Fluid Operator Patents (Class 192/18A)
  • Patent number: 6148976
    Abstract: A clutch arrangement for a multi-spindle machine includes a starting clutch 12 and a machine brake clutch 14 positioned on a starting clutch drive shaft 16. A high speed clutch 18 and a snubbing clutch 22 are positioned on a long worm drive shaft 20. All clutches are pneumatically operated by solenoid valves 40, 42, 44 and 46 and electrically actuated by electrical circuit 60. When the multi-spindle machine shifts from a high speed to a low speed, the present invention activates the machine brake clutch 14 and snubbing clutch 22 for a predetermined time period to cause the drive train gears to slow down allowing synchronous meshing with the low speed drive train of the multi-spindle machine to enable a reduction in machine cycle time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Logan Clutch Corporation
    Inventor: Robert M. Kalinsky
  • Patent number: 6142275
    Abstract: A press has a nonrotating tube shaft centered on an axis, a rotatable output shaft coaxially received in the tube shaft and having a shaft end, and a supply of fluid under pressure. A brake element fixed on the tube shaft forms with an axially movable brake element angularly coupled with the output shaft a pressurizable brake chamber. A fluid line extending from the brake chamber through the tube shaft to the fluid supply can pressurize the brake chamber and thereby couple the brake elements with each other so that the output shaft is braked against the tube shaft. A flywheel rotatable about the axis on the tube shaft carries a first clutch element rotatable about the axis. A second clutch element rotatable about the axis adjacent the first clutch element forms there-with a pressurizable clutch chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: SMS Eumuco GmbH
    Inventors: Joachim Kreisl, Norbert Gober
  • Patent number: 6142274
    Abstract: A power take-off unit includes a hydraulically actuated brake assembly which is automatically engaged when a hydraulically actuated clutch assembly is disengaged, and further which is automatically disengaged when the clutch assembly is engaged. The power take-off unit includes a housing which contains an input gear and an output shaft. The input gear is adapted to be connected to an engine or transmission of a vehicle or other source of rotational power so as to be rotatably driven in a conventional manner. The output shaft is adapted to be connected to rotatably driven accessory, such as a hydraulic pump. The power take-off unit includes a clutch assembly for selectively providing a driving connection between the input gear and the output shaft and a brake assembly for selectively exerting a braking force to retard rotation of the output shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Dana Corporation
    Inventor: Russell K. Warner
  • Patent number: 6131714
    Abstract: A power-take-off of a utility vehicle such as an agricultural tractor has a clutch (3) and a brake (18) to retain the output shaft against rotation when the clutch is disengaged. The invention provides a means of automatically disengaging the brake to permit rotation of the output shaft for the purpose of coupling an implement thereto. In one embodiment, the clutch and brake are engaged by fluid under pressure, and are disengaged by stopping the vehicle engine and thus allowing engine generated fluid pressure to decay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: AGCO GmbH & Co
    Inventors: Theodor Bosl, Johann Wittman, Johann Reisch
  • Patent number: 6123019
    Abstract: A wet-type flywheel brake system for use in a mechanical press includes a first and second brake assembly each installed within a respective brake housing space defined in a non-rotational quill. Each of the brake assemblies includes a brake lining element arranged in lateral facing relationship with the flywheel and an associated hydraulic seal-type piston that selectively moves the brake lining element into a friction-type braking engagement with the flywheel. The brake housing spaces are flooded with oil to immerse the brake lining elements. Oil for this purpose is provided from a flywheel bearing assembly integrated with the quill assembly and which is arranged for fluid communication with the quill-located brake housing spaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: The Minster Machine Company
    Inventor: Edward A. Daniel
  • Patent number: 6112871
    Abstract: In order to eliminate noise generated from a clutch disk at racing state of a press, a clutch disk (29) arranged between a flywheel (27) and a working cylinder (40) is provided with a lining applying part (30) of annular shape and a projection (31) mounted on the flywheel (27). On inner circumferential surface of the projection (31), an inner groove part (311) is formed throughout the whole circumference from the inner circumferential edge to the outer circumferential edge in the circumferential direction, and on outer circumferential surface of the projection (31), an outer groove part (312) is formed throughout the whole circumference in the circumferential direction. Thereby the clutch disk (29) has flexibility in the axial direction, and if the lining applying part (30) is pushed by the working cylinder (40), the clutch disk (29) pushes a clutch rotary plate (34) by deflection of the projection (31) in the axial direction and rotates a crank shaft (25).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Yamada Dobby Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akihiro Yoshida
  • Patent number: 6095298
