WO2020114898A1

WO2020114898A1 - Spacer device for a wet clutch mechanism and wet clutch mechanism comprising such a spacer device

Info

Publication number: WO2020114898A1
Application number: PCT/EP2019/083043
Authority: WO
Inventors: Arnaud DOLE; Vincent CORNET; Guillaume VUAROQUEAUX; François THIBAUT
Original assignee: Valeo Embrayages
Priority date: 2018-12-07
Filing date: 2019-11-29
Publication date: 2020-06-11
Also published as: FR3089580A1; CN113167339A; CN113167339B; FR3089580B1

Abstract

Spacer device (60) for a wet clutch mechanism (1), having a symmetry of revolution about the axis X, comprising: - a central core (65), - at least one orifice (64) passing through the central core (65), - a first flank (61), the orifice (64) and the first flank (61) partially forming an oil channel (63) participating in the supply of cooling oil for the wet clutch mechanism (1), - a first circumferential bearing face (71) arranged to bear on an axial bearing (25) and a second circumferential bearing face (72) arranged to bear on a guide bearing (150), said first and second bearing faces (71, 72) being arranged axially on either side of the oil channel (63), in which the central core (65) and the oil channel (63) are formed by stamping at least one metal sheet (100, 200).

Description

Title of the invention: Spacer device for wet clutch mechanism and wet clutch mechanism comprising such a device

bracing

[1] [The present invention relates to a spacer device for a wet clutch mechanism, in particular for a transmission of a vehicle

automobile or a so-called industrial vehicle, the latter being for example a heavy goods vehicle, a public transport vehicle, or an agricultural vehicle. The present invention also relates to a wet clutch mechanism comprising such a bracing device, in particular a wet double clutch mechanism comprising such a bracing device.

[2] The wet clutch mechanism is generally made up of a multi-disc assembly comprising friction discs and flanges. In the engaged position, the friction discs and the flanges are pressed against each other in order to transmit the engine torque. In the disengaged position, the friction discs and the flanges are moved apart so that no engine torque is transmitted within the clutch.

[3] Repeated actuation of the clutch between the engaged and disengaged positions results in overheating of the friction discs. The multidisk assembly must be cooled to keep the mechanical and thermal properties of the wet clutch mechanism constant.

[4] It is known, for the lubrication of a wet clutch mechanism,

introduce cooling oil to the center of the clutch mechanism, bringing the oil from a hydraulic pump to the assembly

multi-disc. By centrifugation, the cooling oil is discharged to the outside of the wet clutch mechanism, in particular by passing through the multidisk assembly.

[5] The delivery of oil to the center of the clutch mechanism requires the design of a complex oil delivery device. [6] Patent application FR3062698 A1 describes an oil delivery device comprising a lubrication ring, and a mechanism support

clutch, placed in the center of the clutch. The lubrication ring is interposed between the support and a guide bearing which radially supports the wet clutch mechanism.

[7] The clutch mechanism support includes an oil delivery conduit that communicates with an oil channel formed in the lubrication ring. The cooling oil passes through the support and the lubrication ring before reaching the multidisc assembly by centrifugation. The lubrication ring also serves as a support for an axial bearing.

[8] From document FR3062698 A1, it appears that the lubrication ring has a large number of functionalities (mechanical support, oil delivery, transmission of axial forces) which requires complex shapes. The lubrication ring is made by molding and requires a large number of machining operations to produce complex shapes.

[9] The lubrication ring must in particular withstand the stresses of the guide bearing and the axial bearing of the clutch mechanism, and acts as a bracing device.

[10] For reasons of space, the lubrication ring, otherwise

called a bracing device, has very thick portions and thin portions which require a large number of machining operations.

The lubrication ring has a large mass which impacts the overall weight of the clutch mechanism and a high manufacturing cost.

[1 1] The object of the present invention is to respond at least in large part to the above problems and also to lead to other advantages.

[12] Another object of the present invention is to simplify the design of such a bracing device.

[13] According to a first aspect of the invention, at least one of the aforementioned objectives is achieved with a bracing device for a wet clutch mechanism, having a symmetry of revolution around the X axis, comprising:

- a central soul, - at least one orifice passing through the central core,

- a first side extending radially from the central core, the orifice and the first side forming in part an oil channel arranged to supply cooling oil for the wet clutch mechanism,

a first circumferential bearing face arranged to rest on an axial bearing and a second circumferential bearing face arranged to rest on a guide bearing, said first and second bearing faces being arranged axially on one side and across the oil channel,

in which the central core and the oil channel are formed by stamping at least one sheet.

[14] This bracing device according to the invention has the advantage of being simple to manufacture. From a metal sheet, we make a device

bracing performing a large number of functions, such as: supporting axial forces within the clutch mechanism, supporting the axial bearing, and supplying cooling oil.

[15] The bracing device has a thickness that is substantially

constant, which reduces its mass.

The stamping of the sheet allows the production of complex shapes, which eliminates the machining steps.

The central core, interposed between the first and second bearing faces, makes it possible to withstand the axial forces coming from the guide bearing or the axial bearing, without deforming and by using a reduced quantity of material.

