Multiple For Same Clutch Patents (Class 192/83)
  • Patent number: 11111968
    Abstract: A clutch unit includes a clutch having a clutch spring, a motor that generates an actuation driving force for actuating the clutch, an output shaft that transfers the clutch reaction force to the clutch and receives an elastic restoring force of the clutch spring as a clutch reaction force, and a spring that inputs an assist force for assisting the actuation driving force to the output shaft. In switching the clutch from an engaged state to a disengaged state, the output shaft receives the assist force before receiving the clutch reaction force, whereas in switching the clutch from the disengaged state to the engaged state, the assist force becomes zero after the clutch reaction force becomes zero.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2021
    Assignee: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kengo Minami, Yoshiki Terashima
  • Patent number: 11009087
    Abstract: A clutch connecting/disconnecting device comprises: a clutch pedal; a clutch cylinder; a depression force transmission mechanism; and an actuator. The depression force transmission mechanism is configured to include a cylinder device. The cylinder device includes an input piston, an output piston, a first oil chamber, and a second oil chamber. A pressure receiving area on the first oil chamber side of the output piston is made equal to a pressure receiving area on the second oil chamber side of the output piston. The first oil chamber and the second oil chamber are connected via an electromagnetic valve connecting and disconnecting between the first oil chamber and the second oil chamber, and the actuator is connected to the output piston in a power transmitting manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Shinya Kitai
  • Patent number: 10611429
    Abstract: A motorcycle (300) includes a clutch lever (14), a clutch switch (15) configured to detect whether or not the clutch lever (14) is gripped, a vehicle speed sensor (16) configured to detect a vehicle speed, a hydraulic rear brake (18), a pressurizing unit (17) configured to perform a pressurizing process that applies an oil pressure to the rear brake (18), and a microcontroller (19) configured to control the pressurizing process by the pressurizing unit (17) based on results of the detection by the vehicle speed sensor (16) and the clutch switch (15).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Assignee: Renesas Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Shoji Nakashima, Masanao Yokoyama
  • Patent number: 10393264
    Abstract: An engine unit of a motorcycle has a crankcase and an overlying cylinder block. The crankcase has a magnet cover positioned outward of the cylinder block in the vehicle width direction as seen in the front-rear direction. The clutch actuator motor serving as a driving power source for a switching operation of the clutch is disposed inward of the side surface of the magnet cover in the vehicle width direction as seen in the front-rear direction. A part of the clutch actuator motor is positioned over the magnet cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hideaki Takahashi
  • Patent number: 10082183
    Abstract: A clutch control hydraulic circuit includes first and second solenoid valves connected to a control unit, the first solenoid valve is provided between a first hydraulic pathway and a downstream junction hydraulic pathway normally switches to an open state when not energized, and switches to a closed state when energized; and the second solenoid valve is provided between a second hydraulic pathway and the junction hydraulic pathway, switches to a closed state when not energized, and switches to an open state when energized. The first solenoid valve maintains its closed state when switched to a non-energized state from an energized state while pressure of the junction hydraulic pathway is higher than that of the first hydraulic pathway, and when the first solenoid valve is thus closed in its non-energized state, pressurizing the upstream side hydraulic pathway by operation of a clutch lever opens the first solenoid valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Junya Ono, Yoshiaki Nedachi
  • Patent number: 9803705
    Abstract: A hydraulic actuation device for a motor vehicle friction clutch has a manually actuatable master cylinder, that has a master pressure chamber which, in a rest position, is fluidically connected to a reservoir. The master cylinder is connected to a slave arrangement that is functionally connected to the motor vehicle friction clutch. A pressure line connects the master pressure chamber to the slave arrangement and in which incorporates an electrically actuatable valve arrangement with an electrically actuatable proportional valve and, connected in parallel, a first check valve which blocks in the direction of the master pressure chamber. A motor pump is connected, on the input side, to the reservoir and can be connected, on the output side, to the pressure line between the valve arrangement and the slave pressure chamber through a second check valve that blocks in the direction of the motor pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: FTE automotive GmbH
    Inventor: Wilhelm Heubner
  • Patent number: 8991580
    Abstract: A clutch is provided with a clutch weight assembly (10), a main driving assembly (20), a plurality of co-rotating elements (30), and a base plate (40). The main driving assembly (20) will be rotated when the power source is activated, and the co-rotating elements (30) are driven synchronously to rotate and then the clutch weight assembly (10) will be driven to rotate synchronously by the co-rotating elements (30). When the speed of the rotation is high enough and the centrifugal force of clutch weight (13) is strong enough to overcome the inward bending strength of the flexible component (14) of the clutch weight assembly (10), then the clutch weight (13) will fly outward to grab the driven part (60) to proceed the slippery engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Wangchang Wu
