阅读说明：本技术 包括由组装装置连接的两个组件的离合器机构 (Clutch mechanism comprising two components connected by an assembly device ) 是由 L.考马丁 R.阿哈布 H.里博特 D.德尔普莱斯 于 2018-05-24 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明涉及一种离合器机构(10),其构造成绕所述轴线(O)被旋转地驱动并且包括两个组件(1、2),每个组件(1、2)至少包括：-外盘支架(106、206),其在外部界定腔(C1、C2),-离合器(100、200),其包括联接盘(101、201)和摩擦盘(102、202)的堆叠,该堆叠容纳在腔(C1、C2)中并且构造成绕所述轴线(O)被旋转地驱动,-外盘支架(106、206)的反作用构件(103、203),其构造成允许联接盘(101、201)在离合器(100、200)的接合位置压靠在摩擦盘(102、202)上,离合器机构(10)包括用于将两个组件(1、2)组装在一起的至少一个装置(3)。(The invention relates to a clutch mechanism (10) configured to be driven in rotation about said axis (O) and comprising two assemblies (1, 2), each assembly (1, 2) comprising at least: -an outer disc support (106, 206) externally delimiting a cavity (C1, C2), -a clutch (100, 200) comprising a stack of coupling discs (101, 201) and friction discs (102, 202), the stack being housed in the cavity (C1, C2) and being configured to be driven in rotation about said axis (O), -a reaction member (103, 203) of the outer disc support (106, 206) configured to allow the coupling discs (101, 201) to be pressed against the friction discs (102, 202) in the engaged position of the clutch (100, 200), the clutch mechanism (10) comprising at least one device (3) for assembling the two assemblies (1, 2) together.)

1. A clutch mechanism (10) configured to be rotationally driven about an axis (O) and comprising two assemblies (1, 2), each assembly (1, 2) comprising at least:

an outer disc support (106, 206) externally delimiting a cavity (C1, C2),

-a clutch (100, 200) comprising a stack of coupling discs (101, 201) and friction discs (102, 202), which stack is housed in a cavity (C1, C2) and is configured to be driven in rotation about said axis (O),

-a reaction member (103, 203) of the outer disc support (106, 206), the reaction member (103, 203) being configured such that the coupling disc (101, 201) is pressable against the friction disc (102, 202) in a clutch engagement position of the clutch (100, 200),

the clutch mechanism (10) comprises at least one assembly device (3) for assembling the two components (1, 2) to each other.

2. A clutch mechanism (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the assembly means (3) assembles the two components (1, 2) to each other by means of the outer disc carrier (106, 206) of each component (1, 2).

3. A clutch mechanism (10) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterised in that each outer disc holder (106, 206) of the assembly (1, 2) comprises at least one first extension (1003, 2003), the first extensions (1003, 2003) extending radially outwards beyond the peripheral edge (1001, 2001) of the respective outer disc holder (106, 206), at least the first extension (1003, 2003) of one outer disc holder (106, 206) facing at least the first extension (1003, 2003) of the other outer disc holder (106, 206), the assembly means (3) comprising at least the respective first extension (1003, 2003) of each outer disc holder (106, 206).

4. A clutch mechanism (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that the assembly means (3) comprises at least one rivet (1005) or at least one assembly screw, which at least one rivet (1005) or at least one assembly screw is configured to pass through an assembly hole (1004, 2004) formed in at least a first extension (1003, 2003) of at least one outer disc bracket (106, 206).

5. A clutch mechanism (10) according to any one of the foregoing claims, characterised in that the reaction member (103, 203) of at least one assembly (1, 2) comprises:

-a first portion (103A) extending radially mainly outside the cavity (C1, C2), i.e. beyond the peripheral edge (1001, 2001) of the respective outer disc support (106, 206), and

-a second portion (103B) located inside the cavity (C1, C2), i.e. inside the peripheral edge (1001, 2001) of the respective outer disc support (106, 206).

6. Clutch mechanism according to claim 5, wherein the second portion (103B) of the reaction member (103, 203) of at least one assembly (1, 2) comprises an inner radial edge (1031, 2031) extending axially towards the clutch (100, 200) of the respective assembly (1, 2).

7. Clutch mechanism (10) according to any of claims 5 or 6, wherein the first portion (103A) of at least one reaction member (103, 203) comprises an outer radial edge (103E, 203E), from which outer radial edge (103E, 203E) first angular sectors (1033, 2033) distributed circumferentially around the axis (O) extend radially outwards, each first angular sector (1033, 2033) of a respective reaction member (103, 203) cooperating with at least the first extension (1003, 2003) of a respective outer disc carrier (106, 206).

8. A clutch mechanism (10) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of at least one assembly (1, 2) bears axially against the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of the other assembly (1, 2).

9. Clutch mechanism (10) according to any of claims 5 to 8, wherein at least one first angular sector (1033, 2033) of the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of at least one assembly (1, 2) is adapted to cooperate with at least a first extension (1003, 2003) of the respective outer disc holder (106, 206) in order to assemble the reaction member (103, 203) to its respective outer disc holder (106, 206).

10. A clutch mechanism (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that the assembly means (3) comprises at least one rivet (1035, 2035) or at least one assembly screw configured to pass through an assembly aperture (1034, 2034) formed in at least one first angular sector (1033, 2033) of the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of one assembly (1, 2) and through an assembly hole formed in the first extension (1003, 2003) of the outer disc support (106, 206) of the same assembly (1, 2).

11. A clutch mechanism (10) according to any one of claims 5 to 10, characterised in that the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of one assembly (1, 2) is adapted to cooperate with the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of the other assembly (1, 2) in order to assemble the assemblies (1, 2) to each other, said assembling means (3) comprising the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of each assembly (1, 2).

12. The clutch mechanism (10) according to claim 11, characterized in that the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of each assembly (1, 2) comprises a second angular sector (1036, 2036), said second angular sector (1036, 2036) being circumferentially distributed about said axis (O) and extending radially outwards from the outer radial edge (103E, 203E), each second angular sector (1036, 2036) of the reaction member (103, 203) of one assembly (1, 2) cooperating with a second angular sector (1036, 2036) of the reaction member (103, 203) of the other assembly (1, 2).

13. The clutch mechanism (10) according to claim 12, characterized in that the assembly means (3) comprise at least one rivet (1007) or at least one assembly screw configured to pass through an assembly aperture formed in at least one second angular sector (1036, 2036) of the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of one assembly (1, 2) and to pass through an assembly aperture formed in at least one second angular sector (1036, 2036) of the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of the other assembly (1, 2).