Finally, the overall economic cost of the device is reduced.

[16] Advantageously, the first and second bearing faces are arranged axially on either side of the central core. This has the advantage of having the oil channel in the center of the bracing device. The spacing between the first and the second face is defined by the height of the central core. It is possible to adapt the height of the central core to different types of clutch mechanisms, without having to move the oil channel. The design of the bracing device is thus simplified. [17] The invention may have one or the other of the characteristics described below, combined together or taken independently of each other:

[18] - The central core may include a cylindrical bore arranged to

lean on a clutch mechanism support;

[19] - The cylindrical bore can be positioned radially inside the first support face and the second support face;

[20] - The cylindrical bore of the central core may include a threaded portion capable of being screwed onto a threaded portion complementary to a clutch mechanism support;

[21] - The opening can go right through the central core. More specifically, the orifice can extend radially from the interior of the central core to the exterior of the central core;

[22] - Advantageously, the bracing device may include a

second flank parallel to the first flank, the second flank partly forming the oil channel, the orifice being positioned between the first and second flanks. The second side has the advantage of improving the delivery of oil within the clutch mechanism;

[23] - The opening can pass through the central core and the second flank;

[24] - The first and second support faces can be formed

respectively on the external lateral faces of the first and second flanks;

[25] - Advantageously, a centering flange can surround the first bearing face. This has the advantage of retaining the axial bearing radially;

[26] - The collar can be formed on the periphery of the first flank;

[27] - In addition, the collar can be arranged radially outside the first flank;

[28] - The collar can be continuous;

[29] - The flange can be arranged to center the axial bearing; [30] - Advantageously, pre-centering pins can surround the second bearing face;

[31] - The pre-centering pins can be arranged to pre-center the guide bearing. In this way, the pre-centering pins hold the guide bearing during assembly of the wet clutch mechanism.

[32] - The pre-centering pins can be formed at the periphery of the second flank, the advantage being for the second flank to provide additional pre-centering of the guide bearing during assembly of the wet clutch mechanism;

[33] - The pre-centering pins can be arranged radially outside the second flank;

[34] - The pre-centering pins can be discontinuous;

[35] - Advantageously, part of the oil channel can extend angularly over 360 degrees relative to the X axis. The lubrication of the wet clutch mechanism is thus improved;

[36] - The oil channel may include a plurality of distributed orifices

angularly around the X axis;

[37] - The oil channel may include orifices, complementary orifices and a space delimited between the first and second flanks;

[38] - The space between the first and second flanks can extend

angularly 360 degrees to the X axis;

[39] - As a variant, the orifice may be an opening which makes the space delimited between the first and second flanks communicate with conduits formed in the clutch mechanism support.

[40] The invention also relates, according to a second aspect, to a bracing device incorporating all or part of the characteristics mentioned above, which can be formed from a single first sheet.

[41] This second aspect of the invention may present one or other of the

characteristics described below combined or taken

independently of each other: [42] - The collar can be obtained by stamping the first sheet;

[43] - The pre-centering pins can be obtained by stamping the first sheet;

[44] The subject of the invention is also, according to a third aspect, a bracing device incorporating all or part of the characteristics mentioned in the first aspect, which can be formed from two sheets, the first sheet forming the central core and the first side, the second sheet forming the second side.

[45] This third aspect of the invention may present one or other of the

characteristics described below combined or taken

independently of each other:

[46] - The second sheet can be supported on the first sheet;

[47] - The flange can be obtained by stamping the first sheet;

[48] - As a variant, the external rim of the second sheet can form the flange arranged to center the axial bearing;

[49] - The pre-centering pins can be obtained by stamping the first sheet;

[50] - Advantageously, the second sheet may include orifices

complementary forming part of the oil channel;

[51] - The complementary orifices can be positioned axially between the first and second sides. In such a situation, the orifices

complementary can be distributed angularly around the X axis;

[52] Alternatively, the second sheet may include openings, the pre-centering pins of the first sheet passing through the openings. This has the advantage of angularly indexing the pre-centering pins of the first sheet through the openings of the second sheet, the positioning of the two sheets is thus simplified;

[53] - Advantageously, the second sheet may be annular; [54] - The second sheet may include an outer rim extending axially in the direction of the first sheet;

[55] The subject of the invention is also, according to a fourth aspect, a bracing device incorporating all or part of the characteristics mentioned in the first aspect, which can be formed from three sheets, the first sheet forming the first side, the second sheet forming the central core, and the third sheet forming the second flank.