    Abstract: A mechanical press having a wet or oil shear clutch/brake drive unit is provided including elimination of undamped clearances. Lubrication oil utilized in the press flywheel bearing is ported and communicated into the clutch brake unit for use therein, eliminating the use of two separate lubrication or oil transport systems. A hydrostatic oil bearing on the brake/clutch actuator member (actuation plate) eliminates the use or need of an anti-friction bearing between the actuator member and the brake and clutch members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: The Minster Machine Company
    Inventors: Bradley A. Burns, Edward A. Daniel, John B. Bornhorst, Russell W. Palmer, Kevin J. Evers
  • Patent number: 6029786
    Abstract: A clutch/brake drive has a brake unit and a clutch unit. The brake unit and clutch unit each include a plurality of interleaved friction plates. The lubrication for the clutch/brake unit includes a plurality of axial and redial passages formed into the friction plates of both the brake unit and the clutch unit. This ensures continuous and adequate supply of lubricant to the clutch and brake to reduce friction and remove generated heat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Midwest Brake Bond Company
    Inventor: Gordon Maurice Sommer
  • Patent number: 5992591
    Abstract: The system is designed for controlling the length of the smooth thrust that takes place during engagement and/or braking of the hydraulic brake-clutches for driving presses or similar machines, and in order that the smooth braking system may be overridden at a given point in time for the machine to be quickly stopped. Two safety valves (16) and (17), an emergency valve (18) and two opening and closing valves (20) and (21) are used for this purpose. A pressurestat (34) located at the end of a labyrinthine duct (35) controls the positioning of the safety valves (16) and (17) and of the emergency valve (18), the labyrinthine duct (35) lying between the pressurestat (34) and the inlet (14) of the relevant hydraulic fluid. The opening and closing valves (20) and (21) control the passage of the hydraulic fluid (oil) between the inlet and the outlet (22) area of the clutch-brake and between this area and the outlet (19).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Goizper, S. Coop.
    Inventor: Francisco Legorburu Gabilondo
  • Patent number: 5971120
    Abstract: A clutch-brake device having a housing, a shaft rotationally mounted therethrough, modular coupling units rigidly coupled to the shaft at either side of the housing, and an adapter which allows a single modular unit to be utilized interchangeably in either a clutch or a brake configuration. Each modular unit has a coupling member carrying an annular friction ring. The coupling member is rotationally connected to and spaced apart from a resilient disk defining a vacuum chamber therebetween. The resilient disk is rigidly attached to the modular unit and may be tapered towards the outer edge. The modular unit may also have several shims predisposed between the resilient disk and the coupling member which can be periodically removed to maintain the gap between the resilient disk and the annular friction ring within a preferred range. The device may have a microprocessor controlled high speed switch for controlling electromagnets which regulate engagement of the resilient disks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: The Conair Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert H. Bessemer, Robert J. Daily, David H. Czarnik, Steve Lyons, Glen A. Morris, Larry E. Dismang
  • Patent number: 5947244
    Abstract: A drive unit for driving a press uses a hydraulically actuated oil shear brake unit located on one side of a flywheel and a hydraulically actuated oil shear clutch unit located on the opposite side of the flywheel. The actuating assemblies for the oil shear brake unit and the oil shear clutch unit can be supplied as complete assemblies which are secured to the brake housing and clutch housing, respectively, at the time of assembly of the units to the press. The actuation of the clutch unit and the brake unit occur simultaneously and from the same hydraulic pressure source such that the overlap between the two units is controllable from no overlap to a specified amount of overlap where the brake unit is applied simultaneously with the engagement of the clutch for a specified amount of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Midwest Brake Bond Company
    Inventor: Gordon Maurice Sommer
  • Patent number: 5937979
    Abstract: A clutch mechanism is provided for a cooling fan of a size capable of fitting into the limited envelope available in an over-the-road diesel tractor. A compact housing has a belt drive input and an output connected to the fan hub. The housing includes a pressure chamber in fluid communication with a pressurized air supply and a controllable valve in the air supply line for regulating the pressure in the pressure chamber when the clutch must be operated. The air pressure actuates an internal piston to translate the clutch in a continuously variable manner between engaged and disengaged conditions.A small envelope clutch, having an outer diameter less than about 9.8 inches in diameter within the fan hub and less than about 6 inches under the belts and 7.3 inches overall so the housing may be positioned between the radiator and the engine, is capable of generating 150 foot-pounds of torque, running a 55 horsepower fan at 2100 rpm, and dissipating 10 horsepower of heat while in the slip mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Rockford Powertrain, Inc.
