Patent ID: 6296095
Filing Date: 2001-10-02
Classification: F16D

Abstract:
A coupling assembly for transmitting torque between a first part and a second part, said parts being rotatable with respect to one another, said coupling assembly comprising: said first and second parts and(a) friction coupling means selectively operable to transmit torque between said first and second part of the coupling assembly; and(b) control means for said friction coupling means comprising: pressure generating means comprising a pump body member non-rotatably connected to said first part of the coupling assembly; an axially-displaceable piston for loading the friction coupling means; a pressure chamber formed by said pump body member and by said piston and filled with a highly viscous fluid; at least one conveying plate in said pressure chamber and non-rotatably connected to the second part of the coupling assembly; two shear channels, each at least partially formed by a shear channel-control member subcombination positioned in said pressure chamber, said control member cooperating with said at least one conveying plate; and fluid connecting means operative to connect said shear channels to one another and to a reservoir.