Actuator for Multi-Mode Clutch Module

摘要

A transmission clutch module including inner and outer races, a plurality of race engaging pawls and an actuator ring incorporates an actuator having a rotatable spool header adapted to rotate an attached actuator lever between at least two angular positions. The actuator lever moves the actuator ring to selectively block the pawls so inner and outer races may freewheel relative to one another in at least one operating mode. The actuator may be electric or hydraulic powered, and may be spring-biased to a default position in event of power failure. An elongated axially moveable plunger is secured to and supported within a piston at a first end, and has a radially extending pin at its second end. A fixed spool sleeve to which the spool header is supported includes a helical slot through which the pin extends. As the plunger moves reciprocally, the pin undergoes both translational and rotational movement.

主权项

1. An actuator adapted for use with a multi-mode clutch module having a pair of annular races defined by an inner race and an outer race, a plurality of pawls circumferentially positioned between the inner and outer races, and an actuator ring adapted to selectively control movements of the pawls for locking and unlocking the races together; the actuator comprising:
a housing; a spool sleeve axially fixed to the housing, the spool sleeve defining an axis, and including a helical slot; an axially extending piston supported for reciprocal movement within the housing; an axially translatable elongated plunger having a first end secured to the piston, the plunger being adapted for rotation within the housing; a pin fixed to and radially extending from a second end of the plunger through the helical slot, the pin having a free end; a spool header mounted to and adapted to rotate about the spool sleeve, the spool header including an interior axially extending channel adapted to receive the free end of the pin during relative movements between the spool header and the pin; an actuator lever affixed to the spool header, the lever being adapted to rotate with the spool header between at least two angular positions; wherein when the pin, extending radially through the slot of the spool sleeve and having its free end engaging the interior channel of the spool header, is actuated via reciprocal movement of the plunger, the pin rotates the spool header, moving the lever between angular positions, in turn moving the actuator ring to selectively block the pawls, so that the inner and outer races may freewheel relative to one another in at least one modular clutch operating mode.