Ntn Corporation

Richard D Baker

Russell E Monahan

Richard Jacobson

Shiro Goto

Tom Houtman

A clutch mechanism is disclosed for use with a hybrid electric vehicle wherein the electric motor-generator and engine are arranged in a series configuration. The clutch mechanism is positioned between and in communication with the electric motor-generator and engine to allow for either direct drive or a predetermined gear ratio between the electric motor-generator and engine. The electric motor-generator is preferably an integrated electric motor and generator. The engine is preferably a combustion engine.

Series drive clutch

A clutch mechanism is disclosed for use with a hybrid electric vehicle wherein the electric motor/generator and engine are arranged in a series configuration. The clutch mechanism is positioned between and in communication with the electric motor/generator and engine to allow the electric motor/generator to either: 1) provide sole motive power to the vehicle; 2) start the engine; 3) charge the vehicle's battery; 4) provide a power boost; or 5) provide regenerative braking. The clutch mechanism includes an outer race, an inner race, a roller set positioned between the inner and outer races, and a roller cage positioned adjacent the roller set to contain the roller set. The electric motor is preferably an integrated electric motor and generator. The engine is preferably a combustion engine.

Integrated starter-generator roller clutch

An over-running clutch assembly for an automotive transmission comprises an outer race having a cylindrical inner surface and an inner race engaged with a drop shaft of the transmission and having a cammed outer surface coaxial with the cylindrical inner surface and defining a gap therebetween and a roller clutch disposed within the gap; a biasing element to bias the roller clutch to a disengaged position; and an actuator to selectively overcome the biasing element to engage the roller clutch and lock the outer race and inner race and prevent relative rotation between the outer race and inner race, thereby preventing rotation of the drop shaft and movement of the automobile.

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Ypsilanti, MI, United States of America

Richard D Baker