Pneumatic operating unit for a push-type clutch, corresponding clutch system and vehicle

Abstract

A pneumatic operating unit for a push-type clutch includes: a housing having an air inlet; a piston slidably assembled within the housing to define a gas chamber with adjustable volume between the piston and the housing, and the air inlet is connected to the gas chamber; a bushing at least partially located within the housing and interacting with the clutch's release device; a first elastic device applying elastic tension between the piston and the bushing; a locking mechanism including a locking structure acting on the bushing in a controlled manner and a force-applying structure for controlling the state of the locking structure relative to the bushing; a stop structure for restricting the axial movement of the locking structure; when the piston moves axially away from the end wall of the housing, the locking structure is locked to the bushing at least through the force-applying structure so that the bushing moves axially together with the piston; when the bushing moves axially towards the end wall, the locking structure and / or the force-applying structure is stopped by the stop structure, allowing the bushing to continue moving axially towards the end wall. The structure is simple and reliable.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a pneumatic operating unit for a push-type clutch, a corresponding clutch system, and a corresponding vehicle. Background Art

[0002] A clutch is a very important component in a vehicle, which can disengage the force lock between the engine and the transmission during the switching process of the transmission and can slowly establish the force lock during starting.

[0003] A clutch generally includes a clutch disc configured for the engine and a clutch disc configured for the transmission. Both of these clutch discs are provided with friction linings and are pressed together by the clutch reaction force in the closed state of the clutch to achieve torque transmission.

[0004] A clutch operating unit is used to overcome the reaction force of the clutch to disengage the clutch and interrupt the force lock between the engine and the transmission. The clutch can also operate in a slipping state for starting, in which the clutch discs rub against each other. Due to the friction, the friction linings will be worn and gradually become thinner. For this reason, it is necessary for the clutch operating unit to compensate for this wear.

[0005] Push-type clutches are widely used due to their corresponding advantages. In addition, pneumatic methods are also widely used for clutch operating units. However, the current operating units for push-type clutches still have deficiencies such as complex structures and unreliable operation.

[0006] Therefore, there is an urgent need for corresponding improvements. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved pneumatic operating unit for a push-type clutch, a corresponding clutch system, and a corresponding vehicle.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pneumatic operating unit for a push-type clutch, comprising: a housing having an air inlet; a piston slidably assembled within the housing to define a pneumatically adjustable gas chamber between the piston and the housing, and the air inlet communicating with the gas chamber; a sleeve at least partially located within the housing and adapted to interact with a separating device of the clutch; a first elastic device adapted to apply an elastic tension between the piston and the sleeve; a locking mechanism including a locking structure adapted to act controllably on the outer periphery of the sleeve and a force application structure adapted to act on the locking structure to control the state of the locking structure relative to the sleeve; and a stop structure for restricting the axial movement of the locking structure; wherein the housing has an end wall facing the piston to define the gas chamber, and when the piston moves axially away from the end wall, the locking structure is locked to the sleeve at least through the force application structure such that the sleeve moves axially together with the piston; when the sleeve moves axially towards the end wall, the locking structure and / or the force application structure is stopped by the stop structure, allowing the sleeve to continue to move axially towards the end wall.

[0009] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating unit has at least one of the following features: at least part of the stop structure is fixed relative to the piston or the housing; when the sleeve moves axially towards the end wall, the locking structure moves axially together with the sleeve before the locking structure and / or the force application structure is stopped by the stop structure; the sleeve is configured to act on a separating finger of the separating device; the first elastic device is configured as a helical spring; in an initial state of the pneumatic operating unit, the first elastic device is adapted to cause the sleeve to apply a predetermined pressure on the separating device and / or cause the piston to abut against the end wall; the housing further includes an inner ring coaxially arranged inside the piston, and the sleeve is axially slidably assembled on the inner ring; the piston is provided with a sealing element on its outer periphery; the pneumatic operating unit further includes an exhaust port, the exhaust port being connected to the gas chamber through a valve to allow the gas in the gas chamber to be released to a side of the piston facing away from the end wall, and allowing it to be discharged into the clutch after being filtered by a filtering device; the locking structure and a corresponding part on the outer periphery of the sleeve are formed with mating engagement structures.

[0010] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating unit has at least one of the following features: the force application structure is provided with a first contact portion and is configured to interact with the piston or be a part of the piston, the locking structure is provided with a second contact portion, and when the piston moves axially away from the end wall, the first contact portion is urged to contact the second contact portion to lock the locking structure on the sleeve; the stop structure is at least partially fixed to the piston or the end wall.

[0011] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the first contact portion and the second contact portion are configured as mating inclined surfaces such that when the piston moves axially away from the end wall, the force application structure applies a force to the locking structure having an axial component and a radial component.

