Abstract: A force transmitting assembly is operable between a plurality of engaged conditions and a disengaged condition in which the force transmitting assembly is ineffective to transmit force. The force transmitting assembly includes a primary piston assembly having annular radially inner and outer piston areas against which fluid pressure is applied to vary the magnitude of the force which can be transmitted by the force transmitting assembly. The force transmitting assembly also includes a secondary piston assembly having radially inner and outer piston areas against which fluid pressure is applied to vary the magnitude of the force which can be transmitted by the force transmitting assembly. In one embodiment of the invention, the secondary piston assembly includes two separate pistons. In another embodiment of the embodiment of the invention, the secondary piston assembly includes a single piston having annular radially inner, radially outer, and intermediate piston areas against which fluid pressure is applied.

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.