Actuation module for a multi-plate clutch and multi-plate clutch assembly having such an actuation module

Abstract

The invention relates to a control module (22) for a multi-plate clutch (18), having a force transmission element (66) for transmitting a control force from a control mechanism (20) to a plate package (24) of the multi-plate clutch (18) and a spring mechanism (84) for generating a return force acting on the force transmission element (66). The spring mechanism (84) is arranged without play at the force transmission element (66). Furthermore, the invention relates to a multi-plate clutch assembly having such a control module (22).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an operating module for a plate clutch, the operating module having a force transmission element for transmitting operating force from an operating mechanism to a plate assembly of the plate clutch and a spring mechanism for generating a return force acting on the force transmission element. Furthermore, this invention relates to a plate clutch assembly having a plate clutch, an operating mechanism for generating operating force, and such an operating module. Background Technology

[0002] Plate clutches with plate assemblies are known in practice. Furthermore, the plate clutch is equipped with an operating mechanism to generate an operating force for the plate assemblies. To transmit the operating force of the operating mechanism to the plate assemblies, a force transmission element is provided, which is mostly constructed as a sheet metal component. This force transmission element works on one hand with the operating mechanism, such as a hydraulically operated piston, and on the other hand with the plate assemblies of the plate clutch to compress the plate assemblies by means of the operating force and thereby close the clutch. In addition, the force transmission element is equipped with a spring mechanism, which can be formed, for example, by multiple helical springs, to return the force transmission element to its initial position when it is not loaded with the operating force of the operating mechanism. Therefore, the spring mechanism is used to generate a return force acting on the force transmission element. In the case of known plate clutch assemblies, not only is assembly and disassembly difficult or relatively costly, especially since many components of the operating plate clutch assembly, such as the spring mechanism and the force transmission element, are consumable. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an operating module for a plate clutch that enables particularly simple assembly and disassembly within the plate clutch assembly. Furthermore, the present invention is based on the objective of providing a plate clutch assembly that is particularly simple to assemble and disassemble, thereby reducing production and maintenance costs.

[0004] The task is solved by the features described in claim 1 or 8. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0005] The operating module for a plate clutch according to the invention has a force transmission element for transmitting operating force from the operating mechanism to the plate assembly of the plate clutch and a spring mechanism for generating a return force acting on the force transmission element. The aforementioned spring mechanism for generating the return force is anti-disengagement arranged at the force transmission element. This anti-disengagement arrangement of the spring mechanism at the force transmission element should be understood in particular as ensuring that the engagement of the spring mechanism and the force transmission element is guaranteed independently of the state or position of the operating module when the operating module is arranged alone, i.e., for example, outside the subordinate plate clutch assembly, such as before assembly or after disassembly of the plate clutch assembly. This anti-disengagement arrangement is preferably achieved through the shape and dimensional design of the spring mechanism and the force transmission element, wherein, in this case, a certain clearance is possible, although not entirely desirable, essentially within the resulting shape fit. Thus, an associated operating module is provided that can be easily assembled within and removed from the plate clutch assembly, particularly simplifying operation within the scope of assembly and disassembly, while the spring mechanism and the force transmission element do not necessarily operate independently of each other.

[0006] In an advantageous embodiment of the operating module according to the invention, the spring mechanism has an internal spring section that interacts with the force transmission element, and an external spring section that is further radially external for interacting indirectly or directly with the input or output side of the plate clutch.

[0007] To ensure a particularly simple, indirect or direct interaction between the outer spring section of the spring mechanism and the input or output side of the plate clutch, such as the outer plate carrier, the outer spring section of the spring mechanism, in a preferred embodiment of the actuating element according to the invention, protrudes radially outward beyond the force transmission element. Here, the outer spring section need not necessarily extend further outward than all areas of the force transmission element; however, in this embodiment, it is preferred that the outer spring section of the spring mechanism protrudes further radially outward than the force transmission element as a whole, so as to achieve a particularly simple interaction or engagement between the outer spring section and the input or output side of the plate clutch, thereby simplifying the structure of the input or output side, such as the outer plate carrier.

[0008] In another advantageous embodiment of the control module according to the invention, the spring mechanism has a disc spring or the spring mechanism is formed by such a disc spring, so as to obtain a simple and space-saving structure for the control module. The anti-disengagement arrangement at the force transmission element of the spring mechanism constructed as a disc spring is also simpler to design than in the case of a helical spring or multiple helical springs.

[0009] In another advantageous embodiment of the actuation module according to the invention, a spring section, preferably the outer spring section, is constructed in an annular or washer shape, while another spring section of the spring mechanism, preferably the inner spring section, is formed by a plurality of spring tongues spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction.

[0010] The internal spring section is a preferred configuration of multiple spring tongues spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction. This is particularly advantageous in relation to the combined action of the internal spring section and the force transmission element. In particular, the internal spring section, formed by multiple spring tongues spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction, can be arranged relatively easily and securely at the force transmission element, as will be explained in more detail later.

[0011] In another preferred embodiment of the control module according to the invention, the force transmission element has a first force transmission section extending in a radial direction and a second force transmission section connected to the first force transmission section and extending in an axial direction, thereby also enabling the discussion of a force transmission element that is substantially basin-shaped.

