WO2015136383A2

WO2015136383A2 - Clutch assembly having a clamp spring

Info

Publication number: WO2015136383A2
Application number: PCT/IB2015/001094
Authority: WO
Inventors: Miguel Huerta Perez; Sonia Betsabe MACIAS ESPINOSA; Geraldy SANTIAGO ROSES
Original assignee: Schaeffler Technologies AG and Co KG
Current assignee: Schaeffler Technologies AG and Co KG
Priority date: 2014-02-21
Filing date: 2015-02-11
Publication date: 2015-09-17
Anticipated expiration: 2016-08-21
Also published as: US20150240883A1; WO2015136383A3

Abstract

A clutch assembly for transferring torque between a flywheel of an engine and a transmission, the clutch assembly comprising a. housing, a pressure plate fixedly secured to the housing, the pressure plate operatively arranged to cause a friction clutch disc to rotate the flywheel, wherein the pressure plate is arranged for rotation about an axis of rotation, wherein the pressure plate is axially movable relative to the axis of rotation, and including actuation means for engaging and disengaging the clutch, an adjustment means operatively arranged to adjust travel of the pressure plate and the friction clutch disc, and a plurality of lever arms, operatively arranged to amplify force within the clutch assembly, the adjustment means comprising a clamp spring having a first end operatively arranged to prevent an uncontrolled movement of the adjustment means and a second end operatively arranged to center the adjustment means within the clutch assembly.

Description

CLUTCH ASSEMBLY HAVING A CLAMP SPRING CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional

Patent Application No. 61/943,083, filed February 21 , 2014, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety .

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The invention relates to a clutch assembly and, more specifically, to a clamp spring of a clutch assembly.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Clutch assemblies are used in some forms of drivetrains of motor vehicles between an engine and a transmission. A motor vehicle typically includes a single clutch or a dual clutch, in a motor vehicle with a single clutch, the clutch is coupled between the crankshaft and the input shaft of the transmission, thereby transferring torque from the crankshaft to the transmission. In a motor vehicle with a dual clutch, torque is transferred to two transmission input shafts coaxially in relation to one another. Over time, the friction disc in the clutch assembly becomes increasingly worn, in order to compensate for the wear of the friction disc, some clutch assemblies include a means for adjusting the clutch assembly in relation to the amount of wear endured by the friction disc. However, prior to the installation of a clutch assembly in an automobile, an uncontrolled movement of the adjustment means can occur. In order to prevent this uncontrolled movement of the adjustment means (which includes the adjuster ring and sensor ring), a transport lock has been used.

[0004] Figure 2 is a top plan view of transport lock 200 of typical clutch assembly 100

(shown in Figure 3). In Figure 2, transport lock 200 is formed as a ring which is fixedly secured to housing 130 (shown in Figure 3) of clutch assembly 100 (shown in Figure 3). Transport lock 200 includes first, set of teeth 201, second set of teeth 202, and third set of teeth 203. First set of teeth 201 is fixedly connected to second set of teeth 202 by bar 204. Second set of teeth 202 is fixedly connected to third set of teeth 203 by bar 205. Third set of teeth 203 is fixedly connected to first set of teeth 201 by bar 206. First set of teeth 201 includes four teeth members 208, 209, 210 and 211. Second set of teeth 202 includes four teeth members 212, 213, 214 and 215. Third set of teeth 203 includes four teeth members 216, 218, 219 and 220. Teeth members 208, 211, 212, 215, 216 and 220 further include notches 208B, 211a, 212s, 215si, 216n and 220s, respectively.

[0005] Figure 3 is a fragmentary top view of the adjustment means of typical clutch assembly 100 having at least one clutch, of which the adjustment means compensates for the wear of at least one friction disc. In order to compensate for the wear of the friction disc, clutch assembly 100 comprises a preloaded adjuster ring 140 (shown in Figure 4) and a preloaded sensor ring 150 (shown in Figure 4) with ramps being provided between the clutch housing 130 and the lever plate 101. The adjuster ring and the sensor ring are preloaded in a circumferential direction with pressure springs such that, when the friction disc becomes increasingly worn, adjuster ring 140 (shown in Figure 4) and sensor ring 150 (shown in Figure 4) move in order to compensate the gap created between the pressure plate and the friction disc. The activation of the adjustment process is determined by sensor devices which measure a travel or actuating force of plurality of lever arms 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, and 108. The sensor devices comprise clamp spring 300 and adjustment tab 160 (shown in Figure 6). Clamp spring 300, which is arranged to engage adjustment tab 160 (shown in Figure 6), is fixedly secured to housing 130 of clutch assembly 10Θ by rivets 131 and 132, whereby rivets 131 and 132 pass through notches 211n and 212ii (shown in Figure 2) of transport lock 200 (shown in Figure 2) and washers 221 and 222 (not shown), respectively.

[0006] To prevent an uncontrolled movement of adjuster ring 140 (shown in Figure 4) prior to the installation of clutch assembly 100 in an automobile, transport lock 200 (shown in Figure 2) prevents a complete relaxation of lever arms 102, 103, 104, 105, 106 and 108. Transport lock 200 (shown in Figure 2) is positioned between clamp spring 300 and lever plate 101, which is fixedly connected to lever arms 102, 103, 106, and 108. Lever arms 102, 103, 104, 105, 106 and 108 further include apertures 102a, 103a, 104a, 105a, 106a and 108a, respectively, which allow teeth 210, 211, 212 and 213 of transport lock 200 (shown in Figure 2) to protrude perpendicularly to the plane of axis of lever arms 102, 103, 106, 108, through apertures 102a, 103a, 106a and 108a, respectively. Bar 204 of transport lock 200 (shown in Figure 2) is arranged to engage lever arms 104 and 105. Washers 221 and 222 (not shown) are positioned between transport lock 200 (shown in Figure 2) and clamp spring 300, and washers 221 and 222 (not shown) are positioned over notches 21 In and 212s (shown in Figure 2) of transport lock 200 (shown in Figure 2), respectively, to create a gap between transport lock 200 (shown in Figure 2) and clamp spring 300. It should be appreciated that washers 221 and 222 (not shown) are used to ensure the proper function of transport lock 200 (shown in Figure 2).