14. The clutch mechanism (10) according to any one of claims 11 to 13 in combination with any one of claims 3 or 4, characterized in that the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of at least one assembly (1, 2) is adapted to cooperate with the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of the other assembly (1, 2) and with at least one first extension (1003, 2003) of the outer disc support (106, 206) of each assembly (1, 2) in order to assemble said assemblies to each other, said assembly means comprising the first portion of the reaction member of each assembly and the at least one first extension of the outer disc support of each assembly.

15. The clutch mechanism (10) according to claim 14, characterized in that the assembly means (3) comprise at least one rivet (1010) or at least one assembly screw configured to pass through an assembly aperture (1034, 2034) formed in at least one first angular sector (1033, 2033) of the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of one assembly (1, 2) and to pass through an assembly aperture (1034, 2034) formed in at least one first angular sector (1033, 2033) of the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of the other assembly (1, 2).

16. Clutch mechanism (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the outer disc carrier (106, 206) of at least one assembly (1, 2) comprises at least one second extension (1006, 2006) extending beyond the peripheral edge (1001, 2001) of the outer disc carrier (106, 206) of the respective assembly (1, 2), at least the second extension (1006, 2006) comprising a first portion (1006A, 2006A) and a second portion (1006B, 2006B) for assembling the assemblies (1, 2) to each other, the assembling means (3) comprising at least the respective second extension (1006, 2006).

17. The clutch mechanism (10) according to claim 16, characterized in that each outer disc carrier (106, 206) comprises at least one second extension (1006, 2006), at least the second extension (1006, 2006) of one outer disc carrier (106, 206) being adapted to cooperate with at least the second extension (1006, 2006) of the other outer disc carrier (106, 206), the assembly means (3) comprising a respective second extension (1006, 2006).

18. The clutch mechanism (10) according to claim 16, characterized in that the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of at least one assembly (1, 2) comprises a second angular sector (1036, 2036), said second angular sector (1036, 2036) being circumferentially distributed about said axis (O) and extending radially outwards from an outer radial edge (103E, 203E), and in that at least one second extension (1006, 2006) of the outer disc carrier (106, 206) of one assembly (1, 2) is adapted to cooperate with at least one second angular sector (1036, 2036) of the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of the other assembly (1, 2), said assembly means (3) comprising at least a respective second extension (1006, 2006) and at least a respective second angular sector (1036, 2036).

19. The clutch mechanism (10) according to claim 18, characterized in that an outer radial edge (103E, 203E) of the first portion (103A) of the respective reaction member (103, 203) radially abuts against the first portion (1006A, 2006A) of at least the second extension (1006, 2006).

20. The clutch mechanism (10) according to claim 17, characterized in that the assembly means (3) comprise at least one rivet (1009) or at least one assembly screw configured to pass through an assembly opening formed in the second portion (1006B, 200B) of at least one second extension (1006, 2006) of the outer disc carrier (106, 206) of one assembly (1, 2) and through an assembly opening formed in the second portion (1006B, 200B) of at least one second extension (1006, 2006) of the outer disc carrier (106, 206) of the other assembly (1, 2).

21. The clutch mechanism (10) according to any one of claims 18 or 19, characterized in that the assembly means (3) comprise at least one rivet (1009) or at least one assembly screw configured to pass through an assembly opening (1038, 2038) formed in the second portion (1006B, 2006B) of the at least one second extension (1006, 2006) of the outer disc support (106, 206) of the assembly (1, 2) and through an assembly aperture (1037, 2037) formed in the at least one second angular sector (1036, 2036) of the first portion (103A) of the reaction member (103, 203) of the other assembly (1, 2).

Technical Field

Background

Such double clutch mechanisms, which are usually of the multi-plate type, are known from the prior art. This mechanism is intended to be mounted on a gearbox of a motor vehicle so as to be coupled rotationally about an axis. Dual clutch mechanisms of this type typically include first and second clutches associated with first and second shafts, respectively. The first and second clutches of these dual clutch mechanisms may be configured to be disposed in an axial configuration, i.e., the clutches, particularly the coil axes of the first and second clutches, and disposed relative to each other in a plane of symmetry perpendicular to the axes.

Document FR2814516 describes such a dual clutch mechanism of the wet type, i.e. supplied with hydraulic fluid, such as oil, under pressure, so as to be able to lubricate and cool the dual clutch mechanism when the respective discs of the clutch are coupled or uncoupled in the respective clutch engagement or clutch disengagement position.

In particular, the above document describes such a double clutch mechanism, which is configured to be driven rotationally about an axis and is housed within a casing formed by assembling, by welding, two clutch covers and two walls, which together delimit two clutch chambers arranged symmetrically with respect to each other. The two chambers each include a respective clutch. In this way, the clutches of the dual clutch mechanism, and in particular their respective discs, are arranged in an axial configuration as described above. The respective discs of the clutches are disposed between the respective pressure plates of each clutch, and an intermediate annular element corresponding to the reaction member is disposed between the two clutches so as to be common thereto. Furthermore, the chambers are configured to be supplied with oil under pressure.

When oil is supplied under pressure to the chambers of the clutches, the discs of the respective clutch are held against the pressure plate of the respective clutch and a reaction plate common to both clutches. When the oil is not supplied under pressure to the chambers of the clutches, the discs of the respective clutch no longer remain compressed between the pressure plates of the respective clutch and the reaction member common to both clutches.

The above-described solution has a number of disadvantages. More specifically, a first disadvantage relates to the reaction member common to both clutches. In this configuration, the discs of each clutch apply pressure to the reaction member located midway between the two clutches. The reaction member may then be moved axially toward the pressure plate of the associated clutch. The effect of this movement is to counteract the clutch travel of the other unactuated clutch. It will therefore be clear that the effect of having such a configuration is to create interdependencies and interactions between the clutches when they are actuated.

A second drawback of this solution relates to the steps of assembling such a double clutch mechanism. In fact, in the first assembly step for assembling the mechanism, the reaction member must be positioned and maintained in a position between the two clutch chambers to ensure its function of reacting the clutch discs of each clutch. In a second assembly step, each clutch chamber is fastened between the edges of the profile of the clutch chamber in contact with the reaction member by means of a welding process, which is carried out over the entire said profile. These assembly steps thus make such assembly difficult or even complicated.

A third drawback relates to this method of assembly by welding. In fact, the effect of this welding process is to stress the parts by local deformation. These local deformations may result in positioning the reaction member in an axial position relative to each clutch chamber, which is not necessary. Such a position would then affect the travel of each clutch.

