faces away from the turbine to a third channel. This third space ensures that an exchange flow of oil in a region of the hydrodynamic components (impeller, turbine, stator), of an optional damper, and of the lockup clutch is always restricted to flow across the plates of the lockup clutch. This provides high-performance cooling of the plates in the slip mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Schaeffer Technologies GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventors: Stephan Maienschein, Mario Degler, Bruno Mueller, Kai Sebastian Schenck
  • Patent number: 7874415
    Abstract: A torque transfer device, in particular in the drive train of a motor vehicle for torque transfer between a drive unit, in particular a combustion engine, and a transmission with at least one multi-disk clutch, in particular, a twin multi-disk clutch, comprising at least one disk packet, comprising outer disks, connected torque proof with an outer disk carrier, and inner disks, connected torque proof with an inner disk carrier (17, 27), and with at least one operating lever device for operating the multi-disk clutch, wherein a pressure transfer device extends between the disk packet and the operating lever device through at least one pass-through opening, which is cut out in a carrier device. The seal device is disposed between the inner disk carrier and the pass-through opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Schaeffler Technologies GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Ivo Agner, Gabor Izso, Oliver Noehl
  • Patent number: 7810622
    Abstract: A transmission includes first and second clutch members rotatable about the same axis. An axial groove is formed in one of the members to distribute lubricating fluid to the other member. Preferably, clutch plates with radial grooves extend between the clutch members. Fluid flows from the axial groove through the radial groove and across faces of the clutch plates to separate the plates during disengagement in order to minimize spin losses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Foster, Joel E. Mowatt, Gregory W. Kempf, James A. Raszkowski
  • Patent number: 7806245
    Abstract: A clutch system selectively transmitting torque in an automatic transmission according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include: a rotation axis rotated by the torque; at least one plate disposed at an exterior of the rotation axis and moved along an axial direction of the rotation axis; at least one disk alternately disposed with the plate and moved along the axial direction of the rotation axis, the disk having at least one wave along a radial direction thereof; and a piston applying force to the disk and the plate along the axial direction of the rotation axis such that a frictional force is generated between the plate and the disk. Therefore, the clutch system of this invention has advantages of enhanced durability and operability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Wonseok Oh
  • Patent number: 7798300
    Abstract: The invention relates to a transmission module (10) for an engine-transmission unit, said module comprising an input shaft (11) for connecting to a heat engine, an output shaft (12) for connecting to a gearbox, and a clutch (30) connecting said two shafts. The inventive module also comprises: an independent casing (16) comprising a first half-shell (17) and a second half-shell (18), said two half-shells forming a sealed receiving element (22) containing the clutch (30) which is naturally in the engaged position; a mechanical element (35) for maintaining the clutch (30) in said engaged position by means of a piston in the form of a disk; a hydraulic control circuit (40, 41) for acting directly on the piston against the mechanical element, in the disengaged position of said clutch (30); and a hydraulic circuit (50, 52, 53, 55, 56) for lubricating and cooling the clutch. The invention can be applied to an engine-transmission unit for motor vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Peugeot Citroen Automobiles SA
    Inventors: Emmanuel Combes, Jerome Victor
  • Patent number: 7766144
    Abstract: A clutch plate assembly is provided having a friction interface and internal fluid passages for delivering pressurized fluid to the friction interface to cool the interface, and to reduce spin losses through the clutch assembly. The fluid passages comprise a plurality of primary passages extending inward from a clutch plate inner or outer diameter, and a plurality of secondary fluid passages intersecting the primary fluid passages for conducting fluid to the friction interface. Fluid is directed to the friction interface during clutch engagement for cooling thereof when the clutch assembly is engaging, and separates the clutch plates to reduce spin losses when the clutch assembly is disengaged. A method is also provided for controlling fluid flow at the friction interface, including providing fluid directly to the interface for cooling when the clutch plate assembly is engaging, and for reducing spin losses when the clutch plate assembly is substantially disengaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Mordukhovich, Paul D. Stevenson
  • Patent number: 7740119
    Abstract: A double clutch gearbox, which has a first volume flow valve for actuating a first clutch, which is arranged downstream, a second volume flow valve for actuating a second clutch which is arranged downstream, and a first hydraulic power source for supplying the volume flow valves and the clutches with a system pressure. In order to provide an improved double clutch gearbox, the clutches have fluid cooling which is arranged downstream of the first volume flow valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Luk Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KG