  • Patent number: 8708121
    Abstract: The present invention employs an electronic control device which monitors and controls the extent of engagement of a friction clutch on a motor vehicle. The control device includes a variable controller which enables the operator of the motor vehicle to pre-select the extent or degree of engagement of the friction clutch. A switch enables the operator to activate the present invention and bypass the clutch lever which would normally be used to operate the friction clutch. A gauge indicates the degree of engagement of the friction clutch and a second switch enables the operator to disconnect the electronic control from operation of the clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Inventor: Nick Caputo
  • Patent number: 8708122
    Abstract: A multiple-disk clutch has inner and outer clutch members, and a plurality of driving and driven friction disks. The driven and driving friction disks are arranged alternately. A first axially movable pressure member is biased to urge the driving and driven friction disks together in a compression direction. A first actuation system is connected to the first pressure member. The first actuation system is adapted release the compression force exerted by the first pressure member on the driving and driven friction disks. A second actuation system includes a second pressure member and is axially movable to compress the driving and driven friction disks together. The driving and driven friction disks are disposed between the first and second pressure members. The second actuation system is a centrifugal actuation system. The first actuation system is connected to and is axially movable with the second pressure member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: BRP-Powertrain GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Fritz Einboeck
  • Patent number: 8695775
    Abstract: A centrifugal clutch is provided with a clutch housing, a clutch boss, a plate group, a pressure plate, a roller retainer, a disc spring, a pressing body and a clutch release mechanism. The pressure plate is displaced on one side in the direction of an axis line and configured to directly or indirectly press the plate group and transition the same into a pressed-contact state. The disc spring extends in a direction of being inclined to the direction of the axis line from a first end portion toward a second end portion in a centrifugal direction. The first end portion of the disc spring is directly or indirectly fixed to the clutch housing. The second end portion of the disc spring directly or indirectly biases the roller retainer toward the plate group.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshinori Inomori, Yousuke Ishida
  • Patent number: 8545354
    Abstract: A torque transfer apparatus for a transmission includes a rotatable friction clutch pack including a first friction plate that is contiguous to a second friction plate, with the first friction plate coupled to a first transmission element and the second friction plate coupled to a second transmission element. A Belleville spring device is configured to urge the first friction plate to engage the second friction plate to effect torque transfer therebetween when a hydraulically-activated piston is deactivated. The hydraulically-activated piston is configured to urge the second periphery of the Belleville spring device away from mechanical contact of the first friction plate when the hydraulically-activated piston is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Gary L. Jones, Farzad Samie, Andrew L. Bartos
  • Patent number: 8522942
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are generally related to methods and devices for use with vehicles that include a clutch, a transmission, a slave cylinder, a master cylinder and an engine. In accordance with an embodiment, a device includes a primary piston configured to urge hydraulic fluid into a slave cylinder, when the primary piston is moved from a first position to a second position, to thereby disengage the clutch from the transmission. The primary piston is normally movable from the first position to the second position by hydraulic actuation of a master cylinder. A secondary piston is configured to selectively apply force to the primary piston, to move the primary piston from the first position to the second position, when the secondary piston is selectively actuated. The secondary piston can be selectively actuated by a secondary fluid, such as a compressed gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventors: Matthew E. Bell, David B. Bell
  • Patent number: 8464853
    Abstract: An apparatus and system are disclosed for automatic centrifugal engagement of a pressure plate. The apparatus includes a center clutch coupled rotationally with a transmission input shaft, a clutch basket coupled rotationally with an engine output shaft, and a clutch pack disposed between the center clutch and the clutch basked. The clutch pack includes a plurality of drive plates rotationally coupled to the center clutch and a plurality of friction plates rotationally coupled with the clutch basket. The apparatus also includes a pressure plate assembly that is spring-loaded and disposed between the center clutch and the clutch basket. The pressure plate assembly comprises a pressure plate, a spring plate, and a spring disposed between the pressure plate and the spring plate. The system includes the apparatus and a manual override capable of use with cable actuated and hydraulic actuated clutch levers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Rekluse Motorsports, Inc
