Deflection limiting stop for a diaphragm spring clutch
AssigneeBorg-Warner Corporation
InventorPhilip J. Mott
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A deflection limiting stop for a diaphragm spring clutch which is positioned in the clutch cover to be engaged by the outer periphery of the diaphragm spring as it pivots from the engaged to the disengaged position of the clutch. The use of the stop prevents an overstressed condition for the spring, and thus improves the fatigue life thereof.
Claims4
In a vehicle clutch assembly including a flywheel, a clutch cover secured to the flywheel, a pressure plate operatively connected with said clutch cover and having a fulcrum surface formed adjacent its outer periphery, a clutch plate positioned between and adapted to be squeezed by the flywheel and pressure plate, and a diaphragm spring pivotally mounted intermediate its inner and outer edges in said clutch cover and engaging said fulcrum surface on said pressure plate radially outwardly of said clutch cover pivotal mounting, the outer edge of said spring having freedom of movement within said clutch cover, the improvement comprising at least one deflection limiting stop secured in said clutch cover to be engaged by said outer spring edge and limit pivotal movement of said diaphragm spring.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.