[0012] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the force application structure includes a hinge mechanism, the hinge point of the hinge mechanism is fixed relative to the piston and can move with the piston, and the other end of the hinge mechanism opposite to the hinge point is adapted to act on the locking structure.

[0013] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating unit has at least one of the following features: the pneumatic operating unit further includes a radial retaining mechanism that can controllably radially squeeze the locking structure towards the sleeve; the force application structure is configured to extend from the piston; the first elastic device is disposed between the piston and the end face of the sleeve facing the piston; the pneumatic operating unit further includes a second elastic device that is adapted to axially retain the radial retaining mechanism.

[0014] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating unit has at least one of the following features: the force application structure includes a first portion axially extending from the piston and a second portion radially outwardly inclinedly extending from the first portion; the radial retaining mechanism includes a clamping element and a third elastic device, the third elastic device is held between the clamping element and the locking structure and tends to radially squeeze the locking structure towards the sleeve; the radial retaining mechanism further includes a radial force application structure that is adapted to controllably radially squeeze the locking structure towards the sleeve under the action of the third elastic device.

[0015] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating unit has at least one of the following features: the second part has a first acting surface and a second acting surface, and in the initial state of the pneumatic operating unit, the second part acts on the radial force structure through the second acting surface so that the radial force structure does not radially squeeze the locking structure toward the sleeve, and when the piston starts to move axially away from the end wall from the initial state, the second acting surface moves first so that the radial force structure radially squeezes the locking structure toward the sleeve, and then the piston contacts the locking structure through the first acting surface to radially squeeze the locking structure and drive the sleeve and the radial retaining mechanism to move axially together; a step is provided on the inner circumferential side of the shell, and in the initial state of the pneumatic operating unit, the radial retaining mechanism is squeezed on the step by the third elastic device.

[0016] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating unit has at least one of the following features: the clamping element includes a ring suitable for cooperating with the inner circumferential side of the shell and a guide structure extending radially inward from the ring, the radial force structure is provided with a guide hole, the third elastic device is sleeved on the guide structure, the guide structure is engaged in the guide hole, one end of the third elastic device is extruded on the radial force structure; the radial force structure is provided with an opening, and the second part passes through the opening; the radial force structure and the locking structure are integrally formed.

[0017] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating unit has at least one of the following features: the guide structure includes two guide rods in a group, and the guide hole includes two corresponding guide holes; the ring is evenly provided with multiple groups of the guide structures in the circumferential direction; the opening is configured as an inclined opening adapted to the second part.

[0018] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the force applying structure is constructed to include a radial portion, a cylindrical portion and an inclined portion, the radial portion has a through hole to allow the force applying structure to be mounted on the sleeve, the cylindrical portion is connected to the radial portion and surrounds the locking structure in an assembled state, and the inclined portion is connected to the cylindrical portion and extends toward the locking structure.

[0019] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating unit has at least one of the following features: the force applying structure is constructed as an integral unit; the inclined portion extends obliquely toward the sleeve away from the end wall; the area between the inclined portion and the cylindrical portion cooperates with a corresponding structure provided on the piston or a corresponding structure of the piston.

[0020] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating unit has at least one of the following features: the hinge point is fixed to a side of the piston facing away from the end wall or fixed to a structure axially extending from a side of the piston facing away from the end wall adjacent to the outer peripheral edge of the piston; the hinge mechanism is configured as a support rod; the hinge mechanism is further provided with a return spring.

[0021] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating unit has at least one of the following features: the force application structure is configured to include an elastic element; the locking structure is configured to include a limiting structure for axially limiting a contact portion between the force application structure and the locking structure.

[0022] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating unit has at least one of the following features: the force application structure is configured to include a pressing plate; the locking structure is configured to include a limiting structure for axially limiting a contact portion between the force application structure and the locking structure; a return spring is provided between the force application structure and the limiting structure.

[0023] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating unit has at least one of the following features: the locking structure is configured to include an elastic element; the stop structure further includes a stop block sleeved on the shaft sleeve.

[0024] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a clutch system for a vehicle, wherein the clutch system includes a push-type clutch and the pneumatic operating unit, and the pneumatic operating unit is configured to operate the push-type clutch to control separation and engagement of the push-type clutch and is adapted to compensate for wear of the push-type clutch.

[0025] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle including the clutch system.

[0026] According to certain exemplary embodiments of the clutch of the present invention, the structure is simple and the operation is reliable. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Next, the present invention will be described in more detail by referring to the drawings, and the principles, features and advantages of the present invention can be better understood. The drawings include:

[0028] Figure 1 A partial axial sectional view of a pneumatic operating unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown.

[0029] Figure 2 An axial half-sectional schematic diagram of a pneumatic operating unit according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown.

