Automatic clutch

US6139467A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Daimlerchrysler AG · US

Inventors

• Franz Kosik · Esslingen am Neckar, DE
• Thomas Grass · Neukirchen, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 25, 1999
• Grant date: Oct 31, 2000
• Expiry date: Mar 25, 2019

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16D2500/7044
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Disclosed is an automatic clutch intended for an engine-transmission unit in a vehicle. When in the closing stage, the clutch works under contact overpressure conditions, so that the torque transmitted by the clutch is higher by a set quantity than the engine generated torque. At low external temperature, the contact overpressure is reduced, resulting in a shorter clutch adjustment path and in less energy being required for clutching, thereby compensating for the greater stiffness of the clutch control element.