With Synchronizing Clutch Or Brake Patents (Class 475/303)
  • Patent number: 7445576
    Abstract: A planetary transmission, in particular for machine tools, with a drive shaft that is connected to a sun gear, with an output shaft that is connected to a planetary carrier and with an interior gear, that in a first operating position engages with the housing, and in the second operating position engages with the sun gear, with a hub that surrounds the drive shaft concentrically and with a sliding collar that surrounds the hub concentrically and that engages with the hub in an operating position. The sliding collar (5) engages in the loose end of the interior gear (4) with a centering diameter (7) concentrically located with the hub (6), which in the engaged position of the sliding collar (5) engages with the hub (6) in a concentric position with the hub's axle on its centering collar (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Harald Eckert, Ulrich Kuchelmeister, Eckhard Förster
  • Patent number: 7407460
    Abstract: A planetary gearbox for a power tool has a planetary carrier and a rotatable sleeve with sun wheel toothing arranged centrally on the planetary carrier. The sleeve has a radial section with outer toothing. Planet wheels are positioned between planetary carrier and radial section and mesh with the sun wheel toothing. A switching ring gear surrounds the planet wheels and has an inner toothing meshing with the planet wheels. The switching ring gear is axiallay moveable on the planet wheels between first and second end positions for switching a transmission ratio. In the second end position the switching ring gear engages the outer toothing of the radial section. A synchronization disk, rotating with the rotary sleeve, is positioned between planet wheels and radial section and acts directly or indirectly by friction on the switching ring gear when the latter is moved from the first into the second end position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: A & M Electric Tools GmbH
    Inventor: Armin Eisenhardt
  • Patent number: 7387588
    Abstract: Disclosed is a planetary gear train (8) comprising an internal gear (24), a sun gear (52), a planet carrier (10) which is provided with planet shafts (18) and on which at least one planetary gear (20) is mounted, and a shifting device with a sliding sleeve (66). Said shifting device allows for a direct connection between a shaft (44) driving the planetary gear train (8) and an output shaft (12) of the planetary gear train (8) in one shifting position while making it possible to modify the rotational speed between the driving shaft (44) and the output shaft (12) of the planetary gear train (8) in another shifting position. The planet shaft (18) is disposed inside the planet carrier (10) so as to be rotatable within a bearing (22, 80).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventor: Josef Bader
  • Patent number: 7384366
    Abstract: The transfer case reduction gearset is often never used for its original intended function, that is, to provide an additional speed reduction (torque amplification) ratio for the powertrain. This concept allows for the increased use of the transfer case gearset components to work in concert with the automatic transmission to increase its ratio spread. This increase in ratio spread will result in improved launch performance for the vehicle by steepening the effective first gear ratio of the automatic transmission. The increase in ratio spread may also provide for reductions in numerical axle ratio of the vehicle thereby improving the fuel economy during normal highway operation. The present invention focuses on a method of shifting the transmission of the vehicle in accordance with the invention which includes providing a transmission connected to a vehicle engine having a predetermined number of gear ratios which are selectable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventor: William R. Kelley, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20080004155
    Abstract: A synchronizing mechanism includes a synchronizer hub, a coupling sleeve, a clutch gear and a synchronizer ling. The synchronizer hub is fixedly coupled to a rotational shaft. The coupling sleeve is coupled to an outer circumference of the synchronizer hub with a spline engagement to slide with respect to the rotational shaft in an axial direction upon an operation of a shift fork. The clutch gear is rotatably supported on the rotational shaft. The synchronizer ring is configured and arranged to produce a synchronized load between the coupling sleeve and the clutch gear. The coupling sleeve includes a guide section configured and arranged to guide at least a portion of lubricating oil supplied from a shift fork engagement part of the coupling sleeve toward at least one of the clutch gear and the synchronizer ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Publication date: January 3, 2008
    Applicant: AICHI MACHINE INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hironori Miyagoe
  • Patent number: 7311630
    Abstract: A transmission is provided having a differential gear set with three input torque-transmitting mechanisms, such as friction clutches, to achieve torque flow through the differential gear set to a countershaft gearing arrangement. The transmission utilizes power-on shifts. By utilizing the torque ratio of the differential gear set, additional forward ratios are available with good step progression, reducing the number of countershaft gear sets and synchronizers necessary in comparison to a dual-clutch transmission providing the same number of ratios. A shorter axial length is thus attainable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: James B. Borgerson
  • Publication number: 20070281823
