Clutch And Gear Patents (Class 192/20)
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Patent number: 7631737Abstract: To achieve automatic setting into coincidence, the following are provided: a mechanical tension elements arranged to act on an upstream member (9) substantially along the axis (X) along which approach elements (13) act, but in the opposite direction; elements (37) for constraining the member (9) in rotation with a mechanical angular guide element; and phase-shifter elements (47) for shifting the phase of the upstream member (9) relative to the downstream member (10) by sliding against a reference that is stationary in rotation relative to the downstream member (10).Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2006Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignees: Eurocopter, ArtusInventors: Charles Louis, Jean-Luc Leman, Patrick Quesne
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Publication number: 20090250301Abstract: The invention relates to a clutch unit, which has two subunits. One subunit is connected to the output shaft of an engine, and the other subunit is pre-mounted on the side of the transmission. Both subunits are coupled to one another via an axial plug-type connection, which includes meshing first profiles and second profiles.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2009Publication date: October 8, 2009Applicant: LUK LAMELLEN UND KUPPLUNGSBAU BETEILIGUNGS KGInventors: Philippe MIH, Bin ZHOU, Matthias ZINK
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Publication number: 20090173590Abstract: An electromagnetic gear-clutch assembly (1) is disclosed. The device comprises a gear (10) having grooves (10c) that open inwardly toward the axis and extend axially. A hub (12) is located within the gear (10) where it is capable of rotating within the gear (10). The hub (12) has grooves (12k) that open outwardly away from the axis and extend axially. Keys (17) are located within the grooves (12k) of the hub (12) and are capable of moving radially toward and away from the axis, the arrangement being such that when the keys (17) are permitted to move away from the axis, at least one will enter one of the grooves (10c) in the gear (10) to couple the gear (10) and huh (12) so that they will rotate in unison. The device also comprises an actuator assembly (3) for effecting radial displacement of the keys (17).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2005Publication date: July 9, 2009Inventor: Xaiolan Ai
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Patent number: 7555968Abstract: A transmission device between a primary drive shaft and an output shaft includes a housing inside of which is housed at least partially a reduction gear mechanism that consists of an engine-driving element, meshed with a driven element, adapted to be coupled to or uncoupled from the output shaft by a clutch mechanism that is activated/deactivated by axial movement of the gearwheel on the shaft. The clutch mechanism, retracted to the disengaged position, assumes the shape of a plate that is integral in rotation with the output shaft. The plate has on its face opposite the gearwheel, ramps designed to work during the engagement phase with ramps that are supported by the gearwheel.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2006Date of Patent: July 7, 2009Assignee: France ReducteursInventor: Robert Blanchard
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Publication number: 20090101429Abstract: A steering apparatus (10) for turning steerable wheels of a vehicle in response to rotation of a vehicle steering wheel (12) comprises a first assembly (16), a second assembly (26), and a mechanism (108). The first assembly is operatively coupled to the steering wheel and includes components (18, 22) for monitoring applied torque and angular rotation of the steering wheel. The second assembly includes a steering gear (34) and components (28, 30) for actuating the steering gear in response to the monitored rotation. The mechanism, when in a first mode of operation provides a mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the steering gear. The mechanism when in the second mode of operation, providing a mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the steering gear sufficient to enable manual actuation of the steering gear and permit actuation of the steering gear in response to the monitored steering wheel rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2007Publication date: April 23, 2009Inventor: Daniel E. Williams
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Publication number: 20080296114Abstract: A clutch assembly for a motor of an automated barrier has a clutch and an override switch. The clutch is connected to the motor and has a body, an engaging frame, a cam segment and an engaging gear. The body is connected to the motor and has a cover, a mounting bracket and a pivot pin. The engaging frame is pivotally connected to the body and has a gudgeon, a rack lock and two elongated holes. The cam assembly is pivotally mounted in the engaging frame and to the body and has a cam block, two cam disks, a cable, a lobe and a pintle. The engaging gear is rotatably mounted in the body adjacent to the engaging frame. The override switch is connected to the clutch and has a casing, a switch mechanism and a switch spring.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2007Publication date: December 4, 2008Inventor: Tai-Shan Chen
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Publication number: 20080283351Abstract: A power transfer/transmission apparatus includes clutch adjusting mechanisms that are easy to assemble and are stably supported, the power transfer/transmission apparatus has a clutch housing, the clutch housing includes a vertical wall (a flange and a vertical wall) connected to a joint shaft and a peripheral wall connected to the vertical wall and enclosing a main clutch, the flange has an output unit support that rotatably supports a first end of a clutch output unit at a position that is axially different from the position of the joint shaft, a second end of the clutch output unit includes a centering part that forms a hollow axle joint having inner splines engaged with an axle so that the axle joint and axle may rotate together.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2008Publication date: November 20, 2008Applicant: GKN Driveline Torque Technology KKInventors: Susumu Sasaki, Atsushi Tamura, Isao Hirota
