Controllable clutch assembly

Abstract

A clutch assembly or module includes a plurality of components and a one-way clutch. The clutch assembly or module functions as a releasable torque-transmitting mechanism that provides mechanical engagement between mating components, wherein the plurality of components cooperate with the one-way clutch to control a torque flow path between a driving member or input member and a driven member or output member.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 331,037, filed on April 14, 2022. The disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates generally to a vehicle powertrain or drive system; and more particularly to a clutch assembly including a locking element for coupling and decoupling clutch members to control power flow or power transfer in a vehicle powertrain. Background Art

[0004] A clutch assembly including a one-way clutch or brake may include a locking member movable to an engaged / locked position. The one-way clutch creates a mechanical connection between a rotating component or a stationary component. In one example, when the driven component overruns the driving component or the stationary component, the locking member moves from the engaged position to the unengaged position. An actuator or actuating mechanism may control the movement of the locking member between the engaged / locked position and the unengaged / unlocked position. Summary of the invention

[0005] A clutch assembly has a rotatable first component and a second rotatable component, an active one-way clutch between the first rotatable component and the second rotatable component, and a passive one-way clutch between the first rotatable component and the second rotatable component.

[0006] Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter.It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The present invention will be more fully understood from the detailed description and accompanying drawings, in which:

[0008] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a clutch assembly.

[0009] Figure 2a is a schematic exploded perspective view of a portion of the clutch assembly as viewed from the left side.

[0010] Figure 2b is a schematic exploded perspective view of a portion of the clutch assembly as viewed from the right side.

[0011] Figure 3 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a clutch assembly in a connected state.

[0012] Figure 4 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a clutch assembly in an overrunning or disengaged state.

[0013] Figure 5 It is along Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the clutch assembly taken along line 5-5 of , illustrating a 0 / 1 functional state or mode.

[0014] Figure 6 is similar to Figure 5 Schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a clutch assembly illustrating a 1 / 1 functional state or mode.

[0015] Figure 7 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a clutch assembly illustrating a 0 / 1 functional state or mode.

[0016] Figure 8 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a clutch assembly illustrating a 1 / 1 functional state or mode.

[0017] Fig. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the power flow path for forward torque.

[0018] Fig.10 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the power flow path for reverse torque.

[0019] Fig.11 is a schematic cross-sectional side view illustrating another embodiment of a clutch assembly including radial and axial strut locations. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The following description of the preferred embodiment is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

[0021] The figures show one example of a clutch assembly or module, generally shown at 10, illustrated as a hub clutch or wheel disconnect 12, that provides mechanical engagement housed in or adjacent to the hub of a wheel. The clutch assembly or module 10 functions as a releasable torque-transmitting mechanism that provides mechanical engagement between mating components. Although illustrated as a hub clutch or wheel disconnect 12, the clutch assembly or module 10 may be used with other mechanisms.

[0022] The clutch assembly or module 10 includes a one-way clutch. A type of "one-way" or "overrunning" clutch creates a driving connection or engagement state between rotating components when the relative rotation of the rotating components is in one direction, a type of "one-way" or "overrunning" clutch overruns when the relative rotation of the rotating components is in the opposite direction, and a type of "one-way" or "overrunning" clutch overruns when the relative rotation of the rotating components is in the same direction and the driven member rotates faster than the driving member. The overrunning clutch operates when the driving member or input member rotates slower than the driven member or output member. The direction of driving and overrunning in the opposite direction depends on the direction of rotation of the driving member.

[0023] In the disclosed example, the clutch assembly or module 10 includes a passive clutch assembly, a first one-way clutch assembly 20, and an active clutch assembly or a controllable disconnectable clutch, a second one-way clutch assembly 22. In one example, the active clutch assembly or the controllable disconnectable clutch is a dynamic or dynamically controllable clutch. A dynamically controllable clutch refers to a controllable or selectable one-way clutch that acts between two rotating parts; for example, both races are rotatable.

[0024] The clutch assembly or module 10 includes a housing 14, an input member (shown as a drive shaft or input shaft 16) and an output member (shown as a driven shaft or output shaft 18). The clutch assembly or module 10 includes a first one-way clutch assembly generally shown at 20 and a second one-way clutch assembly generally shown at 22.