[56] This fourth aspect of the invention may present one or other of the

characteristics described below combined or taken

independently of each other:

[57] - The bracing device can be formed from the axial stack of the three sheets. More particularly, the third sheet can be supported on the second sheet and the second sheet can be supported on the first sheet;

[58] - The second sheet may be of corrugated shape or may have

ripples. Preferably, these corrugations can be in contact

circumferentially alternating between the first and third sheets;

[59] - Advantageously, a first part of the corrugations can be in contact with the first sheet. A second other part of the corrugations can be in contact with the third sheet;

[60] - The collar can be formed by the external periphery of the third sheet;

[61] - The collar can be obtained by stamping the third sheet;

[62] - The pre-centering pins can be obtained by stamping the third sheet;

[63] - The orifice may be formed by the internal edge of the first sheet and part of the internal edge of the second sheet. Alternatively or in a way

complementary, the orifice can be formed by the internal edge of the second sheet and a part of the internal edge of the third sheet;

[64] - The first sheet, the second sheet and the third sheet may come from separate sheets and / or from separate materials. [65] The subject of the invention is also, according to a fifth aspect of the invention, a wet clutch mechanism, comprising first and second clutches E1, E2 of the multi-disc type, arranged to selectively couple a shaft leading to a first driven shaft A1 or a second driven shaft A2, for example gearbox shafts, and comprising:

- a torque input disk holder arranged to be linked in rotation with the shaft driving along an axis of rotation X,

- a first torque output disc holder arranged to be linked in rotation with the first driven shaft,

a second torque output disc holder arranged to be linked in rotation with the second driven shaft,

- a guide bearing inserted in a cylindrical support portion of the input disc holder and configured to withstand the radial and axial forces of the wet clutch mechanism,

- an axial bearing resting on the second outlet disc holder,

- a clutch mechanism support supporting the guide bearing, and

- a bracing device incorporating all or part of the characteristics mentioned above, said bracing device being interposed axially between the axial bearing and the guide bearing.

[66] Advantageously, the wet clutch mechanism may include a hydraulic control system, capable of controlling the first and second clutches between a engaged position and a disengaged position, said hydraulic control system comprising a support for a clutch mechanism supporting the guide bearing, and said bracing device being in radial abutment on the support of the clutch mechanism.

[67] Advantageously, a stop ring can be inserted in a groove formed in the clutch mechanism support, the stop ring axially retaining the bracing device when the first or second clutch is in the engaged position. . [68] Advantageously, the stop ring can press on the first bearing face of the bracing device.

[69] Advantageously, the clutch mechanism support can comprise at least one cooling oil supply duct communicating with the oil channel of the bracing device.

[70] Advantageously, the conduits for cooling oil of the clutch mechanism support can be distributed angularly around the X axis.

[71] The subject of the invention is also, according to a sixth aspect of the invention, a multi-disc type KO cut-off clutch, arranged to selectively couple a shaft leading to a driven shaft, and comprising:

- a torque output disc holder arranged to be linked in rotation with the driven shaft,

- a first multi-disc assembly inserted between the input disc holder and the output disc holder, and comprising flanges and friction discs,

- a guide bearing inserted in a cylindrical support portion of the input disc holder and configured to support the radial and axial forces of the wet clutch mechanism,

- an axial bearing resting on the output disc holder,

- a bracing device incorporating all or part of the characteristics mentioned above, said bracing device being inserted axially between the axial bearing and the guide bearing.

[72] Advantageously, the KO cut-off clutch includes a system

hydraulic control, capable of controlling the clutch between a engaged position and a disengaged position, comprising a clutch mechanism support supporting the guide bearing, and said bracing device being supported on the clutch mechanism support . [73] The subject of the invention is also a method of manufacturing a bracing device incorporating the characteristics mentioned in the first and the second aspect of the invention, comprising the following steps:

a) Provide a single sheet having a central opening of axis X;

b) Cut the pre-centering pins from the central hole and fold the pre-centering pins along the X axis;

c) Stamp a second side from the central hole;

d) Stamp a central core from the second side;

e) Detach the bracing device from the sheet by a cylindrical cut to form the outer periphery of the bracing device;

[74] According to this method, the manufacturing steps are simplified by using a single range of tools. The bracing device is obtained only by stamping a sheet.

[75] The cutting of material by machining and / or drilling is thus replaced, which eliminates the loss of material during manufacture.

[76] The invention will be better understood on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of example and made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

- [Figure 1] is an axial sectional view of a wet double clutch mechanism comprising a bracing device according to a first embodiment of the invention;

- [Figure 2] describes a partial perspective view of the device

bracing according to the first embodiment of the invention illustrated in [Figure 1];

- [Figure 3] describes a partial perspective view of the device

bracing according to a second mode of implementation of the invention close to the first mode;

- [Figure 4A] describes an exploded perspective view of the device

bracing according to a third embodiment of the invention; - [Figure 4B] describes an axial sectional view of the bracing device according to the third embodiment of the invention illustrated in [Figure 4A];

- [Figure 5A] describes an exploded perspective view of the device

bracing according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;

- [Figure 5B] describes an axial sectional view of the bracing device according to the fourth embodiment of the invention illustrated in [Figure 5A];

- [Figure 6A] describes an exploded perspective view of the device

bracing according to a fifth embodiment of the invention;

- [Figure 6B] describes an axial sectional view of the bracing device according to the fifth embodiment of the invention illustrated in [Figure 6A];

- [Figure 6C] describes an assembled perspective view of the device

bracing according to the fifth embodiment of the invention illustrated in [Figure 6A];

[77] In the following description and claims, the terms "front" or "rear" depending on the direction relative to an axial orientation determined by the main X axis of rotation of the motor vehicle transmission and the terms "interior / internal" or "exterior / external" with respect to the X axis and in a radial orientation, orthogonal to said axial orientation.