    Inventors: Albert J Youngwerth, Daniel S Youngwerth, Sean G Brown
  • Patent number: 8317009
    Abstract: According to some preferred embodiments, a clutch housing (46) of a clutch (2) has a bottom portion (46a) in a closed-end cylindrical shape, a plurality of arms (46d) extending along an axial direction from the bottom portion (46a) and provided along a circumferential direction centering on an axial center (C) of the clutch shaft (33), and a plurality of gaps (46e) formed between adjacent arms (46d). Off-springs (71) are arranged in the gaps and extend along the axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshinori Inomori, Yousuke Ishida
  • Patent number: 8307970
    Abstract: A clutch assembly for a hybrid vehicle includes a clutch assembly including a first housing comprising a first clutch, a first clutch actuator and a second housing having the first clutch actuator at least partially disposed therein so that said first clutch actuator selectively engages the first clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Inventors: Douglas Scott Burchett, William S. Reed, Kenneth D. Schoch
  • Patent number: 8302755
    Abstract: A clutch hydraulic mechanism wherein the positional relationship between two cylinders is not varied, and a compact structure can be achieved. A see-saw member for transmitting motive power is provided between a second release cylinder and a first master cylinder and the first master cylinder and the second release cylinder are formed in the same cylinder block. This eliminates the need for adjusting the positions of the first master cylinder and the second release cylinder. In addition, it is possible to dispose the first master cylinder and the second release cylinder close to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Koshi Hayakawa, Kanau Iwashita, Yoshihisa Ieda, Katsumi Sahoda, Akihiko Tomoda
  • Patent number: 8297425
    Abstract: A motorcycle clutch utilizes a reduced clutch spring load with a corresponding reduction in lever effort by an operator to disengage the clutch. At higher speeds, and hence engine torque, the clutch clamp load increases by means of a centrifugal mechanism, supplementing the clamp load provided by the clutch springs, until a predetermined speed level is reached, at which point the centrifugal load is limited, and remains almost constant at all engine speed levels above the predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Advanced Innovational Machinery Corporation
    Inventor: Philip S. le Roux
  • Patent number: 8286774
    Abstract: An apparatus and system are disclosed for automatic centrifugal engagement of a pressure plate. The apparatus includes a clutch basket, a clutch pack capable of coupling the clutch basket with a center clutch, a pressure plate axially moveable toward the clutch pack, and a top plate coupled to a rotating hub. The rotating hub is configured to pass through an opening in the pressure plate. The apparatus also includes at least one centrifugal actuating member disposed between the pressure plate and the top plate, and at least one spring disposed between the rotating hub and the center clutch to bias the pressure plate relative to the top plate. The system includes the apparatus and a rotating hub lifter coupled with the rotating hub and configured to position the rotating hub in one of a manual clutch mode position and an automatic clutch mode position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventors: Albert J. Youngwerth, Michael E. Dougherty, Zane A. Patterson, Sean G. Brown, Daniel S. Youngwerth
  • Publication number: 20120255828
    Abstract: A mechanism for changing the operating condition of a shifting element having two shifting element halves, which can either be functionally connected to connect two components or disengaged to break the connection between the components. The mechanism includes a drive machine and a drive converter unit in the area of which rotary drive motion of the drive machine can be converted into a translational actuation movement of the shifting element. A spring device is associated with the drive converter unit, whose spring force assists with actuating the shifting element in the engaging direction. The spring device includes an approximately circular flat spring element which, in at least one area of the drive converter unit, is in contact with at least one cam, whose stress condition varies as a function of an operating condition of the drive converter unit and is designed to be rotationally fixed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Detlef BAASCH, Ulrich MAIR
  • Patent number: 8276732
    Abstract: A clutch device is configured to include a clutch mechanism, a clutch actuator operatively engaging and disengaging the clutch mechanism, a clutch lever, and an assist pressure generator which generates assist hydraulic pressure by driving an electric motor. The assist hydraulic pressure is supplied to the clutch actuator to operatively engage and disengage the clutch mechanism. The clutch device further includes a first turning angle sensor which detects the turn operation angle of the clutch lever, a control unit which controllably drives the electric motor based on the turning operation amount of the clutch lever and adjusts the driving force generating gain characteristic of the electric motor, and a gain adjustment knob which variably sets the gain characteristic. The clutch device makes it possible to changeably set the magnitude of an assist force of an assist device according to a rider's preference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kanau Iwashita, Yoshiaki Tsukada, Yoshihisa Ieda, Akihiko Tomoda, Akihiro Iimuro