[0025] The first one-way clutch assembly 20 transfers torque from a power source or drive motor, motor side (not shown) through the input shaft 16 to the wheel side (not shown), through the output shaft in only one direction, usually positive - corresponding to positive vehicle movement or motion. Because the first one-way clutch assembly 20 transfers torque from the motor side to the wheel side in only one direction, no torque is transferred from the wheel side to the motor side through or through the first one-way clutch assembly 20. The second one-way clutch assembly 22 provides a mechanism for transferring torque in the opposite direction of the torque transfer of the first one-way clutch assembly 20 and for transferring torque from the wheel side to the motor side.

[0026] The first one-way clutch 20 includes a first component, generally shown at 24, connected to the drive shaft or input shaft 16. The first component 24 can rotate in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction about the rotation axis 26 of the clutch assembly or module 10. The first component 24 includes a disc-shaped member or plate 28 extending radially from the rotation axis 26. The disc-shaped member or plate 28 has a generally planar, radially extending opposing first side wall 30 and a second side wall 32. The first side wall 30 faces the driving side or input side of the clutch assembly or module 10, and the second side wall 32 faces the driven side or output side of the clutch assembly or module 10. The first side wall 30 includes a plurality of recesses 34, and the second side wall 32 includes a plurality of notches 36. The first one-way clutch 20 includes a locking element, such as a strut 38, in the recess 34 of the disc-shaped member or plate 28 of the first component 24. The strut 38 is biased outwardly by a spring 40, pushing out of the recess. The term locking element refers to a member or element capable of creating a mechanical connection. Engaged or connected means that there is a mechanical connection between the two parts. Unengaged or disconnected means that there is no mechanical connection between the two parts.

[0027] The first one-way clutch 20 also includes a second component generally shown at 42. The second component 42 is connected to the driven shaft or output shaft 18. The second component 42 can rotate in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction about the rotation axis 26 of the clutch assembly or module 10. The second component 42 includes a cup-shaped member 44 connected to the driven shaft or output shaft 18. The cup-shaped member 44 includes a body 46 having an axially extending annular or cylindrical wall 48 and a radially extending base 50 formed by a disc-shaped member or plate 52. The annular or cylindrical wall 48 extends axially in the direction of the rotation axis 26, wherein the disc-shaped member or plate 52 extends radially outward from the rotation axis 26. The disc-shaped member or plate 52 has a generally planar, radially extending, opposing first side wall 54 and second side wall 56. The outer peripheral end 58 of the disc-shaped member or plate 52 terminates at the annular or cylindrical wall 48 and is joined or connected thereto. Although the annular or cylindrical wall 48 and base 50 are shown as an integral, one-piece member, the two may also be formed as a plurality of mechanically coupled pieces, such as with a spline connection.The cup-shaped member 44 includes an open end and defines an open interior space.

[0028] The first one-way clutch 20 further includes a third component 64. The third component 64 includes a disc-shaped member or plate 66 extending radially from the rotation axis 26. The disc-shaped member or plate 66 has a substantially planar, radially extending, opposing first side wall 68 and a second side wall 70. The disc-shaped member or plate 66 of the third component 64 is arranged in the open interior space of the cup-shaped member 44 of the second component 42. The disc-shaped member or plate 66 is connected to the inner circumferential surface 60 of the annular or cylindrical wall 48. The disc-shaped member or plate 66 of the third component 64 includes a plurality of radially extending protrusions, such as splines 72. The splines 72 interlock with the radially inwardly extending protrusions (e.g., splines 74) on the inner circumferential surface 60 of the annular or cylindrical wall 48 of the cup-shaped member 44. Because the third component 64 is mechanically interlocked with the second component 42 via the spline connection 72, 74, the third component 64 rotates with the second component 42. The second side wall 70 of the disc-shaped member or plate 66 includes a plurality of notches 76. The second side wall 70 of the member or plate 66 of the third component 64 faces the first side wall 30 of the disc-shaped member or plate 28 of the first component 24. The third component 64 is held in place in the open interior space of the cup-shaped member 44 by a split ring or snap ring 78 located in a groove 79 in the inner circumferential surface 60 of the annular or cylindrical wall 48.