[0007] Figure 4 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the adjustment means of typical clutch assembly 100, taken generally along line 4-4 in Figure 3, In Figure 4, transport lock 200 (shown in Figure 2) places a predetermined load on lever arms 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, and 108 (shown in Figure 3) which prevents a complete relaxation of lever arms 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, and 108 (shown in Figure 3). Lever arms 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, and 108 (shown in Figure 3) are oriented radially and fixedly connected to lever plate 101. As transport lock 200 (shown in Figure 2) applies a predetermined load onto lever arms 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, and 108 (shown in Figure 3), lever plate 101 in turn applies a load to adjuster ring 140, thereby preventing an uncontrolled movement, of adjuster ring 140. Once clutch assembly 100 is connected to the transmission of an automobile, a load is placed on lever arms 102, 103, 104, 105, 106 and 108 (shown in Figure 3) greater than the load applied by transport lock 200 (shown in Figure 2), such that lever arms 102, 103, 1Θ4, 105, 106, and 108 (shown in Figure 3) no longer engage transport lock 200 (shown in Figure 2), thereby allowing the actuation means necessary to engage the pressure plate with the friction disc.

[0008] Figure 5 is a perspective view of typical clamp spring 300 of clutch assembly 100

(shown in Figure 3). In Figure 5, clamp spring 300 is formed as a tripartite member fixedly secured to housing 130 (shown in Figure 3) of clutch assembly 100 (shown in Figure 3). Clamp spring 300 includes body 301, first end 302, second end 303 and third end 304. First end 302 of body 301 is formed by first flat member 305, second flat member 306 and arcuate member 308, and the first and second flat members 305 and 306 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 308. Second end 303 of body 301 is formed by flat member 309. Third end 304 of body 301 is formed by first fiat member 310, second flat member 311 and arcuate member 312, and the first and second flat members 310 and 311 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 312. Body 301, first end 302 and second end 303 further contain apertures 301a, 302a and 303a, respectively. [0009] Figure 6 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the adjustment means of typical clutch assembly 100 having clamp spring 300, taken generally along line 4-4 in Figure 3. In Figure 6, clamp spring 300 is positioned between transport lock 200 (shown in Figure 2) and housing 130 of clutch assembly 100, First end 302 of clamp spring 300 includes first flat member 305, second flat member 306 and arcuate member 308, and the first and second flat members 305 and 306 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 308. The adjustment tab 160 is fixedly secured to second flat member 306 of first end 302 of body 301 (shown in Figure 5) of clamp spring 300 by bolt 133, which passes from adjustment tab 160 through aperture 302a (shown in Figure 5) of second flat member 306 of first end 302. The adjustment tab 160, which is fixedly secured to clamp spring 300, also engages lever plate 101. Clamp spring 300 and adjustment tab 160 measure the travel or actuating force of lever arms 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, and 108 and prevent an uncontrolled movement of the sensor ring (shown in Figure 3).

[0010] During the lifetime of clutch assembly 100, the distance between the pressure plate and the friction disc should remain constant. However, as the friction disc becomes increasingly worn, the distance between the pressure plate and the friction disc increases, which in turn results in an increase of the travel necessary to engage the pressure plate with the friction disc. The adjustment tab 160, which is fixedly secured to clamp spring 300 and places a predefined load on sensor ring 150, senses the amount of wear or distance between the pressure plate and the friction disc. The adjustment tab 160 is further placed over the lever plate 101 , whereby an increase in the travel necessary to engage the pressure plate with the friction disc (larger than the gap between adjustment tab 160 and lever plate 101) produces a higher axial movement of lever plate 101, engaging adjustment tab 160. Since adjustment tab 160 is also fixedly secured to clamp spring 300, the axial movement of lever plate 101 causes adjustment tab 160 and clamp spring 300 to undergo a travel or distance equal to the increase in distance between the pressure plate and the worn friction disc.

[0011] To compensate for the increased travel or distance between adjustment tab 160 and sensor ring 150, and thus an increase in the distance necessary for the pressure plate to engage with the friction disc, sensor ring 150 moves axialiy along the axis of rotation to reengage with adjustment tab 160. As sensor ring 150 reengages with adjustment tab 160, adjuster ring 140 simultaneously moves axiaily along the axis of rotation a distance equal to the distance traveled by sensor ring 150. As adjuster ring 140 moves axiaily, adjustment means (comprising adjuster ring 140, sensor ring 150, clamp spring 300, adjustment tab 160 and lever plate 101) is moved axiaily along the axis of rotation a. distance equivalent to that traveled by adjuster ring 140 and sensor ring 150, such that the distance between the pressure plate and the friction disc remains constant.