Disclosure of Invention

The object of the present invention is to alleviate at least one of the above drawbacks and to propose a clutch mechanism that allows a simplified assembly, while allowing the actuation of one clutch without interfering with the other.

To this end, the invention relates to a clutch mechanism configured to be driven in rotation about an axis and comprising two assemblies, each assembly comprising at least:

an outer disc holder which delimits the cavity on the outside,

a clutch comprising a stack of coupling plates and friction plates, the stack being received in the cavity and configured to be rotationally driven about an axis,

a reaction member of the outer disc carrier configured such that the coupling disc is pressable against the friction disc in a clutch engagement position of the clutch,

the clutch mechanism comprises at least one means for assembling the two components to each other.

Due to these features, the clutch mechanism can be manufactured in two parts. Furthermore, interdependencies and interactions between the clutches when they are actuated can be avoided.

The clutch mechanism according to the invention may advantageously comprise at least one of the following improvements, the technical features forming these improvements being adopted individually or in combination:

the assembling device assembles the two assemblies with each other through the outer disc bracket of each assembly;

the reaction members of each assembly are separate;

the reaction member is axially disposed between the clutches of the two assemblies;

the reaction member is mounted on the outer disc support of the associated assembly;

the reaction member of each assembly is separate from the outer disc support of the associated assembly;

the outer disc holder of each assembly may have the same axial dimension;

the outer disc holder of each assembly may have the same shape;

each outer disc support of the assembly comprises at least one first extension extending radially outwards beyond the peripheral edge of the respective outer disc support, the at least first extension of one outer disc support facing the at least first extension of the other outer disc support, the assembly means comprising the at least respective first extension of each outer disc support;

at least a first extension of the outer disc support is located at one axial end of the peripheral edge of the respective outer disc support;

at least a first extension of the outer disc support is located at the peripheral edge at a distance from the axial end of the respective outer disc support;

at least a first extension of the outer disc holder is located beyond the peripheral edge at a distance from the axial end of the respective disc holder;

the at least one outer disc support comprises a plurality of first extensions circumferentially distributed around a peripheral edge of the respective outer disc support;

each outer disc support advantageously comprises a plurality of first extensions circumferentially distributed around the peripheral edge of the respective outer disc support;

at least one first extension extends at an angle of less than 45 ° in a plane perpendicular to the axis;

at least a first extension of at least one outer disc support forms a circular profile extending around a peripheral edge of the respective outer disc support;

at least the first extension advantageously coincides with the peripheral edge;

at least a first extension is mounted on a peripheral edge of an outer disc carrier of at least one component of the clutch mechanism;

at least a first extension integral with a peripheral edge of an outer disc carrier of at least one component of the clutch mechanism;

the assembly means comprises at least one rivet or at least one assembly screw configured to pass through an assembly hole formed in at least the first extension of the at least one outer disc support;

the assembly means advantageously comprise at least one rivet or at least one assembly screw configured to pass through an assembly hole formed in at least a first extension of the outer disc support and through an assembly hole formed in at least a first extension of the other outer disc support;

the assembly advantageously comprises a plurality of rivets and/or assembly screws, each configured to pass through an assembly hole formed in a first extension of an outer disc support and through an assembly hole formed in at least a first extension of another outer disc support;

advantageously, at least a first extension of the disc holder axially abuts against at least a first extension of the other outer disc holder;

advantageously, the reaction member of at least one assembly is fastened to its respective outer disc support, for example by welding;

advantageously, the reaction member of at least one assembly is completely housed in said cavity;

advantageously, the reaction member of at least one assembly is housed completely in said cavity, at a distance from the peripheral edge of the outer disc support of the respective assembly;

the reaction member of the at least one assembly comprises:

a first portion which extends radially mainly outside the cavity, i.e. beyond the peripheral edge of the respective outer disc support, and

a second portion located inside the cavity, i.e. inside the peripheral edge of the respective outer disc holder;

advantageously, the first portion of the reaction member extends radially with respect to the axis;

advantageously, the second portion of the reaction member extends radially with respect to the axis;

the second portion of the reaction member of at least one assembly includes an inner radial edge extending axially toward the clutch of the respective assembly;

advantageously, the second portion of the reaction member of at least one assembly comprises an inner radial edge extending axially and radially towards the clutch of said respective assembly;

the reaction member of at least one assembly formed by the first and second portions has an S-shaped cross-section;

the reaction member of at least one assembly advantageously has an I-shaped cross-section;

the reaction member of at least one assembly advantageously has an L-shaped cross-section;

the reaction member of at least one assembly advantageously has a Y-shaped cross-section;

the first portion of at least one reaction member comprises an outer radial edge from which first angular sectors distributed circumferentially about the axis extend radially outwards, each first angular sector of the respective reaction member cooperating with at least a first extension of the respective outer disc support;

advantageously, the first angular sector extends radially outwards with respect to the axis;

the first portion of the at least one reaction member forms a circular profile extending circumferentially about the axis;

the first portion of the reaction member of at least one assembly axially abuts the first portion of the reaction member of the other assembly;

advantageously, the axial clearance between the second portions of the reaction members of the assembly is non-zero;

advantageously, the first portion of the reaction member of each assembly bears axially against the peripheral edge of its respective disc holder;

at least one first angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of at least one assembly is adapted to cooperate with at least a first extension of a respective outer disc support in order to assemble the reaction member to its respective outer disc support;

advantageously, at least one first angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of at least one assembly is adapted to cooperate with at least a first extension of a respective outer disc support, so as to assemble the reaction member to its respective outer disc support;

advantageously, at least a first angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of at least one assembly axially abuts against at least a first extension of the outer disc support of the respective assembly;

the assembly means comprise at least a rivet or at least one assembly screw configured to pass through an assembly aperture formed in at least one first angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of one assembly and through an assembly hole formed in a first extension of the outer disc support of the same assembly;

the first portion of the reaction member of one assembly being adapted to cooperate with the first portion of the reaction member of the other assembly in order to assemble the assemblies to each other, the assembly means comprising the first portion of the reaction member of each assembly;

the first portion of the reaction member of each assembly comprises second angular sectors circumferentially distributed about the axis and extending radially outwards from the outer radial edge, each second angular sector of the reaction member of one assembly cooperating with a second angular sector of the reaction member of the other assembly;

advantageously, the at least one second angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of one assembly is adapted to cooperate with the at least one second angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of the other assembly in order to assemble the assemblies to each other, the assembly means comprising at least the respective second angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of each assembly;