  • Patent number: 8256597
    Abstract: A cam face 81 and a cam face 181 are formed in such a manner that an angular velocity ? represented by the following equation increases when a parameter R increases and the angular velocity ? decreases when the parameter R decreases, ?2=(1/m)·[F(tan ?+tan ?)/R], where the mass of the centrifugal weight (41) is m, the revolution radius that is the distance from the rotation center (0) of the centrifugal weight (41) to the center of gravity of the centrifugal weight (41) is R, the angle formed by a radial line (L0) and a tangent line (L1) of a point of the cam face (81) being in contact with the centrifugal weight (41) is ?, the angle formed by a radial line (L0) and a tangent line (L2) of a point in the cam face (181) being in contact with the centrifugal weight (41) is ?, and the urging force of a Belleville spring that urges a roller retainer (78) is F.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshinori Inomori, Yousuke Ishida
  • Publication number: 20120217117
    Abstract: A hydrostatic actuator, in particular, a hydrostatic clutch actuator, having a master cylinder including a housing and a piston that is axially displaceable in the housing and applies pressure to a pressure chamber, a gearing mechanism converting a rotary drive into an axial movement, and an electric motor driving the gearing mechanism to rotate and including a stator and a rotor, where the pressure chamber is arranged axially between the piston and the electric motor with respect to an axis of rotation of the electric motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES AG & CO. KG
    Inventors: Matthias Gramann, Markus Kneissler, Julian Botiov
  • Publication number: 20120205215
    Abstract: A clutch device used to couple/decouple a reciprocating force of a drive member to/from a needle bar in a sewing machine includes an actuating lever actuated by an electromechanical unit to be pivotable between an idle position to disengage from an actuated end of a clutch lever so as to leave a grasp end of the clutch lever in a coupled state, where the grasp end is engaged with a coupled portion disposed on a drive member, thereby transmit the reciprocating force to the needle bar, and an actuating position to be in pressing engagement with the actuated end so as to displace the grasp end to a decoupled state, where the grasp end is disengaged from the coupled portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: ZENG HSING INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shui-Chun TSENG, Hsueh-Hua Liu, Ching-Lin Huang
  • Patent number: 8221279
    Abstract: An actuator assembly for selectively actuating a clutch includes a first actuator ring that is moveable between a first axial position and a second axial position along a rotational axis of the clutch, and a second actuator ring that is slidably received within the first actuator ring, and that is moveable between a third axial position and a fourth axial position by the first actuator ring. The first actuator ring receives a first actuation force, and when in the second axial position, transfers the first actuation force to the second actuator ring. The second actuator ring selectively receives the first actuation force and a second actuation force, and when in the fourth axial position, transfers one of the first and second actuation forces to the clutch. The actuator assembly is included with a transmission and actuates a clutch that provides an input to a planetary gear set of the transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventors: William S. Reed, Kevin C. Beckner
  • Patent number: 8210979
    Abstract: A normally-engaged clutch is provided having a friction-element with a first side and an opposing second side, a first plate configured for pressing against the friction-element on the first side, and a second plate configured for pressing against the friction-element on the second side. The clutch also includes a biasing device configured to apply a first force to the second plate for pressing the second plate against the friction-element to engage the clutch. Additionally, the clutch includes an apply piston for applying a second force to the first plate, and a release piston for applying a third force to the second plate. The clutch is disengaged when the second plate is pushed away from the friction-element by the third force in the absence of the second force, and is engaged when the first plate is pressed against the friction-element by the second force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Gary L. Jones, Farzad Samie, Chunhao J. Lee, Kumaraswamy V. Hebbale, Andrew L. Bartos, John I. Manole
  • Patent number: 8210333
    Abstract: A clutch structure, constructed without a one-way clutch, remains engaged until the input side rotational speed becomes relatively low. A pressure plate presses a group of plates directly or indirectly by moving in the direction of an axis, bringing the group of plates into a press contact state. An input side press body turns around the axis with the rotation of a clutch housing, presses the pressure plate to the side of the group of plates by centrifugal force generated during the turning, and moves in a direction away from the axis. A roller retainer presses the group of plates directly or indirectly by moving in the direction of the axis, bringing the group of plates into a press contact state. An output side press body turns around the axis with the rotation of an output side clutch member, presses the roller retainer to the side of the group of plates by centrifugal force generated during the turning, and moves in a direction away from the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshinori Inomori, Yousuke Ishida