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a manual transmission and a shift lug structure thereof where a direct shifting from a first speed to a reverse speed can be is possible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Kim Myung Hun
  • Patent number: 7291087
    Abstract: A powertrain has a power transmission including a pair of planetary gearsets. The planetary gearsets are selectively interconnectible with an input shaft through a plurality of synchronizer mechanisms to provide ten forward speed ratios and two reverse speed ratios.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond J. Haka, Madhusudan Raghavan
  • Patent number: 7278950
    Abstract: A stage-geared gearbox for motor vehicles, includes an unsynchronized basic gearbox, at least one synchronized auxiliary gear and at least one control unit for controlling engagement and disengagement of the gears of the gearbox and also neutral position. In the gearbox, the control unit is arranged so as, when input signals indicating that neutral position is selected are received, to put the synchronized auxiliary gear in neutral position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventors: Marcus Steen, Lars Karlsson
  • Patent number: 7261659
    Abstract: The electrically variable transmission family of the present invention provides low-content, low-cost electrically variable transmission mechanisms including first and second differential gear sets, a battery, two electric machines serving interchangeably as motors or generators, and five selectable torque-transfer devices (two clutches and three brakes). The selectable torque transfer devices are engaged singly or in combinations of two or three to yield an EVT with a continuously variable range of speeds (including reverse) and up to three mechanically fixed forward speed ratios. The torque transfer devices and the first and second motor/generators are operable to provide five operating modes in the electrically variable transmission, including battery reverse mode, EVT reverse mode, reverse and forward launch modes, continuously variable transmission range mode, and fixed ratio mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Madhusudan Raghavan, Norman K. Bucknor, James D. Hendrickson
  • Patent number: 7168541
    Abstract: A manual planetary power transmission includes two planetary gearsets and three torque-transmitting synchronizer assemblies. Two of the synchronizer assemblies permit the control of one gear member of the planetary gearsets individually. The third synchronizer permits control of two of the planetary gear members individually or simultaneously. The three synchronizer assemblies are manipulable in combinations of three to provide six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio in the planetary gearsets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond J. Haka, Paul D. Stevenson, Douglas C. Armstrong
  • Patent number: 7160221
    Abstract: Method and arrangement for providing a range gearbox with planetary gear (1) for motor vehicles, intended to be connected to the output side of a basic gearbox. The ring gear (18) of the planetary gear is axially displaceable. The ring gear (18) can engage coupling rings (10, 16) alternatively. A synchronizing means (15) is intended to synchronize the rotational speed difference between the ring gear (18) and at least the coupling ring (16). The synchronizing means (15) and the coupling ring (16) are arranged coaxially outside the ring gear (18). A second means (25) for engaging the coupling ring (16) and a third means (25, 25b) for driving the synchronizing means (15) are arranged on the external side, seen radially, of the ring gear (18), and the synchronizing means (15) is arranged between the coupling ring (16) and the first means (27) for axial displacement of the ring gear (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventor: Sverker Alfredsson
  • Patent number: 7150697
    Abstract: A range gearbox with planetary gear (1) for motor vehicles intended to be connected to the output side of a basic gearbox. The ring gear (18) of the planetary gear is axially displaceable. The ring gear (18) can engage coupling rings (10, 16) alternatively. A synchronizing member or member (15) is intended to synchronize the rotational speed difference between the ring gear (18) and one or other coupling ring (10, 16). The synchronizing means (15) and the coupling ring (16) are arranged coaxially outside the ring gear (18). A second member or engagement member (25) for engaging the coupling ring (16) and a third member or engagement member (25, 25b) for driving said synchronizing member (15) are arranged on the external side, as seen radially, of the ring gear (18). The coupling ring (16) is arranged between the synchronizing member (15) and the first member (27).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Volvo Last vagnar AB
    Inventor: Sverker Alfredsson
  • Patent number: 7101304
    Abstract: The present invention provides a shift mechanism disposed in a housing for providing operable communication between a shift actuator and a shift sleeve. The shift mechanism generally includes a shift rail, a shift fork, a first biasing member, and a second biasing member. The shift rail is slidably supported by the housing. The shift fork is slidably disposed on the shift rail and engages the shift sleeve. The first biasing member is disposed between the shift actuator and the shift rail for selectively biasing the shift rail in a first direction upon actuation of the shift actuator. The second biasing member is disposed between the housing and the shift fork for biasing the shift fork in a second direction that is substantially opposite the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Magna Powertrain USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Swanson, Carl H. Vonnegut
  • Patent number: 7070535