[0012] Clutch assembly 100 (shown in Figure 3) is installed in an automobile, centering pin 400 (shown in Figure 7) further prevents an uncontrolled movement of sensor ring ISO (shown in Figure 6), Figure 7 is a perspective view of typical centering pin 400 of clutch assembly 100 (shown in Figure 8), The centering pin 400 engages sensor ring 150 (shown in Figure 8) of clutch assembly 100 (shown in Figure 8) to center sensor ring 150 as sensor ring 150 moves axiaily within clutch assembly 100 (shown in Figure 8). The centering pin 400 is formed as an "L" shaped bracket, having first flat member 401 and second flat member 402. First flat, member 401 of centering pin 400 lies perpendicularly to the plane of axis of second flat, member 402 of centering pin 400. First flat, member 401 further contains aperture 401s.

[0013] Figure 8 is a fragmentary top view of the adjustment, means of typical clutch assembly 100 having centering pin 400. In Figure 8, clamp spring 300 and centering pin 400 are both independently operable and spatially oriented within clutch assembly 100. With housing 130 (shown in Figure 3) removed, aperture 401a of centering pin 400 and aperture 303a of clamp spring 300 can be seen. Centering pin 400 and second end 303 of clamp spring 300 are fixedly secured to housing 130 (shown in Figure 3) by rivets 403 (shown in Figure 9) and 131 (shown in Figure 3), respectively, which pass through apertures 401a and 303a, respectively. It should be appreciated that clamp spring 300 and centering pin 400 are two distinct structures. First flat member 401 of centering pin 400 is fixedly secured to housing 130 (shown in Figure 3) by rivet 403 (shown in Figure 9). First flat member 401 of centering pin 400 lies parallel to the plane of axis of housing 130 (shown in Figure 9). Second flat member 402 of centering pin 400 lies perpendicular to the plane of axis of housing 130 (shown in Figure 9). As clutch assembly 100 rotates about an axis of rotation, second flat member 402 of centering pin 400 is engaged with sensor ring 150 to center sensor ring 150 and thereby prevent sensor ring 150 from moving within a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of clutch assembly 100. [0014] Figure 9 is a fragmentary partial cross sectional view of the adjustment means of typical clutch assembly 100 having centering pin 400, taken generally along line 8-8 in Figure 8. In Figure 9, centering pin 400 is fixedly secured to housing 130 of clutch assembly 100 by rivet 403. First flat member 401 of centering pin 400 lies parallel to the plane of axis of housing 130. Second flat member 402 of centering pin 400 lies perpendicularly to the plane of axis of housing 130. As clutch assembly 100 rotates about an axis of rotation, second flat member 402 of centering pin 400 is engaged with sensor ring 150 to center sensor ring 150 and thereby prevents sensor ring 150 from moving within a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of clutch assembly 100.

[0015] Thus, there has been a long-felt need for a clamp spring for a clutch assembly which prevents an uncontrolled movement of the adjustment means within the clutch assembly.

SUMMARY

[0016] The present invention broadly comprises a clutch assembly for transferring a torque between a flywheel of an engine and a transmission in a motor vehicle, the clutch assembly comprising a housing, a pressure plate fixedly secured to the housing, the pressure plate operatively arranged to cause a friction clutch disc to rotate the flywheel, wherein the pressure plate is arranged for rotation about an axis of rotation, wherein the pressure plate is axially movable relative to the axis of rotation, and including actuation means for engaging and disengaging the clutch, an adjustment means operatively arranged to adjust travel of the pressure plate and the friction clutch disc, and a plurality of lever arms, operatively arranged to amplify force within the clutch assembly, the adjustment means comprising a clamp spring having a first end operatively arranged to prevent an uncontrolled movement of the adjustment means and a second end operatively arranged to center the adjustment means within the clutch assembly.

[0017] A general object of the invention is to provide a clamp spring that prevents an unwanted movement of the adjustment means of a clutch assembly.

[0018] Another object of the invention is to provide a clamp spring that prevents an unwanted movement of the adjuster ring of a clutch assembly.

[0019] Yet another object of the invention is to provide a clamp spring that prevents an unwanted movement of the sensor ring of a clutch assembly. [0020] A further object of the invention is to provide a cost savings for the manufacturing and production of a transport lock for an adjustment device within a clutch assembly.

[0021] A further object of the invention is to provide a cost savings for the manufacturing and production of a centering pin for an adjustment device within a clutch assembly.

[0022] These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon a review of the following detailed description of the invention, in view of the drawings and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Various embodiments are disclosed, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, in which:

Figure 1A is a perspective view of a cylindrical coordinate system demonstrating spatial terminology used in the present application;

Figure IB is a perspective view of an object in the cylindrical coordinate system of Figure 1 A. demonstrating spatial terminology used in the present application;

Figure 2 is a top plan view of transport lock 200 of typical clutch assembly 100; Figure 3 is a fragmentary top view of the adjustment means of typical clutch assembly 100;

Figure 4 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the adjustment means of typical clutch assembly 100 taken generally along line 4-4 in Figure 3;

Figure 5 is a perspective view of typical clamp spring 300 of typical clutch assembly 100;

Figure 6 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the adjustment means of typical clutch assembly 100 having clamp spring 300 taken generally along line 4-4 in Figure 3;

Figure 7 is a perspective view of typical centering pin 400 of typical clutch assembly 100;

Figure 8 is a fragmentary top view of the adjustment means of typical clutch assembly 100 having centering pin 400;

Figure 9 is a fragmentary partial cross sectional view of the adjustment means of typical clutch assembly 100 having centering pin 400 taken generally along line 8-8 in Figure 8; Figure 10 is a fragmentary top view of the adjustment means of clutch assembly 500 of the present invention;

Figure 1 1 A is a perspective view of clamp spring 600 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 600 which includes nose 602B and tab 603B;