  • Patent number: 8201677
    Abstract: A clutch hydraulic system for a vehicle wherein it is possible to independently operate two systems, to increase the degree of freedom in designing, and to achieve a reduction in cost. A seesaw member for transmitting motive power is provided between a second release cylinder and a first master cylinder, the first master cylinder and a second hydraulic oil pipe communicate with each other through a large diameter hole and a small diameter hole provided as communicating passages through which oil flows. A reservoir tank is provided for reserving the oil for controlling the amounts of the oil in the hydraulic oil passage on the side of the first master cylinder and the amount of the oil in the hydraulic oil passage on the side of the second release cylinder is connected to a second master cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Koshi Hayakawa, Kanau Iwashita, Yoshihisa Ieda, Katsumi Sahoda, Akihiko Tomoda
  • Patent number: 8191695
    Abstract: The invention relates to an actuating mechanism for engaging and disengaging a separating clutch of a single-clutch or multiple-clutch transmission, which has a housing, for a motor vehicle, having: an actuating drive; a cam segment which has a curved recess and which is rotatable about a first bearing, said first bearing being fixed with respect to the housing, and which can be rotated by the actuating drive in an engagement rotational direction or a disengagement rotational direction; and an engagement fork which is rotatable about a second bearing, said second bearing being fixed with respect to the housing, and which is coupled at one side of the fork to the cam segment by means of a cam follower and which can be coupled on an opposite side of the fork to the separating clutch in such a way that the separating clutch is closed in the event of a rotation of the cam segment in the engagement rotational direction and the separating clutch is opened in the event of a rotation of the cam segment in the disenga
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: GETRAG Getriebe- und Zahnradfabrik Hermann Hagenmeyer GmbH & Cie KG
    Inventors: Jan Hasenkamp, Kuno Fronius
  • Patent number: 8162121
    Abstract: A clutch actuator device of a saddle-ride-type vehicle includes: a first master cylinder which is generating an oil pressure; a first release cylinder which is performing an engagement/disengagement operation of a clutch upon reception of the oil pressure transmitted from the first master cylinder by way of a first hydraulic pipe; and an actuator which is driving the first master cylinder in automatically performing the engagement/disengagement operation of the clutch. The clutch actuator device includes a seesaw member which constitutes a power transmission member for transmitting an operational force of a clutch lever or a drive force of the actuator to the first master cylinder, and a seesaw member rotational angle sensor which is detecting an operation quantity of the seesaw member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Koshi Hayakawa, Yoshihisa Ieda, Akihiko Tomoda
  • Patent number: 8087504
    Abstract: A friction clutch includes clutch housing having a friction plate, a clutch boss having a clutch plate, a pressure plate, a sub clutch, and a power-assist mechanism. The power-assist mechanism receives torque from the pressure plate when the clutch is disengaged and converts the torque into a force for moving the pressure plate in a direction which separates the pressure plate from a plate group. A cam surface, which supports and guides one or more roller weights, is formed on the pressure plate. The one or more roller weights move outward in a radial direction by a movement amount according to the magnitude of centrifugal force and press the pressure plate toward the plate group with force according to the movement amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshinori Inomori, Yousuke Ishida
  • Patent number: 8037985
    Abstract: A centrifugal clutch for an engine includes a pressure plate that presses a friction plate into a clutch plate is provided. The clutch may include a plurality of roller weights that move on respective cam surfaces in a radially outward direction relative to the pressure plate in accordance with the magnitude of a centrifugal force generated by rotation of a drive side rotating body. The pressure plate presses the friction plate into the clutch plate with a force corresponding to the amount of movement. An elastic member is operatively coupled to the pressure plate to cause the friction and clutch plates to stay in pressed contact even when the engine is in a stopped state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshinori Inomori, Yousuke Ishida
  • Publication number: 20110245035
    Abstract: A normally-engaged clutch is provided having a friction-element with a first side and an opposing second side, a first plate configured for pressing against the friction-element on the first side, and a second plate configured for pressing against the friction-element on the second side. The clutch also includes a biasing device configured to apply a first force to the second plate for pressing the second plate against the friction-element to engage the clutch. Additionally, the clutch includes an apply piston for applying a second force to the first plate, and a release piston for applying a third force to the second plate. The clutch is disengaged when the second plate is pushed away from the friction-element by the third force in the absence of the second force, and is engaged when the first plate is pressed against the friction-element by the second force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Gary L. Jones, Farzad Samie, Chunhao J. Lee, Kumaraswamy V. Hebbale, Andrew L. Bartos, John I. Manole