[78] There is shown in [Figures 1 to 2] a bracing device 60 for wet clutch mechanism 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention. In the example illustrated in [Figure 1], the wet clutch mechanism 1 ensuring the transmission of torque is in an assembled state and has a main X axis of rotation.

[79] In [Figure 1], the wet clutch mechanism 1 is a wet double clutch mechanism comprising a first clutch E1 and a second clutch E2. Furthermore, the wet clutch mechanism 1 comprises an actuation system 10 and a bracing device 60 having a generally annular shape around the axis X. The system actuator 10 is arranged to engage or disengage said first and second clutches E1, E2. The actuation system 10 is shown fixed to a transmission casing 160 by means of fixing screws 161.

[80] The wet clutch mechanism 1 comprises around the axis X at least one torque input element 12 which is linked in rotation to a driving shaft (not shown). Input element 12 is located at the rear of the dual clutch mechanism.

[81] In [Figure 1], the input element 12 having an overall shape in

"L" comprises an annular portion of radial orientation formed by an entry veil 13 and an axial orientation part formed by a hub 14. The entry veil 13 and the entry hub 14 are integral and welded together by transparency laser welding.

[82] The hub 14 is arranged radially inside with respect to the web 13

entry. The input hub 14 is for example linked in rotation by means of grooves to the output of a damping device (such as a double damping flywheel, etc.) whose input is linked, by the in particular through an engine flywheel, to the drive shaft formed by a crankshaft which rotates an engine fitted to the motor vehicle.

[83] The entry veil 13 comprises, at its external radial end of axial orientation, teeth 19 which extend radially outwards and which are supported on an entry disc holder 20. The veil Input 13 and the input torque carrier 20 are rotational and have a common function of transmitting the input torque. The entry veil 13 is in this case attached to the entry disc holder 20. In a variant not shown, the entry veil can be welded to the entry disc holder 20.

[84] In another variant not shown, the entry veil can be

directly integrated into the input disc holder 20 so that it forms a single piece. In this way, the input disc holder 20 is arranged to be linked in rotation with the drive shaft along an axis of rotation X.

[85] The wet clutch mechanism 1 is controlled to couple

selectively said tree leading to a first A1 driven tree and to a second A2 driven shaft connected to a gearbox fitted to the motor vehicle. Preferably, the first driven shaft A1 and the second driven shaft A2 are coaxial. The first driven A1 shaft is rotated when said first clutch E1 is closed and the second driven A2 shaft is rotated when said second clutch E2 is closed.

[86] The wet clutch mechanism 1 is hydraulically controlled by means of a pressurized fluid, generally oil. The actuation system 10 includes:

- A first actuating piston 1 10 arranged to configure the first clutch E1 in a configuration between the engaged configuration and the disengaged configuration;

- A second actuating piston 120 arranged to configure the second clutch E2 in a configuration between the engaged configuration and the disengaged configuration;

- A housing 130 in which are housed at least (in part) the first and the second actuating piston 1 10, 120.

[87] As illustrated in [Figure 1], the first clutch E1 is arranged

radially beyond the second clutch E2.

[88] The multi-disc assembly of the first clutch E1 comprises flanges 31 linked in rotation to the input disc holder 20 and friction discs 32 linked in rotation to a first torque output disc holder 30. The friction discs 32 are, individually, axially interposed between two successive flanges 31. The flange 31 is formed from a sheet of steel.

[89] The first output disc holder 33 of the first clutch E1 is linked in rotation by meshing with the friction discs 32 and by a splined connection with said first driven shaft A1. The first output disc holder 33 includes an output hub 34 connected to the driven shaft A1.

[90] The multi-disc assembly of the second clutch E2 comprises flanges 41 linked in rotation to the input disc holder 20 and friction discs 42 linked in rotation to a second output disc holder 43 of torque. The second output disc holder 43 of the second clutch E2 is linked in rotation by meshing with the friction discs 42 and by a splined connection with said second driven shaft A2. The second output disc holder 43 comprises an output hub 44 connected to the driven shaft A2.

[91] As illustrated in [Figure 1], the torque input disc holder 20 is common to the first and second clutch E1 and E2. The torque input disc carrier 20 is thus arranged to be linked in rotation with the drive shaft along an axis of rotation X. The input disc carrier 20 further comprises an external disc carrier 21 of the first clutch E1 and an inner disc carrier 22 of the second clutch E2.

[92] The outer disc holder 21 of the first clutch E1 comprises

in particular an axial extension arranged to receive the multi-disc assembly of the first clutch. The axial extension forms an internal groove receiving the flanges 31 of the multidisk assembly of the first clutch E1.

[93] The inner disc holder 22 of the second clutch E2 comprises an axial extension arranged to receive the multi-disc assembly of the second clutch. The axial extension forms an internal groove receiving the flanges 41 of the multidisk assembly of the second clutch E2.

