Patent ID: 7296543
Filing Date: 2007-11-20
Classification: F01P

Abstract:
1. An engine coolant pump drive system for a vehicle having an engine, an engine coolant system, and at least one sensor for sensing at least one operational condition of the vehicle, the pump drive system comprising: a magnetorheological fluid (MRF) clutch comprising a torque input section coupled to a torque output section via a MRF, the torque input section configured to receive a torque input from the engine; and a coolant pump configured for operable communication with the torque output section of the MRF clutch; wherein the torque input section comprises first and second portions with a space therebetween, the first portion being radially outboard of the second portion, the first portion configured to receive a torque input from the engine, the first and second portions configured to rotate together about the same axis of rotation; wherein the torque output section comprises a rotor attached to a shaft, the rotor disposed within the space between the first and second portions so as to form an annulus between the rotor and the first and second portions, the annulus containing a MRF, the shaft configured for operable communication with the coolant pump; and wherein in response to a signal from the at least one sensor, the MRF clutch is configured to provide a continuously variable torque transfer from the torque input section to the torque output section, thereby providing for variable coolant flow in the engine coolant system via the coolant pump capable of a continuously variable speed.