Figure 11B is a perspective view of another embodiment of clamp spring 700, illustrating clamp spring 700 which includes nose 7Θ2Β and tab 7Ό3Β;

Figure 11C is a perspective view of another embodiment of clamp spring 800, illustrating clamp spring 800 which includes nose 802B and tab 803B;

Figure 12 is a. fragmentary cross sectional view of the adjustment means of clutch assembly 500 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 600 which includes nose 602B taken generally along line 12-12 in Figure 10;

Figure 13 is a fragmentary top view of the adjustment means of clutch assembly 500 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 600 which includes tab 6Θ3Β;

Figure 14 is a fragmentary partial cross sectional view of the adjustment means of clutch assembly 500 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 600 which includes tab 603B taken generally along line 14-14 in Figure 13;

Figure 15 is a fragmentary top view of the adjustment means of clutch assembly 500 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 700 which includes tab 703B;

Figure 16 is a fragmentary partial cross sectional view of the adjustment means of clutch assembly 500 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 700 which includes tab 703B taken generally along line 16-16;

Figure 17 is a fragmentary top view of the adjustment means of clutch assembly 500 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 800 which includes tab 803B; and,

Figure 18 is a fragmentary partial cross sectional view of the adjustment means of clutch assembly 500 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 800 which includes tab 803B taken generally along line 18-18 in Figure 17.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] At the outset, it should be appreciated that like drawing numbers on different drawing views identify identical, or functionally similar, structural elements of the invention. It is to be understood that the invention as claimed is not limited to the disclosed aspects. [0025] Furthermore, it is understood that this patent is not limited to the particular methodology, materials and modifications described and as such may, of course, vary. It is also understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention as claimed ,

[0026] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It should be understood that any methods, devices or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the invention.

[0027] By "non-rotatably connected" first and second components we mean that the first component, is connected to the second component so that, any time the first component rotates, the second component, rotates with the first component, and any time the second component rotates, the first component rotates with the second component. Axial displacement between the first and second components is possible.

[0028] Figure 1 A. is a perspective view of cylindrical coordinate system. 10 demonstrating spatial terminology used in the present patent. The present invention is at least partially described within the context of cylindrical coordinate system 10. System 10 has a longitudinal axis 1, used as the reference for the directional and spatial terms that follow. Axial direction AO is parallel to axis 1, Radial direction RD is orthogonal to axis 1. Circumferential direction CO is defined by an endpoint of radius R (orthogonal to axis I) rotated about axis 1.

[0029] To clarify the spatial terminology, objects 4, 5, and 6 are used. Surface 7 of object

4 forms an axial plane. For example, axis 1 is congruent with surface 7. Surface 8 of object 5 forms a radial plane. For example, radius 2 is congruent with surface 8. Surface 9 of object 6 forms a circumferential surface. For example, circumference 3 is congruent with surface 9. As a further example, axial movement or disposition is parallel to axis 1; radial movement or disposition is orthogonal to axis 2, and circumferential movement or disposition is parallel to circumference 3. Rotation is described herein with respect to axis 1.

[0030] The adverbs "axially," "radially," and "circumferential ly" are used with respect to an orientation parallel to axis 1, radius 2, or circumference 3, respectively. The adverbs "axially," "radially," and "circumferentially" are also used regarding orientation parallel to respective planes. [0031] Figure I B is a perspective view of object IS in cylindrical coordinate system 10 of Figure 1A demonstrating spatial terminology used in the present patent. Cylindrical object 15 is representative of a cylindrical object in a. cylindrical coordinate system and is not intended to limit the claims of the present invention in any manner. Object 15 includes axial surface 11, radial surface 12, and circumferential surface 13. Surface 11 is part of an axial plane; surface 12 is part of a radial plane, and surface 13 is part of a circumferential plane.

[0032] Figure 10 is a fragmentary top view of the adjustment means of clutch assembly

500 of the present invention having at least one clutch, of which the adjustment means compensates for the wear of at least one friction disc. In order to compensate for the wear of the friction disc, clutch assembly 500 comprises a preloaded adjuster ring 540 (shown in Figure 12) and a preloaded sensor ring 550 (shown in Figure 12) with ramps being provided between clutch housing 530 and lever plate 501. The adjuster ring 540 and sensor ring 550 are preloaded in a circumferential direction with pressure springs such that when the friction disc becomes increasingly worn, the adjuster ring 540 (shown in Figure 12) and sensor ring 550 (shown in Figure 12) move in order to compensate the gap created between the pressure plate and the friction disc.

[0033] The activation of the adjustment process is determined by sensor devices which measure a travel or actuating force of lever arms 502, 503, 504, 5Θ5, 506, and 508. Lever arms 502, 5Θ3, 504, 505, 506, and 508 further include apertures 502a, 503a, 504a, 505a, 506a and 508a, respectively. The sensor devices comprise clamp spring 600 and adjustment tab 560 (shown in Figure 12). Clamp spring 600, which is operably engaged with adjustment tab 56Θ (shown in Figure 12), is fixedly secured to housing 530 of clutch assembly 500 by rivets 531 and 532.