    Inventors: Martin Staudinger, Marco Grethel
  • Patent number: 7708126
    Abstract: A hydrokinetic coupling device is intended, in particular, for a motor vehicle. The hydrokinetic coupling device comprises a casing rotationally connecting a driving shaft and an impeller wheel, a turbine wheel fixed to a turbine hub rotationally connected to a driven shaft, a clutch locking the coupling of the driving and driven shafts, and a damping element comprising elastic washers for restricting the essentially-radial circulation of the fluid at least inside a front axial space which is located between a front guide washer and a web, such that the fluid circulates though the lockup clutch of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Valeo Embrayages
    Inventors: Rabah Arhab, Norberto Termenon, Daniel Bonnel
  • Patent number: 7699150
    Abstract: A hydrodynamic clutch includes a housing which can be brought into working connection with a drive; a hydrodynamic circuit formed by a pump wheel and a turbine wheel; a torsional vibration damper having a drive side transmission element, a takeoff side transmission element, and at least one energy storage group between the transmission elements; and a bridging clutch including first friction elements connected to the housing and second friction elements connected to the drive side transmission element. A first flow route extends from a first flow passage to the friction elements, and a second flow route extends from the hydrodynamic circuit to a second flow passage. A sealing arrangement cooperates with the drive side transmission element to separate the first flow route from the second flow route.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Peter Frey, Michael Heuler, Edgar Reinhart, Bernd Reinhardt, Stefan Mundt, Thomas Baier, Frank Zerner
  • Patent number: 7690492
    Abstract: A component surrounding an axis for directing fluid along a flow path in a transmission for a motor vehicle. The component includes a first wall having a thickness formed with an inner surface facing the axis, and a hole spaced about the axis and extending through the thickness of the wall, and a channel formed in the wall, communicating with the hole and the inner surface, including a base having a length that extends angularly about the axis, and having a depth that increases along the length as distance from the hole decreases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: James T. Gooden, Norman J. Bird, Ernest R. Shedd, John W. Kimes
  • Patent number: 7673730
    Abstract: A coolant distribution device for a wet-running clutch device and comprising several coolant distribution surfaces along which coolant is conveyed outwards in the radial direction. In order to increase the service lifetime of a wet-running clutch device the coolant distribution surfaces are implemented so that the coolant conveyed outwards in the radial direction has different axial coolant spray-off points and/or coolant spray-off devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs
    Inventors: Manuel Metzinger, Ivo Agner, Gabor Izso
  • Patent number: 7631739
    Abstract: A dual clutch for a transmission with a first transmission input shaft and a second transmission input shaft that is positioned in coaxial relation to the first transmission input shaft. The dual clutch comprises a clutch portion comprising a hollow cylinder portion for transmitting torque, wherein the hollow cylinder portion is provided in a radial position between a clutch axle and a clutch hub, is rotatable in relation to the clutch axle and the clutch hub, and comprises at least one opening allowing oil to be fed from the clutch axle to the clutch hub. This design allows supply of hydraulic oil, sufficient cooling oil, and at the same time flexibility in attaching auxiliary engines such as an electromotor to the dual clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Getrag Ford Transmissions GmbH
    Inventor: Hans Enström
  • Patent number: 7624851
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a rotary drive clutch that is fluid-operable by a piston/cylinder unit rigidly coupled to a clutch shaft and bearing-mounted so as to rotate therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Ortlinghaus-Werke GmbH
    Inventors: Herbert Seeger, Udo Meller
  • Patent number: 7516827
    Abstract: A hydraulically controlled fan drive system (12) having a method of engagement includes a housing assembly (20) containing a hydraulic fluid (48) and an engaging circuit (36). The engaging circuit (36) includes a pitot tube (152) coupled within the housing assembly (20) that receives at least a portion of the hydraulic fluid (48). An engaging circuit (36) engages the housing assembly (20) to a fan shaft (44) in response to supply of the hydraulic fluid (48) from the pitot tube (152).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventors: Dale M. Pickelman, Jr., Theodore A. Malott, Neil E. Robb, Gary E. Hart
  • Publication number: 20090008212
    Abstract: The invention concerns an element comprising an electrical machine (31), two wet clutches (33, 35), a cooling fluid circuit, including a chamber (53) for cooling the clutches (33, 35), a fluid tank (251), and a pump (255). The pump (225) is connected to a recycling channel (259), the cooling circuit comprising selecting means (257) arranged upstream of the pump (255), such that said pump is capable of selectively feeding said chamber (53) from the tank (251) and from the recycling channel (259) based on the temperature of the fluid passing through the selecting means (257). The invention also concerns an associated cooling and/or lubricating, and clutch control method, as well as a motor vehicle equipped with such a transmission document.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: PEUGEOT CITROEN AUTOMOBILES SA