[94] On its internal periphery, the input disc holder 20 comprises the cylindrical support portion 23 in which a guide bearing 150 is inserted. The guide bearing 150 is in axial support on the disc holder input 20. In this way, the guide bearing 150 supports the radial forces of the

wet clutch mechanism.

[95] The guide bearing 150 also takes up the axial forces of the wet clutch mechanism.

[96] As illustrated in [Figure 1], the bracing device 60 is disposed axially between the inlet web 13 and the internal periphery of the inlet disc holder 20. More specifically, the bracing device 60 is interposed axially between a stop ring 156 and the guide bearing 150. The stop ring 156 is supported and locked axially on the control system 10. As a result, the bracing device 60 transmits the forces of the guide bearing 150 to the stop ring 156. The bracing device 60 resumes therefore the axial forces of the wet clutch mechanism 1. Also, the bracing device 60 is interposed axially between an axial bearing 25 and the guide bearing 150. The axial bearing 25 is supported on the output disc holder 43 of the second clutch E2.

[97] The bracing device 60 is also inserted radially between the internal periphery of the input disc holder 20 and a support 140 of the clutch mechanism. The clutch mechanism support 140 supports the guide bearing 150. As a result, the clutch mechanism support 140 takes up the radial forces by supporting all of the first and second clutches E1, E2.

[98] In the first embodiment of the invention, the device

spacer 60 comprises a central core 65 of cylindrical shape. The central core 65 comprises a cylindrical bore 66. This cylindrical bore 66 is arranged to bear on the support 140 of the clutch mechanism. The central core 65 of the bracing device transmits the forces of the guide bearing 150 to the stop ring 156.

[99] As illustrated in [Figure 1], the bracing device 60 is supported on the support 140 of the clutch mechanism. The clutch mechanism support 140 is defined by an axial extension scope of the system

actuator 10. Said axial extension surface is integrated in the housing of the actuation system 10 and extends axially in the direction of the input element 12. The support 140 is coupled in rotation with the housing 130 of the actuation system 10.

[100] In this case, the support 140 for the clutch mechanism is made in one piece with the casing 130. The support 140 for the actuation system 10 comprises a free end oriented in the direction of the input hub 14.

[101] Not shown, the cylindrical bore 66 of the central core may include a threaded portion capable of being screwed onto a threaded portion complementary to the support 140 of the clutch mechanism, more precisely on the free end of the support. . In this way, when the torque transmission module is in an assembled state, the clutch mechanism damp and the actuation system are fixed together using a threaded connection into which the bracing device is screwed directly onto the clutch mechanism support.

[102] The bracing device 60 comprises an oil channel 63

for cooling oil. The oil channel 63 participates in the routing of the oil within the wet clutch mechanism 1. The oil passes through the bracing device 60 before passing through the multidisk assemblies of the first and second clutches E1, E2.

[103] As illustrated in [Figures 1 to 2], the oil channel 63 passes radially right through the bracing device 60 and opens onto the outer periphery. The oil channel 63 is an oil flow path, which can be hollow in shape and / or extend over 360 ° around the axis X. The oil channel 63 communicates the oil of cooling from the control system 10 with the first and second clutches E1, E2.

[104] As illustrated in particular in [Figure 2], the oil channel 63 is formed in part by a plurality of orifices 64. Said plurality of orifices 64 is angularly distributed around the axis X. The orifices 64 pass right through the central core 65. In other words, the orifice 64 extends radially from the interior of the central core 65 to the exterior of the central core 65.

[105] The bracing device 60 further comprises a first face

circumferential support 71 and a second circumferential support face 72. The first and second bearing faces 71, 72 are arranged axially on either side of the central core 65. Preferably, the cylindrical bore 66 of the central core 65 is positioned radially inside the first support face 71 and the second support face 72.

[106] The bracing device 60 further comprises a first flank 61.

In the first embodiment, the first side 61 and the orifice 64 partly form the oil channel 63. Advantageously, the first bearing face 71 is formed on the external lateral face of the first side 61. Advantageously , part of the oil channel 63 extends angularly over 360 degrees relative to to the X axis, so as to optimize the lubrication of the wet clutch mechanism.

[107] In [Figure 1], the bracing device 60 channels the oil

cooling from the actuation system 10, to the first and second clutches E1, E2, promoting their lubrication. Oil

cooling, under the effect of centrifugation, is ejected outside the clutch mechanism 1.

[108] The housing 130 of the actuation system thus comprises conduits

131 for cooling oil. The support 140 of the actuation system also comprises conduits 141 for conveying the cooling oil. The conveying conduits 141 of the support 140 communicate, on the one hand, with the supply conduits 131 of the actuating system 10, on the other hand, with the oil channel 63 via the orifices 64 of the device bracing 60.

[109] In the first embodiment of the invention, the device

bracing 60 comprises a second side 62. Preferably, the second bearing face 72 is formed on the external lateral face of the second side 62. The second side 62 is parallel to the first side 61, as illustrated in [Figures 1 2] The second flank 62 partially forms the oil channel 63. The first flank 61 and the second flank 62 delimit a space 70. Preferably, the space 70 delimited between the first and second flanks 61, 62, s 'angularly extends 360 degrees to the X axis.