[0034] Figures 11A-1 1C are perspective views of various embodiments of clamp spring 600, 700 and 800, respectively, of the present invention. It should be noted that clamp spring 600, 700 and 800 all perform identical functions. Figure 11 A is a perspective view of clamp spring 600 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 600 which includes nose 6Θ2Β and tab 603B. In Figure 11 A, clamp spring 600 is formed as a tripartite member fixedly secured to housing 530 (shown in Figure 10) of clutch assembly 500 (shown in Figure 10). Clamp spring 600 includes body 601, first end 602, second end 603 and third end 604, First end 602 of body 601 includes first end 602A and nose 602B. First end 602A is formed by first flat member 605, second flat member 606 and arcuate member 608, whereby the first and second flat members 605 and 606 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 608. Nose 602B is formed by first fiat member 609, second flat member 610 and arcuate member 611, whereby the first and second flat 5 members 609 and 610 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 611. First end 602A and nose 602B are fixedly connected and operabiy arranged to engage with adjuster ring 540 (shown in Figure 12) of clutch assembly 500 (shown in Figure 12), It should be appreciated that nose 602B of clamp spring 600 prevents an uncontrolled movement of adjuster ring 540 (show^rn in Figure 12) prior to installation of clutch assembly 500 (shown in Figure 12) within an automobile.

! O [0035] Second end 603 of body 601 includes second end 603 A and tab 603B. Second end 603A is formed by flat member 612. Tab 6Θ3Β is formed by first flat member 613, second flat member 614 and arcuate member 615, whereby the first and second flat members 613 and 614 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 615. Second end 603 A and nose 6Θ3Β are fixedly connected and operabiy arranged to engage with sensor ring 550 (shown in Figure 12) of clutch

15 assembly 500 (shown in Figure 12). It should be appreciated that tab 603B of clamp spring 600 prevents an uncontrolled movement of sensor ring 550 (shown in Figure 12) after installation of clutch assembly 500 (shown in Figure 12) within an automobile.

[0036] Third end 604 of body 601 is formed by first flat member 616, second flat member 618 and arcuate member 619, whereby the first and second flat members 616 and 618 0 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 619. Body 6Θ1, first end 602A and second end 603A of clamp spring 600 further include apertures 601a, 602a and 603a, respectively.

[0037] Figure 1 I B is a perspective view of another embodiment of clamp spring 700 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 700 which includes nose 702B and tab 703B. In Figure 1 I B, clamp spring 700 is formed as a tripartite member fixedly secured to housing 530 5 (shown in Figure 12) of clutch assembly 500 (shown in Figure 12). Clamp spring 700 includes body 701, first end 702, second end 703 and third end 704. First end 702 of body 701 is comprised of first end 702A and nose 702B. First end 702A is formed by first flat member 70S, second flat member 706 and arcuate member 708, whereby the first and second flat members 705 and 706 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 708. Nose 7Ό2Β is formed by first flat

30 member 709, second flat member 710 and arcuate member 711, whereby the first and second flat members 709 and 710 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 711. First end 702A and nose 702B are fixedly connected and operably arranged to engage with adjuster ring 550 (shown in Figure 12) of clutch assembly 500 (shown in Figure 12). It should be appreciated that nose 7Θ2Β of clamp spring 700 prevents an uncontrolled movement of adjuster ring 540 (shown in Figure 12) prior to installation of clutch assembly 500 (shown in Figure 12) in an automobile.

[0038] Second end 703 of body 701 includes second end 703A and tab 703B. Second end 703A is formed by flat member 712. Tab 703B is formed by first flat member 713, second flat member 714 and arcuate member 715, whereby the first and second flat members 713 and 714 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 715. Second end 703A and tab 7Θ3Β are fixedly connected by arcuate member 716 and operably arranged to engage with sensor ring 540 (shown in Figure 12) of clutch assembly 500 (shown in Figure 12). It should be appreciated that tab 703B of clamp spring 700 prevents an uncontrolled movement, of sensor ring 550 (shown in Figure 12) after installation of clutch assembly 500 (shown in Figure 12) in an automobile.

[0039] Third end 704 of body 701 is formed by first flat member 718, second flat, member 719 and arcuate member 720, whereby the first and second flat members 718 and 719 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 720. Body 701, first end 702A and second end 703A of clamp spring 700 further include apertures 701a, 702a and 703a, respectively.

[0040] Figure 1 1C is a perspective view of a further embodiment of clamp spring 800, illustrating clamp spring 800 which includes 802B and tab 803B. In Figure 1 1C, clamp spring 800 is formed as a tripartite member fixedly secured to housing 530 (shown in Figure 12) of clutch assembly 500 (shown in Figure 12). Clamp spring 800 includes body 801, first end 802, second end 803 and third end 804. First end 802 of body 801 includes first end 802 A and nose 802B. First end 802A is formed by first flat member 805, second flat member 806 and arcuate member 808, whereby the first and second flat members 805 and 806 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 808. Nose 802B is formed by first flat member 809, second flat member 810 and arcuate member 811, whereby the first and second flat members 809 and 810 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 811. First end 802A and nose 802B are fixedly connected and operably arranged to engage adjuster ring 550 (shown in Figure 12) of clutch assembly 500 (shown in Figure 12). It should be appreciated that nose 802B of clamp spring 800 prevents an uncontrolled movement of adjuster ring 540 (shown in Figure 12) prior to installation of clutch assembly 500 (shown in Figure 12) in an automobile.

[0041] Second end 803 of body 801 includes second end 803A and tab 803B, Second end 803A is formed by flat member 812. Tab 803B is formed by flat member 813. Second end 803A and tab 803B are fixedly connected and operably arranged to engage sensor ring 540 (shown in Figure 12) of clutch assembly 500 (shown in Figure 12). It should be appreciated that tab 803B of clamp spring 800 prevents an uncontrolled movement of sensor ring 550 (shown in Figure 12) after installation of clutch assembly 500 (shown in Figure 12) in an automobile.