    Inventors: Emmanuel Combes, Jerome Victor
  • Publication number: 20080308354
    Abstract: A power divider for motor vehicles includes a housing, a primary shaft and a secondary shaft, wherein a friction clutch having an outer part that is rigidly connected to the primary shaft, and an inner part, derives torque from the primary shaft and delivers the torque to the secondary shaft by means of the inner part and a displacement drive. To ensure a sufficient supply of lubrication oil under all conditions, an oil reservoir, which at least partially surrounds the ramp ring, is fixed in the housing between the coupling and the displacement drive. The base of the oil reservoir comprises at least one opening, which is adjacent to the upper part of the periphery of the ramp ring, and the oil reservoir has at least one guiding device that extends into the centrifugal area of the displacement drive, through which the centrifuged lubrication oil is received in the reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2005
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Applicant: Magna Drivetrain AG & Co KG
    Inventors: Franz Gratzer, Markus Kraxner, Mario Vockenhuber
  • Patent number: 7461732
    Abstract: A liquid-cooled friction clutch contains at least one lamella, which is connected rotationally fixed to a driveshaft, at least one lamella, which is connected rotationally fixed to an output shaft, these lamellae being able to be pressed mutually against one another and being positioned inside a clutch housing connected rotationally fixed to the driveshaft, and a coolant liquid return line, which leads from an area radially outside the lamellae to an area radially inside the lamellae and returns coolant liquid after its radial flow along the lamellae from the radial external area into the radial internal area, an end area of the return line being implemented as a scoop tube having an intake opening which is immersed radially outside the lamellae in a coolant liquid ring rotating together with the clutch housing and returns the coolant liquid into the area radially inside the lamellae without flowing through a pump driven by external force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KG
    Inventors: Johannes Arnold, Wolfgang Reik, Ivo Agner, Oliver Noehl
  • Publication number: 20080296115
    Abstract: A PTO clutch includes a lubrication shut-off valve that can slide between a first position blocking a port for lubrication oil to lubricate the PTO clutch, and a second position opening the port to lubricate the clutch. A relief valve is provided in the lubrication shut off valve, which opens in response to pressure spikes of activation oil and isolates the pressure spikes from the clutch piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Brian E. Biles, Craig A. Puetz, Chad E. Schoneman
  • Patent number: 7445103
    Abstract: A synchronizer clutch for a motor vehicle multistep transmission, having a guide sleeve which is fixedly arranged on a shaft, and a synchronizer ring which is mounted so as to be moveable relative to the guide sleeve. The guide sleeve has an axial contact face which an axial face of the synchronizer ring can abut against when the latter is in a rest position. At least one of the axial contact face and the axial face has at least one depression which is not significant in terms of the general function of the synchronizer clutch, but reduces the contact area between the axial contact face and the axial face in the rest position. Thus, when the synchronizer ring moves axially away from the guide sleeve, there is essentially no adhesion on account of lubricating oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: GETRAG Getriebe-und Zahnradfabrik Hermann Hagenmeyer GmbH & Cie KG
    Inventors: Stefan Fink, Alexander Hink, Joern Pfannschmidt
  • Publication number: 20080236978
    Abstract: A clutch apparatus includes a clutch pack having a plurality of friction disks. The clutch pack will selectively transfer torque from a torque supplying member to a first torque receiving member. The apparatus also includes a first cooling fluid inlet. At least a portion of the fluid is supplied through the first cooling inlet to a first friction surface. The apparatus further includes a second cooling inlet. The fluid is supplied through the second cooling inlet to a second friction surface. The first cooling fluid inlet will selectively supply a greater volumetric flow of the fluid than the volumetric flow of the second cooling inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventor: Martin E. Kummer
  • Publication number: 20080135370
    Abstract: A component surrounding an axis for directing fluid along a flow path in a transmission for a motor vehicle. The component includes a first wall having a thickness formed with an inner surface facing the axis, and a hole spaced about the axis and extending through the thickness of the wall, and a channel formed in the wall, communicating with the hole and the inner surface, including a base having a length that extends angularly about the axis, and having a depth that increases along the length as distance from the hole decreases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Jim T. Gooden, Norm J. Bird, Ernest R. Shedd, John W. Kimes
  • Publication number: 20080105513
