Torque transfer apparatus using magnetorheological fluids
US5779013A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 18, 1996 |
| Grant date | Jul 14, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 18, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D2037/007
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A fluid-based torque transfer device modulates the amount of torque which is transmitted from an input shaft to an output shaft. The torque transfer device includes a first plate connected to the input shaft. A second plate is connected to the output shaft and spaced from the first plate. A magnetorheological fluid is provided between the first and second plates. A magnetic circuit, including a coil wound around a core material defining a gap, applies a magnetic field to the magnetorheological fluid to variably control the rotation of the second plate in response to the rotation of the first plate. A controller adjusts the current to the coil to vary the magnetic field. Sensors detect at least one of the rotational speed and the torque of the input shaft, the output shaft, vehicle speed, steering direction, throttle position, gear position and brake position. The controller varies the current provided to the coil based thereon. Exemplary applications for the fluid-based torque transfer device include a fuse, a clutch between an engine and a transmission, and a transfer case for four wheel drive powertrains.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.