  • Patent number: 8002099
    Abstract: A clutch operation mechanism wherein when a clutch is disengaged and engaged by manual operation or by operation of an actuator the one operation does not affect the other operation. The clutch operation mechanism includes a lever side lost mechanism which is disposed between a clutch lever and a turn-operating force transmitting member for interrupting, from the clutch lever side, an operated-force applied from the turn-operating force transmitting member by driving the electric motor when the clutch lever is not operated. A motor side lost mechanism is disposed between the electric motor and the turn-operating force transmitting member and interrupts, from the side of the electric motor, the operated-force applied from the turn-operating force transmitting member by operating the clutch lever when the electric motor is not operated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Koshi Hayakawa, Kanau Iwashita, Yoshihisa Ieda, Akihiko Tomoda, Katsumi Sahoda
  • Patent number: 7980989
    Abstract: A double clutch of a double clutch transmission is described and illustrated, and can include an inner clutch which is connected to an inner shaft and has an inner disk carrier for inner disks; an outer clutch which is connected to a hollow shaft arranged co-axially with respect to the inner shaft and has an outer disk carrier for outer disks; and a drive member arranged on a drive shaft and having inner and outer drive disks which can be operatively connected to the inner or outer disks and which form an inner clutch pack or an outer clutch pack together with the disks; wherein a common disk carrier for both clutch packs is attached to the drive member; the disk carrier includes two hubs associated with the clutch packs and engaged within one another; and each hub comprises a plurality of teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Hoerbiger Antriebstechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Johann Oswald, Filip De Maziere, Didier Genouw, Hendrik Pecceu
  • Patent number: 7954617
    Abstract: A motorcycle clutch for a drive connection between an engine and a transmission of a motorcycle is provided, and is some embodiments includes a manually operable clutch lever, engaging inner and outer disks, and a disengaging mechanism operable by means of the clutch lever for a pressure body which is spring-loaded by at least one clutch spring assembly for pressurization of the inner and outer disks, wherein a servo mechanism for reducing the operating force of the clutch lever is provided, the servo mechanism being effectively connected to the intake section of the engine and utilizing the negative intake pressure in the intake section to build up a servo force acting against the direction of the spring load of the clutch spring assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Hoerbiger Antriebstechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Ahmed Sayhoun, Falk Nickel, Georg Ruprecht
  • Patent number: 7905339
    Abstract: Operation mechanism of a working machine includes a main clutch lever pivotably provided on an operating handle, and a pivot member operable in interlocked relation to pivoting operation of the main clutch lever. The pivot member pivots about a pivot point differing in position from a pivot point of the main clutch lever. When fully pulled by pivoting operation of the main clutch lever, the cable member is located nearest to the pivot point of the pivot member, so that force reverse-pivoting the pivot member is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomoki Ito, Kazuyoshi Miyahara, Nobuo Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 7891261
    Abstract: A clutch actuation system for engaging and disengaging a clutch includes a hydraulically-actuated piston movable in response to hydraulic pressure to an apply position in which the piston is operable to engage the clutch. An electro mechanical actuator is movable in response to electric power to contact the piston at the apply position such that the clutch is maintained in an engaged state by the actuator, thereby permitting hydraulic pressure to be released. A method of controlling engagement of the clutch is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Vijay A. Neelakantan
  • Publication number: 20110005886
    Abstract: An actuating device for applying actuating forces in a friction clutch device for engaging and disengaging a friction clutch assembly of the friction clutch device. The torque transmission device comprises the actuating device for transmission of torque between a drive unit and a transmission which also includes the friction clutch device. A method for installing a torque transmission device of this type. Various aspects relate to setting of a pre-load on a bearing of the actuating device, setting an over-dead-point configuration for a compensation spring associated with at least one rotary member of the actuating device, setting a rotation movement range for the rotary member and/or an axial movement range for an actuating element which can be displaced axially by rotation movement imparted to the rotary member, and producing either a normally engaged or disengaged characteristic in a normally-engaged or normally-disengaged friction clutch assembly with the compensation spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Peter Fenn, Andreas Ratte, Klaus Reuter, Ralf Steinfeldt, Matthias Reisch, Juergen Wafzig