    Abstract: The present invention provides a starting clutch disposed between an engine and a transmission, comprising a clutch drum to which a rotation driving force is inputted from the engine and which holds a plurality of outer plates for an axial sliding movement, a hub member which is disposed in an inner diameter direction of the clutch drum and which holds a plurality of inner plates arranged alternately with the plurality of the outer plates for an axial movement, and a piston disposed within the clutch drum and adapted to apply an urging force to the outer plates and the inner plates to engage these plates with each other, and wherein the hub member is fitted on an input shaft of the transmission for an axial movement and an outer end portion of the clutch drum extending toward the engine is supported by a crankshaft of the engine and an inner end portion of the clutch drum extending toward the transmission is supported by an outer periphery of the hub member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventors: Tomoyuki MIYAZAKI, Shun Kitahara, Manabu Sawayanagi, Masaki Sakai, Yosuke Ikeda
  • Publication number: 20080073171
    Abstract: A clutch plate assembly is provided having a friction interface and internal fluid passages for delivering pressurized fluid to the friction interface to cool the interface, and to reduce spin losses through the clutch assembly. The fluid passages comprise a plurality of primary passages extending inward from a clutch plate inner or outer diameter, and a plurality of secondary fluid passages intersecting the primary fluid passages for conducting fluid to the friction interface. Fluid is directed to the friction interface during clutch engagement for cooling thereof when the clutch assembly is engaging, and separates the clutch plates to reduce spin losses when the clutch assembly is disengaged. A method is also provided for controlling fluid flow at the friction interface, including providing fluid directly to the interface for cooling when the clutch plate assembly is engaging, and for reducing spin losses when the clutch plate assembly is substantially disengaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Publication date: March 27, 2008
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: GREGORY MORDUKHOVICH, PAUL D. STEVENSON
  • Publication number: 20080006501
    Abstract: The invention relates to a multi-disk clutch or multi-disk brake (1, 2), comprising an inner disk carrier (4) carrying internal disks (3) and an outer disk carrier (6) carrying external disks (5), friction linings (7, 7?) on the internal and external disks (3, 5), a first end disk (9), on which a closing force for the multi-disk clutch or multi-disk brake can be applied by a piston (10) of a piston-cylinder arrangement which can be actuated by a pressure medium, and a second end disk (8), which forms an axial abutment for the clutch pack (14) formed by the disks (3, 5, 8, 9), wherein the multi-disk clutch or multi-disk brake (1, 2) and/or the components encompassing the clutch or the brake are configured such that the internal and external disks (3, 5) can be wetted with a cooling oil (13). So as to improve heat dissipation during operation, it is provided that the multi-disk clutch or multi-disk brake (1, 2) is configured such that the cooling oil (13) can be directed axially through the clutch pack (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Publication date: January 10, 2008
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Josef Haupt, Thilo Schmidt, Peter Schiele, Tobias Miller, Christian Schwemer
  • Publication number: 20070227852
    Abstract: The present invention broadly comprises a clutch assembly with a radial flow chamber including a first hub and a carrier. The first hub and carrier form at least one first opening and a first portion of at least one radial chamber or passageway in the clutch assembly. First and second radially disposed segments of the first hub and carrier, respectively, partially define the first portion. A second portion of the chamber is formed between the first segment and a third radially disposed segment connected to a second hub. Openings in the first segment connect the first and second portions. A third portion of the passageway is formed between the second segment and a fourth radially disposed segment. A plate forms at least a portion of an axial barrier with respect to a second clutch in the clutch assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KG
    Inventor: Adam Uhler
  • Patent number: 7261195
    Abstract: A vehicle includes an engine that generates drive torque and a power transfer device that selectively transfers the drive torque to a driveline. The power transfer device includes an input shaft, an output shaft and a torque biasing system. The torque biasing system has a clutch pack and an actuator that regulates engagement of the clutch pack. An on-demand lubrication system supplies a lubricating fluid flow through the clutch pack based on a control signal generated by a control system. A passively actuated positive displacement pump supplies the lubricating fluid flow through the clutch pack based on a speed differential between the input shaft and the output shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Magna Powertrain USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy M. Burns, Sankar K. Mohan
  • Publication number: 20070193847
    Abstract: Segmented steel core plates for either double sided or single sided wet clutch friction plates or separator plates and a process for making the same are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2007
    Publication date: August 23, 2007
    Inventors: Martin P. Keating, Michael Roche, Michael Wagner, Dirk Neubauer
  • Publication number: 20070193849
    Abstract: A case includes first and second halves, each having an opening in its one side, combined together with the openings opposed to each other. A moving member is accommodated within the case and slidingly movable along a movement guide. An operator is connected to the moving member. The operator has a proximal end connected to the moving member, a free end projecting outwardly from an upper surface of the case, and a bent portion bent between the both ends. Tops of the first and second halves are displaced from each other, in a direction vertical to the upper surface, to form a gap permitting entry of the operator. Edge regions of the tops of the both halves overlap with each other in the direction vertical to the upper surface, and the bent portion is bent so that the free end projects outwardly through the gap in the overlapping regions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Publication date: August 23, 2007