[0042] Third end 804 of body 801 is formed by first flat member 814, second flat member 815 and arcuate member 816, whereby the first, and second flat members 814 and 815 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 816. Body 801, first end 802A and second end 803 A of clamp spring 800 further include apertures 801a, 802a and 803a, respectively.

[0043] Figure 12 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the adjustment means of clutch assembly 500 of the present invention having clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 1 1 A) with nose 602B taken along line 12-12 in Figure 10. In Figure 12, clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 11 A) which includes nose 602B (shown in Figure 1 1 A) prevents an uncontrolled movement of the adjustment means of clutch assembly 500 when in an uninstal!ed state by operatively applying a load to adjuster ring 540 and thereby preventing an axial movement of adjuster ring 540, The nose 602B of clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 1 1A) includes first flat member 809, second flat member 610 and arcuate member 611, and the first and second flat members 809 and 810 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 611. Second flat member 610 of nose 602B of clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 1 1 A) engages with adjuster ring 540 of clutch assembly 500. Clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 1 1A) is positioned between lever plate 501 and housing 530 of clutch assembly 500. Clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 1 1 A) is fixedly secured to housing 530 of clutch assembly 500 by rivets 531 and 532 (shown in Figure 10). It should be appreciated that nose 602B of clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 10) prevents an uncontrolled movement of adjuster ring 540 prior to installation of clutch assembly 500 in an automobile.

[0044] The Adjustment tab 560 is fixedly secured to second flat member 606 of first end

602A of first end 602 (shown in Figure 11 A) of body 601 (shown in Figure 11A) of clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 11 A) by bolt 533, which passes from adjustment tab 560 through aperture 602a (shown in Figure 1 1A) of second flat member 606 of first end 602A. The first end 602A further includes first flat member 605, second flat member 606 and arcuate member 608, whereby the first and second flat members 605 and 606 are fixedly secured by arcuate member 608. The adjustment tab 560, which is fixedly secured to clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 11 A), is also engaged with lever plate 501. Clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 11 A) and adjustment tab 560 measure the travel of lever arms 502, 503, 504, 505, 506, and 508 (shown in Figure 10).

[0045] Throughout the lifetime of clutch assembly 500, the distance between the pressure plate and the friction disc should remain constant. However, as the clutch disc becomes increasingly worn, the distance between the pressure plate and the friction disc increases which in turn results in an increase in the load or actuating force placed on lever arms 502, 503, 504, 505, 506 and 508 (shown in Figure 10) necessary to engage the pressure plate with the friction disc. The adjustment tab 560, which is fixedly secured to clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 11A) and places a predefined load on sensor ring 550, senses the amount of wear or distance between the pressure plate and the friction disc. The adjustment tab 560 is further placed over lever plate 501, whereby an increase in the travel necessary to engage the pressure plate with the friction disc (larger than the gap between adjustment tab 560 and lever plate 501) produces a higher axial movement of lever plate 501, engaging adjustment tab 560. Since adjustment tab 560 is also fixedly secured to clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 11 A), the axial movement of lever plate 501 causes adjustment tab 560 and clamp spring 6Θ0 (shown in Figure 5 5 A) to undergo a travel or distance equal to the increase in distance between the pressure plate and the worn friction disc.

[0046] To compensate for the increased travel or distance between adjustment tab 560 and sensor ring 550, and thus an increase in the distance necessary for the pressure plate to engage with the friction disc, sensor ring 550 moves axially to reengage with adjustment tab 560. As sensor ring 550 reengages with adjustment tab 560, adjuster ring 540 simultaneously moves axially a distance equal to the distance traveled by sensor ring 550. As adjuster ring 550 moves axially, adjustment means (comprising adjuster ring 540, sensor ring 550, clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 11 A), adjustment tab 560 and lever plate 501) is moved axially a distance equivalent to that traveled by adjuster ring 540 and sensor ring 550, such that the distance between the pressure plate and the friction disc remains constant.

[0047] Figures 13-18 show clutch assembly 500 with various embodiments of a clamp spring 600, 700 and 800 having tab 603B, 703B and 803B, (shown in Figures 1 1 A, 11B and 11C) respectively. Figure 13 is a fragmentary top view of the adjustment means of clutch assembly 500 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 600 which includes tab 603B. It should be appreciated that clamp spring 600 and tab 603B are a single, unified structure. In Figure 13, tab 603B further prevents an uncontrolled movement of sensor ring 550. With housing 530 removed, aperture 603a of clamp spring 600 can be seen. Second end 603A of second end 603 of clamp spring 600 is fixedly secured to housing 530 (shown in Figure 10) by rivet 531 (shown in Figure 10), which passes through aperture 603a. Flat member 612 of second end 603A and first flat, member 613 of tab 603B lie perpendicular to the plane of axis of second flat member 614 of tab 603B. As clutch assembly 500 rotates about an axis of rotation, second flat member 614 of clamp spring 600 engages sensor ring 550 to center the sensor ring and prevent an uncontrolled movement within a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of clutch assembly 500.

