5344results about "Fluid actuated clutches" patented technology

A start-up clutch assembly (10) for translating torque between a prime mover and a transmission includes a drive member (16) and a clutch pack (30) is supported between the drive (16) and driven members (24). The clutch pack (30) is operable to move between a closed pack mode and an open pack mode to connect and disconnect the drive and driven members (16, 24) to selectively transfer and interrupt torque translation therebetween. A torque apply piston assembly (54) is operable to move between a disengaged position to connect and disconnect the drive and driven members and to provide a constant biasing force so that the clutch pack (30) normally operates in the closed pack mode to translate torque between the drive and driven members (16, 24). A torque interrupt actuator assembly (68) is connected to the torque apply piston assembly (54) and is operable to selectively move the torque apply piston assembly from its engaged position to the disengaged position to thereby interrupt torque translation between the drive and driven members through the clutch pack. A return piston assembly (84) is operable to provide a constant biasing force in a direction opposite to the constant biasing force generated by the torque apply piston assembly (54) to move the clutch pack (30) from the closed pack mode to the open pack mode when the torque interrupt actuator assembly (68) moves the torque apply piston assembly (54) from its engaged position to its disengaged position.