초록 ▼

The hydraulic coupling includes a multi-plate clutch assembly operatively connecting a pair of rotary members, an actuator assembly for actuating the clutch assembly, and a fluid control system operable for controlling actuation of the actuator assembly. The actuator assembly includes a hydraulic pu

The hydraulic coupling includes a multi-plate clutch assembly operatively connecting a pair of rotary members, an actuator assembly for actuating the clutch assembly, and a fluid control system operable for controlling actuation of the actuator assembly. The actuator assembly includes a hydraulic pump and a piston mounted in a piston chamber for movement relative to the multi-plate clutch assembly. The fluid control system includes an electrically-controlled flow control valve operable for regulating the fluid pressure delivered to the piston chamber. The position of the valve element is controlled by an electronic traction control module that monitors and responds to certain vehicle operating conditions, including a sump fluid temperature, a coupling outlet oil temperature, the four wheel speeds, and the piston chamber pressure. The electronic traction control module sends a control signal to the PWM control valve for modulating the hydraulic pressure supplied to the piston chamber, which, in turn, controls clutch engagement.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A hydraulic coupling for use in a driveline apparatus for a motor vehicle to rotatively couple first and second rotary members, the hydraulic coupling comprising:a transfer clutch operatively connected between the first and second rotary members; a piston housing defining a piston chamber; a pist

1. A hydraulic coupling for use in a driveline apparatus for a motor vehicle to rotatively couple first and second rotary members, the hydraulic coupling comprising:a transfer clutch operatively connected between the first and second rotary members; a piston housing defining a piston chamber; a piston disposed in said piston chamber and actuable to engage said transfer clutch and rotatively couple the first and second rotary members; a hydraulic pump in fluid communication with a sump containing hydraulic fluid and providing a pumping action in response to relative rotation between the first and second rotary members; a first fluid flow path for supplying hydraulic fluid from said hydraulic pump to said piston chamber; a control valve located in fluid communication with said first flow path for regulating flow of hydraulic fluid into said piston chamber for actuating said piston; a second flow path for supplying hydraulic fluid from said control valve to a clutch chamber to cool said transfer clutch; a first temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of hydraulic fluid in said sump; a second temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of hydraulic fluid in said clutch chamber; a pressure sensor for detecting the pressure of fluid in said piston chamber; and an electronic traction control module controlling actuation of said control valve in response to sensor signals from said sensors.