[0029] The term locking element refers to a member or element capable of creating a mechanical connection. The first one-way clutch 20 may be referred to as a passive one-way clutch or a passive strut assembly because it includes a passive or uncontrolled locking element, such as a strut 38, in a recess 34 of a disc-shaped member or plate 28 of the first component 24. The passive one-way clutch assembly 20 is on the input shaft 16 side, and the strut 38 is connected to the input shaft 16 and rotates therewith. Figure 3 As shown, the strut 38 is continuously biased outward by the spring 40. The first one-way clutch 20 is passive because the strut 38 of the first one-way clutch 20 is uncontrolled. Depending on the direction of rotation and the speed of the components, the first one-way clutch 20 engages or overruns. In one direction, it engages and overruns; in the other direction, it overruns. In the overrunning condition, the components can freely rotate relative to each other in at least one direction.

[0030] Figure 3The spring 40 is shown continuously pushing the strut 38 outward from the recess 34 in the first side wall 30 of the disc member or plate 28. Because the spring 40 continuously pushes the strut 38 outward from the recess 34, the strut 38 is continuously deployed and the first one-way clutch 20 is always in the on position. Depending on the direction of rotation and the speed of rotation, the strut 38 in the recess 34 of the first side wall 30 of the disc member or plate 28 engages with the notch 76 of the disc member or plate 66 of the third component 64, thereby mechanically connecting the first component 24 to the third component 64 in one rotational direction. By the engagement of the strut 38 in the recess 34 of the disc member or plate 28 of the first component 24 and the notch 76 in the disc member or plate 66 of the third component 64, torque is transmitted and relative rotation between the first component 24 and the third component 64 in one direction is prevented. The first component 24 transmits torque to the third component 64 only in one direction; while allowing relative rotation, overrunning, between the first component 24 and the third component 64 in the opposite direction. During overrun, the strut 38 is pushed out of the notch 76 in the disc member or plate 66 and back into the recess 34 of the disc member or plate 28 by the inclined surface of the notch 76 and the side surface or sidewall 70 of the disc member or plate 66 .

[0031] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The operation of the passive one-way clutch 20 is shown. Figure 3 The connection state of the first one-way clutch 20 is shown. Figure 3 The rotational speed ω of the disc member or plate 28 of the first component 24 in the direction of the arrow 90 28 greater than the rotational speed ω of the disc member or plate 66 of the third component 64 66 When , the first one-way clutch 20 is in the connected state. Figure 3 As shown, the disc-shaped member or plate 28 of the first component 24 drives the disc-shaped member or plate 66 of the third component 64 and passively connects the two members or plates 28, 66. By this passive system, regardless of the rotational speed ω of the first component 24 24 When is greater than the rotation speed ω of the third component 64 64 , drive torque or input torque from the drive shaft or input shaft is always transferred from the first component 24 to the third component 64 in one direction.

[0032] Figure 4 The first one-way clutch 20 is shown in an overrunning condition or state, which can occur in two conditions. In the first condition, when the rotation speed ω of the disc member or plate 66 of the third component 64 in the direction of arrow 90 is 66 greater than the rotational speed ω of the disc member or plate 28 of the first component 24 28, the first one-way clutch 20 overruns. The overrunning condition actively or passively disconnects the two plates 28, 66 and correspondingly disconnects the first component 24 and the third component 64. When the disc member or plate 66 of the third component 64 rotates faster than the disc member or plate 28 of the first component 24, it acts against the spring 40 and presses the strut 38 into the recess 34 in the disc member or plate 28. In the second operating condition, when the first component 24 rotates in the reverse direction (i.e., rotates in the opposite direction to the rotation of the third component 64, in the direction opposite to the direction of arrow 92), the first one-way clutch 20 overruns. As illustrated, the strut 38 associated with the first component 24 transmits torque in only one direction. The strut 38 engages the third component 64, transmits torque in only one direction, and overruns in the opposite direction. In the overrunning condition, when the disc member or plate 28 rotates in a direction opposite to the torque transmission direction, the disc member or plate 66 of the third component 64 presses the strut 38 into the recess 34 of the disc member or plate 28 .

[0033] Relative rotation between the first component 24 and the third component 64 in one direction is prevented by engagement of one or more struts 38 in the recess 34 of the disk-shaped member or plate 28 of the first component 24 with corresponding notches 76 in the member or plate 66 of the third component 64. The first component 24 transmits torque to the third component 64 in only one direction; while relative rotation between the first component 24 and the third component 64 in the opposite direction is allowed.

