Patent ID: 7246692
Filing Date: 2007-07-24
Classification: F16D

Abstract:
1. A dual clutch mechanism for an automotive transmission, the dual clutch mechanism comprising: an input shaft adapted for rotation about a longitudinally extending axis; a first clutch arrangement coaxial with the axis of the input shaft, the first clutch arrangement having a first clutch driven plate and a first clutch driving plate; a second clutch arrangement coaxial with the axis of the input shaft and spaced from the first clutch mechanism, the second clutch arrangement having a second clutch driven plate and a second clutch driving plate; a clutch hub coaxial with the axis of the input shaft and at least partially surrounding a portion of the input shaft, the clutch hub being operably connected to the first and second clutch driven plates to drive the driven plates for rotation; a hollow outer output shaft operably connected to the first clutch driving plate for rotation therewith, the hollow outer output shaft being coaxial with the axis of the input shaft and spaced a lateral distance from the input shaft; an inner output shaft positioned within the outer output shaft and adapted for rotation independent thereof, the inner output shaft operably connected to the second clutch driving plate for rotation therewith, and the inner output shaft being coaxial with the axis of the input shaft and spaced a lateral distance from the input shaft; and at least one of a clutch feed support and an oil distribution sleeve positioned between the clutch hub and the input shaft and having a plurality of fluid passages for feeding oil to the first and second clutch arrangements.