[0048] Figure 14 is a fragmentary partial cross section of the adjustment means of clutch assembly 500 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 13) which includes tab 603B taken generally along line 14-14 in Figure 13. It should be appreciated that clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 13) and tab 603B form a single, unified structure. In Figure 14, tab 603B of clamp spring 600 (shown in Figure 13) engages with sensor ring 550 of clutch assembly 500. Tab 603B engages sensor ring 550 of clutch assembly 500 to center sensor ring 550 as sensor ring 150 moves within the axis of rotation clutch assembly 500. Tab 603B is formed by first flat member 613, second flat member 614 and arcuate member 615, whereby the first and second flat members 613 and 614 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 615. Second end 603A (shown in Figure 1 1 A), comprising first flat member 612 (shown in Figure 11 A) and tab 603B are fixedly connected and operably arranged to engage with sensor ring 550 of clutch assembly 500. Flat member 612 (shown in Figure 1 1A) of second end 603A (shown in Figure 11 A) and first flat member 613 of tab 603B lie perpendicular to the plane of axis of second flat member 614 of tab 603B. [0049] Figure 15 is a fragmentary top view of the adjustment means of clutch assembly

500 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 700 which includes tab 703B. it should be appreciated that clamp spring 700 and tab 703B are a single, unified structure. Tab 703B further prevents an uncontrolled movement of sensor ring 550. With housing 530 removed, aperture 5 703a of clamp spring 700 can be seen. Second end 7Ό3Α of second end 703 of clamp spring 700 is fixedly secured to housing 530 (shown in Figure 10) by rivet 531 (shown in Figure 10), which passes through aperture 703a, Fiat member 712 of second end 703 A and first flat member 713 of tab 703B lie perpendicular to the plane of axis of second flat member 714 of tab 703B. As clutch assembly 500 rotates about an axis of rotation, second flat member 714 of clamp spring ! O 700 engages sensor ring 550 to center the sensor ring and prevent it from moving within a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of clutch assembly 500.

[0050] Figure 16 is a fragmentary partial cross section of the adjustment means of clutch assembly 500 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 700 (shown in Figure 15) which includes tab 703B taken generally along line 16-16 in Figure 15. It should be appreciated that,

15 clamp spring 700 (shown in Figure 15) and tab 703B are a single, unified structure. In Figure 16, tab 703B of clamp spring 700 (shown in Figure 15) is engaged with sensor ring 550 of clutch assembly 500. Tab 703B engages with sensor ring 550 of clutch assembly 500 to center sensor ring 550 as sensor ring 550 moves within the axis of rotation of clutch assembly 500. Tab 7Θ3Β is formed by first flat member 713, second flat member 714 and first arcuate member 715, 0 whereby the first and second flat members 713 and 714 are fixedly connected by arcuate member 715, Second end 703A, comprising flat member 712 and tab 703B are fixedly connected by arcuate member 716 and operably arranged to engage with sensor ring 550 of clutch assembly 500. Flat member 712 of second end 703A and first flat member 713 of tab 703B lie perpendicular to the plane of axis of second flat member 714 of tab 703 B.

5 [00511 Figure 17 is a fragmentary top view of the adjustment means of clutch assembly

500 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 800 which includes tab 8Θ3Β. it should be appreciated that clamp spring 800 and tab 803B are a single, unified structure. Tab 803B further prevents an uncontrolled movement of sensor ring 550. Tab 803B engages with sensor ring 550 of clutch assembly 500 to center sensor ring 550 as sensor ring 550 moves within the axis of

30 rotation of clutch assembly 500. Tab 803B is formed by flat member 813. Second end 803A, comprising flat member 812, and tab 803B are fixedly connected and operably arranged to engage with sensor ring 550 of clutch assembly 500.

[0052] Figure 18 is a fragmentary partial cross section of the adjustment means of clutch assembly 500 of the present invention, illustrating clamp spring 800 (shown in Figure 17) which includes tab 803B taken generally along line 18-18 in Figure 17. It should be appreciated that clamp spring 800 (shown in Figure 17) and tab 803B are a single, unified structure. In Figure 18, tab 803B of clamp spring 800 is engaged with sensor ring 550 of clutch assembly 500. Tab 803B engages with sensor ring 550 of clutch assembly 500 to center sensor ring 550 as sensor ring 150 moves within the axis of rotation of clutch assembly 500. Tab 803B is formed by flat member 813. Second end 803 A, comprising flat member 812 and tab 803B are fixedly connected and operably arranged to engage with sensor ring 550 of clutch assembly 500. Flat member 811 of second end 803A and first flat member 812 of tab 803B lie perpendicular to the plane of axis of second fl at member 813 of tab 803B.

