Clutch operating apparatus

摘要

An apparatus which is used to operate a clutch in the power train between the prime mover and the transmission of a motor vehicle has a bearing which can be moved axially against the prongs of the clutch spring to change the state of the clutch between an engaged and a disengaged condition. In addition to being movable in response to the depression of a clutch pedal, the bearing is also movable by a compensating unit forming part of the clutch operating apparatus and serving to compensate for wear upon the friction linings of the clutch disc and, if necessary, upon the pressure plate and the counterpressure plate of the clutch. The means for moving the bearing in order to compensate for such wear includes two sets of complementary ramps or cams which can move the bearing toward the pressure plate in response to angular movement of an annular member which carries one set of the cams or ramps and which is biased by an energy storing element to turn in a direction necessary to move the bearing in order to compensate for wear, i.e., in addition to that movement of the bearing which is necessary to change the condition of the clutch.