Bi-directional overrunning clutch with improved indexing mechanism
US8840514B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 12, 2014 |
| Grant date | Sep 23, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 12, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16H48/16
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A bi-directional overrunning clutch assembly for engaging secondary driven shafts in a four wheel drive vehicle. The assembly includes a differential housing with a pinion input gear rotatably disposed within it that is engaged to a drive shaft. A bi-directional overrunning clutch housing is engaged to the pinion gear. A roll cage assembly is located inside the clutch housing. A pair of hubs are positioned within the roll cage assembly and connected to the secondary driven shafts. An electromagnetic system controls indexes the roll cage in a first direction relative to the clutch housing a first indexing device for coupling the secondary drive shaft to the secondary driven axles when four wheel drive is needed, and in an opposite direction using a second indexing device when an engine braking condition is needed. A spring assembly is preferably used to bias the roll cage back to a neutral position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.