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Publication number: 20080224499Abstract: A clutch mechanism of the present power device comprises a fixed gear member, a moving gear member engaged with the fixed gear member when moving to a clutch connecting position, an armature for moving the moving gear member to the clutch connecting position when rotated relatively to the moving gear member, an electromagnetic coil unit for applying a brake resistance to the armature, and a clutch holding surface for abutting against the moving gear member when the electromagnetic coil unit is turned off in the clutch connecting state and for holding the moving gear member at a brake-clutch connecting position. The abutment of the moving gear member against the clutch holding surface is released by rotating the moving gear member relatively to the armature in a state in which the electromagnetic coil unit is operated.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2008Publication date: September 18, 2008Applicant: Mitsui Mining & Smelting Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kazuhito YOKOMORI
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Patent number: 7401425Abstract: A snowthrower has independent wheel drive trains to allow steering by clutching one drive train while unclutching the other drive train. The clutch in each drive train comprises a plurality of pivotal pawls carried on a drive member with the pawls pivoting in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis of the drive member. The pawls have heads that project through one face of the drive member and tails located on an opposite face of the drive member. The heads of the pawls can engage or disengage notches that are fixed to the driven member to clutch or unclutch the drive and driven members. A shift member axially presses on the tails of the pawls to disengage the heads of the pawls from the driven member. The shift member is selectively moved by an operator using a steering lever on the snowthrower.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2004Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: The Toro CompanyInventors: Nathan J. Friberg, Donald M. White, III
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Publication number: 20080105510Abstract: A clutch mechanism includes clutch members having an engaged position, in which torque generated by a drive is transmitted to an output, and a disengaged position, in which torque is not transmitted to the output. The clutch members are capable of slipping with respect to each other in order to prevent damage caused by overload conditions. The clutch mechanism further comprises an actuator associated with a clutch member. If the clutch members slip and a characteristic associated with slipping of the clutch members, such as the temperature rise of the slipping surfaces or the relative rotational speed of the clutch members is above a predetermined value, transmission of torque to the output is interrupted. The clutch mechanism is particularly suited for inclusion in a drive mechanism for the agitator of a surface treating appliance, such as a vacuum cleaner.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2005Publication date: May 8, 2008Applicant: DYSON TECHNOLOGY LIMITEDInventors: Guy James Burlington, Martin David Townsend
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Publication number: 20080041187Abstract: A transfer case assembly (10) for selectively moving a seal assembly in a plurality of adjustment directions. The assembly comprises a motor (12) and a drive shaft (14) operatively connected to the motor (12) for rotation in response to actuation of the motor. A plurality of driving gears (16, 18, 20) are mounted to the drive shaft for rotation therewith. A plurality of drives (24, 28, 32) shafts corresponding with the respective plurality of driving gears are provided for independently controlling movement of the seat assembly in the fore/aft, up and down direction. A driven gear is rotatably mounted to each of the driven shafts and meshed with a respective one of the driving gears for rotation therewith. A coupler (22, 26, 30) is disposed adjacent to each of the driven gears for selectively coupling the driven gears to the respective driven shafts (24, 28, 32).Type: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2001Publication date: February 21, 2008Inventors: Scott Lavoie, Brent Frazier
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Patent number: 7316304Abstract: A four-wheel drive center disconnect electric actuator is provided. The actuator includes a one-way motor that actuates a cam mechanism for causing engagement and disengagement of the center disconnect. The actuator achieves improved reliability and efficiency through a less expensive construction than conventional actuators.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2005Date of Patent: January 8, 2008Assignee: Warn Industries, Inc.Inventors: Oliver Heravi, Ernest Ozsvath, Scott Stocker, Kip E. Clohessy, Bryan M. Averill
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Publication number: 20070240958Abstract: A clutch actuator comprises a worm shaft that rotates along with a clutch motor. The worm shaft is meshed with a worm wheel. The worm wheel is fixed to one end of a crank shaft member of a crank shaft separately from a crank arm of the crank shaft. A bearing that supports the crank shaft is provided between the worm wheel and the crank arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicants: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA, KABUSHIKI KAISHA MORICInventors: Makoto Kosugi, Hisashi Kazuta