advantageously, the second angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of one assembly axially abuts against the second angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of the other assembly;

the assembly device comprises at least one rivet or at least one assembly screw configured to pass through an assembly aperture formed in at least one second angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of one assembly and to pass through an assembly aperture formed in at least one second angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of the other assembly;

the first portion of the reaction member of at least one assembly being adapted to cooperate with the first portion of the reaction member of the other assembly and with at least the first extension of the outer disc support of each assembly;

advantageously, the at least one first angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of at least one assembly is adapted to cooperate with the at least one first angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of the other assembly and with the at least first extension of the outer disc support of each assembly in order to assemble the assemblies to each other, the assembly means comprising at least a respective first angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of each assembly and at least a respective first extension of the outer disc support of each assembly;

the assembly device comprises at least one rivet or at least one assembly screw configured to pass through an assembly aperture formed in at least one first angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of one assembly and through an assembly aperture formed in at least one first angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of the other assembly;

the assembly means comprise at least one rivet or at least one assembly screw configured to pass through an assembly aperture formed in at least one first angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of the assembly and through an assembly hole formed in at least a first extension of the outer disc support of the respective assembly;

the assembly means comprises at least one rivet or at least one assembly screw configured to pass through an assembly aperture formed in a first angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of each assembly and through an assembly hole formed in at least a first extension of the outer disc support of each assembly;

the assembly means advantageously comprise a plurality of rivets;

advantageously, the first portion of the reaction member of at least one assembly comprises an assembly zone for assembling the reaction member with the respective outer disc support;

the outer disc support of at least one assembly comprises at least a second extension extending beyond the peripheral edge of the outer disc support of the respective assembly, the at least second extension comprising a first portion and a second portion for assembling the assemblies to each other, the assembling means comprising at least the respective second extension;

the first portion advantageously extends axially in opposite directions beyond the peripheral edge of the respective outer disc support, while the second portion advantageously extends radially outwards beyond the peripheral edge of the respective outer disc support;

advantageously, the second portion is continuous with the first portion;

advantageously, the first and second portions are defined by a common connecting bend;

advantageously, the first portion and the second portion together form an L-shaped cross-section;

advantageously, the peripheral edge and the first portion of the respective outer disc holder are configured to receive the outer radial edge of the first portion of the reaction member in respective relationship;

each outer disc support comprises at least one second extension, the at least second extension of one outer disc support being adapted to cooperate with the at least second extension of the other outer disc support, the assembly means comprising a respective second extension;

the first portion of the reaction member of at least one assembly comprises a second angular sector, circumferentially distributed about the axis and extending radially outwards from the outer radial edge, and the at least one second extension of the outer disc support of one assembly is adapted to cooperate with the at least one second angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of the other assembly, the assembly means comprising at least a respective second extension and at least a respective second angular sector;

the outer radial edge of the first portion of the respective reaction member radially abuts against the first portion of the at least second extension;

the assembly means comprises at least one rivet or at least one assembly screw configured to pass through an assembly opening formed in the second portion of the at least one second extension of the outer disc support of one assembly and to pass through an assembly opening formed in the second portion of the at least one second extension of the outer disc support of the other assembly;

the assembly means comprises at least one rivet or at least one assembly screw configured to pass through an assembly opening formed in the second portion of the at least one second extension of the outer disc support of one assembly and through an assembly aperture formed in the second angular sector of the first portion of the reaction member of the other assembly;

the clutch mechanism is a wet dual clutch type clutch mechanism;

the clutches are wet and are arranged axially alongside one another.

The invention also relates to a motor vehicle transmission, characterized in that it comprises a clutch mechanism as described above.

Advantageously, the transmission comprises at least a gearbox and a clutch cover delimiting a volume inside which the clutch mechanism extends at least partially.

The invention also relates to a method of assembling a clutch mechanism according to the invention to a vehicle transmission, the method comprising the steps of:

-a positioning step, which comprises arranging the assemblies with respect to each other so that at least the first extension of one of the outer disc holders faces the corresponding first extension of the other outer disc holder;

-an assembly step comprising fixing the components to each other by means of at least a first extension of each outer disc support by means of respective assembly means.

According to a variant of the invention, the reaction member of each assembly is mounted on the outer disc support of the respective assembly by assembly means, before the positioning step.

According to a variant of the invention, the assembly method comprises the step of centering one component with respect to the other.

Drawings

Other features, details and advantages of the invention will become more apparent upon reading the following description, given by way of illustration and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment, in which the assembly is assembled to its respective outer disc carrier by means of the first extension, the reaction member being housed in the cavity;

figure 2 shows a perspective view of the first embodiment of figure 1;

figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment, in which the reaction members are assembled to their respective disc holders in corresponding relationship to the first extension of the disc holders by means of first angular sectors, and the disc holders of the assembly are assembled to each other by means of second angular sectors of the reaction members;

figure 4 shows a perspective view of the second embodiment of figure 3;

figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment, in which the reaction members are assembled to their respective disc holders in corresponding relationship to the first extension of the disc holders by means of a first angular sector, and the disc holders of the assembly are assembled to each other by means of the second extension of the disc holders;

figure 6 is a perspective view of the third embodiment of figure 5;

fig. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment, in which the reaction members are assembled to their respective disc holders by first angular sectors in corresponding relationship to the first extension of the disc holders, and in which the disc holders of one assembly are assembled to the reaction members of the other assembly by second extensions of the disc holders of the respective assembly and second angular sectors of the reaction members of the respective assembly, respectively;

fig. 8 shows a perspective view of a variant of the fourth embodiment of fig. 7, in which each disk holder of a module is assembled to the reaction member of the other module by means of the second extension of the disk holder of the respective module and the second angular sector of the reaction member of the respective module, respectively;

fig. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment, in which the reaction members of each assembly are assembled to each other, and the disc holder and the reaction members of each assembly are assembled to each other by means of the first extension of the disc holder of the respective assembly and the first angular sector of the reaction member of the respective assembly, respectively.

Detailed Description

In the rest of the description and in the claims, the following terms will be used, without limitation, to facilitate the understanding thereof:

"front" (AV) or "rear" (AR) according to a direction relative to an axial orientation determined by the main axis of rotation O of the transmission system, rear representing the portion on the right side of the figure, on the transmission side, and front representing the portion on the left side of the figure, on the engine side;

"inner/inner" or "outer/outer" with respect to axis O and according to a radial orientation orthogonal to said axial orientation, "inner" denoting the portion close to axis O and "outer" denoting the portion distant from axis O; and

"corresponding" means that one object of a component or a component to which the term is attached to another object of the same component.

