Bi-directional four-mode clutch
US6832674B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 24, 2003 |
| Grant date | Dec 21, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 24, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D41/12
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A bi-directional overrunning clutch assembly including an inner race, an outer race, and engagement members supported therebetween. The clutch assembly further includes at least one actuating cam. The actuating cam operates to actuate the engagement members to provide four separate modes of operation between the inner and outer races of the clutch assembly. More specifically, the cam is operable to (1) disengage the engagement members to provide freewheeling between the inner and outer races in both rotational directions; (2) to actuate the engagement members so that torque is translated in one rotational direction but to allow freewheeling in the opposite rotational direction; (3) to actuate the engagement members so that torque is translated in a direction opposite to that in mode (2) above, but allow freewheeling in the rotational direction opposite to that in which torque is translated in this mode; and (4) to actuate the engagement members so that the inner and outer races are locked relative to each other and torque is translated in both rotational directions. In addition, a transmission assembly employing the bi-directional clutch assembly to provide low and revised gears is…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.