초록 ▼

A hydraulic coupling includes a clutch assembly operatively connecting two rotary members and an actuator assembly for actuating the clutch assembly in response to speed differentiation between the two rotary members. The clutch assembly includes a multi-plate clutch pack alternately connected betwe

A hydraulic coupling includes a clutch assembly operatively connecting two rotary members and an actuator assembly for actuating the clutch assembly in response to speed differentiation between the two rotary members. The clutch assembly includes a multi-plate clutch pack alternately connected between the two rotary members within a clutch chamber. The actuator assembly includes a hydraulic pump, a piston disposed in a piston chamber, and a fluid distribution system having a first flow path between a supply chamber and the hydraulic pump, a second flow path between the hydraulic pump and the piston chamber, and a third flow path between the hydraulic pump and the clutch chamber. The fluid delivered to the piston chamber controls engagement of the piston with the clutch pack for controlling actuation of the clutch assembly. Additionally, the fluid delivered to the clutch chamber is used to cool and lubricate the clutch pack.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A hydraulic coupling for use in a motor vehicle driveline apparatus to rotatively couple first and second rotary members, the hydraulic coupling comprising:a cover assembly fixed for rotation with the first rotary member and surrounding the second rotary member to define

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A hydraulic coupling for use in a motor vehicle driveline apparatus to rotatively couple first and second rotary members, the hydraulic coupling comprising:a cover assembly fixed for rotation with the first rotary member and surrounding the second rotary member to define a drum chamber;a transfer clutch located in said drum chamber and including a clutch pack having a first clutch plate fixed for rotation with said cover assembly and a second clutch plate fixed for rotation with the second rotary member;a piston housing located in said drum chamber and defining a piston chamber, a first transfer port in fluid communication with said piston chamber, and a second transfer port in fluid communication with said clutch pack;a piston disposed in said piston chamber for movement relative to said clutch pack for exerting a clutch engagement force thereon the magnitude of which is a function of the fluid pressure in said piston chamber; anda hydraulic pump located in said drum chamber and operative for delivering fluid to said first and second transfer ports in response to a speed differential between the first and second rotary members.