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Publication number: 20070240957Abstract: A clutch actuator comprises a motor having a motor shaft. A worm shaft is formed with a threaded section. A worm wheel meshes with the threaded section of the worm shaft. An output rod reciprocates in an axial direction to disengage and engage a clutch. A crank shaft converts rotational motion of the worm wheel to reciprocating motion of the output rod. The motor shaft and the worm shaft are coupled by a spline connection.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicants: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha, Kabushiki Kaisha MoricInventors: Makoto Kosugi, Hisashi Kazuta
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Patent number: 7258213Abstract: A torque transfer mechanism is provided for controlling the magnitude of a clutch engagement force exerted on a multi-plate clutch assembly that is operably disposed between a first rotary and a second rotary member. The torque transfer mechanism includes a power-operated face gear clutch actuator for generating and applying a clutch engagement force on the clutch assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2006Date of Patent: August 21, 2007Assignee: Magna Powertrain USA, Inc.Inventors: Todd Ekonen, Douglas Bradley
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Patent number: 7213482Abstract: An electro-mechanical actuator is provided that minimizes back drive effort by de-coupling the internal drive train of the actuator from the actuator output using a clutch. The clutch facilitates transfer of power to an output gear stage when the actuator motor is energized, but disengages the output gear stage when the actuator motor is de-energized. When the actuator output is manually operated, the clutch disengages the output gear stage, thereby reducing the number of gears that must be back driven by the manual actuation.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2003Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: Stoneridge Control Devices, Inc.Inventors: Henry Minasian, William H. Fort
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Patent number: 7111716Abstract: A torque transfer mechanism is provided for controlling the magnitude of a clutch engagement force exerted on a multi-plate clutch assembly that is operably disposed between a first rotary and a second rotary member. The torque transfer mechanism includes a power-operated face gear clutch actuator for generating and applying a clutch engagement force on the clutch assembly.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2005Date of Patent: September 26, 2006Assignee: Magna Powertrain USA, Inc.Inventors: Todd Ekonen, Douglas Bradley
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Patent number: 7099573Abstract: A zoom lens camera includes an optical-element drive mechanism for a photographing optical system, and a zooming-associating mechanism for associating a zooming-associated driven member with a zooming operation to be driven by the optical-element drive mechanism in a ready-to-photograph state, and for releasing the association of the zooming-associated driven member with the zooming operation between the ready-to-photograph state and the retracted state. The zooming-associating mechanism includes three rotational members, and includes a master rotational member and a slave rotational member at opposite ends thereof. Opposed surfaces of two adjacent rotational members include rotation transfer portions engaged with each other at predetermined relative angular positions so as to integrally rotate.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2004Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignee: PENTAX CorporationInventor: Takahiro Ikemizo
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Patent number: 7055795Abstract: The present invention provides a motorized valve actuator wherein the drive from the motor to the output shaft of the actuator is via a worm and worm wheel or other gear mesh which is incapable of being back driven, the actuator having an alternative manual drive, the manual drive comprising a hand wheel and a clutch and lever to change from motor power drive to hand drive mode, the actuator further having an intermediate shaft between the motor and output shaft, the hand wheel being carried by or at least operatively linked to the intermediate shaft to drive the intermediate shaft, the clutch mechanism being associated with/mounted on the intermediate shaft, the intermediate shaft being positioned between the motor and the worm/worm wheel drive whereby the clutch mechanism associated with/mounted on the intermediate shaft operates substantially freely when the lever is operated to bring the actuator into hand drive mode, the output shaft torque generated by the previous motor powered run and locked into theType: GrantFiled: April 19, 2004Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Assignee: Rotork Controls LimitedInventor: Stuart Masefield Lay
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Patent number: 6951521Abstract: A transmission actuator has a torque generating mechanism for generating a torque from a drive shaft, a speed reduction mechanism for multiplying a torque from the torque generating mechanism through a differential motion produced by a difference in gear ratio between a gearset of a first internally toothed gear and a first externally toothed gear and a gearset of a second internally toothed gear and a second externally toothed gear, a motion direction changing mechanism for converting the torque multiplied into a thrust and a friction engagement mechanism for transmitting power from an input shaft to an output shaft by virtue of the thrust so converted, wherein the drive shaft is made hollow so that the input shaft and the output shaft are disposed in a hollow portion of the drive shaft.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2003Date of Patent: October 4, 2005Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takehiko Hakui