    Applicant: Yamaha Corporation
    Inventor: Kojiro Kato
  • Patent number: 7225908
    Abstract: The hydrokinetic torque converter between the prime mover and the transmission in the power train of a motor vehicle is designed to promote and/or otherwise regulate the flow of hydraulic fluid therethrough. The fluid is circulated between the friction linings on the laminations of the bypass clutch in the housing of the torque converter. In a first embodiment of the method, the flow of fluid in certain parts of the torque converter is opposed or interfered with in such a way that a larger quantity of fluid flows between the laminations of the bypass clutch. In a second embodiment, the resistance to fluid flow through the bypass clutch of the torque converter is reduced. It is also possible to resort to both solutions in one and the same torque converter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Luk Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KG
    Inventors: Gunnar Back, Rudolf Honemann, Stephan Maienschein
  • Patent number: 7216750
    Abstract: A clutch arrangement for a motor vehicle has a clutch housing that is filled with pumped medium in the form of fluid, a first friction element being rotatable in common with the clutch housing. Further, a second friction element is provided which is rotatable in common with a driven member and which can be brought into an operative connection with the at least one first friction element for producing a frictional interaction. At least one first friction element and at least one second friction element are each provided with a support component that can be provided for receiving at least one friction lining. The support components have support component segments which are arranged successively in circumferential direction and which are provided at a circumference-side terminating edge, respectively, with fluid delivery surfaces for generating a fluid circulation and are constructed in the form of friction lining segments to produce the frictional interaction with friction linings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: ZF Sachs AG
    Inventors: Jörg Sudau, Khalid Jafoui, JĂ¼rgen Ackermann
  • Patent number: 7201692
    Abstract: A coupling device (11) including a housing (13, 15) defining a clutch cavity (39) and at least one window (55, 57) extending through the housing adjacent the clutch cavity. A clutch assembly (29) is disposed within the clutch cavity and includes a first clutch disc (31) having ears (63) to limit rotation relative to the housing. The housing defines a plurality of fluid passages (67) extending axially from the window to the clutch cavity, the housing defining a plurality of axial recesses (61), each of which receives one of the ears of each disc. Each of the fluid passages (67) is in fluid communication with one of the axial recesses (61), and receives fluid as the window passes through a reservoir of fluid (F).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Keith E. Morgensai
  • Patent number: 7178656
    Abstract: A hydraulically controlled fan drive system (12) having a method of engagement includes a housing assembly (20) containing a hydraulic fluid (48) and an engaging circuit (36). The engaging circuit (36) includes a pitot tube (152) coupled within the housing assembly (20) that receives at least a portion of the hydraulic fluid (48). An engaging circuit (36) engages the housing assembly (20) to a fan shaft (44) in response to supply of the hydraulic fluid (48) from the pitot tube (152).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventors: Dale M. Pickelman, Theodore A. Malott, Neil E. Robb, Gary E. Hart
  • Patent number: 7175013
    Abstract: A vehicle includes an engine that generates drive torque and a power transfer device that selectively transfers the drive torque to a driveline. The power transfer device includes an input shaft, an output shaft and a torque biasing system. The torque biasing system has a clutch pack and an actuator that regulates engagement of the clutch pack. An on-demand lubrication system supplies a lubricating fluid flow through the clutch pack based on a control signal generated by a control system. A passively actuated positive displacement pump supplies the lubricating fluid flow through the clutch pack based on a speed differential between the input shaft and the output shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Magna Powertrain USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy M. Burns, Sankar K. Mohan
  • Patent number: 7163095
    Abstract: A clutch assembly includes a hub with a hub friction surface and an inner surface that cooperate to define a cavity. A damper member is situated within the cavity and is in contact with the hub friction surface. The damper member is rotatable with respect to the hub so that relative movement between the damper ring and the hub friction surface results in energy absorption and dissipation to minimize unwanted clutch vibration. The damper ring is located inside the clutch hub so that it does not adversely affect transmission packaging. The clutch assembly preferably includes a member configured to direct lubricant along an inner diameter of the damper member so that it subsequently flows between the damper ring and the hub friction surface and through holes in the hub to lubricate clutch plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: James A. Springer, Robert S. Samanich, Raymond J. Haka, Joel M. Maguire, Peter E. Devlin