    Inventor: Gordon F. Cummings
  • Patent number: 5921361
    Abstract: A drive unit for a press uses an oil shear brake unit and an oil shear clutch unit. The actuation of the brake unit and the clutch unit occurs simultaneously due to a common activation member. The oil cooling system for the drive unit feeds oil to the outer radial or circumferential portion of the drive and returns oil for the central portion of the drive. The reverse flow of oil provides a more consistent supply of cooling oil to remove heat and lubricate the various components of the drive unit to significantly improve the operating performance of the drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Midwest Brake Bond Company
    Inventor: Gordon Maurice Sommer
  • Patent number: 5913394
    Abstract: A coupling apparatus has a stationary housing and a pair of parts inside the housing and rotatable about a common axis. One of the parts normally rotates continuously. Coupling elements between the parts are engageable together to rotationally couple the parts to each other and are separable for free relative rotation of the parts relative to each other. A row of teeth on the one part mesh with a drive pinion of a pump mounted on the housing for circulating coolant and lubricating oil through the coupling elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: SMS Eumuco GMBH
    Inventors: Joachim Kreisl, Norbert Gober
  • Patent number: 5873444
    Abstract: An improved combined clutch and brake apparatus is disclosed having a pressure disk positioned on a hub between a brake thrust disk and a pneumatic cylinder. The present invention is configured to allow the apparatus to be efficiently serviced. The brake thrust disk forms an outer surface of the invented combined clutch and brake apparatus. A movable piston positioned in a casing of the pneumatic cylinder forms an external face of the invented combined clutch and brake apparatus. This arrangement allows failed sealing collars sealing the piston to the casing to be efficiently replaced. Readily accessible screws also allow clearances between the pressure disk and the brake thrust disk and between the pressure disk and a clutch thrust ring to be efficiently maintained at optimal levels via stepless adjustment from either side of the invented combined clutch and brake mechanism or from both sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Assignee: Victor A. Kozhevnikov
    Inventors: Victor A. Kozhevnikov, Eugene V. Kozhevnikov, Vladimir M. Vovkotroub, Leonid P. Nesterov
  • Patent number: 5860885
    Abstract: A lubricating structure of an automatic transmission is provided which is capable of realizing sufficient cooling lubrication with lubricating oil, utilizing a given space efficiently, and avoiding the possibility of an increase in the weight of assembly parts by checking an increase in the number of the assembly parts. The rotational direction of a front planetary gear device (46) and the like is changed by engagement or disengagement of each of multiplate clutch plates (35, 43) of a plurality of multiplate clutch devices (33, 40), and thereby the transmission state of driving force is shifted. A 2-4 brake clutch (33) of the multiplate clutch devices (33, 40) is engaged in two forward gears and is disengaged in a forward gear between the two forward gears. A reverse clutch (40) of the multiplate clutch devices (33, 40) is disposed substantially in the same position as that of the 2-4 brake clutch (33) in the axial direction and outside of the 2-4 brake clutch (33) in the radius direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Assignee: JATCO Corporation
    Inventor: Muneo Mizuta
  • Patent number: 5806641
    Abstract: A conversion kit for an existing machine tool drive converts the machine tool drive from an air activated system to a hydraulically actuated system. The existing machine tool drive includes an air activated clutch and brake which are mechanically interlocked to simultaneously move the brake between an applied condition and a release condition and the clutch between a disengaged condition and an engaged condition. The conversion kit replaces the air activated clutch and brake with a hydraulically activated clutch and an independent hydraulically actuated brake and separates the activation of these devices. The separation of the activation of these devices permits the designing of a specified amount of overlap into the assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Midwest Brake Bond Co.
    Inventor: Gordon Maurice Sommer
  • Patent number: 5769187
    Abstract: A drive unit for driving a press uses a hydraulically actuated oil shear brake unit located on one side of a flywheel and a hydraulically actuated oil shear clutch unit located on the opposite side of the flywheel. The actuating assemblies for the oil shear brake unit and the oil shear clutch unit are supplied as complete assemblies which are secured to the brake housing and clutch housing, respectively, at the time of assembly of the units to the press. The actuation of the clutch unit and the brake unit occur simultaneously and from the same hydraulic pressure source such that the overlap between the two units is controllable from no overlap to a specified amount of overlap where the brake unit is applied simultaneously with the engagement of the clutch for a specified amount of time. The stroke acquired by the brake and clutch actuating assemblies can each be selected at the time of assembly by selecting the appropriate width for a plurality of spacers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Assignee: Midwest Brake Bond Co.