[1 10] In this first mode, the oil channel 63 includes orifices 64 and

the space 70 delimited between the first and second flanks 61, 62. In [Figures 1 to 2], the orifice 64 is positioned between the first and second flanks 61, 62. In this case, the orifice 64 is an opening of the bracing device 60 which communicates the space 70 with conduits 141 formed in the support 140 of the clutch mechanism. In the example of [Figure 2], the orifice 64 passes through the central core 65 and the second flank 62.

[1 1 1] The bracing device 60 further comprises a centering flange 67 surrounding the first bearing face 71. The first bearing face 71 circumferential of the bracing device 60 is arranged to rest on the axial bearing 25.

[1 12] As illustrated in [Figures 1 to 2], the flange 67 is arranged

radially outside the first flank 61. The flange 67 of the bracing device 60 forms a cylindrical centering surface intended to center the axial bearing 25. In the first embodiment, the flange 67 is formed at the periphery of the first flank 61. In the present case, the flange 67 is continuous.

[1 13] In a variant not shown, the flange 67 can be arranged to center an elastic washer coming to bear on the axial bearing 25.

[1 14] The bracing device 60 is also in axial abutment on the stop ring 156. The stop ring 156 is inserted in a groove formed in the support 140 of the clutch mechanism. The retaining ring 156 axially retains the bracing device 60 when the first or second clutch

E1, E2 is in the engaged position.

[1 15] As illustrated in [Figure 1], the stop ring 156 presses on the first bearing face 71. The stop ring 156 is a split ring, inserted in an annular groove formed in the support 140 of the actuation system, more precisely in the range of axial extension of the actuation system.

[1 16] As illustrated in [Figure 1], the stop ring 156 is interposed axially between the bracing device 60 and the outlet hub 44 of a second outlet disc holder 33.

[1 17] This bracing device 60 is also in axial support on the guide bearing 150, via the second circumferential support face 72. As explained above, the guide bearing 150 is disposed

radially between the support 140 (acting as a clutch support) and the input disc holder 20. The guide bearing 150 is here a ball bearing which guides in rotation the first and second clutches E1, E2 relative to the actuation system 10.

[1 18] In the present case, the guide bearing 150 is a ball bearing

oblique contact and has 151 bearing elements arranged radially between an outer guide ring 152 and an inner guide ring 153. As illustrated in [Figure 1], the bracing device 60 is interposed axially between the inner guide ring 153 of the guide bearing 150 and a ring of stop 156.

[1 19] In particular, the second circumferential support face 72 is axially supported on the inner guide ring 153 of the guide bearing 150.

Alternatively, the guide bearing can be a needle bearing.

[120] The bracing device 60 further comprises lugs 68 for pre-centering surrounding the second bearing face 72. The lugs 68 for pre-centering are arranged to pre-center the guide bearing 150 during the assembly of the wet clutch mechanism on the actuation system.

[121] In the first embodiment, the pre-centering lugs 68 are formed on the periphery of the second flank 62. In [Figures 1 to 2], the pre-centering lugs 68 are arranged radially to the outside of the second sidewall 62. In the present case, the pre-centering lugs 68 are discontinuous as illustrated in [Figure 2]

[122] In the first embodiment of the invention, the device

spacer 60 is formed from a single sheet 100. Therefore, the flange 67 and the lugs 68 of pre-centering of the spacer device 60 are obtained by stamping the first sheet 100.

[123] We will now describe the device manufacturing process

bracing 60, as illustrated in the first embodiment in [Figure 2] The manufacturing includes, among other things, the following steps:

- According to a first step, a single sheet 100 is provided having a central orifice of axis X;

- In a second step, the pre-centering pins 68 are cut from the central orifice and the pre-centering pins 68 are folded along the X axis;

- According to a third step, the second flank 62 is stamped from the central orifice; - According to a fourth step, the central core 65 is stamped from the second flank 62;

- In a fifth step, the bracing device 60 is detached from the sheet 100 by a cylindrical cut to form the outer periphery of the bracing device 60.

The stamping operations are obtained from specific tools and the use of a stamping press.

[124] We have described in [Figure 3], a second mode of implementation of

the invention substantially similar to the first embodiment, except that the second bearing face 72 of the bracing device 60 is formed on the free end of the central core 65. More precisely, the second circumferential bearing face 72 is formed directly by the edge of the sheet 100, so that the stamping of the second side 62 is not necessary. In this case, the first flank 61 and the orifices 64 form the oil channel 63.

[125] In [Figure 3], the pins 68 for pre-centering are formed by folding tabs from the central core 65. The folded tabs are arranged outside the central core 65 and angularly distributed around of the X axis.

[126] We have described in [Figures 4A and 4B], a third embodiment of the invention substantially similar to the first embodiment, except that the bracing device 60 is formed from two sheets 100, 200. The first sheet 100 forms the central core 65 and the first side 61. The second sheet 200 forms the second side 62.