  • Patent number: 7143884
    Abstract: A clutch unit has an oil pump which is powered by the input shaft and an oil pump which is powered by the output shaft. The oil pump powered by the input shaft pumps oil in both a clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the input shaft. The oil flow is controlled by a unique bi-directional check valve which automatically selects the passage through which oil is being pumped. The oil pump powered by the output shaft provides oil to the friction plates of the clutch only when the clutch is engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Midwest Brake Bond Company
    Inventor: Dave Keener
  • Patent number: 7040475
    Abstract: A friction member for engagement in a torque-transmitting mechanism includes a friction surface for sliding contact with an opposing reaction member in a torque-transmitting mechanism. The sliding contact is characterized by a coefficient of friction and acts to engage the friction member with the reaction member in the torque-transmitting mechanism. The friction member is characterized by a first modulus of elasticity in a first direction, preferably substantially normal to the sliding contact, and a second modulus of elasticity in a second direction, preferably substantially parallel to the sliding contact. The second modulus of elasticity is greater than the first modulus of elasticity and the moduli of elasticity cooperate to at least partially establish the coefficient of friction and control vibrational shudder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Gregory Mordukhovich
  • Patent number: 7028823
    Abstract: A friction member for engagement in a torque-transmitting mechanism includes a first material and a second material. The first and second materials are woven together to provide a friction surface. The friction member is characterized by a first modulus of elasticity in a first direction with respect to the friction surface and a second modulus of elasticity in a second direction with respect to the friction surface. The second modulus of elasticity is greater than the first modulus of elasticity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Gregory Mordukhovich
  • Patent number: 7021422
    Abstract: A clutch system includes a clutch arrangement between a drive unit and a transmission, a pump arrangement which supplies pressure medium to the clutch arrangement at a pressure and rate of flow, and an operating medium supply arrangement which supplies an operating medium to the clutch arrangement at a pressure which is less than the pressure of the pressure medium and a rate of flow which is greater than the rate of flow of the pressure medium. The operating medium supply arrangement includes a pressure receiving element which is movable in a housing and has at least one pressure receiving surface which is exposed to the pressure medium, and an interaction element which is coupled to move with the pressure receiving element and has at least one interaction surface which interacts with the operating medium to produce a flow of the operating medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: ZF Sachs AG
    Inventors: Thomas Busold, Wolfgang Grosspietsch, Olaf Moseler
  • Patent number: 7004871
    Abstract: An automatic transmission apparatus comprising, a first member rotating integrally with an input shaft and including a first cylindrical portion having an inner spline at an inner peripheral surface, a second member including a second cylindrical portion having an outer spline for engaging with the inner spline of the first member and a depressed portion formed on the second member and a clearance, which establishes a communication between an inner portion surrounded by the first and the second members and an outer portion of the first and the second members, is formed between the depressed portion of the second member and the inner surface of the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Naoya Tanikawa
  • Patent number: 6994198
    Abstract: A clutch friction member for engagement in a torque-transmitting mechanism includes a friction surface for sliding contact with an opposing reaction member. The sliding contact is characterized by a coefficient of friction and acts to engage the friction member with the reaction member. The friction member is formed from a plurality of coiled cords, each defining a first channel disposed in a first direction, preferably substantially normal to the sliding contact, and transporting lubricant through the clutch friction member in the first direction, to increase the coefficient of friction. The coiled cords are arranged adjacent to one another to form an annular ring. The friction member has second channels disposed in a second direction, preferably substantially parallel to the sliding contact, for transporting the lubricant through the friction member in the second direction. The second channels thereby decrease vibrational shudder resulting from the sliding contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Gregory Mordukhovich
  • Patent number: 6978874
    Abstract: In the starting clutch, an electrical pump or an engine pump is omitted and a substitutive pump mechanism is obtained with a simple construction thereby to circulate lubricating oil within the starting clutch. There is provided a starting clutch in which lubricating oil supplied form a drive shaft side is circulated within the clutch and input side elements and output side elements are tightened by an axial load to transmit a power and wherein a non-electrically operated pump mechanism is provided within the starting clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: NSK-Warner K.K.