[0012] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the operating module according to the invention, a plurality of radial openings are provided in the second force transmission section of the force transmission element, the radial openings preferably following each other spaced apart in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, an axial opening is provided in the first force transmission section, the axial opening being constructed in association with the aforementioned radial openings. To provide a particularly simple anti-disengagement arrangement of the spring mechanism at the force transmission element in the above embodiment, the spring tongue of the disc spring can be introduced axially through the axial opening or into the radial opening, and, in achieving the anti-disengagement arrangement, can be supported or held at the force transmission element by a retaining ring in the opposite axial direction. The aforementioned retaining ring preferably refers to an inner retaining ring, that is, a retaining ring that has been arranged radially from the inside at the force transmission element so as to be radially arranged within the second force transmission section. Alternatively or additionally, the retaining ring is constructed as a simple wire loop. In addition to the corresponding embodiments of the retaining ring, it is further preferred that the retaining ring has an interruption in the circumferential direction so that its diameter can be easily reduced during assembly. Furthermore, in the described embodiment, it is preferred that the spring tongue be supported or held by the retaining ring in the direction of the aforementioned opposing axial direction at the first force transmission section of the force transmission element, wherein this can then be, for example, in the area reserved between the axial openings in the circumferential direction of the first force transmission section of the force transmission element.

[0013] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the operating module according to the invention, a support protrusion is provided at the first force transmission section for radial support of the aforementioned retaining ring. The support protrusion can be pressed into the first force transmission section, such that it protrudes beyond the surface of the same first force transmission section facing the retaining ring. The support protrusion is preferably also arranged such that it supports the retaining ring radially inward. Since the support protrusion ensures that the retaining ring does not disengage from its position, i.e., by reducing its diameter, this ultimately also allows for the disengagement of the spring mechanism from the disc spring or a spring mechanism in the form of a disc spring.

[0014] According to another advantageous embodiment of the operating module according to the invention, a protruding shoulder is provided at the first and / or second force transmission section for torsional fixation of the retaining ring. Such a protruding shoulder can be constructed, for example, in the type of support protrusion mentioned above; however, it should preferably be arranged such that the shoulder extends into the recess of the retaining ring between the two free ends of the retaining ring, thereby preventing torsion of the retaining ring relative to the force transmission element.

[0015] In another particularly preferred embodiment of the control module according to the invention, the control module further includes a support element that supports the force transmission element and the spring mechanism in the opposite axial direction when the spring mechanism is preloaded in the axial direction. Thus, the spring mechanism is preloaded after its anti-disengagement arrangement at the force transmission element, thereby achieving not only a compact structure and reliable engagement of the control module, but more precisely, a return force acting on the force transmission element, which is already significantly higher before the application of the control force than in a relaxed spring mechanism.

[0016] In the previously mentioned embodiments, it is preferred that the support element is supported at the force transmission section extending radially from the force transmission element. Here, the third force transmission section, where the force transmission element connects to the previously mentioned second force transmission section, has proven particularly advantageous. Alternatively or additionally, it is advantageous that the support element is supported at the force transmission section for the loading plate assembly. In the last mentioned case, the third or / and force transmission section for the loading plate assembly preferably has a rotational drive profile for rotational engagement with the plate carrier of the plate clutch. In this regard, it has proven advantageous that the mentioned rotational drive profile is located at the radially outwardly pointing end of the mentioned force transmission section, and thus can be constructed, for example, as an external toothed portion. Furthermore, in the aforementioned embodiments, it is further preferred that the support element at the spring mechanism is supported at the spring section outside the spring mechanism.

[0017] According to another preferred embodiment of the operating module according to the invention, the support element protrudes radially outward beyond the force transmission element. This has the advantage, as already described regarding the outer spring section of the spring mechanism, that the support element protruding radially outward beyond the force transmission element can interact with the input or output side of the plate clutch, i.e., the outer plate carrier, in a particularly simple manner. It is also preferable that the support element protrudes further radially outward than the force transmission element, so that the support element not only protrudes advantageously but also further radially outward than the entire force transmission element, in order to achieve simple interaction with the input or output side of the plate clutch. Thus, in such an interaction, when the operating module is arranged within the plate clutch assembly, the spring mechanism interacts indirectly with the input or output side of the plate clutch via the support element.

[0018] To facilitate particularly simple manipulation of the control module related to the support element during assembly and disassembly, in another preferred embodiment, the support element is also arranged in a non-disengaging manner at the force transmission element and / or spring mechanism. Here, non-disengagement is preferably provided by the shaping of the force transmission element, spring mechanism, and support element, wherein the form-fitting portion may, if necessary, have a gap.

[0019] To provide a particularly simple construction of the support element, which is further space-savingly located at the actuation module, the support element in another preferred embodiment of the actuation module according to the invention has a first support section extending in an axial direction for supporting the force transmission element, and a second support section extending radially outward and connected to the first support section for supporting the spring mechanism. Thus, the first support section can be constructed, for example, substantially tubular, while the second support section connected to the support section can be constructed substantially washer-shaped.

[0020] According to another advantageous embodiment of the operating module according to the invention, the preceding support element has a third support section connected to the second support section and extending in an axial direction, the third support section radially surrounding the spring mechanism or the spring section outside thereon. The third support section connected to the second support section can be constructed, for example, substantially tubular. In any case, the third support section is used for the relatively fixed arrangement of the spring mechanism, such as a disc spring, relative to the support element. Thus, the relative positioning of the two mentioned components relative to each other is simplified. Furthermore, the support element, which will be described in more detail later, can be advantageously fixed at the input or output side of the plate clutch, for example, at the outer plate carrier, by means of a retaining ring, without the spring mechanism needing to directly engage with the input or output side.