  • Patent number: 7832538
    Abstract: A modularly designed mechanical or pressure activated power coupling and complete disconnect assembly independently mounted or directly coupled to a bell housing mount on a drive engine or powered side equipment has provisions for coupling the driveline power via an integrated torsional coupling, drive plate or other mechanism to the rotating member, engine, and powered side equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Cotta Transmission Company
    Inventor: Bryan Robinson
  • Patent number: 7828131
    Abstract: A clutch-manipulation assist mechanism of a vehicle clutch mechanism is capable of disconnecting power of an engine and is provided to a power transmission path which transmits the power of the engine to a rear wheel. The clutch-manipulation assist mechanism includes a push rod member which is arranged near the clutch mechanism and which is movable in the axial direction interlockingly with a power cutoff of the clutch mechanism due to the manipulation of a clutch lever by a rider. An axial movement of the push rod member is assisted by an actuator in response to a detection of the clutch lever manipulation by the rider using a stroke sensor, thus reducing a manipulation force of the clutch lever. A detection lug of the stroke sensor detects a movement quantity of a shaft end of the push rod member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kanau Iwashita, Atsuko Niwano
  • Patent number: 7686148
    Abstract: A clutch spring kit that is particularly suited to replacing a standard motorcycle pressure plate in a diaphragm spring biased clutch assembly. The clutch assembly is activated by centrifugal force acting on spherical deflection elements. A plurality of pocket elements are generally arranged in an annular array formed in the spring side of a clutch pressure plate. The pocket elements are generally disposed radially inwardly of and adjacent to an upstanding lip element on the first side of the pressure plate. The pocket elements include ramps that extend within the pocket elements generally outwardly toward the lip element and angularly upwardly towards the spring side. A spherical deflection element, such as a ball bearing, is received in each of the pocket elements for generally radial movement along the ramp. A diaphragm spring, the periphery of which is confined by the lip element, is in spring biasing association with the first side of the pressure plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Inventor: Steven Yetzke
  • Patent number: 7665592
    Abstract: A friction clutch assembly connects driving and driven shafts and has a pressure plate axially moveable between an engaged position transmitting torque from the driving shaft to the driven shaft and a disengaged position. A cover is mounted on the flywheel and a spring is mounted on the cover. The spring urges the pressure plate into the engaged position and compression of the spring allows for movement of the pressure plate to the disengaged position. At least one lever assembly includes a housing mounted on the cover and a lever pivotable in the housing to apply an axial force urging the pressure plate to the engaged position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Ace Manufacturing & Parts Company
    Inventors: James Fox, Carl E. Ijames
  • Patent number: 7591358
    Abstract: An electro-hydraulic control system for a vehicle clutch, that operates in both a manual and an automatic mode. The invention provides a way of switching between operating modes not only when the clutch is engaged, but at any time while the vehicle is operating, smoothly and without shock, using a system that contains only one hydraulic circuit and reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Inventor: Dean Pick
  • Publication number: 20090211868
    Abstract: A centrifugal clutch for an engine includes a pressure plate that presses a friction plate into a clutch plate is provided. The clutch may include a plurality of roller weights that move on respective cam surfaces in a radially outward direction relative to the pressure plate in accordance with the magnitude of a centrifugal force generated by rotation of a drive side rotating body. The pressure plate presses the friction plate into the clutch plate with a force corresponding to the amount of movement. An elastic member is operatively coupled to the pressure plate to cause the friction and clutch plates to stay in pressed contact even when the engine is in a stopped state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Toshinori Inomori, Yousuke Ishida
  • Patent number: 7516825
    Abstract: A clutch mechanism has rotational driving force outputting members connected to a rotational driving force input system, rotational driving force receiving members connected to a rotational driving force output system, and a pressing mechanism for pressing the rotational driving force outputting members against the rotational driving force receiving members to keep the rotational driving force outputting members and the rotational driving force receiving members in contact with each other. The pressing mechanism has a constant load applying means and a variable load applying means for together generating the pressing force which brings and keeps the rotational driving force outputting members and the rotational driving force receiving members in contact with each other. A value of a load generated by the constant load applying means being set to be less than the maximum non-slide limit, i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Shigematsu Co.