    Inventors: Tatsuro Miyoshi, Yoshio Kinoshita, Shiro Takeuchi, Hirofumi Nakagomi, Tadashi Watanabe, Hiroshi Yabe, Nobuhiro Horiuchi
  • Patent number: 6976567
    Abstract: A wet-type friction engaging apparatus 10 comprises a friction disk 30 which is fitted by spline with a hub 20 and a mating plate 40 which is fitted by spline with a drum D. The friction disk 30 and the mating plate 40 are arranged alternately, and torque is transmitted when the friction disk 30 and the mating plate 40 are engaged with each other. The inner surface of the hub 20 is in a stepped taper shape in order to let lubricating oil B leak from an opening end 26 of the hub 20, and an oil bore 24 is provided in each step in a radial direction of the hub 20. A periphery of an inlet of each oil bore 24 is in a concave shape. During low-speed rotation when centrifugal force is relatively small, the lubricating oil B leaks from the opening end 26 of the hub 20 and drag torque is reduced, and during high-speed rotation when centrifugal force is relatively large, lubricating oil which splashes from a shaft is securely concentrated and then be drained through the oil bore 24.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: Dynax Corporation
    Inventor: Hisanao Kitabayashi
  • Patent number: 6968934
    Abstract: A lubricating structure of a friction engaging device including a rotating drum which is a cylindrical rotating body, around a perimeter of which there is provided a friction member, and which is engaged with/disengaged from a predetermined coupling member via the friction member; and a ring gear which is spline-coupled to an inner surface of the rotating drum and which is positioned while contacting an inward flange that is integrally provided with the rotating drum. In the lubricating structure, a centrifugal oil passage which is formed between the ring gear and the inward flange, and which introduces lubricating oil inside the rotating drum to a spline-coupled portion of the ring gear and the rotating drum by centrifugal force, and a plurality of through holes which are formed in the rotating drum and through which the lubricating oil, that has flowed into the spline-coupled portion, flows to an outside of the rotating drum where the friction member is provided are formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Norihiro Yamamura, Yuji Yasuda, Hirofumi Onishi
  • Patent number: 6848555
    Abstract: An electronic controlled coupling including a wet-type multiple disc clutch, a coupling case, a hydraulic chamber, an oil pump, an electric motor, an electric control unit, and a supply passage for supplying hydraulic pressure. The coupling case accommodates the wet-type multiple disc clutch and contains oil. The oil pump driven by the electric motor is connected to the coupling case. The outlet of the oil pump is connected to the hydraulic chamber of the wet-type multiple disc clutch with the supply passage therebetween. The electric control unit controls the speed of rotation of the electric motor through a motor driver so that the pump discharge pressure is equal to an operating pressure required for the wet-type multiple disc clutch. The electronic controlled coupling performs a complete coupling mechanism increasing the durability as a coupling and a compact and simple structure enhancing the flexibility in designing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignees: Koyo Seiko Co., Ltd., Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takatoshi Sakata, Kouji Yoshinami, Kazuo Kanazawa, Mamoru Murakami
  • Publication number: 20040251107
    Abstract: Clutches require fluid passages to be contained therein to lubricate the moving parts therein. Current clutch designs requiring fluid passages to be formed through the spline provides numerous difficulties. The present clutch design and method of assembling the clutch comprises a clutch housing having a predetermined shape, a piston positioned within the clutch housing, a sleeve having a predetermined shape substantially conforming to the predetermined shape of the clutch housing, the sleeve being positioned within the clutch housing forming a fluid passageway between the clutch housing and the sleeve and forming a piston reactive cavity between the clutch housing, the piston, and the sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Publication date: December 16, 2004
    Inventors: Michael C. Sefcik, Robert F. Veldman
  • Publication number: 20040195068