[127] Advantageously, the first sheet 100 and the second sheet 200 can be separate materials. The second sheet 200 is annular. The second sheet 200 includes complementary orifices 74 partially forming the oil channel 63. The complementary orifices 74 are angularly distributed around the axis X.

[128] In this third embodiment, the oil channel 63 includes the orifices 64, the complementary orifices 74 and the delimited space 70 between the first and second sides 61, 62. In [FIG. 4B], the orifices complementary 74 are positioned axially between the first and second sides 61, 62.

[129] As illustrated in [Figure 4B], the second sheet 200 is supported on the first sheet 100. The second sheet 200 includes an outer flange 201 extending axially in the direction of the first sheet 100 along the axis X The complementary orifices 74 are formed on the external rim 201. The external rim 201 is intended to come to bear on the first flank 61. In this way, the central core of the first sheet 100 and the external rim 201 of the second sheet 200 ensure better recovery of forces from guide bearing 150.

[130] The pre-centering pins 68 are obtained by stamping the

second sheet 200.

[131] We have described in [Figures 5A and 5B], a fourth embodiment of the invention substantially similar to the first embodiment, except that the bracing device 60 is formed from two sheets 100, 200. The first sheet 100 forms the central core 65 and the first side 61. The second sheet 200 forms the second side 62.

[132] Advantageously, the first sheet 100 and the second sheet 200 can be separate materials. The first and second sheets 100, 200 have different thicknesses. The second sheet 200 is flat.

[133] In this fourth embodiment, the oil channel 63 includes the orifices 64 and the delimited space 70 between the first and second flanks 61, 62. The oil channel 63 is a flow path oil which extends over 360 ° around the axis X. The oil channel 63 communicates the cooling oil coming from the control system 10 with the first and second clutches E1, E2.

[134] The second sheet 200 also includes openings 84, distributed

angularly around the X axis. The openings 84 are oriented axially parallel to the X axis.

[135] As illustrated in [Figure 5B], the second sheet 200 is supported on the first sheet 100. The lugs 68 for pre-centering the first sheet 100 pass through the openings 84. This has the advantage of angularly indexing the lugs 68 for pre-centering the first sheet 100 through the openings 84 of the second sheet 200, the positioning of the two sheets 100, 200 is thus simplified. The second sheet 200 is disposed axially between the first sheet 100 and the guide bearing 150. This second sheet 200 prevents the cooling oil from entering the guide bearing 150.

[136] We have described in [Figures 6A, 6B and 6C], a fifth embodiment of the invention substantially similar to the first embodiment, except that the bracing device 60 is formed from three sheets 100, 200, 300.

[137] In this fifth embodiment of the invention, the device

bracing 60 is formed by the axial stacking of the three sheets 100, 200, 300. In other words, the third sheet 300 is supported on the second sheet 200, and the second sheet 200 is supported on the first sheet 100. The first sheet 100 forms the first side 61.

[138] The second sheet 200 forms the central core 65. In this embodiment, the central core is therefore an independent part.

[139] The third sheet 300 forms the second side 62. The flange 67 is

obtained by stamping the third sheet 300. Preferably, the flange 67 is formed by the external periphery of the third sheet 300, as illustrated in particular in [Figure 6B] Preferably, the pins 68 for pre-centering are obtained by stamping the third sheet 300.

[140] Advantageously, the third sheet 300 includes the orifices

complementary 74 angularly distributed around the axis X. The complementary orifices 74 partly form the oil channel 63. As illustrated in particular in [Figure 6B], the complementary orifices 74 are positioned axially between the first and second flanks 61 , 62. Consequently, the oil channel 63 includes: the orifices 64, the complementary orifices 74 and the delimited space 70 between the first and second sides 61, 62.

[141] As illustrated in [Figures 6A to 6C], the second sheet 200 is of corrugated shape. More specifically, the second sheet 200 has corrugations 202, in circumferentially alternating contact between the first and third sheets 100, 300.

[142] In other words, a first part of the corrugations 202 is in contact with the first sheet 100 and a second other part of the corrugations 202 is in contact with the third sheet 300. The advantage of these corrugations 202 is to form an arranged deflector to guide the cooling oil towards the multi-disc assembly, the centrifugal effect of the flow of oil in the oil channel 63 is thus improved.

[143] In the present case, each of the orifices 64 of the bracing device is an opening which communicates the space 70 delimited between the first and second flanks 61, 62 with the routing conduits 141 formed in the support 140 of clutch mechanism. Each of the orifices 64 is formed by the internal edge of the first sheet 100 and part of the internal edge of the second sheet 200. In other words, the orifice 64 is formed by the collaboration of the sheets 100, 200.

[144] Alternatively, each of the orifices 64 may be formed by the internal edge of the third sheet 300 and part of the internal edge of the second sheet 200. In this case, the orifice 64 is formed by the collaboration of the sheets 200, 300.

[145] The first sheet 100, the second sheet 200 and the third sheet 300 may be of separate materials, steel, aluminum or plastic.