[0030] Figure 3 Schematically shows an axial half-sectional schematic diagram of a pneumatic operating unit according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 4 Schematically shows an axial half-sectional schematic diagram of a pneumatic operating unit according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 5 Schematically shows an axial half-sectional schematic diagram of a pneumatic operating unit according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 6 Schematically shows an axial half-sectional schematic diagram of a pneumatic operating unit according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 7 Schematically shows an axial half-sectional schematic diagram of a pneumatic operating unit according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Detailed implementation manners

[0035] In order to make the technical problems, technical solutions and beneficial technical effects to be solved by the present invention clearer and more understandable, the present invention will be further described in detail below in conjunction with the drawings and multiple exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present invention, rather than to limit the protection scope of the present invention.

[0036] According to one aspect of the present invention, first, a pneumatic operating unit for a push-type clutch is provided. The pneumatic operating unit may include: a housing having an air inlet; a piston slidably assembled in the housing to define a gas chamber with an adjustable volume between the piston and the housing, and the air inlet is connected to the gas chamber; a sleeve partially located in the housing and adapted to interact with a separating device of the clutch; a first elastic device adapted to apply an elastic tension between the piston and the sleeve; a locking mechanism including a locking structure adapted to act on the outer periphery of the sleeve in a controlled manner and a force application structure adapted to act on the locking structure to control the state of the locking structure relative to the sleeve; and a stop structure for restricting the axial movement of the locking structure; wherein, the housing has an end wall facing the piston to define the gas chamber. When the piston moves axially away from the end wall, the locking structure is locked to the sleeve at least through the force application structure so that the sleeve moves axially together with the piston; when the sleeve moves axially towards the end wall, the locking structure and / or the force application structure are stopped by the stop structure, allowing the sleeve to continue to move axially towards the end wall.

[0037] Hereinafter, some exemplary embodiments will be described.

[0038] Figure 1 A partial axial cross-sectional view of a pneumatic operating unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown.

[0039] like Figure 1 As shown, the pneumatic operation unit may include a housing 1, a piston 2, a sleeve 3, a first elastic device 4, a locking mechanism 5, and a stop structure 6. The housing 1 has an end wall 11, and the piston 2 is slidably assembled in the housing 1, thereby defining a gas chamber 7 with a pneumatically adjustable volume between the piston 2 and the housing 1. An air inlet 12 may preferably be provided on the end wall 11 of the housing 1 so as to communicate with the gas chamber 7. Figure 1 The initial state of the pneumatic operating unit is shown, in which the piston 2 preferably abuts against the end wall 11, so that the gas chamber 7 is in Figure 1 The volume in the housing 1 is zero, for which reason the gas chamber 7 is shown only schematically in FIG1 . The sleeve 3 is at least partially located in the housing 1 and is preferably adapted to interact with a release device (not shown) of the clutch, for example, the sleeve 3 may be located in a Figure 1 The clutch is axially moved to the right and a separating force is applied to the release device of the clutch to separate the clutch. When the clutch is combined, the reverse thrust of the clutch can also be transmitted to, for example, a release bearing (not shown), which then pushes the sleeve 3 to move in the opposite axial direction.

[0040] The first elastic device 4 is Figure 1 In the exemplary embodiment, the first elastic device 4 is a coil spring. Of course, those skilled in the art will understand that the first elastic device 4 is not limited to this and can be any suitable elastic device. The purpose of the first elastic device 4 is to generate elastic tension between the piston 2 and the sleeve 3 so that the piston 2 can return to its original state.

[0041] Preferably, if Figure 1 As shown, the first elastic device 4 can be arranged between the piston 2 and the corresponding end surfaces of the sleeve 3.

[0042] The purpose of the locking mechanism 5 is to axially lock the piston 2 relative to the sleeve 3 at least when the clutch is disengaged, so that the piston 2 can drive the sleeve 3 to move axially together to realize the clutch disengagement operation.

[0043] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking mechanism 5 may include a locking structure 51 adapted to act on the outer periphery of the sleeve 3 in a controlled manner and a force applying structure 52 adapted to act on the locking structure 51 to control the state of the locking structure 51 relative to the sleeve 3. The force applying structure 52 may generate a squeezing force toward the locking structure 51 in response to the axial movement of the piston 2.

[0044] When the clutch is engaged, the pneumatic operating unit should be returned to its initial state, and at the same time, the wear amount of the clutch can be compensated.

[0045] The locking structure 51 can be adapted to lock onto the outer periphery of the sleeve 3 under a radially squeezing action. Therefore, the force application structure 52 should be at least adapted to apply a force with a radial component to the locking structure 51. Preferably, the force application structure 52 can be directly or indirectly acted on by the piston 2.

[0046] The stop structure 6 can unlock the locking structure 51 from the sleeve 3 by restricting the axial movement of the locking structure 51, thereby allowing the sleeve 3 to continue to axially move relative to the locking structure 51 under the action of the reaction force of the clutch. This can compensate for the wear amount of the clutch and keep the clutch in a good engaged state all the time.