    Inventor: Gordon Maurice Sommer
  • Patent number: 5722520
    Abstract: A hydraulically actuated clutch includes a pair of hydraulic cylinders driving pistons to selectively move a clutch bearing to bring the clutch into and out of engagement. In standard clutches, a feature known as a clutch brake is sometimes contacted by the clutch bearing. The clutch bearing contacts the clutch brake to prevent rotation of the shaft under certain conditions. Because of this contact, the clutch bearing could rotate. Thus, anti-rotation structure is included in the inventive hydraulically actuated clutch. In a first embodiment, the anti-rotation structure includes surfaces formed on the sides of hydraulic cylinder housings which prevent rotation of the clutch bearing. The surfaces are preferably positioned radially inwardly from the pistons, and axially between the pistons and the clutch disks and plates which actually transmit the rotation through the clutch. In this way, the anti-rotation structure is optimally positioned to reliably prevent rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Assignee: Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Charles E. Beyer
  • Patent number: 5716299
    Abstract: A drive system has a pair of planetary gear sets located between an input shaft and an output shaft with an intermediate shaft located between the pair of planetary gear sets. A series of oil shear brakes and clutches allow the drive system to operate in neutral, high speed forward, high speed reverse, low speed forward and low speed reverse. These operating modes are selectable without having to stop and reverse the input shaft which is allowed to rotate constantly in the same direction during all of the above operational modes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: Midwest Brake Bond Company
    Inventor: Gordon Maurice Sommer
  • Patent number: 5697862
    Abstract: A two-speed press drive is manufactured as a complete assembly eliminating the requirement that the drive be assembled at the location of the press. The two-speed drive includes a stationary quill, an output shaft and a planetary gear set. The planetary gear set includes a first sun gear connected to the stationary quill, a second sun gear rotatably connected to the stationary quill, a planetary gear carrier rotatably connected to the stationary quill and three compound planetary gears rotatably connected to the carrier and meshing with both the first and second sun gears. The input to the two-speed drive is through the planetary gear carrier. A high speed clutch connects the carrier directly to the output shaft for high speed operation. A low speed clutch connects the second sun gear to the output shaft for high speed operation. A housing in conjunction with the carrier define a sealed cavity within which the components of the drive operate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Assignee: Midwest Brake Bond Company
    Inventor: Gordon Maurice Sommer
  • Patent number: 5680915
    Abstract: A press includes a drive system which includes a brake and a clutch operated by fluid pressure. The brake and clutch control the movement of a crankshaft in relation to a flywheel. A unique control system supplies the pressurized fluid for operation of the brake and clutch. The unique control system includes a pressure relief valve for defining a maximum fluid pressure and a plurality of valve modules which each define a specific fluid pressure. Each valve module is selectively movable between a relief condition and a blocked condition. Thus, by selectively operating the valve modules, it is possible to select the fluid pressure being supplied to the brake and clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1997
    Assignee: Midwest Brake Bond Company
    Inventor: Gordon Maurice Sommer
  • Patent number: 5667045
    Abstract: A clutch mechanism for a cooling fan of a size capable of fitting into the limited envelope available in an over-the-road diesel tractor. A compact housing has a belt drive input and an output connected to the fan hub. A wet clutch is included within the housing lubricated by oil from the engine lubrication system. The housing includes an internal positive displacement booster pump cooperating with a controllable valve in the oil return line to the engine sump. When it is desired to operate the clutch, the valve is controllably closed to restrict flow from the clutch mechanism to the engine sump line. The positive displacement pump thereupon causes an increase in pressure in a pressure chamber in the housing, which acts on an internal piston to translate the clutch in a continuously variable manner between engaged and disengaged conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Assignee: Rockford Powertrain, Inc.
    Inventor: Gordon F. Cummings, III
  • Patent number: 5657843
    Abstract: A drive unit for driving a press is disclosed. The drive unit uses a hydraulically actuated oil shear brake unit located on one side of a flywheel and a hydraulically actuated oil shear clutch unit located on the opposite side if the flywheel. The brake is normally biased into its applied condition and the clutch is normally biased into its disengaged position. The engagement of the clutch and the release of the brake occur from the same hydraulic pressure source. The amount of overlap between the two units is accurately controlled by varying the biasing loads of the assemblies and accurately setting the stroke of the actuation member for each assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: Midwest Brake Bond Company
    Inventor: Gordon Maurice Sommer
  • Patent number: 5651436
    Abstract: A control system for a press having a clutch and a brake includes a clutch control valve and a brake control valve. The clutch control valve operates the clutch by supplying pressurized air to the clutch. The brake control valve operates the brake by supplying pressurized hydraulic fluid to the brake. The brake control valve is activated by pressurized fluid from the clutch control valve in order to insure simultaneous release of the brake with engagement of the clutch as well as simultaneous application of the brake with disengagement of the clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Assignee: Midwest Brake Bond Company
    Inventor: Gordon Maurice Sommer
  • Patent number: 5636719
    Abstract: Rotational control apparatus in the forms of fan clutches (A, A') are shown including an eddy current drive (224). Specifically, the eddy current drive (224) includes a plurality of permanent magnets (226) mounted circumferentially spaced and with alternating polarity by a holder (228) to the input or output of the clutch (A, A') and a magnetically conductive ring (242) mounted to the other of the input or output of the clutch (A, A'). Thus, the output portion and the fan blades mounted thereto are driven at engine speeds when the clutch (A, A') is air actuated and are driven at a rotational speed less than engine speed by the eddy current drive (224) when the clutch (A, A') is not air actuated and without separate controls for the eddy current drive (224). A housing (62) comprises the output portion of the clutch (A) which is rotatably mounted by a bearing (58) to the hub portion (24) of a friction disc (28) which comprises the input portion of the clutch (A).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: Horton, Inc.
