Patent ID: 6085881
Filing Date: 2000-07-11
Classification: F16D

Abstract:
A fluid coupling device having a first rotatable coupling member defining an axis of rotation, an enclosure associated with said first coupling member to define a fluid chamber there between; valve means associated with one of said first coupling member and said enclosure and including a valve plate disposed to separate said fluid chamber into a fluid operating chamber and a fluid reservoir chamber, and being rotatable relative to said first coupling member; one of said first coupling member and said enclosure cooperating with said second coupling member to define a viscous shear space there between; said valve plate defining a fill port permitting fluid communication from a said reservoir chamber into a said operating chamber; means operably to pump fluid from a said operating chamber to a said reservoir chamber in response to a difference in speed of rotation of said first and second coupling members; said valve means including a valve arm movable between an open position permitting fluid flow through said fill port, and a closed position blocking substantial fluid flow through said fill port; characterized by:(a) means operably associated with said valve plate to define an accumulator chamber disposed generally within a said operating chamber; and(b) said accumulator chamber being operably independent of a said valve arm and including an inlet region disposed to receive fluid flowing through said fill port, and an outlet region from which fluid flows out of said accumulator chamber and toward said viscous shear space.