The clutch mechanism 10 shown in fig. 1 will be described first. It should be noted that the clutch mechanism 10 of each embodiment is identical and may be described in a similar manner to the embodiment of fig. 1.

Thus, as shown in fig. 1, an embodiment of the clutch mechanism 10 is formed by two components 1, 2. Each component 1, 2 forms part of a clutch mechanism 10, the components 1, 2 forming the clutch mechanism 10.

The clutch mechanism 10 is rotationally driven about an axis O and is used to equip a motor vehicle transmission. To this end, the clutch mechanism 10 is mounted on a clutch housing of a motor vehicle transmission.

The clutch mechanism 10 is preferably of the wet double clutch type, more preferably in a so-called axial position, the first clutch 100 forming the assembly 1 being located on the front (AV) side with respect to the second clutch 200 forming the other assembly 2. The dual clutch mechanism 10 is integrated into a transmission system including a transmission (not shown in fig. 1) that is rotationally coupled to the dual clutch mechanism 10.

The dual clutch mechanism 10 is generally adapted to be able to rotationally couple the input shaft a0 to the first transmission shaft a1 or alternatively to the second transmission shaft a2 via the first clutch 100 or the second clutch 200, respectively.

In the context of the present invention, the input shaft a0 is rotationally driven by at least one crankshaft of an engine (e.g. an internal combustion engine not shown in fig. 1), and the first and second transmission shafts a1, a2 are intended to be rotationally coupled to a transmission, for example a gearbox of the type equipping a motor vehicle.

The first transmission shaft a1 and the second transmission shaft a2 are preferably coaxial. The second transmission shaft a2 is more specifically in the form of a hollow cylinder into which the first transmission shaft a1 is insertable.

As shown in fig. 1, the first clutch 100 and the second clutch 200 are advantageously of the multi-plate type. Each multi-plate clutch comprises, on the one hand, a plurality of coupling plates 101, 201 constrained to rotate with the input shaft a0, and, on the other hand, a plurality of friction plates 102, 202 constrained to rotate with at least one of the transmission shafts a1, a 2. The plurality of coupling discs 101, 201 of each clutch 100, 200 and the plurality of friction discs 102, 202 of each clutch 100, 200 together form a respective stack.

When the first clutch 100 is configured in a so-called clutch engaged position in which the plurality of coupling discs 101 are rotationally coupled to the plurality of friction discs 102, the first transmission shaft a1 is rotationally coupled to and rotationally driven by the input shaft a 0. Alternatively, when the first clutch 100 is configured in a so-called clutch-disengaged position in which the plurality of coupling discs 101 are rotationally disengaged from the plurality of friction discs 102, the first transmission shaft a1 is rotationally disengaged from the input shaft a 0.

In a similar manner, when the second clutch 200 is configured in a clutch engaged position in which the plurality of coupling discs 201 are rotationally coupled to the plurality of friction discs 202, the second transmission shaft a2 is rotationally coupled to and rotationally driven by the input shaft a 0. Alternatively, when the second clutch 200 is configured in a so-called clutch-disengaged position in which the plurality of coupling discs 201 are rotationally disengaged from the plurality of friction discs 202, the second transmission shaft a2 is rotationally disengaged from the input shaft a 0.

In the dual clutch mechanism 10 shown in fig. 1, the first clutch 100 is adapted to engage the odd gear ratios of the transmission and the second clutch 200 is adapted to engage the even gear ratios and the reverse gear of the transmission. Alternatively, the gear ratios manipulated by the first clutch 100 and the second clutch 200 may be interchanged.

The first clutch 100 and the second clutch 200 are adapted to transmit the so-called input power (torque and rotational speed) of the input shaft alternately to one of the two transmission shafts a1, a2, depending on the respective configuration of each clutch 100 and 200, and through the input flange 109.

Clutches 100 and 200 are adapted not to be simultaneously in the same clutch engagement configuration. On the other hand, the first clutch 100 and the second clutch 200 may be configured at the same time in their clutch-disengaged positions.

The dual clutch mechanism 10 will now be described in more detail.

As shown in fig. 1, the dual clutch mechanism 10 includes an input member that is rotationally coupled to the input shaft a0 on the one hand and to the input flange 109 on the other hand, so as to transmit the power (torque and rotational speed) generated by the engine to one of the clutches 100, 200 of the dual clutch mechanism 10. Preferably, the input element of the dual clutch mechanism 10 includes an input hub 150, which preferably rotates about an axis O. The input hub 150 is rotatably and/or axially connected in its lower extension to the input shaft a0, via a damping device not shown, such as a dual mass flywheel, as appropriate.

The input hub 150 is coupled in its outer extension to the input flange 109, and more specifically at the level of the lower end located at the rear of said input flange 109. The input flange 109 and the input hub 150 are preferably fastened together, such as by welding and/or riveting them together.

The input flange 109 of the first clutch 100 is rotationally connected at its upper end to the first clutch 100 by the outer disc carrier 106 of the first clutch 100, the outer disc carrier 106 being connected to the input flange 109; the input flange 109 and the outer disc holder 106 are preferably one piece. The outer disc carrier 106 of the first clutch 100 externally defines a cavity C1 in which the stack of coupling discs 101 and friction discs 102 of the first clutch 100 is received.

The first and second clutches 100 and 200 are controlled by an actuator system 300, the actuator system 300 being adapted to be able to configure them in any configuration between a clutch engaged configuration and a clutch disengaged configuration.

The actuator system 300 includes:

a first actuator 320 adapted to configure the first clutch 100 in a configuration between a clutch-engaged position and a clutch-disengaged position, inclusive;

a second actuator 330 adapted to configure the second clutch 200 in a configuration between a clutch-engaged configuration and a clutch-disengaged configuration, inclusive;

the housing 181 of the actuator system 300, in which the first and second actuators 320, 330 are at least partially housed.

The first and second actuators 320 and 330 are preferably of the hydraulic cylinder type. Each of the first and second actuators 320, 330 may include an annular piston that is coaxial with the axis O and moves axially to configure a respective clutch. In this case, the actuator system 300 also includes a hydraulic fluid supply passage for each actuator 320, 330. The hydraulic fluid is preferably a fluid under pressure, such as oil.

The first actuator 320 is connected to the first clutch 100 via the first decoupling bearing 140 on the one hand and by the first force transmission member 105 on the other hand. The first throw-out bearing 140 is adapted to transfer the axial force generated by the first actuator 320 to the first force transfer member 105.

