Clutch actuator system
US5267635A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 13, 1992 |
| Grant date | Dec 7, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 13, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D2500/7041
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A clutch actuation system for use in engaging and disengaging the clutch of a manual transmission motor vehicle. The system includes a sensor sensing the rotary movement of the clutch pedal, an electric motor having a screw output shaft driving a ball nut mechanism engaging a clutch release member, a further sensor sensing the position of the ball nut mechanism and thereby of the clutch release member, and an electronic control module. The module compares the magnitude of the position signal received from the clutch pedal position sensor to the magnitude of the position signal received from the ball nut position sensor and operates in a closed-loop servo manner to move the clutch release member via the electric motor through a distance proportioned to the extent of pivotal movement of the clutch pedal so that the operator, by precise control of the extent of pivotal movement of the clutch pedal, can precisely control the extent of engagement or disengagement of the clutch. Return movement of the system to the clutch engaged position is preferably accomplished by back driving the ball nut and motor via the clutch diaphragm spring.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.