    Inventors: John B. Davis, Robert C. Bredt, Kent Carlson, Darren Reasy
  • Patent number: 5624016
    Abstract: Apparatus (300) is disclosed for locking a key (322) in a keyway (302) of a shaft (10) and of a hub slideably receiving the shaft (10). The key (322) is tapered and includes a top extending at an acute angle to the bottom, with the keyway (302) of the shaft (10) having a bottom wall (306) at the acute angle to the axis of the shaft (10). A push rod (312) is rotatable in an axial bore (308) in the shaft (10) and includes a threaded portion (318) threaded into a threaded counterbore (310) of the axial bore (308). The forward end of the push rod (312) is interconnected to the key (322) by a lip (336) formed in the key (322) extending into a notch (316) formed in the push rod (312). Rotation of the push rod (312) causes the push rod (312) to move axially in the axial bore (308) which in turn axially moves the key (322) in the keyway (302).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Assignee: Horton, Inc.
    Inventors: Tonya L. Coulter, David R. Hennessy
  • Patent number: 5611415
    Abstract: Rotational control apparatus in the preferred forms of fan clutches (A, A') are shown including an eddy current drive (224). Specifically, the eddy current drive (224) includes a plurality of permanent magnets (226) mounted circumferentially spaced and with alternating polarity by a holder (228) to the input of the clutch (A, A') and a magnetically conductive ring (242) mounted to the output of the clutch (A, A'). Thus, the output portion and the fan blades mounted thereto are driven at engine speeds when the clutch (A, A') is air actuated and are driven at a rotational speed less than engine speed by the eddy current drive (224) when the clutch (A, A') is not air actuated and without separate controls for the eddy current drive (224). In preferred forms, a housing (62) comprises the output portion of the clutch (A) which is rotatably mounted by a bearing (58) to the hub portion (24) of a friction disc (28) which comprises the input portion of the clutch (A).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1997
    Assignee: Horton, Inc.
    Inventors: John B. Davis, Robert C. Bredt
  • Patent number: 5577581
    Abstract: A coupling assembly includes a housing having a stationary section. A clutch assembly is disposed within the stationary housing section and is operable between an engaged condition in which the clutch assembly is effective to transmit rotational force between an input member and an output member and a disengaged condition in which the clutch assembly is ineffective to transmit rotational force. A brake assembly is disposed within the stationary housing section. The brake assembly is operable between an engaged condition in which it is effective to retain the output member against rotation relative to the stationary housing section and a disengaged condition in which the brake assembly is ineffective to retain the output member against rotation relative to the housing. An actuator assembly is disposed within the stationary housing section and is operable to effect operation of the brake and clutch assemblies between their engaged and disengaged conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Roger J. Eberwein, James P. Hess, Richard F. Plantan, George F. Shirilla, Carol L. Stefano
  • Patent number: 5573092
    Abstract: A piston driving a brake and a clutch is split into a main piston and a secondary piston that can travel axially and that are related through limiting bolts. The main piston has a larger surface for the pressurized fluid than the secondary piston. The main piston has a duct through which the fluid flows to the secondary piston which is in turn fitted with springs that bias it, against the fluid tension, against the main piston. Therefore, when connection is made, the secondary piston first approaches the clutch discs without actually contacting the latter. After the brake is released, there is a first connection stage at which the secondary piston approaches the main piston and a second stage, after both pistons come into contact, at which the assembly works conventionally, as a single piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: Goizper, S. Coop. Ltda.
