Viscous fluid coupling and external actuator assembly therefor
US5152383A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 28, 1992 |
| Grant date | Oct 6, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 28, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D35/024
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A fluid coupling device is disclosed of the type having an output coupling assembly (13) and an input coupling member (11). Control of the flow of viscous fluid between a reservoir chamber (35) and an operating chamber (33) is controlled by rotation of a valve arm (43), to cover or uncover a fill opening (45). Rotation of the valve arm is affected by an actuator assembly (61). An electrical signal to a coil (69) results in a flux path (FP) through a stationary ferromagnetic housing (63), with the flux passing through an armature (83) which is attached to the valve member. The flux path passes from armature segments (105) through respective pole pieces (111), which comprise part of the outer cylindrical surface of the reservoir chamber (35). Thus, energization of the coil (69) results in rotation of the valve member (43) without the need for frictional engagement of friction surfaces.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.