Abstract: A controllable one-way clutch assembly having an actuator module equipped with a solenoid actuator, an active strut moveable in response to energization of the solenoid actuator from a released position to a locked position, a strut spring biasing the active strut toward its released position, and an indirect strut actuation arrangement between the solenoid actuator and the active strut. The indirect strut actuation arrangement includes an intermediate actuation component having a first lug establishing a coupling interface with a translatable plunger of the solenoid actuator and a second lug establishing an engagement interface with the active strut.

Abstract: A controllable one-way clutch assembly having an actuator module equipped with a solenoid actuator, an active strut moveable in response to energization of the solenoid actuator from a released position to a locked position, a strut spring biasing the active strut toward its released position, and an indirect strut actuation arrangement between the solenoid actuator and the active strut. The indirect strut actuation arrangement includes an intermediate actuation component having a first lug establishing a coupling interface with a translatable plunger of the solenoid actuator and a second lug establishing an engagement interface with the active strut.

Abstract: A starting system for a vehicle including an internal combustion engine having a crankshaft includes a pinion gear driven by a starter motor. A drive plate includes a set of teeth in constant meshed engagement with the pinion gear. A one-way clutch assembly is adapted to drivingly interconnect the drive plate and the crankshaft. The clutch assembly includes an inner race adapted to be fixed for rotation with the crankshaft, an outer race fixed for rotation with the drive plate, and a plurality of rollers positioned radially therebetween. One of the inner and outer races includes circumferentially spaced apart cam surfaces. The clutch assembly also includes a cage for positioning the rollers in a circumferentially spaced apart alignment with the cam surfaces and a roller bearing assembly positioned axially offset from the one-way clutch rollers to rotatably support the outer race on the inner race.

Abstract: Components and methods for forming components utilizing ultra-high strength steel are provided. A first method includes the steps of providing a blank of ultra-high strength steel, cold forming the blank into an unfinished component, and applying a coating to the outer surface of the unfinished component that is adapted to inhibit the formation of a ferrite soft layer on the component during heating thereof. A second method includes the steps of providing a blank of heavy gauge thickness ultra-high strength steel, cold forming the blank into a finished component, heating the finished component and quenching the component without the use of tooling.

Abstract: A starting system for a vehicle including an internal combustion engine having a crankshaft includes a pinion gear driven by a starter motor. A drive plate includes a set of teeth in constant meshed engagement with the pinion gear. A one-way clutch assembly is adapted to drivingly interconnect the drive plate and the crankshaft. The clutch assembly includes an inner race adapted to be fixed for rotation with the crankshaft, an outer race fixed for rotation with the drive plate, and a plurality of rollers positioned radially therebetween. One of the inner and outer races includes circumferentially spaced apart cam surfaces. The clutch assembly also includes a cage for positioning the rollers in a circumferentially spaced apart alignment with the cam surfaces and a roller bearing assembly positioned axially offset from the one-way clutch rollers to rotatably support the outer race on the inner race.

Abstract: A differential comprises a die formed housing having a spherical inner volume. A subassembly is disposed in the spherical inner volume of the housing. A die formed cover is fixedly attached to the die formed housing for enclosing the subassembly with the housing. A ring gear is connected to the housing for transmitting torque from a prime mover through the differential. The differential is both light and strong and reasonably inexpensive to manufacture.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for making a differential housing having a ring gear integrally formed therein. The method includes the steps of forging a conical frustum from a steel rod; deforming the frustum between upper and lower die halves of a tool to produce a differential housing having an annular rim; and forging a plurality of teeth in the annular rim defining the rim gear.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for making a differential housing having a ring gear integrally formed therein. The method includes the steps of forging a conical frustum from a steel rod; deforming the frustum between upper and lower die halves of a tool to produce a differential housing having an annular rim; and forging a plurality of teeth in the annular rim defining the rim gear.