[0021] In another advantageous embodiment of the control module according to the invention, the support element is constructed annularly and / or as a sheet metal forming component.

[0022] According to another preferred embodiment of the control module according to the invention, the support element and the force transmission element are arranged radially in an interlocking manner to obtain a particularly compact structure of the control module and a particularly short radial structural length.

[0023] The disc clutch assembly according to the invention has a disc clutch with a disc assembly and an operating mechanism for generating an operating force for the disc assembly. The disc clutch preferably relates to a normally open disc clutch, which is thus closed by applying an operating force to the disc assembly. The operating module of the type according to the invention described above is arranged between the operating mechanism and the disc assembly to transmit the operating force from the operating mechanism to the disc assembly.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment of the plate clutch assembly according to the invention, the spring mechanism, and if necessary, its external spring section, is supported or supported at the plate carrier of the plate clutch either directly or indirectly by a support element, preferably its second support section, in the axial direction, while the spring mechanism or support element, and if necessary, its third support section, is supported or supported at the plate carrier by means of a retaining ring in the opposite axial direction. Particularly in variant embodiments, where the spring mechanism is supported or supported at the plate carrier indirectly by means of the support element and / or the support element by means of a retaining ring, the support element also advantageously serves to ensure a reliable arrangement of the operating module at the plate carrier of the plate clutch, thereby simplifying assembly. If the support element further protrudes radially outward or completely outward than the force-transmitting element, and if necessary, the spring mechanism further protrudes radially outward, particularly simple support at the plate carrier is ensured.

[0025] In another preferred embodiment of the plate clutch assembly (based on the previously described embodiment), the force transmission element is further engaged with the aforementioned plate carrier in a rotationally driven manner. Preferably, this rotationally driven engagement occurs via the previously mentioned rotational drive profile at the force transmission section of the force transmission element for loading the plate assembly. Regardless of how the rotational drive engagement is achieved between the force transmission element and the plate carrier, this embodiment has the advantage that the spring mechanism, indirectly or directly, works with the plate carrier via a support element, by which the force transmission element is also in a rotationally driven connection, thereby avoiding unfavorable support of the spring mechanism and / or support element at another plate carrier of the plate clutch assembly. The particularly outwardly projecting or even further outwardly projecting arrangement of the spring mechanism and / or support element than the force transmission element contributes to this.

[0026] In another advantageous embodiment of the plate clutch assembly according to the invention, the plate clutch assembly further includes a motor, the rotor of which is connected to the plate carrier in an anti-rotational manner.

[0027] According to another preferred embodiment of the plate clutch assembly according to the invention, the aforementioned plate carrier constructs the motor-side input side of the plate clutch.

[0028] In another particularly preferred embodiment of the plate clutch assembly according to the invention, the actuating mechanism is a hydraulic actuating mechanism having a driveable actuating piston, which works in conjunction with a force transmission element. Preferably, the actuating piston is coupled to the force transmission element by rotation, particularly preferably by means of an intermediate rolling support. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The present invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and exemplary embodiments. Wherein:

[0030] Figure 1 The illustration shows a side view of an embodiment of a plate clutch assembly according to the present invention, the plate clutch assembly having an actuation module during assembly of the plate clutch assembly, in a cross-sectional illustrated embodiment.

[0031] Figure 2 Shown after assembly Figure 1 Plate clutch assembly,

[0032] Figure 3 Shown from Figure 1 and 2 A perspective diagram of the force transmission element.

[0033] Figures 4-8 Shown from Figure 1 and 2 A side view of the control module is provided to illustrate the sequential method steps for assembling the control module. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Figure 1 and 2 The plate clutch assembly 2 is shown, wherein, Figure 1 The plate clutch assembly 2 is shown during assembly. Figure 2 The plate clutch assembly 2 after assembly is shown. In the figure, the mutually opposing axial directions 4, 6, mutually opposing radial directions 8, 10, and mutually opposing peripheral directions 12, 14 of the plate clutch assembly 2 or the operating module contained therein are illustrated by the corresponding arrows, wherein the plate clutch assembly 2 or the operating module contained therein is rotatable about a rotation axis 16 extending along the axial directions 4, 6.

[0035] The plate clutch assembly 2 has a plate clutch 18, an operating mechanism 20 associated with the plate clutch 18 for generating operating force, and an operating module 22, wherein the operating module 22 is used to transmit the operating force from the operating mechanism 20 to the plate group 24 of the plate clutch 18 and is arranged between the operating mechanism 20 and the plate group 24 of the plate clutch 18 for this purpose.

[0036] A plate clutch 18 is arranged within a transmission housing cover of a transmission housing 26, wherein the axially oriented opening of the transmission housing cover 26 is covered or concealed by a transmission housing cover 28, which is detachably fixed or secured at the transmission housing 26. The receiving space 30 enclosed by the transmission housing cover and the transmission housing cover 28 is preferably configured as a wet space, in which the plate clutch 18 is arranged. The plate clutch 18 has a first plate carrier 32, which also constitutes the motor-side input side 34 of the plate clutch 18 and is configured as an outer plate carrier. For this purpose, the first plate carrier 32 or the input side 34 is rotatably connected to a clutch input sleeve 36, which itself can be indirectly or directly brought into rotatable engagement with the output side of the drive unit, preferably an internal combustion engine. The first carrier 32 is essentially composed of a radial support section 38 and a plate-bearing section 40. The radial support section is rotatably connected to the clutch input sleeve 36 in the radial direction 10. The plate-bearing section extends tubularly in the axial direction 6 from the radially outward end of the radial support section 38. A receiving section 42 is further provided at the axially outward end of the plate-bearing section 40. This receiving section has a larger internal diameter than the plate-bearing section 40 and is connected to the axially outward end of the plate-bearing section 40 via a radial connecting section 44.