[0047] Specifically, when the piston 2 moves axially away from the end wall 11, the locking structure 51 can be locked onto the sleeve 3 at least through the force application structure 52, so that the sleeve 3 moves axially together with the piston 2. When the sleeve 3 moves axially towards the end wall 11 under the action of the reaction force of the clutch, the locking structure 51 is stopped by the stop structure 6, and at the same time, the locking state between the locking structure 51 and the sleeve 3 can be unlocked, thereby allowing the sleeve 3 to continue to move axially towards the end wall 11.

[0048] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, in order to make the pneumatic operating unit work more reliably, the pneumatic operating unit may further include a radial holding mechanism 8, and the radial holding mechanism 8 can controllably radially squeeze the locking structure 51 towards the sleeve 3, especially when the piston 2 starts to move axially away from the end wall 11, to ensure that the locking structure 51 is reliably locked on the sleeve 3.

[0049] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating unit may further include a second elastic device 9, and the second elastic device 9 is adapted to axially hold the radial holding mechanism 8 towards the direction of the end wall 11. The second elastic device 9 is preferably a helical spring.

[0050] In Figure 1 the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the force application structure 52 can be configured as a part of the piston 2. Of course, those skilled in the art can also understand that the force application structure 52 can also extend from the piston 2 as a component, that is, the force application structure 52 may not be a part of the piston 2. No matter which way is adopted, as long as the force application structure 52 can apply a radially squeezing force with a radial component to the locking structure 51 when the piston 2 moves axially away from the end wall 11.

[0051] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the force application structure 52 may include a first portion 521 axially extending from the piston 2 and a second portion 522 radially and outwardly inclinedly extending from the first portion 521.

[0052] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the radial holding mechanism 8 may include a clamping element 81 and a third elastic device 82. The third elastic device 82 may be held between the clamping element 81 and the locking structure 51 and tend to squeeze the locking structure 51 against the sleeve 3. Preferably, the third elastic device 82 is a helical spring.

[0053] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the radial holding mechanism 8 may further include a radial force application structure 83. The radial force application structure 83 may be controlled to radially squeeze the locking structure 51 against the sleeve 3 under the action of the third elastic device 82.

[0054] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second portion 522 of the force application structure 52 may have a first acting surface 523 and a second acting surface 524. In the initial state of the pneumatic operation unit, the second portion 522 may prevent the radial force application structure 83 from radially squeezing the locking structure 51 against the sleeve 3 through the action between the second acting surface 524 and the radial force application structure 83. When the piston 2 axially moves away from the end wall 11 from the initial state, first, the second acting surface 524 moves, enabling the radial force application structure 83 to radially move inward under the action of the third elastic device 82, thereby radially squeezing the locking structure 51 against the sleeve 3, which can initially lock the locking structure 51 to the outer periphery of the sleeve 3. Then, the piston 2 may radially squeeze the locking structure 521 by contacting the corresponding portion of the locking structure 521 through the first acting surface 523 and drive the sleeve 3 to axially move together, preferably also driving the radial holding mechanism 8 to axially move together.

[0055] As Figure 1 shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a step 12 is provided on the inner peripheral side of the housing 1. In the initial state of the pneumatic operation unit, the radial holding mechanism 8 may be squeezed against the step 12 by the second elastic device 9.

[0056] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the clamping element 81 may include a ring 811 adapted to cooperate with the inner peripheral side of the housing 1 and a guiding structure 812 radially and inwardly extending from the ring 811. The radial force application structure 83 may be provided with a guiding hole. The third elastic device 82 may be sleeved on the guiding structure 812, and the guiding structure 812 is fitted in the guiding hole. One end of the third elastic device 82, Figure 1 the lower end in this case, is squeezed against the radial force application structure 83.

[0057] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the radial force application structure 83 may be provided with an opening 831, and the second part 522 of the force application structure 52 may pass through the opening 831.

[0058] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the radial force application structure 83 may be integrally formed with the locking structure 51.

[0059] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the guiding structure 812 may include two guiding rods in a group, and the guiding holes may include corresponding two guiding holes.

[0060] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the ring 811 may preferably be provided with multiple groups of the guiding structures 812 uniformly in the circumferential direction.

[0061] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the opening 831 may be configured as an inclined opening adapted to the second part 522 of the force application structure 52.

[0062] In Figure 1 the exemplary embodiment, since the stop structure 6 can be regarded as a part of the piston 2, its position is fixed relative to the piston 2. However, in the initial state of the pneumatic operation unit, the piston 2 is fixed relative to the housing 1, for example, due to abutting against the end wall 11. Therefore, the stop structure 6 is also fixed relative to the housing 1 and may be fixedly arranged on the housing 1, for example. This will be clearly seen in the exemplary embodiments described subsequently.