[0034] The second one-way clutch 22 is a dynamically controllable clutch. The dynamically controllable clutch operates so that torque application is generated by the engagement or disengagement of a locking element (e.g., a strut 80 associated with the second one-way clutch 22). The second one-way clutch 22 may also be referred to as an active strut assembly or an active one-way clutch because the strut 80 is controlled. In an active strut assembly or an active one-way clutch, an actuator 82 moves a locking member (such as a strut 80 in a recess 62 of a disc member or plate 52 of the second component 42) between an undeployed position (the strut 80 in the recess 62) and a deployed position, with the strut 80 extending outward from the recess 62 and beyond the first side wall 54 of the disc member or plate 52. In the deployed position, the strut 80 engages the notch 36 in the second side wall 32 of the disc member or plate 28 of the first component 24. The locking member or strut 80 moves between the deployed or locked position and the undeployed or unlocked position.

[0035] In one embodiment, the actuator 82 is a linear actuator that acts on a spring plate 84. The spring plate 84 is connected to a spring 86. The spring 86 engages the strut 80. The axial movement of the spring plate 84 compresses the spring 86. The spring 86 acts on the strut 80 and overcomes the force of the return spring 88, causing the strut 80 to extend from the recess 62 and pass through the first side wall 70 of the disc member or plate 52 of the second component 42.

[0036] The actuator device 82 includes a stator structure 94 and a converter structure 96. The stator structure 94 is connected to a housing (not shown), remains stationary, and does not rotate. The converter structure 96 rotates with the output shaft 18 and rotates around the rotation axis 26. It is supported for translational movement relative to the stator structure 94 between a first axial end position and a second axial end position along the rotation axis 26, which corresponds to different operating modes of the clutch assembly or module 10. The stator structure 94 includes a ferromagnetic housing 97 having a plurality of spaced apart fingers, wherein the electromagnetic induction coils 98 are accommodated between adjacent fingers. In one example, the stator structure 94 has two electromagnetic induction coils 98 to generate magnetic flux when one or both electromagnetic induction coils 98 are energized. When the electromagnetic induction coils 98 are energized to cause the converter structure 96 to move along the rotation axis 26, the stator structure 94 unidirectionally applies a first magnetic control force to the converter structure 96. The converter structure 96 responds to the magnetic control force by moving the spring plate 84 and corresponding spring 86 along the rotation axis 26. By reversing the direction of the current in the electromagnetic induction coil 98, the converter structure 96 causes the spring plate 84 and corresponding spring 86 to move in opposite directions along the rotation axis 26.

[0037] Figure 5 and Figure 6A plurality of connection states or modes of torque transmission and rotation of the clutch assembly or module 10 are shown. The direction of rotation of the drive shaft or input shaft 16 and the corresponding first component 24 determines the direction of torque application, the direction of the output shaft 18, and the direction of movement - forward or reverse. For the first one-way clutch 20 and the second one-way clutch 22, the connection state or mode can be represented by or by the x / x nomenclature. Wherein, the x on the left side of the slash indicates that the torque is applied or not applied by the second one-way clutch 22, and the x on the right side of the slash indicates that the torque is applied or not applied by the first one-way clutch. As used herein, the number one (1) on the right side of the slash indicates that the first one-way clutch 20 is engaged and applies torque in one direction and exceeds in the opposite direction. The number zero (0) on the right side of the slash indicates that there is no engagement and no torque is applied in either direction. Because the first one-way clutch 20 is a passive one-way clutch, the strut 38 is continuously deployed - pushed outward from the recess 34. The strut 38 and the corresponding first one-way clutch 20 are always engaged, so that torque is applied in one direction and exceeds in the opposite direction. In the disclosed example, the first one-way clutch 20 applies torque in a forward direction (corresponding to forward vehicle movement or motion) and overruns in reverse or reverse movement or motion. Forward and reverse relate to vehicle motion directions.

[0038] The second one-way clutch 22 uses the same convention: one (1), indicating that the second one-way clutch 22 is engaged and applies torque in one direction and overruns in the opposite direction; or zero (0), indicating that the second one-way clutch 22 is disengaged and does not apply torque in either direction. Because the second one-way clutch 22 is an active one-way clutch, it moves between an engaged (1) state and a disengaged (0) state or mode. When the second one-way clutch 20 is engaged, the strut 80 extends from the recess 62, applies torque in one direction and overruns in the opposite direction. In the disclosed example, the second one-way clutch 22 applies torque in the rearward direction (corresponding to rearward or reverse movement or motion) and overruns relative to forward movement or motion. When the second one-way clutch 22 is disengaged, the strut 80 remains in the recess 62 and does not apply torque in either direction.