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Patent number: 6892867Abstract: A device for transmitting torque between two rotatable, coaxial shaft members (2, 4) has a number of alternate clutch discs (5, 6), connected to the two shaft members and engageable to counteract differential rotational speed between the shaft members. The rotational movement may be braked by braking means (26-28), whose rotational velocity is proportional to the rotational speed differential. Means for transmitting the rotational speed differential to the braking means comprises a roller arrangement (20-25).Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2001Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Assignee: Haldex Traction ABInventor: Lars Severinsson
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Patent number: 6834749Abstract: A drive coupling system and method of engaging/disengaging the coupling provided by a drive coupling system are disclosed. The drive coupling system includes first and second torque couplers coupled respectively to drive and driven shafts. One of the couplers includes a support and first and second members rotatably coupled to the support, where each coupler includes a respective extension and a respective plurality of gear teeth. The first and second members are capable of being respectively rotated to first and second rotational positions beyond which the first plurality of gear teeth are able to at least begin to slip out of alignment with the second plurality of gear teeth. The relative slipping of the first plurality of gear teeth with respect to the second plurality of gear teeth is limited due to contact occurring between the extensions. As the relative slipping occurs, teeth of the two members become locked.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2003Date of Patent: December 28, 2004Assignee: CNH America LLCInventor: Chad M. Johnson
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Patent number: 6814158Abstract: In a hand-guided percussion drilling machine an arresting coupling non-rotatably coupling a drilling spindle relative to a machine housing is arranged on an intermediate shaft rotatably connected with the drilling spindle and extending parallel to and at a radial distance from the drilling spindle and at a radial distance from the motor shaft, wherein the arresting coupling openings during a torque transmission from a drive motor to a tool holder in one direction and closes during a torque transmission from the tool holder in an opposite direction.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1999Date of Patent: November 9, 2004Assignee: Scintilla AGInventors: Karin Bieber, Thomas Iseli
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Patent number: 6814197Abstract: An actuating device for a friction clutch device installed in the drive train of a motor vehicle introduces actuating forces, especially clutch-engaging or clutch-releasing forces, to the friction clutch device to actuate at least one friction clutch of the friction clutch device in the engaging or releasing direction. At least one actuating element assigned to a friction clutch can be shifted axially relative to at least one support element, which is essentially fixed in the axial direction, to exert the actuating forces. The actuating element belongs to an actuator assigned to the clutch or can be shifted axially relative to the support element by the intermediate action of an actuator assigned to the clutch.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2002Date of Patent: November 9, 2004Assignee: ZF Sachs AGInventors: Markus Heiartz, Andreas Orlamünder, Sebastian Vogt, Olaf Pagels, Georg Zink, Christoph Kleuker
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Publication number: 20040074729Abstract: An apparatus which can effect relative movements between first and second parts that are rotatable relative to each other between several positions utilizes a helix having a stack of convolutions and being non-rotatably associated with one of the parts, a follower (such as a pin or an eccentric or an annulus of rolling elements) which is arranged to extend between at least two convolutions of the helix and is affixed to the other part, an electric or fluid-operated or other suitable motor which serves to rotate at least one of the parts relative to the other part, a further part (such as the release bearing for a clutch in the power train of a motor vehicle) which is movable axially with and relative to the first part, and a coupling device serving to separably connect the further part to the first part except in at least one selected position of the second part relative to the first part. Such arrangement facilitates convenient separation of the clutch from the means for operating the release bearing.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2003Publication date: April 22, 2004Applicant: LuK Lamellen und KupplungsbauInventor: Christoph Raber
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Patent number: 6698303Abstract: An automated gear drive, comprising two main gearshafts (18, 20) bearing drive pinions (22, 24) and linked each by a clutch (E1, E2) to a clutch shaft (10), a gearbox output shaft (12) bearing driven pinions (26) each of which is associated with one-way locking device (28) controlled to be selectively interlocked with the gearbox output shaft (12), the one-way locking device (28) being controlled by mechanical device (30, 32, 34) common to all the loose pinions (26) of the different gear ratios. The automated gear drive enables in particular gear ratio shift with uninterrupted torque transmission to the gearbox output shaft (12).Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2001Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Assignee: ValeoInventors: Christian Hoffmann, Pascal Thery