[0063] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the bushing 3 may be configured to act on the separating fingers (not shown) of the separating device particularly through its end face. By pushing the separating fingers, the clutch can be disengaged.

[0064] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, in the initial state of the pneumatic operation unit, the first elastic device 4 is adapted to apply a predetermined pressure on the separating device of the clutch by the bushing 3 and / or make the piston 2 abut against the end wall 11.

[0065] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the housing 1 may further include an inner ring 13 coaxially arranged inside the piston 2, and the bushing 3 may be axially slidably assembled on the inner ring 13. As Figure 1 shown, the bushing 3 may be sleeved on the inner ring 13.

[0066] Preferably, in order to facilitate guiding the bushing 3 to slide on the inner ring 13, a guiding ring 131 may be provided between the bushing 3 and the inner ring 13.

[0067] In order to prevent the pressurized air in the gas chamber from leaking from the outer peripheral edge of the piston 2, the piston 2 may be provided with a sealing element 21 on its outer periphery. The sealing element 21 may be an O-ring.

[0068] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating unit may further include an exhaust port 10, which may be connected to the gas chamber 7 through a valve (not shown), preferably a solenoid valve group, to allow the gas in the gas chamber 7 to be released to the side of the piston 2 away from the end wall 11 and to allow it to be discharged into the clutch after being filtered by a filtering device (not shown). For example, the exhaust port 10 may be connected to the intake port 12 through a solenoid valve.

[0069] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the sleeve 3 may be formed with a sleeve engaging structure 31 on its outer periphery, as Figure 1 shown, the locking structure 51 is correspondingly provided with a locking engaging structure 511 that matches the sleeve engaging structure 31. This can strengthen the locking effect between the locking structure 51 and the sleeve 3 in the locked state.

[0070] As Figure 1 shown, the force application structure 52 may be provided with a first contact portion 525, and the locking structure 51 may be provided with a second contact portion 512. When the piston 2 moves axially away from the end wall 11, it causes the first contact portion 525 to contact the second contact portion 512 to lock the locking structure 51 onto the sleeve 3. It can be understood that the first contact portion 525 may correspond to the first acting surface 523.

[0071] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the stop structure 6 may be at least partially fixed to the piston 2 or the end wall 11.

[0072] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, as Figure 1 shown, the first contact portion 525 and the second contact portion 512 may be configured as mating inclined surfaces such that when the piston 2 moves axially away from the end wall 11, the force application structure 52 can apply a force having an axial component and a radial component to the locking structure 51.

[0073] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when the sleeve 3 moves axially towards the end wall 11, for example, under the reaction force of the clutch, before the locking structure 51 and / or the force application structure 52 are stopped by the stop structure 6, the locking structure 51 can move axially together with the sleeve 3.

[0074] In Figure 1 the exemplary embodiment shown, the force application structure 52 and the stop structure 6 are formed on one component. However, the force application structure 52 and the stop structure 6 may also be different components, as can be clearly seen in the exemplary embodiments described subsequently.

[0075] Next, the pneumatic operating unit can be better understood by describing the operation of the Figure 1 exemplary embodiment shown.

[0076] In the initial state of the pneumatic operating unit, the piston 2 is located Figure 1 at the leftmost side and abuts against the end wall 11 of the housing 1. At this time, the radial force-applying structure 83 of the radial retaining mechanism 8 is radially inwardly pressed against the second acting surface 524 of the second part 522 of the force-applying structure 52 under the action of the third elastic device 82. However, due to the lifting action of the second acting surface 524 of the second part 522, the radial force-applying structure 83 does not radially press the locking structure 51 to lock it with the bushing 3, that is, the locking structure 51 and the bushing 3 are in a separated state.

[0077] During the separation process of the clutch, applying pressurized air to the gas chamber 7 through the air inlet 12 will push the piston 2 to move axially to the right, thereby also driving the second part 522 of the force-applying structure 52 to move to the right. Since the second part 522 is inclined, the lifting action of the second acting surface 524 of the second part 522 will be gradually released. Furthermore, the radial force-applying structure 83 of the radial retaining mechanism 8 will radially inwardly shift under the action of the third elastic device 82 and press the locking structure 51. When the piston 2 continues to move axially to the right, the first acting surface 523 of the second part 522 of the force-applying structure 52 will contact the corresponding part of the locking structure 51. Since the first acting surface 523 is inclined, a radially inward pressing force will be applied to the locking structure 51, thereby locking the locking structure 51 with the bushing 3. At this time, the output force of the piston 2 is transmitted to the bushing 3 through the locking structure 51, driving the bushing 3 to move axially to the right together, realizing the separation of the push-type clutch.

[0078] During the separation process of the clutch, the radial force-applying structure 83 of the radial retaining mechanism 8 can move axially to the right together with the locking structure 51, and further drive the entire radial retaining mechanism 8 to move axially to the right against the second elastic device 9.