The first force transmitting member 105 is adapted to transmit axial force to the first clutch 100 through an upper extension thereof extending axially forwardly and through an opening 108 formed in an input flange 109 so as to be able to press the plurality of coupling discs 101 against the plurality of friction discs 102 on the one hand and against the reaction member 103 of the first clutch 100 on the other hand, as described in more detail in various embodiments below.

The first force transmitting member 105 takes the form of a corrugated sheet bent axially forwardly at its radially outer edge. More specifically, the first force transmitting member 105 is engaged with the first clutch 100 via a plurality of axially extending bearing surfaces 1051 forming upper fingers 1051, the upper fingers 1051 enabling the coupling discs 101, 102 of the first clutch 100 to be urged forwardly by forward axial movement of the first actuator 320.

By way of non-limiting example, the first force transmitting member 105 may be produced by pressing.

The first force transfer member 105 includes an upper radially extending support surface 1052 forward of the upper finger 1051. An upper radially extending bearing surface 1052 extends radially from the first clutch 100.

The intermediate axially extending support surface 1053 extends the upper radially extending support surface 1052 toward the rear of the dual clutch mechanism 10.

Finally, the first force transmitting member 105 includes an inner radially extending portion 1055 connected to an intermediate axially extending support surface 1053 via a curved region 1054. The forward face of the inner radially extending portion 1055 is in contact with the aft face of the first throw-off bearing 140 that is connected to the first actuator 320.

The reaction member 103 is secured to the outer disc carrier 106 of the first clutch 100. In particular, the reaction member 103 is prevented from moving axially backwards by the axial stop abutment. Preferably, the reaction member 103 is fixed and fastened to the outer disc carrier 106 of the first clutch by any assembly means, for example by riveting or welding.

The reaction member 103 is mounted on the outer disc carrier 106 of the first clutch 100.

Reaction member 103 is configured to enable frictional coupling of the coupling plates with friction discs 101, 102 when first actuator 320 applies an axial force rearwardly to configure first clutch 100 in its clutch engaged position. Conversely, when the first force transmitting member 105 is urged forwardly by the resilient return washer 1056, the coupling plate 101 and friction disc 102 are separated, thereby enabling them to be disengaged and configuring the first clutch 100 in its clutch-disengaged configuration. It is apparent that the resilient return washer 1056 bears against the first force transmitting member 105 and the input flange 109 and is axially loaded by the input hub 150 and the axial bearing 171.

The reaction member 103 has in particular external splines cooperating with corresponding internal splines of the outer disc carrier 106.

The first clutch 100 is intended to be rotationally coupled to a first transmission shaft a1 via a first output disc carrier 104 forming an output element of said first clutch 100.

The first output disc support 104 is more specifically rotationally coupled to the friction disc 102 at an upper end thereof on the one hand, and to the first output hub 170 at a lower end thereof on the other hand.

The first output disc carrier 104 includes, at its radially outer periphery, an axial extension 107 provided with teeth intended to cooperate with complementary teeth on each friction disc 102, more specifically, at the inner radial periphery of each friction disc 102 of the first clutch 100. Thus, the first output disc carrier 104 is rotationally coupled to the friction discs 102 of the first clutch 100 by meshing with them.

The first output disc carrier 104 is connected at its radially lower end to a first output hub 170; they are preferably secured together by welding or riveting.

The first output hub 170 includes axial splines on a radially inner portion thereof that are adapted to mate with complementary splines on the first transmission shaft a1 to provide a rotational coupling.

The axial bearing 171 is disposed between the first output hub 170 and the input hub 150 to take up axial forces of the input hub 150 and/or the input flange 109, despite the different rotational speeds at which the input and first transmission shafts a1 may rotate.

In a similar manner, the second clutch 200 of the dual clutch mechanism 10 has a similar design as the first clutch 100.

The second actuator 330 is connected to the second clutch 200 by means of the second break-away bearing 240 on the one hand and the second force transmitting member 205 on the other hand. The second break-away bearing 240 is adapted to transfer the axial force generated by the second actuator 330 to the second force transfer member 205.

The input flange 209 of the second clutch 200 is rotatably connected at its upper end to the second clutch 200 by the outer disk carrier 206 of the second clutch 200, the outer disk carrier 206 of the second clutch 200 being connected to the input flange 209; the input flange 209 and the outer disc holder 206 are preferably one-piece. The outer disc holder 206 of the second clutch 200 externally defines a cavity C2 in which the stack of coupling discs 201 and friction discs 202 of the second clutch 200 is accommodated.

The second force transmitting member 205 is adapted to transmit axial forces to the second clutch 200 through an upper extension thereof extending axially forward and through an opening 208 formed in the outer disc carrier 206, so as to be able to press the coupling disc 201 against the friction disc 202 on the one hand and against the reaction member 203 of the second clutch 200 on the other hand, as described in detail below in various embodiments.

The second force transmitting member 205 takes the form of a corrugated sheet which is bent axially forwardly at its outer radial edge. The second force transmitting member 205 is engaged with the second clutch 200, more specifically via a plurality of axially extending bearing surfaces 2051 forming inner fingers 2051, the inner fingers 2051 enabling the coupling plates and friction discs 201, 202 of the second clutch 200 to be pushed forward by forward axial movement of the second actuator 330.

As a non-limiting example, the second force transmitting member 205 may be produced by pressing.

The second force transfer member 205 includes an upper radially extending bearing surface 2052 located rearward of the upper fingers 2051. An upper radially extending bearing surface 2052 extends radially from the second clutch 200.

An intermediate axially extending bearing surface 2053 extends radially on the bearing surface 2052 below the second clutch 200 and towards the front of the dual clutch mechanism 10. The intermediate axially extending bearing surface 2053 is located radially inward of the second clutch 200.

Finally, the second force transfer member 205 includes an inner radially extending portion 2055 that is connected to the intermediate axially extending support surface 2053 via a bend zone 2054. The rear face of the inner radially extending portion 2055 is in face contact with the front of a second release bearing 240 connected to the second actuator 330.

