Dual clutch rear axle and method of operation
US6327935A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 22, 1999 |
| Grant date | Dec 11, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 22, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/19005
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A clutch assembly for disposition in a motor vehicle drive line includes an internal reaction force circuit. The clutch assembly includes a multiple disc friction clutch disposed adjacent an operator assembly which selectively applies force to the friction clutch to selectively transfer torque therethrough. The clutch components are disposed between fixed stops on an elongate member which functions as a reaction force member to self-contain the reaction force from the clutch operator. The clutch finds application in motor vehicle drive line components such as a rear (secondary) axle in which it is disposed in pairs to independently control torque supplied to each axle and in applications where it is advantageous to contain or ground the reaction force generated by and associated with the clutch operator compactly within the clutch structure rather than its housing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.