[0037] Furthermore, the plate clutch 18 has a second plate carrier 46, which forms the output side of the plate clutch 18 and is configured as an inner plate carrier. The second plate carrier 46, configured as an inner plate carrier, has a plate-bearing section 50 that extends tubularly along axial directions 4 and 6. A radial support section 52 is connected to the plate-bearing section 50 along axial direction 6, extending radially inward from the plate-bearing section 50 in a radial direction 10, so as to connect here anti-rotationally with a clutch output sleeve 54, which can be brought into or rotated into engagement with a transmission input shaft (not shown in more detail).

[0038] The sheet group 24 consists of multiple outer sheets that are rotatably connected to the sheet bearing section 40 and multiple inner sheets that are rotatably connected to the sheet bearing section 50. The inner sheets alternately follow each other along the axial direction 4 and 6. The sheet bearing sections 40 and 50 mentioned above have corresponding rotatable profiles to obtain the rotational drive of the sheets in the sheet group 24.

[0039] Furthermore, the plate clutch assembly 2 also includes a motor disposed within the receiving space 30, the rotor 56 of which is anti-rotationally connected to the first plate carrier 32. More precisely, the rotor 56 disposed within the receiving space 30 is anti-rotationally connected to the radially outward-pointing side of the plate carrier section 40. Additionally, the rotor 56 is radially inserted into the stator 58 of the motor, which is also disposed within the receiving space 30, but anti-rotationally fixed to a fixed transmission housing cover of the transmission housing 26.

[0040] The operating mechanism 20 for generating operating force is also housed fixedly within the transmission mechanism housing 26 and is configured as a hydraulic operating mechanism 20. Thus, the operating mechanism 20 has a hydraulically actuated operating piston 60, which is configured here as an annular piston. The operating piston 60 is associated with a non-rotating or fixed pressure chamber 62, which is exemplarily constructed within the transmission mechanism housing 26 and can be loaded with hydraulic pressure to drive the operating piston 60 in the axial direction 4. The operating piston 60 interacts with the force transmission element of the operating module 22, described in more detail later, via a rolling support 64 located therebetween, thereby decoupling the operating piston 60 from rotational actuation of the operating module 22 or its force transmission element.

[0041] The operating module 22 of the plate clutch assembly 2 is then referred to in particular. Figure 1 , 2 3 and 8 are described in detail.

[0042] The control module 22 is designed for use with the plate clutch 18 and has a force transmission element 66 for transmitting the operating force of the control mechanism 20 to the plate assembly 24 of the plate clutch 18. Figure 3 The force transmission element 66, shown separately and in perspective, is constructed as a substantially annular sheet metal forming component. Here, the force transmission element 66 is constructed as a one-piece sheet metal component. Thus, the force transmission element 66 has a first force transmission section 68 extending in radial directions 8, 10, the inner section of the first force transmission section in the radial direction 10 being... Figure 2In the loaded state, the rotational drive decouples from the actuating piston 60. The first force transmission section 68 extends outward in the radial direction 8 to transition into the second force transmission section 70 connected to the first force transmission section 68. Thus, the second force transmission section 70 extends substantially tubularly in the axial direction 4 from the radially outward-pointing end of the first force transmission section 68. At its axially-pointing end, the second force transmission section 70 transitions into the third force transmission section 72, which extends outward again in the radial direction 8 from the second force transmission section 70. At its radially outward-pointing end, the third force transmission section 72 has a rotational drive profile 74, which, according to… Figure 2 When the control module 22 is in the installed state, it is in rotational engagement with the rotational drive profile of the plate bearing section 40 on the input side 34 of the plate clutch 18. For example, especially from... Figure 3 As can be seen, the rotational profile 74 is constructed in the third force transmission section 72 with a toothed or external toothed type.

[0043] For example, especially from Figure 3 and 8 As can be seen, a plurality of radial openings 76 spaced apart from each other along the peripheral directions 12, 14 are provided in the second force transmission section 70. The radial openings extend along the axial direction 6 to the end of the second force transmission section 70 so as to transition to the axial openings 78 there. The axial openings are constructed in a corresponding manner along the peripheral directions 12, 14 and spaced apart from each other along the first force transmission section 68. Thus, it is also possible to talk about the radial and axial openings 76, 78 that are constructed continuously from each other.

[0044] In addition, a plurality of support protrusions 80 spaced apart from each other along the peripheral directions 12, 14 are provided on the side pointing in the axial direction 4 of the first force transmission section 68. These support protrusions correspondingly protrude from the first force transmission section 68 in the axial direction 4. The aforementioned support protrusions 80 are preferably formed by stamping the first force transmission section 68 into the region. Figure 3 As can be seen in particular, the support protrusion 80 is advantageously positioned in the first force transmission section 68 between the axial openings 78 along the peripheral directions 12, 14. The support protrusion 80 serves to support the retaining ring radially inward in the direction 8, as will be described in more detail later.