The reaction member 203 of the second clutch 200 is secured to the outer disc carrier 206 of the second clutch 200. The reaction member 203 of the second clutch 200 is preferably secured and fastened to the outer disc carrier 206 of the second clutch 200 by any means, such as by welding or riveting. The reaction member 203 of the second clutch 200 is configured to enable frictional coupling of the coupling plate 201 and the friction plate 202 when the second actuator 330 applies an axial force forward to configure the second clutch 200 in its clutch engaged position. Conversely, when the second force transmitting member 205 is pushed backwards by the return resilient washer 2056, the coupling plate 201 is then separated from the friction plate 202, then enabling disengagement of the second clutch 200 and thus configuring it in its clutch-disengaged configuration. It is apparent that the return spring washer 2056 bears against the second force transfer member 205 and the input flange 209 and is axially loaded by the spacer 250 and the axial bearing 271.

By way of non-limiting example, the reaction member 203 of the second clutch 200 may take the form of a ring having teeth on an outer periphery and a central bearing groove extending axially rearward.

The reaction member 203 is mounted on the outer disc carrier 206 of the second clutch 200.

The second clutch 200 is intended to be rotationally coupled to a second transmission shaft a2 via a second output disc carrier 210 forming an output element of said second clutch 200. More specifically, the second output disc carrier 210 is rotationally coupled to the friction disc 202 at its upper end on the one hand, and to the second output hub 220 at its lower end on the other hand.

The second output disc carrier 210 includes an axial extension 207 on its outer radial periphery that includes teeth intended to mate with complementary teeth on each friction disc 202, more specifically, on the inner radial periphery of each friction disc 202 on the second clutch 200. Thus, the second output disc carrier 210 is rotationally coupled to the friction discs 202 of the second clutch 200 by meshing with them.

Second output disc carrier 210 is connected at its radially lower end to second output hub 220; they are preferably secured together by welding or riveting. Further, an axial bearing 160 is interposed between the first output hub 170 and the second output hub 220 to enable transmission of axial forces between the two output disc carriers 104, 210, which two output disc carriers 104, 210 are rotatable at different speeds when the first clutch 100 and the second clutch 200 are configured in different configurations. Axial clearance is provided between the axial bearing 160 and the first and second output hubs.

The second output hub 220 includes an axial spline on a radially inner portion that is adapted to mate with a complementary spline on the second transmission shaft a2 to create a rotational coupling.

An axial bearing 271 is provided between the second output hub 220 and a spacer 250 connected to the input flange 209 of the second clutch 200 so as to receive axial force of the spacer 250 and/or the input flange 209, although the input shaft and the second transmission shaft a2 may rotate at different rotational speeds, respectively.

The first and second clutches 100, 200 include return spring washers 1056, 2056, respectively. The return spring washers 1056, 2056 are adapted to generate return forces directed axially forward and rearward, respectively, to automatically urge the first and second actuators 320, 330 forward and rearward, respectively. The return resilient washers 1056, 2056 more specifically urge the first and second force transmitting members 105, 205 axially forward and rearward, respectively, to facilitate the uncoupling movement of the coupling discs 101, 201 relative to the friction discs 102, 202 of the first and second clutches 100, 200, respectively, by urging the first and second actuators 320, 330 forward and rearward, respectively.

In the rest of the description, the outer disc holder 106, 206 of the assembly 1, 2 will be described, in particular the device 3 for assembling two assemblies 1, 2 to each other. As described below, a number of embodiments for assembling the components 1, 2 to each other are envisaged. Thus, the clutch mechanism 10 includes multiple embodiments of assembling the outer disc carriers 106, 206 of each assembly 1, 2 to each other and/or multiple embodiments of assembling the reaction members 103, 203 to each other and/or to the respective outer disc carriers 106, 206. It is clear that such a clutch mechanism 10 may comprise any combination of embodiments of assembling the outer disc carriers 106, 206 of each assembly 1, 2 to each other and/or embodiments of assembling the reaction members 103, 203 to each other and/or to the respective outer disc carriers 106, 206. It should also be noted that such a clutch mechanism 10 may be made of an alternation of two complementary embodiments, for example an embodiment in which the two assemblies 1, 2 are assembled by means of their outer disc carriers 106, 206 and another embodiment in which the reaction members 103, 203 are fixed to each other and/or to their respective outer disc carriers 106, 206.

As is usual in each embodiment, the outer disc carrier 106 of the first clutch 100 of the assembly 1 corresponding thereto comprises a first axially elongated support surface 1000 oriented rearwardly in the direction of the second clutch 200 of the other assembly 2. The first axially elongated support surface 1000 radially outwardly delimits a cavity C1 in which the first clutch 100 is accommodated. The outer disc carrier 206 of the second clutch 200 of the assembly 2 comprises a second axially elongated bearing surface 2000 oriented forward in the direction of the first clutch 100 of the assembly 1. The second axially elongated support surface 2000 defines radially outwardly a cavity C2 within which the second clutch 200 is received. As shown, the first and second axially elongated support surfaces 1000, 2000 respectively include peripheral edges 1001, 2001 at their respective axial ends. It is then clear that each component 1, 2 comprises a peripheral edge 1001, 2001. The peripheral edge 1001 of the first axially elongated support surface 1000 and the peripheral edge 2001 of the second axially elongated support surface 2000 extend radially outward beyond the respective axial ends of the first and second axially elongated support surfaces 1000 and 2000, respectively. It should be noted that the respective peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the first 1000 and second 2000 axially elongated support surfaces are rounded about the axis O, such as shown in fig. 1 or 2. As shown in this first embodiment, the peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the components 1, 2 are integral. The peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the components 1, 2 may preferably be machined by the surface facing the other peripheral edge 1001, 2001. The function of this machining step is to ensure tolerances between the two components 1, 2 of the clutch mechanism 10. In this regard, it is clear that the axial dimensions of the outer disc holders 106, 206 of each assembly 1, 2 are such as to ensure their position and assembly with respect to each other. It is particularly noted that the outer disc supports 106, 206 of the assemblies 1, 2 are dimensioned so as to ensure the positioning of the axial bearing 160 interposed between the first output disc support 104 and the second output disc support 210. The drain holes 1002, 2002 radially formed on the first and second axially elongated support surfaces 1000, 2000, respectively, enable draining of some of the hydraulic fluid contained in the cavities C1, C2 of the clutches 100, 200. It is also noted that an axial adjustment washer 251 is interposed between the first output disc carrier 104 and the axial bearing 160.

It should also be noted that the outer disc carriers 106, 206 of the assemblies 1, 2 are identical, in particular the first axially elongated support surface 1000 and the second axially elongated support surface 2000 have the same axial dimensions. Obviously, in the first and second clutches 100, 200, the number of stacks of coupling discs 101, 201 and friction discs 102, 202 is then the same. Due to this feature, the production cost during the manufacture of such a clutch mechanism 10 can be reduced. In practice, the outer disc carrier 106, 206 of the assembly 1, 2 may then be common to the first and second clutches 100, 200.