    Inventor: Francisco L. Gabilondo
  • Patent number: 5564333
    Abstract: A press including a flywheel which is axially shifted along the quill to which it is rotatably mounted from an idle position to an engaged position during engagement of the flywheel by the clutch connected to the press crankshaft, and which is axially biased to the idle position when the clutch is subsequently disengaged. The press includes a rigid drive disk, connected to the flywheel for rotation therewith, that is engaged by a clutch mechanism to drivingly couple the press crankshaft to the flywheel. The rigid drive disk and the flywheel are both axially shifted during clutch engagement. Spring elements between the quill or non-rotating press frame and the flywheel are compressed when the flywheel is so shifted, and these spring elements return or axially shift the flywheel and drive disk to an idle position when the clutch mechanism is subsequently disengaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Inventor: Russell W. Palmer
  • Patent number: 5542306
    Abstract: A drag brake mechanism prevents rotation of the shaft of a truck mounted connect-disconnect, clutch-operated, power takeoff device when the clutch is in its disconnect mode, by applying a constant braking force to the shaft which cannot be overcome by inadvertent frictional forces within the discs of the clutch that may occur despite the clutch being in its disconnect mode. The constant force selected, however, is insufficient to create undue heat during normal shaft rotation and is easily overcome when the clutch is placed in its connect mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: Muncie Power Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Rickey J. Fernandez
  • Patent number: 5538481
    Abstract: A power train between the engine and the wheels of a motor vehicle has a start-up component which receives torque from the engine and transmits torque to an infinitely variable transmission through a reversible torque transmitting apparatus. The transmitting apparatus comprises at least one planetary transmission, a first clutch which can be engaged to transmit torque from the start-up component and the planet wheel carrier of the planetary transmission to an input/output element, and a second clutch which can be engaged, when the first clutch is disengaged, to connect the internal wheel of the planetary transmission to a housing for the planetary transmission. The first clutch is mounted, at least in part, on the planet wheel carrier and the second clutch is mounted, at least in part, on the internal wheel of the planetary transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Assignee: LuK Getriebe-Systeme GmbH
    Inventor: Oswald Friedmann
  • Patent number: 5489013
    Abstract: The present invention employs a hydraulically operable piston and intermediate member to control two clutches in a first planetary gear set. The first planetary gear set includes a first sun gear, a first planet gear, a first planet carrier and an inner ring gear. the first planet carrier includes a gear which drives a second planetary gear set resulting in rotation of a wheel hub. With hydraulic pressure applied to the piston and the intermediate member a first clutch is engaged locking an inner ring gear to a stationary outer ring effecting a high ratio reduction. With no hydraulic pressure applied to the piston and intermediate member a second clutch engages the first sun gear and the first planet carrier locking them together such that the first sun gear, first planet gear, first planet carrier and inner ring gear rotate in unison effecting a low ration reduction. With no hydraulic pressure applied, the first clutch is not engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Assignee: Fairfield Mfg. Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis L. Buuck, James R. Dammon
  • Patent number: 5487456
    Abstract: A base unit for driving a press is disclosed. The unit uses two hydraulic actuated oil shear brake/clutch units which are in coaxial nested relationship. The basic unit provides a core assembly which can easily be modified or adapted to be mated with any type of press drive. The unit provides the normal start-stop function of a press drive using the two brake/clutch units as well as a flywheel braking function utilizing the same two brake/clutch units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Assignee: Sommer Company
    Inventor: Gordon M. Sommer
  • Patent number: 5482149
    Abstract: A clutch/brake unit used to transmit torque from an electric motor to a gear reducer, particularly in processes that involve cyclical, start-stop operations. A special output shaft of the clutch/brake has a split portion which projects from the housing and receives a tapered plug within a tapered cavity. A bolt has a threaded connection with the plug to create wedging action which radially expands the split portion of the shaft when the bolt is turned in one direction. This expansion of the shaft creates a frictional coupling with the input hub of the gear reducer. The frictional coupling can be released by turning the bolt in the other direction to relieve the wedging force and allow the split portion of the shaft to contract radially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Assignee: The Carlson Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Rodney D. Bruntz
  • Patent number: 5462147
    Abstract: A pair of selectively operable torque transmitting devices, such as a clutch and brake, are provided to control the torque and speed ratio in a planetary gear set. One device, a clutch, is spring engaged, to provide direct drive in the planetary set, and fluid released by a selectively operable piston assembly. The other device, a brake, is pressure engaged by a selectively operable piston assembly to establish a drive ratio in the planetary set. A torque responsive mechanism is incorporated in the piston assembly to control the overlap between the clutch/brake exchange during a ratio interchange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: James F. Sherman
  • Patent number: 5456344
    Abstract: A self-adjusting clutch and input shaft brake actuator system is provided for consistent actuation of the input shaft brake after complete disengagement of the master clutch. A dual piston arrangement is fluidly coupled and includes an oil bypass path for adjusting the fluid coupling while the master clutch is engaged. The oil bypass path allows adjustment of the master clutch release tube by changing its position relative to the input shaft brake. This compensates for the wearing of the friction material in the master clutch while maintaining a constant travel for master clutch disengagement and input shaft brake application resulting in consistent application of the input shaft brake upon disengagement of the master clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1995
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Richard A. Nellums
  • Patent number: 5452780
    Abstract: A brake-clutch assembly applicable as a safety element in machines having a start-stop movement, such as presses, shears and the like, has a hub which is to be mounted on a machine shaft and a brake-side cover having a cylindrical part defining a cylindrical cavity for admitting compressed air. A friction disc is mounted on the cylindrical part. The hub also carries a central piston-plate which supports two rings having frictional linings on both the brake side and the clutch side. The inner diameter of the cylindrical part is considerably larger than the inner diameter of one of the locking rings, thereby allowing a maximum power to be achieved because the cylindrical cavity defining a pressure chamber can be extended to attain a diameter close to that of the friction disc. This is achieved by removing the material in an area of the central piston-plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Assignee: Goizper, S. Coop. Ltda.