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Publication number: 20040035664Abstract: A coupling for connecting a driving machine part and a driven machine part, such as shafts, wheel hubs or the like, includes an intermediate shaft and articulated lever couplings situated at the ends of the intermediate shaft. Each articulated lever coupling has at least three identical articulated levers, which engage via elastic joints situated at their ends with the intermediate shaft and with the adjacent machine parts to be connected. The axes of the elastic joints of each articulated lever are oriented perpendicularly to an axial plane, the axial plane being parallel to the articulated lever and intersecting the axis of the intermediate shaft and the axes of the machine parts to be connected.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 16, 2003Publication date: February 26, 2004Applicants: Carl Freudenberg KG, A. Friedrich Flender GmbHInventors: Detlef Cordts, Robert Peters, Christian Meyer
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Patent number: 6684994Abstract: An electrostatic unit for location of members of mechanical devices includes a housing of the electrostatic location unit, a locating member arranged in the housing and movable from one position to another, an electrostatic location apparatus for location of the locating member in one of the positions, placed in the housing and including two electrically conductive members and a layer of a dielectric therebetween, conformal surfaces of the electrically conductive members and the dielectric for electrostatic interaction and location of one relative to the other when they are in close proximity to each other and an electric charge is applied to the electrically conductive members. At least one of the members of the electrostatic location apparatus includes a layer of an elastic material on a conformal surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Martyn Sergeevich Nunuparov
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Publication number: 20030192762Abstract: An active bi-directional overrunning clutch that includes an oil housing. The clutch also includes a flange rotatably supported with respect to the oil housing. An input shaft is connected to the flange. The clutch further includes a plurality of rollers contacting the input shaft and a coupling. A roller cage positions the plurality of rollers with respect to the input shaft and coupling. The friction ground ring is in contact with the roller cage. The clutch also includes a worm gear in contact with the friction member.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 25, 2003Publication date: October 16, 2003Inventor: Brent M. Peura
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Patent number: 6588559Abstract: A two-way clutch biasing assembly including a two-way clutch having an inner race attached to an input shaft and an outer race attached to an output shaft. The inner and outer races having inner cammed portions between them, with an engagement assembly interposed therein that is adapted to rotate bi-directionally thereby providing selective mechanical engagement between the races in either direction. A planetary gear assembly is provided having a ring gear, planetary gears on a carrier, and a sun gear that is adapted to rotate the engagement assembly within the two-way clutch. A drag clutch assembly is also slidingly connected to the carrier to hold the carrier stationary when the input shaft is stationary, such that sun gear is rotated by the plurality of planetary gears, thereby rotating the engagement assembly within the two-way clutch and providing a mechanical advantage in engaging the races together when the input shaft begins to move.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2001Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Assignee: BorgWarner, Inc.Inventor: Christopher E. Blair
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Patent number: 6565476Abstract: A car clutch including a clutch base formed with a seating part and an input-side ring gear. An output shaft is fitted through the seating part and has first and second sun gears. A first carrier member is in contact with the clutch base and a second carrier member is installed on a clutch cover. A first planetary gear is meshed with the first sun gear and the input-side ring gear. A secondary planetary gear is meshed with the second sun gear. A first rotating member has an output-side ring gear which is meshed with second planetary gears. Clutch springs are installed on a second rotating member. Power shutoff rods are installed through the clutch cover and have a fitting projection fitted into a connecting part of the second rotating member. Lever-squeezing elastic members are each installed between each release lever and the clutch cover.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2001Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Inventor: Myung-soon Bae
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Patent number: 6561943Abstract: A clutch apparatus including a clutch base having a supporting boss which has first spline grooves, a clutch cover, an output shaft having a sun gear, rotating bearings fitted around the output shaft such that the output shaft can be rotated in one direction and not in the other, planetary gear sections each possessing a guide shaft and a planetary gear which is meshed with the sun gear, a rotating member having a ring gear which is meshed with planetary gears and third spline grooves, a multiple disc clutch member having inner plates which are splined into the rotating member and outer plates which are splined into the supporting boss, a pressing plate letting the inner and outer plates to be tightly engages with one another, pressing means for applying pressing force to the pressing plate, and pressing force adjusting means.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventor: Myung-soon Bae
