Hydraulically operated friction clutch with shift shock prevention and method of using same
US5651288A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 2, 1995 |
| Grant date | Jul 29, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 2, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/19242
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A transmission gear train has a clutch designed to minimize shift shock upon engagement while still exhibiting relatively rapid initial engagement. To this end, a face cavity is formed in the clutch actuating piston which acts as an accumulator into which hydraulic fluid flows for a period of time after initial clutch engagement. This fluid flow causes clutch pressure to be lower than system main pressure while the accumulator is filling, thereby providing a cushioning effect which reduces shift shock. Use of the accumulator or face cavity eliminates the need for a stepped piston and the additional seals and flow passages normally required for a stepped piston, thus simplifying clutch manufacture and operation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.