    Inventor: Francisco L. Gabilondo
  • Patent number: 5437355
    Abstract: A friction clutch mounted in a transmission case (25) or the like and connected between a drive shaft (14) for receiving engine power and a driven shaft (15) for receiving power from the drive shaft and transmitting the power to a power takeoff shaft (11). The friction clutch includes a first sleeve (17) connected to the drive shaft, a second sleeve (16) connected to the driven shaft, friction disks (18, 19) disposed between the first sleeve and the second sleeve, the friction disks being switchable between a clutch engaging state to enable power transmission between the first sleeve and the second sleeve, and a clutch disengaging state to disable the power transmission, and a clutch piston (20) movable between a first position to place the friction disks in the clutch engaging state, and a second position to place the friction disks in the clutch disengaging state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Assignee: Kubota Corporation
    Inventors: Masao Takagi, Satoshi Machida, Akio Hattori
  • Patent number: 5323888
    Abstract: There is provided a two-speed drive unit for a motor drive, the motor drive having a housing and a main rotatable member. The two-speed drive unit comprises a two-speed drive housing secured to the motor drive housing and a secondary motor secured to the two-speed drive housing. The motor shaft of the secondary motor extends into the two-speed drive housing. An oil-shear brake, exterior to the secondary motor, is operably attached to the driveshaft of the secondary motor to effect braking. The two-speed drive unit further comprises a gear train operably associated with both the secondary motor shaft and a clutch, the clutch being disposed between the gear train and the rotatable member of the main motor drive for engagement and disengagement of the gear train with the rotatable member of the main motor drive. The clutch is normally engaged by a plurality of coil springs and disengaged by the action of an AC voltage coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Assignee: Sommer Company
    Inventor: Gordon M. Sommer
  • Patent number: 5285879
    Abstract: There is provided a two-speed drive unit for a motor drive, the motor drive having a housing and a main rotatable member. The two-speed drive unit comprises a two-speed drive housing secured to the motor drive housing and a secondary motor secured to the two-speed drive housing. The driveshaft of the secondary motor extends into the two-speed drive housing. The two-speed drive unit further comprises a gear train operably associated with both the secondary motor driveshaft and a clutch, the clutch being disposed between the gear train and the rotatable member of the main motor drive for engagement and disengagement of the gear train with the rotatable member of the main motor drive. The clutch is normally engaged by a plurality of coil springs and disengaged by the action of an AC voltage coil. Control means are provided which are capable of storing predetermined positions of the motor drive at which engagement or disengagement of the two-speed drive is desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Assignee: Midwest Brake Bond Co.