[0079] During the engagement process of the clutch, the pressurized air in the gas chamber 7 can be released through the air inlet 12. Preferably, the air released from the air inlet 12 enters the exhaust port 10, reaches the right side of the piston 2, and is discharged into the clutch housing through the pre-set filtering device on the right side. Due to the pressure relief in the gas chamber 7, the release bearing of the clutch can push the bushing 3 and drive the piston 2 to retract together. During this process, the locking structure 51 presses on the first acting surface 523 of the second part 522 of the force-applying structure 52, thereby driving the piston 2 to retract together to the state of contacting the end wall 11.

[0080] During the engagement process of the clutch, the radial retaining mechanism 8 will also be driven to retract together.

[0081] During the operation of the clutch, it will continuously wear. When there is wear in the clutch, the release bearing still needs to move leftward after completing the engagement stroke. At this time, the release bearing can transfer the reaction force of the clutch to the sleeve 3. Since the piston 2 is at the leftmost position at this time, the first acting surface 523 of the second part 522 of the force application structure 52 will separate from the locking structure 51, making the locking structure 51 unable to lock onto the sleeve 3. As a result, the sleeve 3 can continue to move axially leftward under the action of the release bearing until a new force balance is established via the first elastic device 4. The distance of continued movement is the wear amount of the clutch.

[0082] Those skilled in the art can understand that the radial holding mechanism 8 is not necessary, especially when the locking structure 51 is partially elastic.

[0083] Next, some exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be further described to better understand the basic idea of the present invention.

[0084] Figure 2 The axial half-sectional schematic diagram of the pneumatic operation unit according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown.

[0085] As Figure 2 shown, the force application structure 52 can be configured as a separate component that cooperates with the piston 2. For example, the force application structure 52 may include a radial part 526, a cylindrical part 527, and an inclined part 528. The radial part 526 has a through hole to allow the force application structure 52 to be sleeved on the sleeve 3. The cylindrical part 527 is connected to the radial part 526 and wraps around the locking structure 51 in the assembled state. The inclined part 528 is connected to the cylindrical part 527 and extends toward the locking structure 51.

[0086] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the force application structure 52 can be integrally constructed.

[0087] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the inclined part 528 can extend obliquely away from the end wall 11 toward the sleeve 3.

[0088] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the area 529 between the inclined part 528 and the cylindrical part 527 can cooperate with a corresponding structure provided on the piston 2 or a corresponding mating structure 22 that is part of the piston 2.

[0089] In Figure 2 the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the first elastic device 4 is arranged near the outermost edge of the piston 2. For this purpose, a holding structure 32 extending radially outward from the sleeve 3 can be provided.

[0090] In addition, a fourth elastic device 100 may be provided between the force application structure 52 and, for example, the holding structure 32 as a return spring to axially push the force application structure 52 during the engagement process of the clutch (including the wear compensation process).

[0091] Figure 3 The axial half-sectional schematic diagram of a pneumatic operation unit according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown.

[0092] As Figure 3 shown, the force application structure 52 may include a hinge mechanism 530. The hinge point 531 of the hinge mechanism 530 is fixed relative to the piston 2 and can move with the piston 2. The other locking end 532 of the hinge mechanism 530 opposite to the hinge point 531 is adapted to act on the locking structure 51.

[0093] In Figure 3 the exemplary embodiment shown, the first elastic device 4 may be clamped between the hinge mechanism 530 and the holding structure 32.

[0094] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the hinge point 531 may be fixed to a structure that axially extends from a side of the piston 2 adjacent to the outer peripheral edge of the piston 2 and away from the end wall 11.

[0095] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the hinge mechanism 530 may be configured as a support rod.

[0096] Figure 4 The axial half-sectional schematic diagram of a pneumatic operation unit according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown.

[0097] As Figure 4 shown, the force application structure 52 may be configured to include an elastic element 533. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking structure 51 may be configured to include a limit structure 513 for axially limiting the contact portion between the force application structure 52 and the locking structure 51.

[0098] Figure 5 The axial half-sectional schematic diagram of a pneumatic operation unit according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown.

[0099] Figure 5 The embodiment of Figure 4 is similar to Figure 5 As shown, the force application structure 52 may be configured to include a pressure plate 534. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a return spring 535 may be provided between the force application structure 52 and the limit structure 513.

[0100] Figure 6Schematically shows an axial half-section schematic diagram of a pneumatic operation unit according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] Figure 6 The embodiment of Figure 3 is similar to Figure 6 As shown, the hinge point 531 can be fixed to one side of the piston 2 away from the end wall 11. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a return spring 535 can be provided between the hinge mechanism 530 and the corresponding fixed structure.