[0045] Furthermore, a protruding shoulder 82 is provided at the first and / or second force transmission sections 68; 70, the shoulder being used for the torsional fixation of the retaining ring, which will be described in more detail later. The protruding shoulder 82 can be constructed to protrude either axially in the first force transmission section 68 or radially inward in the second force transmission section 70. Alternatively, however, the aforementioned protruding shoulder 82 can be arranged not only at the first but also at the second force transmission sections 68; 70 and thus in the intermediate region. Here, the protruding shoulder 82 is also provided along the peripheral directions 12, 14 in the regions of the first and / or second force transmission sections 68; 70, the regions being arranged between the radial and / or axial openings 76, 78; however, the protruding shoulder 82 is preferably arranged further outward in the radial direction 8 than the supporting protrusion 80.

[0046] The operating module 22 further includes a spring mechanism 84 for generating a return force acting on the force transmission element 66. When the spring mechanism 84 is preloaded or compressed, the return force acts in the axial directions 4 and 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring mechanism 84 is formed by a single disc spring 86. However, the spring mechanism 84 can also be formed by multiple spring elements, such as disc springs, coil springs, or the like. The spring mechanism 84 has an inner spring section 88 that acts in conjunction with the force transmission element 66, and an outer spring section 90 further outward in the radial direction 8, which is used for indirect or direct interaction with the input or output side of the plate clutch 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer spring section 90 is used for indirect interaction with the input side 34 of the plate clutch 18, which should be discussed in more detail later.

[0047] For example, especially from Figure 8 As can be seen, the outer spring section 90 not only protrudes outward in the radial direction 8 beyond the force transmission element 66, but more precisely, the outer spring section 90 protrudes further outward in the radial direction 8 than the entire force transmission element 66. Thus, the force transmission element 66 extends outward in the radial direction 8 to a radius r1, while the outer spring section 90 extends outward in the radial direction 8 to a radius r2, where radius r2 is larger than radius r1.

[0048] The outer spring section 90 of the spring mechanism 84, which is configured as a disc spring 86, is constructed in an annular or washer shape, thereby extending in a closed, circumferential manner along the peripheral directions 12, 14. The inner spring section 88, which here acts in conjunction with the force transmission element 66, is formed by a plurality of peripherally spaced spring tongues 92, which extend substantially radially inward from the outer spring section 90.

[0049] In a variant embodiment where the operating module 22 comprises only a force transmission element 66 and a spring mechanism 84 in the form of a disc spring 86, the spring mechanism 84 is arranged at the force transmission element 66 in a way that prevents disengagement by means of a retaining ring, described in more detail later. In other words, the operating module 22 can be operated in a detached state or as a separate associated module, wherein, independent of the operating module 22 being outside the disc clutch assembly, the spring mechanism is prevented from falling off or disengaging from the force transmission element 66 by the retaining ring. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the operating module 22 also includes additional structural components, particularly in… Figure 1 , 2 The structure of the support element 94 shown in Figure 8 should be explained in more detail later.

[0050] The support element 94 of the control module 22 is constructed as a sheet metal part, wherein the support element 94 is constructed substantially annularly, similar to the force transmission element 66. The support element has a first support section 96 extending in axial directions 4 and 6. This substantially tubular first support section can be supported or abutted at the force transmission element 66 at its end pointing in the axial direction 4. Here, the said end of the first support section can be supported or abutted at a section of the force transmission element 66 extending in the radial direction, specifically at the third force transmission section 72 of the force transmission element 66. The third force transmission section 72 is also used to directly load the sheet assembly 24 with the control force, as this is particularly possible from… Figure 1 and 2 As derived from [the text].

[0051] The second support section 98 is connected to the first support section 96 along the axial direction 6. The second support section 98 extends outward from the end of the first support section along the radial direction 8 and serves to support the spring mechanism 84. In the case of the second support section 98, a substantially washer-shaped second support section 98 can also be discussed, wherein, in the illustrated embodiment, the second support section 98 is provided along the axial direction 6 at the spring section 90 outside the spring mechanism 84, which is configured as a disc spring 86.

[0052] The third support section 100 of the support element 94 is connected to the second support section 98. The substantially tubular third support section 100 extends axially in direction 6 from the end of the second support section 98, wherein the third support section 100 externally surrounds a spring mechanism 84 in the form of a disc spring 86, or at least the spring section 90 outside of it, in the radial direction 8. Furthermore, the support element 94 is arranged radially and interlockingly with the force transmission element 66, such that, in the illustrated embodiment, the support element 94 externally surrounds the force transmission element 66 in the radial direction 8.

[0053] As already mentioned, like the spring mechanism 84 in the form of the disc spring 86, the support element 94 also projects outward beyond the force transmission element 66 in the radial direction 8. More precisely, the support element projects further outward in the radial direction 8 than the force transmission element 66. Thus, the support element 94 extends outward in the radial direction 8 up to the radius r3, while the force transmission element 66, as already explained previously, only extends outward in the radial direction 8 up to the radius r1, where r1 < r3. It should be noted in this regard that only one of the two elements, namely the spring mechanism 84 or the support element 94, must project further outward in the radial direction 8 than the force transmission element 66 in the described manner in order to obtain simple support or supportability at the input or output side of the plate clutch 18. Although it is entirely advantageous that both the spring mechanism 84 and the support element 94 project further in the radial direction 8 than the force transmission element 66 in the said manner.

[0054] Furthermore, it should be mentioned that in the actuating module 22, which includes the support element 94 mentioned, the latter is also arranged anti - detachment at the force transmission element 66 or / and the spring mechanism 84. This is preferably achieved by the corresponding shaping of the components mentioned, so that a form - fit can also be spoken of, possibly with a certain clearance. The support element 94 also supports in the axial direction 4 at the force transmission element 66 and in the opposite axial direction 6 at the spring mechanism 84 in the form of the disc spring 86 when pre - tensioning the spring mechanism 84. The further features of the actuating module 22 and its behavior during assembly will be referred to in more detail subsequently Figures 4 to 8 are described.

