Abstract: A method for effecting efficient engagement of a clutch to interconnect an engine and an implement which monitors operational parameters of the engine and implement and determines from those operational parameters at least two ramp rates for the application of hydraulic pressure to the clutch. The hydraulic pressure is applied at a first ramp rate to the clutch for a first period and applied at a second ramp rate to the clutch for a second period. A determination is made from the relationship between the input and output speeds of the clutch whether the clutch is fully engaged. If it is not fully engaged, clutch pressure is released and the ramp rates are reevaluated and reset. They are then sequentially applied for the first and second periods. The process repeats until full engagement is achieved or a determination is made that full engagement cannot be achieved.

Abstract: A wind turbine power generating system, including a wind turbine connected to a speed-increasing gearbox having an output shaft. An electrical generator having an input shaft is also provided. A coupling interconnects the input and output shafts. The coupling includes a high torsional wind-up and/or displacement ability in parallel with a high frictional slip ability, such that during normal operation there is little or no frictional slippage and during a transient torque reversal the loads in the turbine drive system are decreased, thus decreasing the impact loads on the gearbox bearings.

Abstract: A wind turbine power generating system, including a wind turbine connected to a speed-increasing gearbox having an output shaft. An electrical generator having an input shaft is also provided. A coupling interconnects the input and output shafts. The coupling includes a high torsional wind-up and/or displacement ability in parallel with a high frictional slip ability, such that during normal operation there is little or no frictional slippage and during a transient torque reversal the loads in the turbine drive system are decreased, thus decreasing the impact loads on the gearbox bearings.

Abstract: An electromagnetic-released, multi-disc, enclosed safety brake for primary use in offshore marine winch applications includes a stationary coil housing that encompasses springs that apply pressure to an armature, a pair of separator plates, three friction plates and a stationary endplate. The multi-disc brake is released by means of a DC voltage applied to the brake coil. The excited coil generates an electromagnetic force that attracts the armature across an air-gap thus reducing the spring force applied to the disc pack. The brake is applied when the DC voltage is removed from the brake coil. Various structures and methodologies for reducing vibrations in the brake are also provided.

Abstract: A self-contained clutch for diesel engines for off-highway implementation is provided. A stationary friction disc, pressure plate and endplate sandwich a pair of rotating separator discs. Attenuation of vibration damping of the rotator discs may be achieved by a centrifugal weight. A pulse-width-modulated DC motor or valve is employed in association with a hydraulic actuator to control pressure to the clutch piston. An RFID tag uniquely identifies the nature and parameters of the clutch itself and is associated with the clutch such that the controller can most efficiently operate the clutch. Heat is dissipated by an oil pump servicing the support bearings and/or by the integration of a centrifugal fan into the heat disc stack.