[0102] Figure 7 Schematically shows an axial half-section schematic diagram of a pneumatic operation unit according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] As Figure 7 shown, the locking structure 51 can be configured to include an elastic element 514. One end of the elastic element 514 can be stuck on the force application structure 52 and allow a certain swing, and the other end acts on the sleeve 3.

[0104] In Figure 7 the exemplary embodiment shown, the stop structure 6 can further include a stop block 61 sleeved on the sleeve 3.

[0105] Although specific embodiments of the present invention are described in detail here, they are given only for the purpose of explanation and should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present invention. Various substitutions, changes, and modifications can be conceived without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0106] List of reference numerals

[0107] 1 Housing

[0108] 2 Piston

[0109] 3 Sleeve

[0110] 4 First elastic device

[0111] 5 Locking mechanism

[0112] 6 Stop structure

[0113] 7 Gas chamber

[0114] 8 Radial retaining mechanism

[0115] 9 Second elastic device

[0116] 10 Exhaust port

[0117] 11 End wall

[0118] 12 Intake port

[0119] 13 Inner ring

[0120] 21 Sealing element

[0121] 22 Corresponding mating structure

[0122] 31 Bushing engaging structure

[0123] 32 Retaining structure

[0124] 51 Locking structure

[0125] 52 Force application structure

[0126] 61 Stop block

[0127] 81 Clamping element

[0128] 82 Third elastic device

[0129] 83 Radial force application structure

[0130] 100 Fourth elastic device

[0131] 131 Guide ring

[0132] 511 Locking engagement structure

[0133] 512 Second contact part

[0134] 513 Limiting structure

[0135] 514 Elastic element

[0136] 521 First part

[0137] 522 Second part

[0138] 523 First acting surface

[0139] 524 Second acting surface

[0140] 525 First contact part

[0141] 526 Radial part

[0142] 527 Cylindrical part

[0143] 528 Inclined part

[0144] 530 Hinge mechanism

[0145] 531 Hinge point

[0146] 532 Locking end

[0147] 533 Elastic element

[0148] 534 Pressure plate

[0149] 535 return spring

[0150] 811 loop

[0151] 812 guiding structure

[0152] 831 opening.

Claims

1. A pneumatic operating unit for a push clutch, comprising: a housing having an air inlet; a piston slidably mounted in the housing to define a gas chamber with a pneumatically adjustable volume between the piston and the housing, wherein the gas inlet is connected to the gas chamber; a bushing at least partially located within the housing and adapted to interact with a release mechanism of the clutch; a first elastic device adapted to apply elastic tension between the piston and the sleeve; a locking mechanism comprising a locking structure adapted to controllably act on an outer periphery of the sleeve and a force applying structure adapted to act on the locking structure to control a state of the locking structure relative to the sleeve; as well as a stop structure for limiting axial movement of the locking structure; wherein the housing has an end wall facing the piston to define the gas chamber; when the piston moves axially away from the end wall, the locking structure is locked to the sleeve at least by the force applying structure, so that the sleeve moves axially along with the piston; when the sleeve moves axially toward the end wall, the locking structure and / or the force applying structure are stopped by the stop structure, allowing the sleeve to continue to move axially toward the end wall; and The pneumatic operating unit further comprises a radial retaining mechanism, which is capable of radially pressing the locking structure toward the sleeve in a controlled manner.

2. The pneumatic operating unit according to claim 1, wherein: The pneumatic operation unit has at least one of the following features: The stop structure is at least partially fixed relative to the piston or the housing; When the sleeve moves axially toward the end wall, the locking structure moves axially along with the sleeve before the locking structure and / or the force applying structure is stopped by the stopping structure; The sleeve is configured to act on a separating finger of the separating device; The first elastic device is configured as a coil spring; In the initial state of the pneumatic operating unit, the first elastic device is adapted to cause the sleeve to exert a predetermined pressure on the separation device and / or to cause the piston to rest against the end wall; The housing further comprises an inner ring coaxially arranged inside the piston, and the sleeve is axially slidably mounted on the inner ring; The piston is provided with a sealing element on the outer periphery; The pneumatic operating unit further includes an exhaust port, which is connected to the gas chamber through a valve to allow the gas in the gas chamber to be released to the side of the piston away from the end wall and to be discharged into the clutch after being filtered by a filtering device; and The locking structure and the corresponding portion on the outer periphery of the shaft sleeve form a matching bite structure.

3. The pneumatic operating unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pneumatic operation unit has at least one of the following features: The force applying structure is provided with a first contact portion and is configured to interact with the piston or be a part of the piston, and the locking structure is provided with a second contact portion, when the piston moves axially away from the end wall, the first contact portion is caused to contact the second contact portion to lock the locking structure on the sleeve; The stop structure is at least partially fixed to the piston or the end wall.

