Clutch / how does it work? 3D Animation

Summary

The video script explores the inner workings of a single-plate clutch in manual and automated manual transmissions. It details the clutch's components, including the clutch plate, cover plate, flywheel, and actuation system, with a focus on hydraulic actuation. The script explains how the clutch disengages and re-engages the engine from the transmission for seamless gear changes, highlighting the role of the diaphragm spring, release bearing, and hydraulic system in controlling the clutch's operation.

Takeaways

• 🚗 The single-plate clutch is a common component in manual and some automated manual transmissions, situated between the engine and the transmission.
• 🔧 The clutch's primary function is to temporarily separate and reconnect the engine and transmission for smooth gear changes and pull away.
• 🕹️ The clutch is controlled by the driver through a mechanical or hydraulic system, with automated manual transmissions using electronic control units.
• 🔩 Key components of the clutch include the clutch plate, clutch cover plate with pressure plate, flywheel, and the clutch actuation system.
• 🔧 The clutch plate's facings receive torque from the engine and are clamped between the flywheel and pressure plate for torque transfer.
• 🌀 Cushion springs on the clutch plate help to compress and smooth the start of torque transfer.
• 🔗 The transmission's input shaft is connected to the clutch plate through a splined clutch hub, with damper springs to dampen vibrations.
• 🔩 The pressure plate, mounted on the clutch cover, clamps the clutch plate to the flywheel with the help of a diaphragm spring and drive straps.
• 🤚 The release bearing, activated by the clutch pedal, pushes the diaphragm spring to release the clutch plate and stop torque transmission.
• 💧 The hydraulic clutch actuation system includes the clutch pedal, master cylinder, pipeline, slave cylinder, fluid reservoir, and internal parts like the release fork and bearing.
• 🔑 The release fork and bearing, when activated, cause the pressure plate to slide backward, releasing the clutch plate and separating the engine from the transmission.
• 🔍 A pilot bearing in the center of the crankshaft supports the transmission's input shaft, ensuring stability during operation.

Q & A

What type of clutches are most manual transmissions and some automated manual transmissions equipped with?

Most manual transmissions and some automated manual transmissions are equipped with single-plate clutches.

Where is the main part of the clutch positioned in relation to the engine and transmission?

The main part of the clutch is positioned between the engine and the transmission.

What is the primary function of the clutch during gear changes and pull away?

The primary function of the clutch during gear changes and pull away is to temporarily separate the engine and the transmission and then smoothly reconnect them.

How is the clutch controlled in a manual transmission?

In a manual transmission, the clutch is controlled by the driver through a mechanical or hydraulic actuation system.

What replaces the clutch pedal in automated manual transmissions?

In automated manual transmissions, the clutch is controlled by the electronic control unit via a hydraulic or electric drive, instead of a clutch pedal.

What are the main components of a single-plate clutch with a hydraulic actuation system?

The main components of a single-plate clutch with a hydraulic actuation system include the clutch plate, the clutch cover plate with a pressure plate, the flywheel, and the hydraulic actuator.

What is the role of the clutch plate in the clutch system?

The clutch plate, or the driven plate, receives torque from the engine while being clamped between the flywheel and the pressure plate, ensuring smooth torque transfer.

How do cushion springs on the clutch plate contribute to the clutch operation?

Cushion springs on the clutch plate compress to allow smoother torque transfer, especially during the start of torque transfer.

What is the function of the diaphragm spring in the clutch cover?

The diaphragm spring in the clutch cover generates the force necessary to press the pressure plate to the clutch plate using its elasticity.

What is the purpose of the release bearing in the clutch actuation system?

The release bearing pushes the diaphragm spring when the clutch pedal is pressed, activating the clutch actuation system and causing the pressure plate to release the clutch plate.

How does the hydraulic clutch actuation system differ from the mechanical actuation system?

The hydraulic clutch actuation system consists of components like the clutch pedal, master cylinder, pipeline, slave cylinder, fluid reservoir, and internal parts such as the release fork and bearing, whereas the mechanical actuation system features a wire cable.

What is the role of the pilot bearing in the clutch system?

The pilot bearing, placed in the center of the crankshaft, provides support to the transmission’s input shaft.