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Patent number: 6557677Abstract: An active bi-directional overrunning clutch that includes an oil housing. The clutch also includes a flange rotatably supported with respect to the oil housing. An input shaft is connected to the flange. The clutch further includes a plurality of rollers contacting the input shaft and a coupling. A roller cage positions the plurality of rollers with respect to the input shaft and coupling. The friction ground ring is in contact with the roller cage. The clutch also includes a worm gear in contact with the friction member.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: GKN Automotive, Inc.Inventor: Brent Peura
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Publication number: 20030075412Abstract: An actuating device for a friction clutch device installed in the drive train of a motor vehicle introduces actuating forces, especially clutch-engaging or clutch-releasing forces, to the friction clutch device to actuate at least one friction clutch of the friction clutch device in the engaging or releasing direction. At least one actuating element assigned to a friction clutch can be shifted axially relative to at least one support element, which is essentially fixed in the axial direction, to exert the actuating forces. The actuating element belongs to an actuator assigned to the clutch or can be shifted axially relative to the support element by the intermediate action of an actuator assigned to the clutch.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 8, 2002Publication date: April 24, 2003Applicant: ZF Sachs AGInventors: Markus Heiartz, Andreas Orlamunder, Sebastian Vogt, Olaf Pagels, Georg Zink, Christoph Kleuker
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Patent number: 6450311Abstract: The object is to provide a small-sized automatic operating apparatus for a friction clutch. In an automatic operating apparatus 1 for a friction clutch in which the rotation of a motor 2 is reduced by a reduction mechanism 3 to rotate a crank 4, thereby axially moving an output rod 6 for connecting and disconnecting a friction clutch, a spring type accumulator 7 provided immovably on the casing 8 is connected with a crank 4 through a link 5. During connection of the friction clutch, the accumulator 7 accumulates the force received through the crank 4 and the link 5 from the output rod 6 axially moving in the direction of the arrow ‘a’ by receiving the pushing force of a piston rod in a hydraulic cylinder. During disconnection of the friction clutch, the accumulator 7 releases the accumulated force through the link 5 into the crank 4, thereby aiding the axial movement of the output rod 6 in the direction of the arrow ‘b’.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2001Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Assignee: Aichi Kikai Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kazuo Goto, Mikihiro Kito
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Publication number: 20010050205Abstract: The object is to provide a small-sized automatic operating apparatus for a friction clutch. In an automatic operating apparatus 1 for a friction clutch in which the rotation of a motor 2 is reduced by a reduction mechanism 3 to rotate a crank 4, thereby axially moving an output rod 6 for connecting and disconnecting a friction clutch, a spring type accumulator 7 provided immovably on the casing 8 is connected with a crank 4 through a link 5. During connection of the friction clutch, the accumulator 7 accumulates the force received through the crank 4 and the link 5 from the output rod 6 axially moving in the direction of the arrow ‘a’ by receiving the pushing force of a piston rod in a hydraulic cylinder. During disconnection of the friction clutch, the accumulator 7 releases the accumulated force through the link 5 into the crank 4, thereby aiding the axial movement of the output rod 6 in the direction of the arrow ‘b’.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2001Publication date: December 13, 2001Applicant: Aichi Kikai Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kazuo Goto, Mikihiro Kito
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Publication number: 20010035292Abstract: A hand-guided drilling machine or percussion drilling machine has a machine housing, a drilling spindle, a drive motor for rotatably driving the drilling spindle, a tool holderformed as a drilling chuck and screwed with the drilling spindle through a thread, the drilling spindle during exchanging a tool or exchanging the tool holder receiving a releasing or tightening moment, an arresting device non-rotatably coupling the drilling spindle relative to the machine housing, an intermediate shaft non-rotatably connected with the drilling spindle, a component connected with the machine housing, the arresting device being arranged between one element selected from the group consisting of the drilling spindle and the intermediate shaft and another element selected from the group consisting of the machine housing and the component, the arresting device automatically opening during a torque transmission from the drive motor to the tool and automatically closing during the torque transmission from the tool holder in anType: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 1999Publication date: November 1, 2001Applicant: BIEBERInventors: KARIN BIEBER, THOMAS ISELI
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Patent number: 6308811Abstract: A method of side transmission through a unidirectional clutch is provided. The method includes the step of providing a side transmission gear at one end of a unidirectional clutch body, so that the side transmission gear forms an integral part of the clutch body to bear a turning moment of an applied force. Either an outside-brake or an inner-driving- joint clutch for implementing side transmission with the above-mentioned method is allowed to direct transmit a force in one fixed direction without the need of being mounted in an additional holder in the tight fit manner. The problem of no-load at constant angle in the conventional ratchet-type clutch is eliminated. Moreover, since the clutch having integral side transmission gear does not require high precision tight-fit with an additional holder, it can be produced at simplified process and reduced cost.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2000Date of Patent: October 30, 2001Inventor: Chun-Hsiung Chang