[0039] Figure 1 The drive shaft or input shaft 16 is shown connected to a disc-shaped member or plate 28 of the first component 24. The drive shaft or input shaft 16 is connected to a power source, such as a drive motor (not shown). Figure 5-Figure 9The locking element or strut 38 of the passive or first one-way clutch assembly 20 is shown in a recess 34 in a disc-shaped member or plate 28, which is connected to the drive shaft or input shaft 16. The strut 38 is located on the motor, input shaft or input shaft side and rotates with the drive shaft or input shaft 16. The strut 38 transfers torque from the input shaft 16 to the output shaft 18. The locking element or strut 80 of the second one-way clutch assembly 22 is located in a recess 62 of a disc-shaped member or plate 52, which is connected to the driven shaft or output shaft 18. The strut 80 is located on the wheel side or output side and rotates with the driven shaft or output shaft 18. As shown, the disc-shaped member or plate 28 includes a recess 34 and the strut 38 on its side surface or side wall 30 and a notch 36 in the other side surface or side wall 32. The passive or uncontrolled strut 38 rotates in the same direction and speed as the drive shaft or input shaft. It is located on the motor side, not the wheel side.

[0040] Figure 7 The second one-way clutch 22 is shown in an undeployed position, wherein the strut 80 is biased inwardly into the recess 62 by the return spring 88. The first component 24 and the second component 42 are in a freewheeling condition, wherein the strut 80 is in the undeployed position. The freewheeling condition exists when the strut 80 is inactive, that is, when the strut 80 is disengaged or undeployed. In this condition, the various components can rotate independently in either direction.

[0041] Figure 8 The second one-way clutch 22 is shown to prevent relative rotation between the first component 24 and the second component 42 in one direction when the actuator 82 of the second one-way clutch 22 moves the spring 86 and the strut 80 to the deployed position. When the second one-way clutch 22 is engaged, the first component 24 transmits torque to the second component 42 in only one direction; while allowing relative rotation of the first component 24 and the second component 42 in the opposite direction. In the engaged position, the second one-way clutch 22 also allows relative displacement between the first component 24 and the second component 42 in an overrunning or opposite rotational direction. The strut 80 associated with the second one-way clutch 22 is capable of an overrunning mode.

[0042] Fig. 9The torque path 91 from the motor through the drive shaft or input shaft 16 to the driven shaft or output shaft 18 and ultimately to the wheels in the 0 / 1 state or mode is illustrated. As illustrated, the motor rotates the drive shaft or input shaft 16, which in turn rotates the disc member or plate 28 of the first component 24 in the positive direction indicated by arrow 90. Arrow 90 indicates clockwise rotation. Because the first one-way clutch 20 is in the connected state, the strut 38 in the recess 34 in the disc member or plate 28 of the first component 24 is biased outwardly out of the first side wall 30, wherein the strut engages the notch 76 in the second side wall 70 of the disc member or plate 66 of the third component 64 whenever the disc member or 28 rotates at a speed greater than the speed of the disc member or plate 66. Based on the relative speeds, the first component 24 transmits torque to the third component 64. The torque from the third component 64 is transferred from the third component 64 to the second component 42 including the disc-shaped member or plate 52 through the direct or splined connection 72, 74. As shown, the second component 42 including the disc-shaped member or plate 52 is connected to the driven shaft or output shaft 18. In one example, the second component 42 is connected to the wheel or hub shaft. In the exemplary embodiment, when the driven shaft or input shaft 16 rotates in the clockwise or positive direction (arrow 90), it moves along Fig. 9 The torque path shown in FIG. 1 transmits forward directional torque to a driven or output shaft 18 and corresponding wheels.

