Patent ID: 7264103
Filing Date: 2007-09-04
Classification: F16D

Abstract:
1. A release device for a friction clutch comprising a diaphragm spring having spring tongues with radially inner ends which can be moved axially in opposition to a restoring force in order to release the clutch, the spring tongues pivoting so that the inner ends move radially as they move axially, the release device comprising: a guide tube; a sliding sleeve received on the guide tube and movable axially with respect to the guide tube; a release bearing mounted coaxially to the sliding sleeve, the release bearing having a first bearing race which is fixed against rotation with respect to the sliding sleeve, a second bearing race which is rotatable with respect to the first bearing race, and a plurality of rolling elements between the bearing races; an annular space between the release bearing and the guide tube; and a connecting element having a retaining section which is supported against the second bearing race and a receiving section comprising a plurality of radially resilient pivot arms which engage the inner ends of said spring tongues and which are radially movable with the inner ends of the spring tongues, wherein the pivot arms are located at least partially in the annular space.