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Patent number: 6247566Abstract: A device for transmitting torque between two rotatable, coaxial shaft members (1, 2) contains a number of alternate clutch discs (5, 6) for counteracting differential rotational speed between the two shaft members. Planetary gear means (11, 15, 16-20) are connected to the first shaft means (1). A pressure plate (7) is connected to the second shaft member (2) and is axially displaceable against the clutch discs (5, 6) for their engagement. Transmission means in the form of rollers (10) are arranged between the gear means and the pressure plate for axially displacing the pressure plate against the clutch discs at a certain rotation differential between the gear means and the pressure plate. Electrical braking means (21-24) connected to the gear means can provide a force to the transmission means for its axial displacement.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 1999Date of Patent: June 19, 2001Assignee: Westinghouse Air Brake CompanyInventor: Lars Severinsson
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Patent number: 6058916Abstract: A control apparatus includes a detecting means (16) for detecting the position of an accelerator pedal (14) or an accelerator lever, a clutch (8) which is disposed between a diesel engine (1) and the mechanical supercharger (10), and a coupling/decoupling means (16) for coupling or decoupling a clutch (8) based on a signal from the detecting means (16). A control method includes the steps of detecting the stroke distance of the accelerator pedal (14) or the accelerator lever, and operating the mechanical supercharger (10) when the stroke distance detected ranges from a predetermined value in the vicinity of the full stroke to the full stroke. This improves responsiveness in the initial stage of acceleration, and obtains better normal running performance and better hill-climbing ability.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1998Date of Patent: May 9, 2000Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventor: Godo Ozawa
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Patent number: 5934433Abstract: An actuator for automated operation of a friction clutch includes a drive that is connected with an input part of a gearing and an output part of the gearing that is movable into operative connection via a transmission member with a disengagement bearing of the friction clutch. The transmission element has a pitch region rotatable for driving an engagement element into force-applying contact with a disengagement bearing for displacing the disengaging bearing and thereby disengaging the clutch.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 1997Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Assignee: Fichtel & Sachs AGInventors: Lutz Leimbach, Erwin Bair, Reiner Voss, Heiko Schulz-Andres
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Patent number: 5701211Abstract: An improved gear train for the adjustment structure in a mirror includes a slip clutch disk connection that allows a pinion gear to rotate relative to an intermediate gear reduction. The pinion gear is engaged to rotate a rack, and the rack is connected to the mirror to adjust the position of the mirror. The rack is spring biased into engagement with the pinion, thus insuring that the two move with each other quietly and smoothly. The rack can be biased into engagement with the pinion gear, since it need not be able to slip relative to the pinion gear, as was the case in the prior art. The clutch disk allows the pinion gear to move with the rack when the mirror is manually adjusted. The inventive clutch disk is relatively simple, including a clutch drive gear rotatably journaled on a drive shaft. The drive shaft is fixed to rotate with the pinion gear. A spring biases a friction face of the clutch drive gear into engagement with the clutch disk, which also rotates with the pinion gear.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1995Date of Patent: December 23, 1997Assignee: United Technologies Automotive Systems, Inc.Inventors: William Perry, Kerry Helmer
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Patent number: 5680916Abstract: An actuator is provided with a drive system and a crank mechanism which converts the motion of the drive system into an essentially translational motion of an output element. The crank mechanism is designed as a worm gear pair with a worm gear which sits on the output shaft and is engaged with a segment worm gear which is rotationally mounted in a housing, whereby engaged with the segment worm gear, in addition to the output element, there is an energy storing device, preferably a spring device, mounted so that it can pivot in a bearing, which energy storing device can move relative to the segment worm gear.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 1995Date of Patent: October 28, 1997Assignee: Fichtel & Sachs AGInventors: Udo Borschert, Lutz Leimbach, Ullrich Scherpf, Manfred Waning, Michael Zottmann
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Patent number: 5520064Abstract: A portable rescue tool which operates off electric power and which comprises a clutch mechanism for orienting high torque spreading and/or cutting motion that is produced by the portable rescue tool in a plurality of possible directions with respect to the portable rescue tool. The portable rescue tool comprises a rotary switch for controlling the operation of the portable rescue tool, a DC motor connected to the rotary switch for providing a high speed, low torque output, a gear reduction assembly coupled to the DC motor for decreasing the speed and increasing the torque of the DC motor output, an actuator assembly coupled to the gear reduction assembly for providing a low speed, high torque output, and a clutch mechanism associated with the actuator assembly for orienting the direction of the low speed, high torque output with respect to the portable rescue tool.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 1995Date of Patent: May 28, 1996Assignee: Curtiss Wright Flight Systems Inc.Inventors: William Hickerson, John D. McCarthy, Bradley C. Litz, Edward A. Mayer
