Rotational control apparatus with enhanced cooling and power transfer characteristics
US5896971A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 29, 1997 |
| Grant date | Apr 27, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 29, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D25/123
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus (10) for controlling the transmission of rotational forces between first (14) and second (66) members through an axially shiftable friction element (56) that rotates in unison with the first member (14) and can be selectively brought into engagement with the second member (66) is provided with a forced air cooling system that functions to cool the interface between the friction element (56) and the second member (66), as well as a first bearing (54) allowing relative rotation between the friction element (56) and an actuation member (38). A flow of cooling air is developed during operation of the apparatus by fins (172,174) formed about an outer radial surface portion of the friction element (56) and the air is caused to flow through enlarged lobe cut-out sections (156) in the second member (66) along the interface and through holes (164) formed in the friction element (56) which are arranged opposite the first bearing (54). The apparatus also incorporates a power transfer assembly that is extends directly adjacent an additional rotatable support bearing (30,80) that is mounted directly adjacent an end portion (16,18) on the first member (14). The power transfer assemb…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.