[146] In a variant not shown, a multi-disc type KO cut-off mechanism may include a bracing device 60 similar to those described above and a control system, controlled to selectively couple a shaft leading to a driven shaft. The KO cut-off clutch can include:

a first multi-disc assembly interposed between the input disc holder and the output disc holder, and comprising flanges and friction discs, - a guide bearing inserted in a cylindrical support portion of the input disc holder and configured to support the radial and axial forces of the wet clutch mechanism,

- an axial bearing resting on the output disc holder.

[147] In this example not shown, the bracing device is inserted axially between the axial bearing and the guide bearing.

[148] Advantageously, the multi-disc assembly of the cut-off clutch KO is interposed between the input disc holder and the output disc holder of the KO clutch.

[149] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described and shown, provided by way of illustrative and nonlimiting example.

Claims

[Claim 1] Spacer device (60) for a wet clutch mechanism (1), having a symmetry of revolution around the X axis, comprising:

- a central core (65),

- at least one orifice (64) passing through the central core (65),

- a first sidewall (61) extending radially from the central core, the orifice (64) and the first sidewall (61) partly forming an oil channel (63) arranged to convey cooling oil for the wet clutch mechanism (1),

- a first circumferential support face (71) arranged for

bear on an axial bearing (25) and a second circumferential bearing face (72) arranged to rest on a guide bearing (150), said first and second bearing faces (71, 72) being arranged axially on either side of the oil channel (63), in which the central core (65) and the oil channel (63) are formed by stamping at least one sheet (100, 200).

[Claim 2] A bracing device (60) according to the preceding claim, wherein said first and second bearing faces (71, 72) are arranged axially on either side of the central core (65).

[Claim 3] Bracing device (60) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a centering collar (67) surrounding the first bearing face (71).

[Claim 4] Bracing device (60) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising pre-centering lugs (68) surrounding the second support face (72).

[Claim 5] A bracing device (60) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a second flank (61) parallel to the first flank (62), the second flank (62) partially forming the oil channel ( 63), the orifice (64) being positioned between the first and second sides (61, 62).

[Claim 6] Bracing device (60) according to the preceding claim, in which the first and second faces (71, 72) of support are formed respectively on the external lateral faces of the first and second flanks (61, 62) .

[Claim 7] A bracing device (60) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which a part of the oil channel (63) extends angularly over 360 degrees relative to the X axis.

[Claim 8] Bracing device (60) according to any one of the preceding claims, said bracing device (60) being formed from a single sheet (100).

[Claim 9] Bracing device (60) according to any one of claims 5 to 6, said bracing device (60) being formed from two sheets (100, 200), the first sheet (100) forming the central core (65) and the first flank (61), the second sheet (200) forming the second flank (62).

[Claim 10] Bracing device (60) according to claim 4 taken in combination with the preceding claim, in which the second sheet (200) comprises openings (84), the lugs (68) for pre-centering the first sheet (100) passing through the openings (84).

[Claim 1 1] A bracing device (60) according to any one of claims 5 to 6, said bracing device (60) being formed from three sheets, the first sheet (100) forming the first side ( 61), the second sheet (200) forming the central core, and the third sheet (300) forming the second side (62).

[Claim 12] A bracing device (60) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the central core (65) comprises a cylindrical bore (66) arranged to bear on a support (140) of a mechanism. 'clutch.

[Claim 13] Wet clutch mechanism (1), comprising first and second clutches (E1, E2) of the multi-disc type, arranged to selectively couple a drive shaft to a first driven shaft (A1) or a second driven shaft ( A2), for example gearbox shafts, and comprising: - a torque input disc holder (20) arranged to be linked in rotation with the driving shaft along an axis of rotation (X),

- a first torque output disc holder (33) arranged to be linked in rotation with the first driven shaft (A1),

- a second torque output disc holder (43) arranged to be linked in rotation with the second driven shaft (A2),

- a guide bearing (150) inserted in a cylindrical support portion (23) of the input disc holder (20) and configured to support the radial and axial forces of the wet clutch mechanism (1),

- an axial bearing (25) bearing on the second outlet disc holder (43),

- a clutch mechanism support (140) (1) supporting the guide bearing (150), and

- a bracing device (60) according to any one of

previous claims, said spacer device (60) being interposed axially between the axial bearing (25) and the guide bearing (150).

[Claim 14] Wet clutch mechanism (1), according to

previous claim taken in combination with a device

bracing according to claim 11, comprising a system

hydraulic actuator (10) capable of controlling the first clutch between a engaged position and a disengaged position, comprising the support (140) of the clutch mechanism (1) supporting the guide bearing (150), in which said device 'bracing (60) bears radially on the support (140) of the clutch mechanism.

[Claim 15] Method for manufacturing a bracing device according to the combination of claims 4 and 5, comprising the following steps:

i. Provide a single sheet with a central hole of axis X; ii. Cut the pre-centering pins from the central hole and fold the pre-centering pins along the X axis; iii. Stamp a second side from the central hole;

iv. Stamp a central core from the second side; v. Detach the bracing device from the sheet by a cylindrical cut to form the outer periphery of the bracing device.