[0043] Because the first one-way clutch 20 transmits torque only in the forward direction, the second one-way clutch 22 is used to transmit torque in the reverse direction. In the disclosed exemplary example, when the drive shaft or input shaft 16 rotates in the reverse direction indicated by arrow 92, the disc member or plate 28 of the first component 24 also rotates in the reverse direction, thereby creating an overrunning condition between the disc member or plate 28 of the first component 24 and the disc member or plate 66 of the third component 64. In this condition, the disc member or plate 28 of the first component 24 has no torque transmitted to the disc member or plate 66 of the third component 64 in the reverse direction; therefore, no torque is transmitted to the driven shaft or output shaft 18 and the corresponding wheels in the reverse direction.

[0044] Fig.10 The diagram shows Figure 7The torque path 93 from the motor through the drive shaft or input shaft 16 in the 1 / 1 state is shown in FIG. The second one-way clutch 22 transmits torque in the reverse direction. Arrow 92 indicates rotation in the clockwise direction. In order to transmit torque from the drive shaft or input shaft 16 to the driven shaft or output shaft 18 in the reverse direction, the actuator 82 operates to apply a force to the strut 80 in the recess 62 of the disc-shaped member or plate 52 of the second component 42 through the spring plate 84 and the spring 86. The force applied by the spring 86 overcomes the force applied by the return spring 88 on the strut 80 and pushes the strut 80 out of the recess 62 and past the first side wall 54 of the member or plate 52 of the second component 42. As shown in FIG. Fig.10 As illustrated, when the disc member or plate 28 of the first component 24 is rotated in the counterclockwise or reverse direction indicated by arrow 92, the strut 80 engages the recess 36 in the second side wall 32 of the disc member or plate 28 and accordingly transfers torque to the disc member or plate 52 of the second component 42 and correspondingly to the driven shaft or output shaft 18, thereby causing the vehicle to travel in reverse.

[0045] Depending on the engaged or disengaged position of the second one-way clutch 22, a variety of torque transfer and rotational modes can be achieved. The direction of rotation (forward or reverse) is based on the direction of rotation of the drive shaft or input shaft 16 and the corresponding first member 24. The input torque is from the drive shaft or input shaft 16 through the first member 24 and through one or both of the second member 42 or the third member 64, such as Fig. 9 , Fig.10 The power or torque transmission path shown is shown.

[0046] In the disclosed example, the clutch assembly or module 10 can be used as an axle / driveline disconnect with a passively engaged forward element. The passively engaged forward element (first one-way clutch 20) enables the system to overtake when the wheel exceeds the input motor / gear speed in the forward direction; for example, when the input or drive motor is in a disconnected state-no drive torque is provided. The first one-way clutch 20 also enables power or torque to pass through the system, resulting in a forward vehicle direction without waiting for a controllable element (such as an active clutch) to be engaged, thereby significantly reducing torque delay. When the controllable system is engaged, the second one-way clutch 22 is engaged; because the second one-way clutch 22 is also a one-way clutch that overtakes during forward vehicle movement, the clutch assembly or module 10 transmits forward torque. In addition, the second one-way clutch 22 allows the clutch assembly or module 10 to transmit reverse torque for reverse vehicle movement, thereby enabling the vehicle to regenerate or enter reverse according to actuation / requirements. When the clutch assembly or module 10 transmits reverse torque, the first one-way clutch 20 overtakes.

[0047] Depending on the direction of rotation and the speed of rotation, the passive one-way clutch is always engaged. In one embodiment, the first one-way clutch 20 is a passive one-way clutch and the second one-way clutch 22 is an active or dynamic one-way clutch. The active or dynamic one-way clutch operates in an on / off manner - deployed / undeployed locking member or strut position. The locking member moves between a deployed or locked position and an undeployed or unlocked position.

[0048] Fig.11 Another embodiment of a clutch assembly or module 10 is illustrated showing a first one-way clutch 20 in a planar position and a second one-way clutch 22 in a radial position.