[0055] For assembling the actuating module 22, the shaping part 102 is preferably used, into which the components of the actuating module 22 can be inserted, so that they can be reliably arranged relative to each other in their subsequent theoretical positions already during assembly. Thus, as shown in Figure 4 , the force transmission element 66 is first inserted into the shaping part 102 in the axial direction 4. Then, the support element 94 is also inserted into the shaping part 102 in the axial direction 4, so that the support element 94 is supported at the third force - transmission section 72 of the force transmission element 66 by the axially - directed end of the first support section 96, as shown in Figure 5 . Then the spring mechanism 84 is inserted into the shaping part 102 in the axial direction 4 such that the outer spring section 90 is supported in the axial direction 4 at the second support section 98 of the support element 94 and is surrounded externally in the radial direction 8 by the third support section 100, as shown in Figure 6 . As can be seen from Figure 6Furthermore, as can be seen, here, the spring tongue 92 of the spring mechanism 84, configured as a disc spring 86, has been introduced into the axial opening 78 in the first force transmission section 68 of the force transmission element 66 or guided through the axial opening 78 in the first force transmission section 68 of the force transmission element 66 in the axial direction 4. To introduce the disc spring tongue 92 through the axial opening 78 until it reaches the radial opening 76 in the second force transmission section 70 of the force transmission element 66, as in... Figure 7 As shown, the assembly force 104 is applied in the axial direction 4 to the spring mechanism 84 in the form of a disc spring 86. By applying the assembly force 104 and the resulting compression of the disc spring 86, the spring tongue 92 extends from now through the radial opening 76 such that there is a distance in the axial directions 4, 6 between the end of the spring tongue 92 that protrudes inward in the radial direction 10 and the first force transmission section 68.

[0056] The retaining ring 106, mentioned earlier, is introduced into the notch. The retaining ring 106 is thus constructed as an inner retaining ring with respect to the second force transmission section 70. Although the retaining ring 106 is generally referred to herein, it preferably relates to a simple wire loop. Here, the retaining ring 106 should be constructed such that its diameter can first be reduced, and then widened again in its theoretical position at the operating module 22. For this purpose, the retaining ring preferably has interruptions (not shown) along the circumferential directions 12, 14, wherein the two ends of the retaining ring are arranged opposite each other in the regions of the interruptions along the circumferential directions 12, 14. That is, when the retaining ring 106 is installed, the retaining ring first decreases in diameter (position a), then is transported to its axial theoretical position (position b), and finally widens again in the radial direction 8 (position c). The assembly force 104 is then released, so that the spring tongue 92 abuts the retaining ring 106 against the first force transmission section 68 of the force transmission element 66 in the axial direction 6. Here, the support element 94, supported along the axial direction 4 at the force transmission element 66 and along the axial direction 6 at the spring mechanism 84, is responsible for pre-tensioning the spring mechanism 84 in the form of a disc spring 86. Due to the retaining ring 106, the anti-disengagement arrangement of the spring mechanism 84 and the support element 94 along the axial direction 6 at the force transmission element 66 is ensured. The previously mentioned support protrusion 80 at the first force transmission section 68 of the force transmission element 66 provides radial inward support for the retaining ring 106, preventing it from being re-pressed inward along the radial direction 10. Furthermore, the previously mentioned protruding shoulder 82 at the first or / and second force transmission sections 68; 70 of the force transmission element 66 is recessed into the interruption of the retaining ring 106 to facilitate torsional fixation of the retaining ring 106 along the circumferential directions 12, 14.

[0057] The assembly result can be Figure 8 As can be seen, the control module 22, which includes a force transmission element 66, a spring mechanism 84, a support element 94, and a retaining ring 106, is shown separately. All components are arranged in a way that prevents them from detaching from each other, and the spring mechanism 84 is also preloaded due to the support element 94.

[0058] Further features of the disc clutch assembly 2 are then described with reference to the aforementioned control module 22 and its behavior when assembled within such a disc clutch assembly 2. Figure 1 and 2 Describe it.

[0059] As from Figure 1 It can be seen that the transmission mechanism housing cover 28, together with the plate clutch 18, is separate from the transmission mechanism housing 26. The plate clutch 18 is pre-assembled on the transmission mechanism housing cover 28, where it is rotatably supported or supported by the input side 34 of the plate clutch 18 via a radial support member 108. Therefore, the transmission mechanism housing cover 28, the plate clutch 18, together with the clutch input sleeve 36 and the clutch output sleeve 54, constitute a first module for assembly, wherein the first module also includes a rotor 56. The stator 58 of the motor is fixedly assembled within the transmission mechanism housing cover of the transmission mechanism housing 26. Thus, the transmission mechanism housing 26, the stator 58 of the motor, and the operating mechanism 20, together with the rolling support member 64, constitute a second module for assembling the plate clutch assembly 2. A third module is formed in contrast by the previously described operating module 22.