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Patent number: 5497844Abstract: A child's riding vehicle employing a unique and novel gear assembly and engagement structure includes a frame having plural wheels, and a gear assembly fixed on the frame which includes an output gear non-rotatably connected to at least one of the vehicle's wheels. A motor on the frame is mounted on an arm which is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, and a segment gear mounted on the frame adjacent the gear assembly engages the motor's pinion and defines a path between the engaged and disengaged position. Unique and novel gear tooth profiles are employed in both the gear assembly and the engagement structure to prevent the same from jamming during transition between the engaged and disengaged positions and vice versa.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 1995Date of Patent: March 12, 1996Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventor: Daniel D. Fritzinger
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Patent number: 5458013Abstract: A coupling structure for a reversing mechanism of a printing press, having a fixed gear (18), a pivotable regulating gear (20), and a plurality of parallel tightening bolts (30) extending in a regularly spaced manner around a cylinder shaft (12) of the reversing mechanism. A one-way clutch (54) transmits limited tightening torque to the bolts (30) to hold gears (18) and (20) together in an engaged state, whereas in a release state, the bolts (30) are freely loosened. A center gear 56 having an internal gear (62) transmits torque to the one-way clutch from an external drive motor (80).Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 1993Date of Patent: October 17, 1995Assignee: Shinohara Machinery Co., Ltd.Inventor: Masayuki Iwamoto
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Patent number: 5281190Abstract: Multi-mode friction clutch having a plurality of interleaved clutch plates operable for establishing gear ratios in planetary and countershaft type automatic transmissions and operative to provide smooth and self-synchronized shifting without the use of one-way roller or sprag clutches. Gear thrust forces from associated helical gearing and opposing hydraulic pressure forces are used to regulate the hydraulic pressure of a piston chamber by shifting an annular control sleeve which controls fluid exhaust from the chamber to maintain a direct relationship between the torque capacity of the clutch and the variable torque it actually carries. Consequently, the clutch is automatically released when the transmitted torque diminishes to zero or reverses. The clutch is applied in a normal lock mode for predetermined gear ratios, set in one-way mode for shifting and totally released when the shift is completed.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 1992Date of Patent: January 25, 1994Inventor: Erkki Koivunen
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Patent number: 5267912Abstract: A mechanical-centrifugal clutch, without friction surfaces, includes a planetary support for receiving input torque and a sun gear for developing output torque without any free wheeling mechanism. A plurality of at least four weighted planetary gears is driven by the planetary support and drives the sun gear. The weighted planetary gears include centrifugal effect masses and are disposed in a special relative shift relative to one another for imparting substantial continuity in the transmission of power.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1991Date of Patent: December 7, 1993Inventor: Juan G. Casanova
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Patent number: 5265528Abstract: A clutch mechanism for releasing a frictional connection in a double gearwheel drive of a sheet-fed rotary press wherein a gearwheel ring is mounted concentrically on and frictionally connected to a main gearwheel by a spring biased annular clamping element, the clutch including an annular actuator mounted on the press in alignment with but normally out of contact with the annular clamping element and the double gearwheel and means for selectively engaging the actuator with the clamping element and causing relative axial displacement thereof to overcome the spring bias and free the gearwheel ring from frictional engagement with the main gearwheel. The actuator may include an annular fluid pressure cylinder, a camming mechanism or an electromagnet for causing the relative axial displacement of the annular clamping element.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1992Date of Patent: November 30, 1993Assignee: MAN Roland Druckmaschinen AGInventor: Josef Mathes
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Patent number: 5249657Abstract: A motor-operated actuator has a clutch members are set in slide recesses formed in a drive member which are regulated in movement with a clutch base. A protrusion is formed on each of the clutch members, and a groove is formed around the protrusion. Both end portions of a return spring are placed in the grooves of the clutch members, and fixed there by thermal caulking. Thereby, the clutch member is prevented from being damaged by unsatisfactory disengagement. The clutch members are prevented from being disconnected from the return spring, and the former can be positively connected to the latter with high efficiency.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 1992Date of Patent: October 5, 1993Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Sotsuo Miyoshi