4. The pneumatic operating unit according to claim 3, wherein: The first contact portion and the second contact portion are configured as matching inclined surfaces such that when the piston moves axially away from the end wall, the force applying structure applies a force having an axial component and a radial component to the locking structure.

5. The pneumatic operating unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The force applying structure comprises a hinge mechanism, a hinge point of which is fixed relative to the piston and can move with the piston, and the other end of the hinge mechanism opposite to the hinge point is suitable for acting on the locking structure.

6. The pneumatic operating unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pneumatic operation unit has at least one of the following features: The force applying structure is configured to extend from the piston; The first elastic device is arranged between the piston and the end surface of the sleeve facing the piston; and The pneumatic operating unit further comprises a second elastic device adapted to axially retain the radial retaining mechanism.

7. The pneumatic operating unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pneumatic operation unit has at least one of the following features: The force applying structure includes a first portion extending axially from the piston and a second portion extending radially outwardly and obliquely from the first portion; The radial retaining mechanism comprises a clamping element and third elastic means, the third elastic means being retained between the clamping element and the locking structure and tending to press the locking structure towards the sleeve; and The radial retaining mechanism further includes a radial force applying structure, which is adapted to controllably press the locking structure radially toward the sleeve under the action of the third elastic device.

8. The pneumatic operation unit according to claim 7, wherein: The pneumatic operation unit has at least one of the following features: The second portion has a first action surface and a second action surface. In an initial state of the pneumatic operating unit, the second portion acts on the radial force structure so that the radial force structure does not radially press the locking structure toward the sleeve. When the piston starts to move axially away from the end wall from the initial state, the second action surface first moves to cause the radial force structure to radially press the locking structure toward the sleeve. Then, the piston contacts the locking structure through the first action surface to radially press the locking structure and drive the sleeve and the radial retaining mechanism to move axially together. The inner circumference of the housing is provided with a step, and in the initial state of the pneumatic operating unit, the radial retaining mechanism is pressed against the step by the third elastic device.

9. The pneumatically operated unit according to claim 8, wherein: The pneumatic operation unit has at least one of the following features: The clamping element includes a ring adapted to cooperate with the inner circumference of the housing and a guide structure extending radially inward from the ring, the radial force-applying structure is provided with a guide hole, the third elastic device is sleeved on the guide structure, the guide structure is fitted in the guide hole, and one end of the third elastic device is pressed against the radial force-applying structure; The radial force applying structure is provided with an opening, and the second portion passes through the opening; and The radial force applying structure and the locking structure are integrally formed.

10. The pneumatically operated unit according to claim 9, wherein: The pneumatic operation unit has at least one of the following features: The guide structure includes two guide rods in a group, and the guide hole includes two corresponding guide holes; The ring is evenly provided with multiple groups of the guide structures in the circumferential direction; and The opening is configured as an inclined opening adapted to fit the second portion.

11. The pneumatic operating unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The force applying structure is constructed to include a radial portion, a cylindrical portion and an inclined portion, wherein the radial portion has a through hole to allow the force applying structure to be mounted on the sleeve, the cylindrical portion is connected to the radial portion and surrounds the locking structure in an assembled state, and the inclined portion is connected to the cylindrical portion and extends toward the locking structure.

12. The pneumatically operated unit according to claim 11, wherein: The pneumatic operation unit has at least one of the following features: The force applying structure is integrally constructed; The inclined portion extends obliquely away from the end wall toward the sleeve; and The area between the inclined portion and the cylindrical portion cooperates with a corresponding structure provided on the piston or a corresponding structure of the piston.

13. The pneumatic operation unit according to claim 5, wherein: The pneumatic operation unit has at least one of the following features: The hinge point is fixed to the side of the piston facing away from the end wall or to a structure extending axially from the side of the piston facing away from the end wall adjacent to the outer peripheral edge of the piston; The hinge mechanism is configured as a support rod; and The hinge mechanism is further provided with a return spring.

14. The pneumatic operating unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pneumatic operation unit has at least one of the following features: The force applying structure is configured to include an elastic element; and The locking structure is configured to include a limiting structure for axially limiting a contact portion between the force applying structure and the locking structure.

15. The pneumatic operation unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pneumatic operation unit has at least one of the following features: The force applying structure is configured to include a pressure plate; The locking structure is configured to include a limiting structure for axially limiting a contact portion between the force applying structure and the locking structure; and A return spring is provided between the force applying structure and the limiting structure.

16. The pneumatic operating unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pneumatic operation unit has at least one of the following features: The locking structure is configured to include an elastic element; and The stop structure further includes a stop block sleeved on the shaft sleeve.

17. A clutch system for a vehicle, wherein: The clutch system includes a push clutch and a pneumatic operating unit according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the pneumatic operating unit is used to operate the push clutch to control the disengagement and engagement of the push clutch and is suitable for compensating for the wear of the push clutch.

18. A vehicle comprising the clutch system according to claim 17.

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