Multiple-function controllable overrunning coupling

A controllable, multiple-function clutch comprising concentric inner and outer races with inner and outer peripheral surfaces, the inner race having a circular central opening;

• a torque delivery shaft located in the peripheral opening, the shaft and the inner race having a radial clearance therebetween;
• the outer peripheral surface of the inner race having external ramp recesses;
• the inner peripheral surfaces of the outer race having internal ramp recesses
• a plurality of circular clutch elements between the inner and outer races, each clutch element being located in an external recess and in an internal recess whereby the clutch elements are wedged between the inner and outer races as the races shift angularly, one with respect to the other;
• the inner race being split to define split ends with a peripheral gap therebetween;
• a fluid pressure chamber at the peripheral gap;
• and
• passage structure communicating with the fluid pressure chamber for distributing actuating pressure around the outer peripheral surface of the inner race whereby a radially directed pressure force is applied to the inner race to decrease the diameter of the inner race to effect frictional engagement of the inner peripheral surface of the inner race with the shaft.

A controllable, multiple-function clutch comprising concentric inner and outer races with inner and outer peripheral surfaces, the inner race having a circular central opening;

• a torque delivery shaft located in the central opening, the shaft and the inner race having a radial clearance therebetween;
• the outer peripheral surface of the inner race having external ramp recesses;
• the inner peripheral surfaces of the outer race having internal ramp recesses
• a plurality of circular clutch elements between the inner and outer races, each clutch element being located in an external recess and in an internal recess whereby the clutch elements are wedged between the inner and outer races as the races shift angularly, one with respect to the other;
• the inner race being split to define split ends with a peripheral gap therebetween;
• and
• at least one fluid pressure chamber at the peripheral gap defined by the split ends of the inner race whereby the pressure in the pressure chamber creates a tangential force on the split ends to expand the diameter of the inner race and interrupt frictional engagement of the inner race and the shaft.