[0060] Within the assembly scope, the operating module 22 is first introduced into the first plate carrier 32, which is in the form of an outer plate carrier and has an opening in the axial direction 6 of the input side 34. Here, the rotational drive profile 74 of the force transmission element 66 reaches into rotational drive engagement with the rotational drive profile of the plate-bearing section 40 of the first plate carrier 32. Furthermore, the first support section 96 of the support element 94 is recessed into the plate-bearing section 40, so that the plate-bearing section 40 surrounds the first support section 96 in the radial direction 8. The third support section 100 is recessed into the receiving section 42 of the input side 34, which is in the form of the first plate carrier 32, so that the third support section 100 of the support element 94 is surrounded by the receiving section 42 in the radial direction 8. The second support section 98 of the support element 94, which is substantially radial in the directions 8 and 10, can be supported or supported in the connection section 44 of the first plate carrier 32 in the axial direction 4 of the input side 34 after the operating module 22 is introduced. Therefore, the operating module 22 is first supported and fixed along the axial direction 4 at the first plate carrier 32 of the plate clutch 18 by the support element 94, wherein the operating module 22 is then further fixed along the axial direction 6 at the first plate carrier 32 by the support element 94 and the retaining ring 110. More precisely, the support element 94 together with the operating module 22 can be supported or supported along the axial direction 6 at the receiving section 42 of the first plate carrier 32 by the third support section 100 and the retaining ring 110.

[0061] The first module, along with the actuation module 22 fixed thereon, is then assembled with the second module in the form of a transmission mechanism housing 26, such that the actuation piston 60 of the actuation mechanism 20 is supported axially in the direction 4 at the first force transmission section 68 of the force transmission element 66 by a rolling support 64, wherein, as in Figure 2 As shown in the figure, this is done with the further pre-tightening spring mechanism 84, which also causes the end of the first support section 96 of the support element 94, which is axially oriented in the direction 4, to be lifted from the third force transmission section 72.

[0062] According to Figure 2In the assembled plate clutch assembly 2, the spring mechanism 84, and its external spring section 90, are indirectly supported or supported along the axial direction 4 at the first plate carrier 32 of the plate clutch 18 via the second support section 98 of the support element 94. Therefore, at the plate carrier 32, the force transmission element 66 is also in rotational engagement with the plate carrier via the rotational drive profile 74. Here, as previously explained, the rotational drive profile 74 is arranged at the third force transmission section 72, which is also used to directly load the plate assembly 24 of the plate clutch. The end plate of the plate assembly 24 facing the third force transmission section 72 of the force transmission element 66 is also constructed as an end plate that is in rotational engagement with the same plate carrier, here the first plate carrier 32.

[0063] List of reference numerals

[0064] 2-plate clutch assembly

[0065] 4. Axial direction

[0066] 6. Axial direction

[0067] 8. Radial direction

[0068] 10. Radial direction

[0069] 12 Peripheral Directions

[0070] 14. Peripheral Direction

[0071] 16 Peripheral Directions

[0072] 18-plate clutch

[0073] 20 Rotation axis

[0074] 22 Control Module

[0075] 24-piece set

[0076] 26 Transmission mechanism housing

[0077] 28. Transmission mechanism housing cover

[0078] 30 storage space

[0079] 32 The first carrier

[0080] 34 Input side

[0081] 36 Clutch input sleeve

[0082] 38 Radial support sections

[0083] 40 bearing sections

[0084] 42 Accommodation Section

[0085] 44 Connecting Section

[0086] 46 Second carrier

[0087] 48 Output side

[0088] 50 bearing sections

[0089] 52 Radial support section

[0090] 54 Clutch output sleeve

[0091] 56 rotors

[0092] 58 stator

[0093] 60. Manipulate the piston

[0094] 62 Pressure Chamber

[0095] 64 Rolling support components

[0096] 66 Force transmission element (66)

[0097] 68 First Force Transmission Section

[0098] 70 Second force transmission section

[0099] 74. Rotation drives the contour.

[0100] 76 Radial opening

[0101] 78 Axial opening

[0102] 80 Supporting protrusion

[0103] 82. Prominent shoulder

[0104] 84 Spring Mechanism (84)

[0105] 86 Disc Spring

[0106] 89 Internal spring section

[0107] 90 External spring section

[0108] 92 Spring Tongue

[0109] 94 Supporting elements

[0110] 96 First Support Section

[0111] 98 Second Support Section

[0112] 100 Third Support Section

[0113] 102 Molded Components

[0114] 104 Assembly force

[0115] 106 retaining ring

[0116] 108 Radial support components

[0117] 110 Fixing Ring

[0118] radius r1

[0119] radius r2

[0120] r3 radius

[0121] a position

[0122] b position

[0123] Position c.

Claims

1. An operating module (22) for a plate clutch (18), having a force transmission element (66) for transmitting operating force from the operating mechanism (20) to the plate assembly (24) of the plate clutch (18), and having a spring mechanism (84) for generating a return force acting on the force transmission element (66), wherein, The spring mechanism (84) is arranged at the force transmission element (66) in a way that prevents it from disengaging. The force transmission element (66) is characterized in that it has a first force transmission section (68) extending in a radial direction (8, 10) and a second force transmission section (70) connected to the first force transmission section (68) and extending in an axial direction (4, 6), wherein a plurality of radial openings (76) are provided therein, the radial openings and the axial openings (78) being constructed in association in the first force transmission section (68), wherein the spring tongue (92) of the spring mechanism (84) can be introduced into the radial openings (76) in the axial direction (4) through the axial openings (78) and, in the case of an anti-disengagement arrangement, can be supported at the force transmission element (66) in the opposite axial direction (6) by means of a retaining ring (106).

2. The operating module (22) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spring mechanism (84) has an inner spring section (88) that interacts with the force transmission element (66) and an outer spring section (90) that is further radially external for interacting indirectly or directly with the input or output side of the plate clutch (18), wherein the outer spring section (90) protrudes outward beyond the force transmission element (66).