    Abstract: A clutch arrangement, especially for a motor vehicle, comprises a housing arrangement which can be filled with fluid; at least one first friction element connected to the housing arrangement for rotation in common around an axis of rotation; and at least one second friction element connected to a power takeoff element for rotation in common around the axis of rotation (A), which second element can be brought into contact with at least one first friction element to produce a frictional interaction. The at least one first friction element or the at least one second friction element has a friction lining carrier which carries a friction lining arrangement on each frictionally active axial side of the friction element. At least in the case of one friction element with a friction lining carrier carrying a friction lining arrangement an arrangement of fluid transport surfaces is provided to produce a circulation of fluid which flows around at least certain areas of the friction elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: ZF Sachs AG
    Inventor: Jorg Sudau
  • Patent number: 6779642
    Abstract: A lubricating structure of a hydraulic clutch including a drum-shaped clutch housing connected to an input shaft, and a clutch hub connected to an output shaft coaxial with the input shaft. The clutch hub has a cylindrical portion and a flange formed integrally with the cylindrical portion near one end of the cylindrical portion. The lubricating structure of the hydraulic clutch further includes a clutch piston for making pressure contact of first and second clutch plates respectively mounded to the clutch housing and the clutch hub and a hydraulic pump provided on the opposite side of the first and second clutch plates with respect to the clutch piston. The cylindrical portion of the clutch hub is formed with a plurality of first lubricating oil passages passing through the cylindrical portion, and the flange of the clutch hub is formed with a plurality of second lubricating oil passages passing through the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yasunori Arai, Yoichiro Yamamoto, Masaki Inoue, Keiichi Takahashi, Yuji Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20040159520
    Abstract: This invention describes a control method for a hydraulic coupling system that includes pressurizing a fluid in an actuator coupled to a multi-disk clutch pack to engage the clutch pack, pumping the fluid through the clutch pack to cool the clutch pack, and controlling one or more valve actuators and one or more pump-motors with a controller. The control method may incorporate pulse width modulation of the actuators, such as the actuators for the pump-motor and valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Sohel Anwar, Dean T. Wisniewski, Norman Szalony, Xiaohong N. Duan, Hualin Tan, Stephen Shen, Clive McKenzie, Hyeongcheol Lee
  • Publication number: 20040159523
    Abstract: A hydraulic coupling system includes a pump, a controller, a clutch assembly, and a valve. The clutch assembly includes an actuator and a multi-disk clutch pack coupled to the actuator. Under the direction of the controller, the pump pressurizes a fluid in the actuator to engage the clutch pack and pumps the fluid through the clutch pack to cool the clutch pack. The valve maintains the fluid pumped to the actuator at a higher pressure than the pressure of the fluid pumped through the clutch pack to cool the clutch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Xiaohong N. Duan, Loren C. Macklem, Matt Rahaim, Sohel Anwar, Gary Monkaba, W. Paul Perkins, Dean T. Wisniewski, Todd A. Kendall, Joseph Palazzolo
  • Publication number: 20040159521
    Abstract: A lubricating structure of a friction engaging device including a rotating drum which is a cylindrical rotating body, around a perimeter of which there is provided a friction member, and which is engaged with/disengaged from a predetermined coupling member via the friction member; and a ring gear which is spline-coupled to an inner surface of the rotating drum and which is positioned while contacting an inward flange that is integrally provided with the rotating drum. In the lubricating structure, a centrifugal oil passage which is formed between the ring gear and the inward flange, and which introduces lubricating oil inside the rotating drum to a spline-coupled portion of the ring gear and the rotating drum by centrifugal force, and a plurality of through holes which are formed in the rotating drum and through which the lubricating oil, that has flowed into the spline-coupled portion, flows to an outside of the rotating drum where the friction member is provided are formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Norihiro Yamamura, Yuji Yasuda, Hirofumi Onishi