Multi-function centrifugal clutch

US7318513B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Meritor Transmission Corporation · US

Inventors

• Muneer AbuSamra · Southern Pines, US
• Ludger Ronge · Eriskirch, DE
• Charles E. Allen, Jr. · Rochester Hills, US
• Winfried Sturmer · Euerbach, DE
• Karl-Fritz Heinzelmann · Meckenbeuren, DE
• Loren Christopher Dreier · Southern Pines, US
• Robert Sayman · Eriskirch, DE
• James DeVore · Laurinburg, US
• Ronald Muetzel · Southern Pines, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 16, 2005
• Grant date: Jan 15, 2008
• Expiry date: Sep 17, 2025

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16D43/10
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A clutch assembly includes a reaction surface that provides several disengagement surfaces that cause axial movement of a front plate to reduce torque transmission at rotational speeds above an engagement speed. The disengagement surfaces reduce torque to break torque lock at rotational speeds corresponding to desired gear changes. The clutch assembly is controlled to tailor the relationship between clutch torque and engine speed to current vehicle operating conditions to provide consistent vehicle performance over different operating conditions.