[0049] For example, Fig.11 An alternative embodiment of a clutch assembly or module 10 is illustrated. The first one-way clutch 20 includes a passive planar strut 100, and the second one-way clutch 22 includes a dynamic radial strut 102. The alternative embodiment of the clutch assembly or module 10 includes a first component, Fig.11 1 is shown as a cup-shaped member 104 connected to the input shaft 16. The cup-shaped member includes a radially extending disc-shaped member or plate 106 and an axially extending disc-shaped wall 108. The cup-shaped member 104 includes an inner cavity. An alternative embodiment of the clutch assembly or module 10 includes a second component, Fig.11 106. The disc-shaped member or plate 110 is shown in the cup-shaped member 104. The disc-shaped member or plate 110 has a first side surface 112 and a second side surface 114. The first side surface has a notch 116. The disc-shaped member or plate 110 is arranged in the inner cavity of the cup-shaped member 104, wherein the first side surface 112 of the disc-shaped member or plate 110 is positioned adjacent to the first side surface 118 of the disc-shaped member or plate 106. The first side surface 118 of the disc-shaped member or plate 106 includes the strut 100 in a recess 120, similar to that shown in the first one-way clutch assembly 20. As disclosed, the strut 100 is a passive strut—a strut spring maintains the strut 120 in an axially outward position above the first side surface 118 of the disc-shaped member plate 106, wherein the strut overtakes or engages the notch 116 in the first side surface 112 of the disc-shaped member or plate 110.

[0050] The strut 102 of the second one-way clutch 22 is seated in a recess 122 disposed in a radially outwardly facing outer peripheral surface 124 of the disc member or plate 110. The strut 102 engages a notch 126 on a radially inner surface 128 of the disc wall 108 of the cup member 104.

[0051] The passive strut of the first one-way clutch 20 and the active strut of the second one-way clutch 22 can be placed in different orientations. Both can be placed or oriented to engage radial surfaces, or one can engage a planar surface and the other engage a radial surface. For example, Fig.11The passive planar struts 100 may be radially oriented on the outer peripheral surface 124 of the disk-shaped member plate 110 , and the active radial struts 102 may be planarly oriented on the disk-shaped member plate 106 of the cup-shaped member 104 .

[0052] The description of the present invention is merely exemplary in nature. Therefore, variations that do not depart from the gist of the present invention are intended to be within the scope of the present invention. These changes should not be regarded as departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A clutch assembly, comprising: a first shaft rotatable about an axis of rotation; a second shaft rotatable about the rotation axis; a first component directly connected to the first shaft; a second member directly connected to the second shaft; a third component directly connected to the second component, wherein the third component does not directly contact either of the first shaft and the second shaft; a passive one-way clutch located between the first component and the third component; and An active one-way clutch, the active one-way clutch is located between the first component and the second component, the active one-way clutch includes an electromagnetic actuator, the electromagnetic actuator includes a stator and a converter, the stator has at least one induction coil, the at least one induction coil acts on the converter, wherein the converter moves axially in the direction of the rotation axis.

2. The clutch assembly of claim 1, wherein: The first component includes a first surface and a second surface; The second component includes a first surface; The third component includes a first surface; The passive one-way clutch couples the first surface of the first component to the first surface of the third component; as well as The active one-way clutch couples the second surface of the first component in the first surface of the second component.

3. The clutch assembly of claim 2, wherein: The first component is arranged between the first surface of the third component and the first surface of the second component.

4. The clutch assembly of claim 1, wherein: The first component includes a disk-shaped member, the disk-shaped member of the first component being directly connected to the first shaft and extending radially outward from the first shaft; as well as the second component including a disk-shaped member, the disk-shaped member of the second component being directly connected to the second shaft and extending radially outward from the second shaft; as well as The third component includes a disk-shaped member, the disk-shaped member of the third component is directly connected to the second component and extends radially outward from the first shaft, wherein the disk-shaped member of the second component and the disk-shaped member of the third component are axially spaced apart from the disk-shaped member of the first component, and the disk-shaped member of the first component is positioned between the disk-shaped member of the second component and the disk-shaped member of the third component.

5. The clutch assembly of claim 1, wherein: The passive one-way clutch includes a recess in the first surface of the first component and a locking element, the recess extending from the recess and passing through the first surface of the first component and engaging the first surface of the third component; as well as The active one-way clutch includes a locking element deployable between a second surface of the first component and a first surface of the second component.

6. The clutch assembly of claim 5, wherein: The first surface of the third component includes a plurality of recesses; and The second surface of the first component includes a plurality of recesses.

7. The clutch assembly of claim 1, wherein: The passive one-way clutch includes a locking element that engages a notch in the third component; and The active one-way clutch includes a locking element that engages a notch in the first component.