    Inventor: Takeshi Shigematsu
  • Publication number: 20090057090
    Abstract: A clutch hydraulic mechanism wherein the positional relationship between two cylinders is not varied, and a compact structure can be achieved. A see-saw member for transmitting motive power is provided between a second release cylinder and a first master cylinder and the first master cylinder and the second release cylinder are formed in the same cylinder block. This eliminates the need for adjusting the positions of the first master cylinder and the second release cylinder. In addition, it is possible to dispose the first master cylinder and the second release cylinder close to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventors: Koshi HAYAKAWA, Kanau Iwashita, Yoshihisa Ieda, Katsumi Sahoda, Akihiko Tomoda
  • Patent number: 7478717
    Abstract: A clutch control assembly includes a clutch switches over a connected and disengaged state between an engine and a driven member. A first hydraulic pressure generating member is provided for generating hydraulic pressure for switching between a connected and disengaged state of the clutch according to an operation of a vehicle driver. A second hydraulic pressure generating member, independent from the first hydraulic pressure generating member, is provided for automatically generating hydraulic pressure for switching between a connected and disengaged state of the clutch according to drive conditions of the vehicle. A first piston with one side facing the first hydraulic pressure chamber linked to the first hydraulic pressure generating member and a second piston with one side facing the second hydraulic pressure chamber linked to the second hydraulic pressure generating member independent from the first hydraulic pressure generating member are interlock so as to be linked to the clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsuhiro Kunikiyo, Fuyuki Kobayashi, Kohsaku Murohashi
  • Publication number: 20080308380
    Abstract: An apparatus and system are disclosed for automatic centrifugal engagement of a pressure plate. The apparatus includes a center clutch coupled rotationally with a transmission input shaft, a clutch basket coupled rotationally with an engine output shaft, and a clutch pack disposed between the center clutch and the clutch basked. The clutch pack includes a plurality of drive plates rotationally coupled to the center clutch and a plurality of friction plates rotationally coupled with the clutch basket. The apparatus also includes a pressure plate assembly that is spring-loaded and disposed between the center clutch and the clutch basket. The pressure plate assembly comprises a pressure plate, a spring plate, and a spring disposed between the pressure plate and the spring plate. The system includes the apparatus and a manual override capable of use with cable actuated and hydraulic actuated clutch levers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2008
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventors: Albert J. Youngwerth, Danny S. Youngwerth, Sean Brown
  • Patent number: 7451864
    Abstract: A clutch actuator is provided to stabilize a state of clutch engagement. A rotating member is rotationally driven on a rotating shaft by a motor. A clutch operating member includes two ends. One end of the clutch operating member is pushed by a push force of a clutch spring and the other end is pivotally supported on the rotating member by a shaft. The clutch operating member disengages the clutch when moved in a direction against the force of the clutch spring. An auxiliary biasing mechanism also acts on the rotating member. One end of the auxiliary biasing member is supported on a vehicle side and the other end is pivotally supported on the rotating member by a shaft. The auxiliary biasing member can include a compressible coil spring. The rotating member rotates in a first direction to move the clutch operating member in a direction of clutch engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Makoto Kosugi
  • Patent number: 7428955
    Abstract: A clutch mechanism has rotational driving force outputting members connected to a rotational driving force input system, rotational driving force receiving members connected to a rotational driving force output system, and a pressing mechanism for pressing the rotational driving force outputting members against the rotational driving force receiving members to keep the rotational driving force outputting members and the rotational driving force receiving members in contact with each other. The pressing mechanism has a constant load applying means and a variable load applying means for together generating the pressing force which brings and keeps the rotational driving force outputting members and the rotational driving force receiving members in contact with each other. A value of a load generated by the constant load applying means being set to be less than the maximum non-slide limit, i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Shigematsu Co.
    Inventor: Takeshi Shigematsu