    Abstract: A plurality of shift rails are manipulated by a manual control rod to selectively actuate one or more synchronizer mechanisms. The control rod is moved angularly and linearly during ratio selection. Each synchronizer mechanism may control two or more drive ratios in a planetary transmission. At least two of the rails are interconnected by a reversing mechanism to permit consistent movement of the rails regardless of the direction of movement of the control rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Scott H. Wittkopp, Raymond J. Haka
  • Patent number: 7011597
    Abstract: A planetary transmission includes four planetary gearsets, two of which are simple planetary gearsets and two of which are compound planetary gearsets. A first of the planetary gearsets has members selectively connectible with a ground or stationary member through a synchronizer clutch. A second, third, and fourth of the planetary gearsets have at least one member continuously interconnected with a ground or stationary member. A plurality of synchronizer clutches are employed between the planetary gearsets, which are manipulatable to establish at least seventeen forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio between an input shaft and an output shaft of the transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Raymond J. Haka
  • Patent number: 7004881
    Abstract: A dual input clutch transmission has two planetary gearsets that are selectively connectible between an input shaft and an output shaft through two selectively engageable input clutches. One of the planetary gearsets is controlled by a plurality of synchronizer mechanisms to provide a reverse speed ratio and two forward speed ratios between the input shaft and the output shaft, and the other of the planetary gearsets is controlled by one selectively engageable synchronizer clutch assembly to establish three forward speed ratios between said input shaft and said output shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Raymond J. Haka
  • Patent number: 6976933
    Abstract: A powertrain includes a planetary gear arrangement, an engine, an input clutch, an input shaft, and an output shaft. The planetary gear arrangement includes a simple planetary gearset and a compound planetary gearset, each of which has connected therewith three synchronizer mechanisms. The synchronizer mechanisms are manipulated in various combinations to establish ten forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio between the input shaft and the output shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Raymond J. Haka
  • Patent number: 6942592
    Abstract: A drivetrain for a vehicle includes front and rear axles and a transfer case including two planetary gear sets and four clutches. The first member of the first planetary gear set is continuously connected with the first member of the second planetary gear set and the rear axle. The third member of the first planetary gear set is continuously connected to the second member of the second planetary gear set and the front axle through a transfer chain. An input is selectively connectable with the first member of the first planetary gear set through a first clutch, connectable with the second member of the first planetary gear set through a second clutch, and connectable with the third member of the first planetary gear set through a third clutch. A fourth clutch selectively connects the third member of the second planetary gear set with ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Raymond J. Haka
  • Patent number: 6926634
    Abstract: A transfer case is provided for a vehicle having front and rear axles. The transfer case includes a planetary gear set with first, second and third members. The first member is continuously connected with the front axle and the second member is continuously connected with the rear axle. An input shaft is selectively connectable with the first, second or third member. The transfer case provides rear-wheel drive when the second member is connected with the input shaft, all-wheel drive when the third member is connected with the input shaft, and front-wheel drive when the first member is connected with the input shaft. It is important that the specific members of the planetary gear set be chosen so the absolute value of the torque of the third member is equal to the sum of the absolute value of the torques of the first and second members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Raymond J. Haka
  • Patent number: 6896638
    Abstract: A synchronizing arrangement in a planetary gear has an axially movable ring gear which for various gearchange positions can be coupled to either of two coupling rings, situated on their respective sides of the planetary gear, via synchronizing rings which belong to these coupling rings, are capable of limited rotation relative to the ring gear and have external locking teeth to prevent gear engagement before synchronization is achieved. The ring gear is provided with two grooves which run round its inside and each accommodates a ring-shaped locking device for transferring axial force to the respective synchronizing ring at the time of gear engagement. The respective locking device is also situated in an external groove in the relating synchronizing ring and can be compressed in the radial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Scania CV AB (publ)
    Inventor: Dag Nilsson
  • Patent number: 6878088
    Abstract: An on-demand two-speed transfer case is equipped with a planetary gearset assembly and a range shift mechanism to provide high-range and low-range drive connections. The transfer case is also equipped with a dual-mode bi-directional overrunning clutch and a mode shift mechanism to establish on-demand and part-time four-wheel drive modes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Magna Drivetrain of America, Inc.