List of reference numbers ί longitudinal axis

2 radius

3 circumference

4 object

5 object

6 object

7 surface

8 surface

9 surface

10 system

11 surface

12 surface

13 surface

15 object

100 clutch assembly

101 Sever plate

102 lever arm

102a aperture

103 lever arm

103a aperture

104 lever arm

104a aperture

105 lever arm

105a aperture

106 lever arm

106a aperture

108 lever arm

108a aperture

130 housing 131 rivet

132 rivet

133 bolt

140 adjuster ring

150 sensor ring

160 adjustment tab

200 transport lock

201 first set of teeth

202 second set of teeth

203 third set of teeth

204 bar

205 bar

206 bar

208 tooth

208Ε notch

209 tooth

210 tooth

211 tooth

211ii notch

212 tooth

212ϋ notch

213 tooth

214 tooth

215 tooth

2158 notch

216 tooth

216s notch

218 tooth

219 tooth

220 tooth 220^η notch

22 ί washer

222 washer

300 clamp spring

301 body

301a aperture

302 first end

302a aperture

303 second end

303a aperture

304 third end

305 first flat member

306 second flat member

308 arcuate member

309 flat member

310 first flat member

311 second flat member

312 arcuate member

400 centering pin

401 first fiat member

401a aperture

402 second flat member

403 rivet

500 clutch assembly

501 lever plate

502 lever arm

503 lever arm

504 lever arm

505 lever arm

506 lever arm 5m lever arm

530 housing

531 rivet

532 rivet

533 bolt

540 adjuster ring

550 sensor ring

560 adjustment tab

600 clamp spring

601 body

602 first end

602A first end

602B nose

603 second end

603A second end

603B tab

603 B tab

604 third end

605 first fiat member

606 second fiat member

608 arcuate member

609 first flat member

610 second flat member

611 arcuate member

612 fiat member

613 first flat member

614 second flat member

615 arcuate member

616 first flat member

618 second flat member 619 arcuate member

700 clamp spring

701 body

701a aperture

702 first end

702a aperture

702A first end

702B nose

703 second end

703 a aperture

703A second end

703B tab

704 third end

705 first, flat member

706 second flat member

708 arcuate member

709 first flat member

710 second flat member

711 arcuate member

712 flat member

713 first flat member

714 second flat member

715 arcuate member

716 arcuate member

718 first flat member

719 second flat member

720 arcuate member

800 clamp spring

801 body

801a aperture 802 first end

802a aperture

802A first end

802B nose

803 second end

803a aperture

803A second end

803B tab

804 third end

805 first flat member

806 second flat member

808 arcuate member

809 first flat member

810 second flat member

811 arcuate member

812 flat member

813 flat member

814 first flat member

815 second flat member

816 arcuate member

Claims

What We Claim Is:

1. A clutch assembly for transferring a torque between a flywheel of an engine and a transmission in a motor vehicle, said clutch assembly comprising a housing, a pressure plate

5 fixedly secured to said housing, said pressure plate operativelv arranged to cause a friction clutch disc to rotate said flywheel, wherein said pressure plate is arranged for rotation about an axis of rotation, wherein said pressure plate is axiaily movable relative to said axis of rotation, and including actuation means for engaging and disengaging said clutch, an adjustment means operativelv arranged to adjust travel of said pressure plate and said friction clutch disc, and a ! 0 plurality of lever arms, operatively arranged to amplify force within said clutch assembly, said adjustment means comprising a clamp spring having a first end operatively arranged to prevent an uncontrolled movement of the adjustment means and a second end operatively arranged to center the adjustment means within the clutch assembly.

2. The clutch assembly as recited in Claim 1, wherein said first end comprises a nose 15 operatively arranged to engage said adjustment, means.

3. The clutch assembly as recited in Claim 2, wherein said nose applies a load to an adjuster ring of said adjustment means.

4. The clutch assembly as recited in Claim 2, wherein said nose comprises a first flat member, a second flat member and an arcuate member, said first and second fiat members 0 fixedly connected by said arcuate member.

5. The clutch assembly as recited in Claim 5 , wherein said second end comprises a tab operatively arranged to engage said adjustment means.

6. The clutch assembly as recited in Claim 5, wherein said tab is operatively engaged with a sensor ring of said adjustment means.

5 7. The clutch assembly as recited in Claim 5, wherein said tab comprises a first flat member, a second flat member and an arcuate member, said first and second flat members fixedly connected by arcuate member.

8. A clamp spring for a clutch assembly, comprising:

a. first end operatively arranged to prevent an uncontrolled movement of an adjustment means 30 and a second end operatively arranged to center an adjustment means within a clutch assembly.

9. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 8, wherein said first end comprises a nose operatively arranged to engage said adjustment means.

10. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 9, wherein said nose applies a load to an adjuster ring of said adjustment means.

11. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 9, wherein said nose comprises a first flat member, a. second flat member and an arcuate member, said first and second flat member fixedly connected by arcuate member.

12. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 8, wherein said second end comprises a tab operatively arranged to engage said adjustment means.

13. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 12, wherein said tab is operatively engaged with a sensor ring of said adjustment means.

14. The clutch assembly as recited in Claim. 12, wherein said tab comprises a first, fiat, member, a second fiat, member and an arcuate member, said first and second flat members fixedly connected by arcuate member.

15. A clamp spring for a clutch assembly, comprising:

a first, end operatively arranged to prevent, an uncontrolled movement of an adjustment means and a second end operatively arranged to center an adjustment means within a clutch assembly, 56. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 15, wherein said first end comprises a nose operatively arranged to engage said adjustment means.

57. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 56, wherein said nose applies a load to an adjuster ring of said adjustment means.

18. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 16, wherein said nose comprises a first flat member, a second flat member and an arcuate member, said first and second fiat member fixedly connected by arcuate member.

19. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 15, wherein said second end comprises a tab operatively arranged to engage said adjustment means.

20. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 19, wherein said tab is operatively engaged with a sensor ring of said adjustment means.

21. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 19, wherein said tab comprises a first flat member, a second flat member, a first arcuate member and a second arcuate member, said first and second flat members fixedly connected by first arcuate member, said first flat member fixedly connected to said second arcuate member.

22. A clamp spring for a clutch assembly, comprising:

a. first end operative!}' arranged to prevent an uncontrolled movement of an adjustment means and a second end operative iy arranged to center an adjustment means within a clutch assembly,

23. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 22, wherein said first end comprises a nose operatively arranged to engage said adjustment means.

24. ^'The clamp spring as recited in Claim 23, wherein said nose applies a load to an adjuster ring of said adjustment means.

25. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 23, wherein said nose comprises a first flat member, a second flat member and an arcuate member, said first and second flat member fixedly connected by arcuate member.

26. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 22, wherein said second end comprises a tab operatively arranged to engage said adjustment means.

27. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 24, wherein said tab is operatively engaged with a sensor ring of said adjustment, means.

28. The clamp spring as recited in Claim 52, wherein said tab comprises a fiat member