3. The operating module (22) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The spring mechanism (84) has a disc spring (86) or is formed from such a disc spring.

4. The operating module (22) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, A support protrusion (80) is provided at the first force transmission section (68) for supporting the fixing ring (106) in the radial direction (10) and / or a protruding shoulder (82) is provided at the first or / and second force transmission sections (68; 70) for torsional fixing of the fixing ring (106).

5. The operating module (22) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The operating module (22) has a support element (94) that supports the force transmission element (66) and the spring mechanism (84) in the opposite axial direction (6) when the spring mechanism (84) is pre-tensioned in the axial direction (4), wherein the support element (94) protrudes outward beyond the force transmission element (66) and / or is arranged in a non-detachable manner at the force transmission element (66) and / or the spring mechanism (84).

6. The operating module (22) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The support element (94) has a first support section (96) extending in the axial direction (4, 6) for support at the force transmission element (66) and a second support section (98) extending outward in the radial direction (8) connected to the first support section (96) for support at the spring mechanism (84).

7. The operating module (22) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The support element (94) is constructed annularly and / or as a sheet metal forming component and / or arranged radially in a socket-like manner with the force transmission element (66).

8. The operating module (22) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The retaining ring (106) is an internal retaining ring or / and a retaining ring constructed as a wire ring.

9. The operating module (22) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spring tongue (92) is able to be supported at the first force transmission section (68) of the force transmission element (66).

10. The operating module (22) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The outer spring section (90) protrudes outward in a radial direction beyond the force transmission element (66).

11. The operating module (22) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The outer spring section (90) protrudes further outward in a radial direction than the force transmission element (66).

12. The operating module (22) according to claim 3, characterized in that, One spring section (88; 90) is constructed in a ring or washer shape and another spring section (90; 88) is formed by multiple spring tongues (92) spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction (12, 14).

13. The operating module (22) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The outer spring section (90) is constructed in an annular or washer shape and the inner spring section (88) is formed by a plurality of spring tongues (92) spaced apart from each other along the peripheral direction (12, 14).

14. The operating module (22) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The support element provides support at the force transmission section extending in the radial direction (8, 10) of the force transmission element (66) when the spring mechanism (84) is pre-tightened in the axial direction (4).

15. The operating module (22) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The support element is supported at the third or / and the force transmission section (72) for loading the plate group (24) when the spring mechanism (84) is pre-tightened in the axial direction (4).

16. The operating module (22) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The support element is supported in the spring section (90) outside the spring mechanism (84) along the direction (6) of the opposite axial direction.

17. The operating module (22) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The support element (94) protrudes outward in the radial direction (8) beyond the force transmission element (66).

18. The operating module (22) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The support element (94) protrudes further outward in a radial direction than the force transmission element (66).

19. The operating module (22) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The force transmission section (72) for loading the plate assembly (24) has a rotational drive profile (74) for rotational drive engagement with the plate carrier (32) of the plate clutch (18).

20. The operating module (22) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The support element (94) has a third support section (100) connected to the second support section (98) and extending in the axial direction (6), the third support section surrounding the spring mechanism (84) or the spring section (90) outside in the radial direction (8).

21. A plate clutch assembly (2) having a plate clutch (18) having a plate set (24) and an operating mechanism (20) for generating an operating force for the plate set (24), characterized in that, The control module (22) according to any one of the preceding claims is arranged between the control mechanism (20) and the plate group (24) in order to transmit the control force from the control mechanism (20) to the plate group (24).

22. The plate clutch assembly according to claim 21, characterized in that, The operating module (22) has a support element (94), and the spring mechanism (84) is directly or indirectly supported by the support element (94) in the axial direction (4) at the plate carrier (32) of the plate clutch (18), and the spring mechanism (84) or the support element (94) in the opposite axial direction (6) is supported at the plate carrier (32) by means of an additional retaining ring (110).

23. The plate clutch assembly (2) according to claim 22, characterized in that, The plate clutch assembly (2) has a motor whose rotor (56) is anti-rotationally connected to the plate carrier (32), or / and the plate carrier (32) forms the motor side input side (34) of the plate clutch (18), or / and the operating mechanism (20) is a hydraulic operating mechanism (20) with an actuating piston (60) that can be driven, the actuating piston working in conjunction with the force transmission element (66).

24. The plate clutch assembly according to claim 22, characterized in that, The outer spring section (90) of the spring mechanism (84) can be supported directly or indirectly by the support element (94).

25. The plate clutch assembly according to claim 22, characterized in that, The spring mechanism (84) is supported by the second support section (98) of the support element (94).

26. The plate clutch assembly according to claim 22, characterized in that, The third support section (100) of the support element (94) is supported at the sheet carrier (32) by means of the additional retaining ring (110) along the opposite axial direction (6).

27. The plate clutch assembly according to claim 22, characterized in that, The force transmission element (66) and the sheet carrier (32) are in a rotational engagement.

28. The plate clutch assembly according to claim 22, characterized in that, The force transmission element (66) and the sheet carrier (32) are in a rotational engagement, driven by the rotational engagement profile (74) at the force transmission section (72) of the force transmission element (66) for loading the sheet group (24).

29. The plate clutch assembly according to claim 23, characterized in that, The operating piston (60) is decoupled by the rotation of the force transmission element (66).

30. The plate clutch assembly according to claim 23, characterized in that, The operating piston (60) is decoupled by the rotation of the force transmission element (66) by means of the rolling support (64) in the middle.

Images