    Inventor: Randolph C. Williams
  • Patent number: 6837823
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two input clutches, seven or eight torque transmitting mechanisms, two fixed interconnections, and one grounded planetary gear member. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even speed ratio changes. The torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input clutches, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least five forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Chunhao J. Lee, Patrick Benedict Usoro
  • Patent number: 6835157
    Abstract: A planetary transmission has a plurality of torque-transmitting synchronizer mechanisms that are controlled to engage and disengage positions. The control of the torque-transmitting synchronizer mechanisms is accomplished through a plurality of cam slots and control rods that are disposed between a control mechanism and each of the torque-transmitting synchronizers to enforce engagement and disengagement of the synchronizers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Raymond J. Haka
  • Patent number: 6824493
    Abstract: Method and arrangement for providing a synchronization device that is provided in a range gear assembly within planetary gearing in a vehicle. During synchronization and gear changing, at least one spring suspension element (28, 34, 46) transmits bearing force from the clutch sleeve to the synchronization ring by means of cooperation with first recesses (32, 33, 47, 48) in the clutch sleeve (18). The clutch sleeve, clutch rings, synchronization ring and spring suspension elements are provided on one side of the ring gear (14). The synchronization ring (24, 45) is constructed together with an additional mirror-inverted synchronization ring in order to form a double synchronization ring (24, 45).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventor: Sverker Alfredsson
  • Patent number: 6811512
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least five forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two input clutches, eight or nine torque transmitting mechanisms, two fixed interconnections, and one grounded planetary gear member. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even number speed ratio ranges. The torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input shaft, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least five forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick B. Usoro, Chunhao J. Lee
  • Publication number: 20040198548
    Abstract: A synchronizer for motor vehicle driveline components such as transmissions and transfer cases includes a pair of ball ramp mechanisms which amplify synchronizing force and apply such force to one of a pair of friction clutch packs which achieves synchronization of diversely rotating elements. The synchronizer exhibits relatively low operating force. Each ball ramp mechanism includes a pair of ball ramp members having rotational travel limits which also limit their axial separation and an intermediate compression spring assembly. The spring assembly and the travel limits of the ball ramp members limit the force generated by the ball ramp mechanisms and applied to the friction clutch packs to prevent abrupt and uncontrolled actuation of the friction clutch packs and corresponding abrupt synchronization of the rotating elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Dan J. Showalter, Soundararajan Vijayanarayanasamy
  • Publication number: 20040180752
    Abstract: A compound planetary gear arrangement for a transfer case includes a ring gear in driving engagement with an output shaft. A sun gear and carrier are selectively alternatively connectable with a transmission housing (ground) through a clutch or selectively connectable with an input through a clutch. This compound planetary gear arrangement provides one direct and two underdrive ratios between the input and the output of the transfer case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Inventor: Raymond J. Haka
  • Patent number: 6786845
    Abstract: A multi-speed planetary transmission having mechanical clutches and two simple planetary gearsets. The mechanical clutches are operated between the transmission input shaft and output shaft to control powerpaths through the planetary gearsets in a manner to establish ten forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. One of said mechanical clutches being operable to selectively interconnect two members of one of the planetary gearsets to another of said mechanical clutches both independently and simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Raymond J. Haka
  • Patent number: 6783475
    Abstract: An all-wheel distributor transmission (1) is described for a motor vehicle comprising a planetary gear set as multiplication step (2) for a switchable off-road gear and a planetary gear set (3) with variable division for distributing a drive torque onto a front axle and a rear axle. The all-wheel distributor transmission (1) also has an adjustable lock (4) for locking between the front axle and the rear axle, the lock (4) and the multiplication step (2) being actuatable via a controllable drive device (5). The drive device (5) comprises a drive shaft (6) and two output shafts (7, 8), the first output shaft (7) being in operative connection with the multiplication step (2) and the second output shaft (8) being in operative connection with the lock (4). A torque introduced via the drive shaft (6) can be applied on the first or the second output shaft (7 or 8) according to a control of a shift unit (10) for actuating the lock (4) or the multiplication step (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Ăśnal Gazyakan, Detlef Baasch, Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Michael Ebenhoch, Barbara Schmohl
  • Patent number: 6767307
