Abstract: A ratchet one-way clutch assembly is disclosed. The assembly has an inner member, such as a race or shaft member, with a plurality of notches, an outer member, such as a race, stator or reactor member, with a plurality of pockets, and a plurality of pawl members positioned in the pockets for engagement with the notches. The pawl members have a pivot ridge which mates with a peak or recess in the pockets in the outer member to precisely position the pawl in the pocket. The pawl center of the mass is selectively positioned such that the pawl can have a tendency to become engaged or disengaged with the notches in the inner member. In an alternate embodiment, a spring member is utilized to provide a tilting force on the pawl members toward engagement. Garter springs, coil springs, ribbon springs, or the like can be used for this purpose. Axial retainment members, such as washers, can also be used with the present invention.

Abstract: A friction clutch having a friction plate and a pressure plate located within the friction clutch housing. The friction clutch has a backing plate that is positioned between the friction plate and the pressure plate with the backing plate being made from a harder material, such as steel, than the pressure plate which is made from a softer material, such as aluminum.

Abstract: A process for manufacturing a control assembly including a control assembly having electric windings and cooperating control elements wherein a sealant is applied to conductors and other portions extending from the assembly, the windings and other control elements being adapted to be placed in an injection mold, and wherein an encapsulation is formed by injecting plastic material into the mold, the encapsulation comprising the sealant to form a hermetic seal.

Abstract: A ratchet one-way clutch assembly is disclosed. The assembly has an inner race with a plurality of notches, an outer race with a plurality of pockets, and a plurality of pawl members positioned in the pockets for engagement with the notches. The pawl members have a pivot ridge which mates with a peak or recess in the pockets in the outer race to precisely position the pawl in the pocket. The pawl center of the mass is selectively positioned such that the pawl can have a tendency to become engaged or disengaged with the notches in the inner race. In an alternate embodiment, a spring member is utilized to provide a tilting force on the pawl members toward engagement. Garter springs, coil springs, ribbon springs, or the like can be used for this purpose. Axial retainment members, such as washers, can also be used with the present invention. One or more of the retainment (retainer) members further can have axially extending flanges for improved radial bearing capability.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a transmission includes a shifting actuator with an plurality of electric motors for shifting gears of the transmission. A load on the synchronizer is measured when shifting the gears of the transmission. The load is measured by sensors on the load fork. Compensating springs can alternatively be included. The position of the fork relative to the synchronizer mechanism is determined by a position sensor in communication with the rod or in communication with the load fork itself.

Abstract: A solenoid-type control system is disclosed, particularly for operating the locking hubs of a four-wheel drive vehicle. A solenoid valve assembly or mechanism has a coil member, a tubular member for directing air flow, and a valve mechanism at one end of the tubular member. A control circuit determines the level of energizing signal to the coil member which in turn controls the valve mechanism and the air flow passing through the tubular member. A switch mechanism has a moveable terminal which is operated by the level of energizing electrical signal.