8. A clutch assembly comprising: an input shaft rotatable about a first shaft rotation axis and receiving an input from the motor; an output shaft rotatable about a second shaft rotation axis and transmitting power to the wheels; a first member connected to the input shaft and rotating with the input shaft; a second member connected to the output shaft and rotating with the output shaft; a passive one-way clutch, the passive one-way clutch being located between the first component and the second component; an active one-way clutch, the active one-way clutch being located between the first component and the second component; The passive one-way clutch includes the first component having a recess and a strut in the recess, wherein the strut is located on a first shaft side of the passive one-way clutch; The second component comprises a first surface and a second surface, and has an opening between the first surface and the second surface of the second component, wherein the first component is disposed in the opening; The first component includes a first surface facing the first surface of the second component and a second surface facing the second surface of the second component; The strut of the passive one-way clutch is located in a recess of the first component and extends from the recess and extends over a first surface of the first component to a first surface of the second component, and the strut of the passive one-way clutch couples the first component to the second component only in a first rotational direction and allows the first component to overtake the second component in a second rotational direction; as well as The active one-way clutch includes a strut that is movable between an undeployed position in which the strut is below a second surface of the second component and a deployed position in which the strut extends above the second surface of the second component to the second surface of the first component, the strut coupling the first component with the second component only in the second rotational direction and allowing the first component to overtake the second component in the first rotational direction.

9. The clutch assembly of claim 8, wherein: The active one-way clutch comprises: an actuator, the actuator comprising a stator and a converter, the stator comprising at least one electromagnetic induction coil; and A spring is positioned between the converter and the strut mounted in the second component.

10. The clutch assembly of claim 9, wherein: The spring of the actuator holds the strut between the second surface of the first component and the second surface of the second component, and in the deployed position the strut couples the second component to the first component in one direction and overruns the first component in an opposite direction.

11. A clutch assembly comprising: a first shaft rotatable about a first shaft rotation axis; a second shaft rotatable about a second shaft rotation axis; a first component connected to the first shaft; a second member connected to the second shaft; a third component connected to the second component; a first one-way clutch, the first one-way clutch being located between the first component and the third component; as well as a second one-way clutch, the second one-way clutch being located between the first component and the second component; the second component comprising a cup-shaped member having a disk-shaped member having a radially inner end and a radially outer end, the radially inner end being closer to the second shaft rotational axis, wherein the radially inner end of the disk-shaped member connects the second component to the second shaft; The cup-shaped member has an annular wall extending axially, the annular wall being directly connected to the radially outer end of the disc-shaped member and spaced apart from the second shaft; The first component is located in the opening of the cup-shaped member; and The third component is connected to the second component, wherein the first component is between the disc-shaped member of the second component and the third component.

12. The clutch assembly of claim 11, wherein: The first component includes at least one recess in the first surface and at least one notch in the second surface; the third component comprising at least one notch in a side surface of the third component, the side surface of the third component facing the first surface of the first component; as well as The second component includes at least one recess in a side surface of the second component, the side surface of the second component facing the second surface of the first component.

13. The clutch assembly of claim 12, wherein: The first one-way clutch includes at least one strut between the recess in the first surface of the first component and the notch in the side surface of the third component; and The second one-way clutch includes at least one strut between the recess in the side surface of the second component and the notch in the second surface of the first component.

14. A clutch assembly comprising: a first shaft rotatable about a first shaft rotation axis; a second shaft rotatable about a second shaft rotation axis; a first component connected to the first shaft; a second component connected to the second shaft; the second component comprising a radially extending disc-shaped member having a radially inner end connected to the second shaft and an axially extending annular wall directly connected to the disc-shaped member at a radially outer end; a third member directly connected to the annular wall of the second member; a first one-way clutch, the first one-way clutch being located between the first component and the third component; a second one-way clutch, the second one-way clutch being located between the first component and the second component; The first one-way clutch includes a spring and a strut, the spring moving the strut to a deployed position between the first component and the third component so that the first component is coupled to the second component in a first rotational direction and overtakes the third component in a second rotational direction; as well as The second one-way clutch includes a spring, a strut, and an electromagnetic actuator that acts on the spring to pivotally move the strut to a deployed position between the first component and the second component so that the second component is coupled to the first component in the second rotational direction and overtakes the first component in the first rotational direction.

15. The clutch assembly of claim 14, wherein: The electromagnetic actuator comprises: a stator having at least one induction coil; a converter, wherein the at least one induction coil acts on the converter; and The spring is positioned between the converter and a strut of the second one-way clutch.

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