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two input clutches, eight torque transmitting mechanisms, and three fixed interconnections. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even number speed ratio ranges. The eight torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input clutches, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least six forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio. One of the torque transmitting mechanisms may be eliminated to provide at least five forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Chunhao J. Lee, Patrick Benedict Usoro
  • Patent number: 6764426
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two input clutches, eight or nine torque transmitting mechanisms and three fixed interconnections. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even number speed ratio ranges. The torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input clutches, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated with the input clutches in combinations of three to establish at least six forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick B. Usoro, Chunhao J. Lee
  • Patent number: 6764424
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratio and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two input clutches, seven or eight torque transmitting mechanisms, three fixed interconnections, and one grounded planetary gear member. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even number speed ratio ranges. The torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input clutches, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least five forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick Benedict Usoro, Chunhao J. Lee
  • Patent number: 6758787
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets having two input clutches, eight torque transmitting mechanisms, two fixed interconnections, and one grounded planetary gear member. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even speed ratio ranges. The eight torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input clutches, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated along with the input clutches in combinations of three to establish at least six forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick Benedict Usoro, Chunhao J. Lee
  • Patent number: 6755765
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two input clutches, eight or nine torque transmitting mechanisms and two fixed interconnections. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even number speed ratio ranges. The torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input shaft, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least five forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick B. Usoro, Chunhao J. Lee
  • Patent number: 6752736
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two input clutches, eight or nine torque transmitting mechanisms and two fixed interconnections. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual-clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even number speed ratio ranges. The nine torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input shaft, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least five forward speed ratios and atleast one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Chunhao J. Lee, Patrick Benedict Usoro
  • Patent number: 6746357
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two input clutches, eight torque transmitting mechanisms, and three fixed interconnections. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual-clutch transmission mechanisms wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even number speed ratio ranges. The eight torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input clutches, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least six forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio. One of the eight torque transmitting mechanisms may be eliminated to realize five forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick Benedict Usoro, Chunhao J. Lee
  • Patent number: 6746363
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two input clutches, eight or nine torque transmitting mechanisms, two fixed interconnections, and one grounded planetary gear member. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even number speed ratio ranges. The torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the first input clutch, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least six forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Chunhao J. Lee, Patrick B. Usoro
  • Publication number: 20040106492
    Abstract: Method and arrangement for providing a synchronization device that is provided in a range gear assembly within planetary gearing in a vehicle. During synchronization and gear changing, at least one spring suspension element (28, 34, 46) transmits bearing force from the clutch sleeve to the synchronization ring by means of cooperation with first recesses (32, 33, 47, 48) in the clutch sleeve (18). The clutch sleeve, clutch rings, synchronization ring and spring suspension elements are provided on one side of the ring gear (14). The synchronization ring (24, 45) is constructed together with an additional mirror-inverted synchronization ring in order to form a double synchronization ring (24, 45).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2003
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Applicant: VOLVO LASTVAGNAR AB
    Inventor: Sverker ALFREDSSON
  • Patent number: 6743143
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two input clutches, eight or nine torque transmitting mechanisms, three fixed interconnections, and one grounded planetary gear member. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even speed ratio changes. The torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input clutches, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least five forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick B. Usoro, Chunhao J. Lee
  • Patent number: 6743140
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two input clutches, eight torque transmitting mechanisms, two fixed interconnections, and two grounded planetary gear members. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even number speed ratio ranges. The eight torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input clutches, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of at least two to establish at least six forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Chunhao J. Lee, Patrick Benedict Usoro
