Patent ID: 7410040
Filing Date: 2008-08-12
Classification: F16D

Abstract:
1. An actuator for a clutch having friction elements supported for rotation about an axis, said actuator comprising a bearing race supported coaxially with the friction elements of the clutch, said bearing race supporting conical bearing rollers with axes oriented generally radially with respect to the clutch axis, first and second washers supported coaxially with said bearing race, said washers having beveled bearing surfaces positioned on opposite sides of said bearing rollers, an actuator plate mounted coaxially with said washers for limited rotation relative to said bearing race, said plate having bearing ramp surfaces that are operable, in a first rotational position of said plate, to maintain said bearing rollers a given distance from the axis of said washers and operable, in a second rotational position of said plate to maintain said bearing rollers a distance that is less than the given distance from the axis of said washers and wherein relative rotation between said actuator and said bearing race in a first direction causes axial compression of the clutch and wherein relative rotation between said actuator and said bearing race in a direction opposite the first direction relaxes axial compression of the friction elements of the clutch.