    Inventor: Gordon M. Sommer
  • Patent number: 5257684
    Abstract: An improved coupling assembly includes a combined clutch and brake assembly. Springs are provided to urge the brake assembly to an engaged condition. A first pressure chamber holds fluid pressure to assist the springs in urging the brake assembly toward the engaged condition. A second chamber holds fluid pressure to urge the clutch assembly toward the engaged condition and to urge the brake assembly away from the engaged condition. Fluid is supplied at a relatively low pressure through the first chamber to provide for a controlled actuation of the brake assembly to the engaged condition under the combined influence of the springs and the pressure in the first chamber and to provide for the transmission of a controlled amount of braking torque when the brake assembly is engaged. Fluid is supplied to the second chamber at a higher pressure to overcome the influence of the springs and operate the clutch assembly to the engaged condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Marcus H. Collins
  • Patent number: 5249656
    Abstract: An inexpensive and small size clutch transmits variable torque. The clutch comprises a rotary shaft; a rotor coaxial to the rotary shaft; a clutch member provided for the rotor, the clutch member reversibly switching the rotor from an engaged state to a free state with respect to the rotary shaft; a biasing member for biasing the clutch member so as to cause the rotor to be in the engaged state; and a movable body being movable in the axial direction of the rotary shaft. The movable body presses the clutch member against the biasing force of the biasing member so as to cause the rotor to be in the free state when the movable body is moved by a driving device. Thus, if there are a plurality of rotors, they can be rotated by one motor. The rotor can be made free with respect to the rotary shaft by moving the movable body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1993
    Inventor: Ken Yanagisawa
  • Patent number: 5211272
    Abstract: A supporting structure for control elements of an automatic transmission including a multiple-disc clutch having a piston operated by hydraulic pressure from a control valve unit and a cylinder slidably supporting the piston, and a one-way clutch having outer and inner races and a series of sprags placed between both of the races so as to mechanically jam depending on the rotational direction of the outer race, comprises a support member comprised of the cylinder and the inner race which are integrally formed with each other, and a transmission case for fixing the support member on the inner surface thereof from the inside of the transmission case by means of bolts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1993
    Assignees: Jatco Corporation, Nissan Motor Company, Limited
    Inventors: Masahiro Asari, Shigeto Umebayashi, Kazuyoshi Iwanaga, Noboru Hattori
  • Patent number: 5194057
    Abstract: A two speed press drive using hydraulic actuated oil shear clutch/brake units is disclosed. The clutch/brake units for selecting high or low speed are in coaxial nested relationship to each other. The speed change is achieved using a planetary gear set in which all members of the planetary gear set are allowed to float thus providing exact tooth meshing for all components. The drive provides a more precise operation due to no wear of clutch plates and less heat generation in the clutch/brake units. The gearing and bearings for the unit are contained in a sealed chamber which is continuously supplied with oil which has been filtered and cooled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Assignee: Sommer Company
    Inventor: Gordon M. Sommer
  • Patent number: 5190129
    Abstract: A basic unit for driving a press is disclosed. The unit uses two hydraulic actuated oil shear brake/clutch units which are in coaxial nested relationship. The basic unit provides a core assembly which can easily be modified or adapted to be mated with any type of press drive. Once the unit has been mated to a press a continuous supply of filtered and cooled oil is provided. This supply of oil provides little or no wear on clutch plates as well as low heat generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Assignee: Midwest Brake Bond Co.
    Inventor: Gordon M. Sommer
  • Patent number: 5172797
    Abstract: An improved braking mechanism (100) is provided for use in conjunction with a change gear transmission (50) that is selectively engagable with a vehicle engine (4) by a clutch (3). Mechanism (100) has a piston (22) slidably received in a primary fluid chamber (34) that is operative to cause mechanism (100) to act as an inertia brake upon establishment of a first set of predetermined operating conditions. Piston (22) is also slidably received in a secondary fluid chamber (36) that is operative to cause mechanism (100) to act as a hill holding brake upon establishment of a second predetermined set of operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1992
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Donald M. Stout, Otis J. Olson
  • Patent number: 5154074
    Abstract: A rolling apparatus having a width adjustment function includes a horizontal sleeve roll divided into two rolls in the axial direction and shrink-fitted over an arbor. Internal threads are formed in the inner circumference of one of the divided sleeve rolls. The arbor includes fluid passages for loading a fluid under high pressure between the sleeve roll and the arbor. A width-adjusting sleeve is movably mounted over the axial end portion of the arbor and external threads for formed in the inner side portion of the width-adjusting sleeve. The external threads of the width-adjusting sleeve are threadedly engaged with the internal threads of the sleeve roll. A clutch mechanism fixes the width-adjusting sleeve in a fixed position when a roll width adjustment is performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Assignee: Sumitomo Metal Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tetsuro Haraguchi, Eiji Hirooka, Mitsuaki Watanabe
  • Patent number: 5123508
    Abstract: A housing mounts an input shaft with a clutch flange thereon, and an output shaft with an annular friction member thereon to divide the housing clutch chamber into two separate operating chambers. A brake ring has a first friction face facing the friction lining of the friction member while the friction member has a second friction lining facing the clutch flange. The friction member is axially displaceable a limited amounted by a compressible fluid for controlling the movement of the friction linings axially between the linings and into engagement with one of the brake member and the clutch flange. Each of the clutch flange and the brake ring has an annular groove concentric to the coextensive axes of the shafts that opens to the axially adjacent friction lining.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Assignee: Danfoss A/S
    Inventor: Svend P. Pedersen