  • Patent number: 6743144
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two input clutches, eight or nine torque transmitting mechanisms and two fixed interconnections. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even speed ratio changes. The nine torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input clutches, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least five forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Chunhao J. Lee, Patrick B. Usoro
  • Patent number: 6743139
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two input clutches, seven, eight or nine torque transmitting mechanisms and three fixed interconnections. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even speed ratio changes. The torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input clutches, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least five forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick B. Usoro, Chunhao J. Lee
  • Patent number: 6743142
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two or three input clutches, seven, eight or nine torque transmitting mechanisms and three fixed interconnections. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even speed ratio changes. The torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input clutches, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of at least three to establish at least five forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Chunhao J. Lee, Patrick B. Usoso
  • Patent number: 6716132
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include four planetary gear sets, two input clutches, seven or eight torque transmitting mechanisms and four fixed interconnections. The invention provides a low content multi-speed dual clutch transmission mechanism wherein the two input clutches alternately connect the engine to realize odd and even speed ratio changes. The torque transmitting mechanisms provide connections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the first and second input clutches, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least five forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick B. Usoro, Chunhao J. Lee
  • Publication number: 20040023748
    Abstract: A planetary transmission includes four planetary gearsets, two of which are simple planetary gearsets and two of which are compound planetary gearsets. A first of the planetary gearsets has members selectively connectible with a ground or stationary member through a synchronizer clutch. A second, third, and fourth of the planetary gearsets have at least one member continuously interconnected with a ground or stationary member. A plurality of synchronizer clutches are employed between the planetary gearsets, which are manipulatable to establish at least seventeen forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio between an input shaft and an output shaft of the transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Raymond James Haka
  • Publication number: 20030232690
    Abstract: An on-demand two-speed transfer case is equipped with a planetary gearset assembly and a range shift mechanism to provide high-range and low-range drive connections. The transfer case is also equipped with a dual-mode bi-directional overrunning clutch and a mode shift mechanism to establish on-demand and part-time four-wheel drive modes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventor: Randolph C. Williams
  • Publication number: 20030232689
    Abstract: A dual input clutch transmission has two planetary gearsets that are selectively connectible between an input shaft and an output shaft through two selectively engageable input clutches. One of the planetary gearsets is controlled by three synchronizer clutches to provide a reverse speed ratio and two forward speed ratios between the input shaft and the output shaft, and the other of the planetary gearsets is controlled by one selectively engageable synchronizer clutch assembly to establish three forward speed ratios between said input shaft and said output shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventor: Raymond James Haka
  • Patent number: 6663528
    Abstract: A power transmission has two selectively engageable input clutches, four selectively manipulatable synchronizer clutches, and a planetary gearset. The input clutches and the synchronizer clutches are manipulated to establish at least seven forward power paths and a reverse power path between an input shaft and an output shaft. Interchanges between adjacent speed ratios are controlled by preselecting the synchronizer condition and then interchanging the selectively engageable input clutches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Raymond James Haka
  • Patent number: 6663529
    Abstract: A planetary manual transmission has two planetary gearsets and five synchronizer clutches which are effective to establish at least six forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio between a transmission input shaft and a transmission output shaft. One of the planetary gearsets is a compound planetary gearset and the other is a simple planetary gearset. These two planetary gearsets are interconnected through two of the synchronizer clutches. The third of the synchronizer clutches connects one of the planetary gearsets with the input shaft. The fourth of the synchronizer clutches connects the other of the planetary gearsets with an output shaft, and the fifth of the synchronizer clutches selectively connects two members of the planetary gearsets connected with the output shaft to a transmission housing or stationary component. In one embodiment, the planetary gearsets will provide six forward speed ratios and in another embodiment, the planetary gearsets will provide eight forward speed ratios.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Raymond James Haka