However, the invention is not limited to this configuration and the outer disc carriers 106, 206 of the assemblies 1, 2 may be identical, in particular the first 1000 and second 2000 axially elongated support surfaces may have the same axial dimension, while the number of stacks of coupling discs 101, 201 and friction discs 102, 202 of the first and second clutches 100, 200 may not be the same.

In a variant of the invention, the outer disc supports 106, 206 of the assemblies 1, 2 may not be identical, in particular the first axially elongated support surface 1000 and the second axially elongated support surface 2000 may have different axial dimensions. Due to this configuration, the clutch mechanism 10 can be manufactured according to the torque to be transmitted between the input shaft and the corresponding output shaft, wherein the number of stacks of the coupling plates 101, 201 and the friction plates 102, 202 of the first and second clutches 100, 200 is different. It is clear that the assemblies 1, 2 can be combined to produce the desired clutch mechanism 10, in contrast to the clutch mechanism 10 in which the outer disc carriers 106, 206 are integral. For example, first clutch 100 may include an even number of coupling plates 101 and friction plates 102, while second clutch 200 may include an odd number of coupling plates 201 and friction plates 202. Thus, one assembly 1, 2 can be combined with another assembly 1, 2 to obtain the desired clutch mechanism 10.

According to the first embodiment shown in fig. 1 and 2, the reaction member 103, 203 of each assembly 1, 2 is housed in a respective cavity C1, C2 of the outer disc support 106, 206 of the respective assembly 1, 2. The first portion 103A, 203A of each reaction member 103, 203 extending radially outward more specifically abuts the stack of coupling plates 101, 201 and friction plates 102, 202 of the respective clutch 100, 200. The second portion 103B of the reaction member 103 of the first clutch 100 is continuous with the first portion 103A of the reaction member 103 of the first clutch 100 and extends primarily axially rearward, while the second portion 203B of the reaction member 203 of the second clutch 200 is continuous with the first portion 203A of the second clutch 200 and extends primarily axially forward. Thus, it is apparent that the second portions 103B, 203B extend towards each other. According to this same configuration, the reaction member 103, 203 is fastened by the outer radial edge of its first portion 103A, 203A to its outer disc support 106, 206, respectively. In particular, the reaction member 103 of the first clutch 100 is prevented from rearward axial movement by one axial stop abutment and the reaction member 203 of the second clutch 200 is prevented from forward axial movement by another axial stop abutment. Preferably, the reaction members 103, 203 are secured together by welding them to their respective outer disc holders 106, 206. Obviously, the reaction members 103, 203 are circular in shape about the axis O and are annular in their centre.

The reaction members 103, 203 are mounted on the outer disc carriers 106, 206 of the first and second clutches 100, 200.

According to this first embodiment, the peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the components 1, 2 are arranged facing each other, and the peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the components 1, 2 are more particularly symmetrical with respect to each other. Thus, in this configuration, an axial gap is formed between the reaction members 103, 203. The inner radial end of each first portion 103A, 203A of the reaction member forms a pressure zone axially against its coupling plate 101, 201 and friction plate 102, 202 of the respective clutch 100, 200. However, the invention is not limited to this configuration and the peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the components 1, 2 may have different portions in any embodiment, but still be disposed facing each other.

In the configuration of the first embodiment shown in fig. 1 or 2, the peripheral edges 1001, 2001 are adapted to axially abut against each other when the two components 1, 2 are assembled to form the clutch mechanism 10.

As shown in fig. 1 and 2, the outer disc holder 106 of the first clutch 100 includes a first extension 1003. In the same manner, the outer disc holder 206 of the second clutch 200 includes a first extension 2003. The first extensions 1003, 2003 of the outer disc supports 106, 206 extend radially outwardly beyond the respective peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc supports 106, 206. It is clear that the first extensions 1003, 2003 of the outer disc holders 106, 206 also extend from the respective peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc holders 106, 206. As shown here, the respective first extensions 1003, 2003 of each outer disc holder 106, 206 are circumferentially distributed around the peripheral edge 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc holder 106, 206. Obviously, the respective first extensions 1003, 2003 of each outer disc holder 106, 206 are regularly circumferentially distributed about the axis O.

For example, each outer disc holder 106, 206 may include eight first extensions 1003, 2003.

Alternatively, the first extension 1003, 2003 and its respective peripheral edge 1001, 2001 of each first portion 103A, 203A are integral. The first extension 1003, 2003 of each first portion 103A, 203A is preferably mounted on its respective peripheral edge 1001, 2001.

It should also be noted that the first extension 1003 of the outer disc support 106 of the assembly 1 formed by the first clutch 100 is configured to face the first extension 2003 of the outer disc support 206 of the assembly 2 formed by the second clutch 200. The first extension 1003 of the outer disc carrier 106 of the assembly 1 formed by the first clutch 100 is more specifically configured to axially abut against the first extension 2003 of the outer disc carrier 206 of the assembly 2 formed by the second clutch 200. Furthermore, the first extensions 1003, 2003 of the outer disc holder 106, 206 are configured to partly form means 3 for assembling the two components 1, 2 to each other.

According to this first embodiment of the invention, the assembly means 3 comprise each pair of first extensions 1003, 2003 constituted by the first extension 1003 of the outer disc support 106 of the assembly 1 formed by the first clutch 100 facing the first extension 2003 of the outer disc support 206 of the assembly 2 formed by the second clutch 200.

As shown in fig. 1, each first extension 1003 of the outer disc support 106 of the assembly 1 formed by the first clutch 100 includes an assembly hole 1004 in corresponding relationship to the assembly hole 2004 of the first extension 2003 of the outer disc support 206 of the assembly 2 formed by the second clutch 200. In each pair of first extensions 1003, 2003 as defined above, the rivet 1005 is intended to pass through the assembly hole 1004 in the first extension 1003 of the outer disc support 106 of the assembly 1 formed by the first clutch 100 and through the assembly hole 2004 in the first extension 2003 of the outer disc support 206 of the assembly 2 formed by the second clutch 200.

Obviously, in order to assemble the two assemblies 1, 2 to each other by means of the first extensions 1003, 2003, the rivets 1005 of each pair of first extensions 1003, 2003 extend radially beyond the assembly holes 1004, 2004, clamping the first extensions 1004, 2004 of each pair together.

According to this first embodiment of the invention, the assembly device 3 further comprises each rivet 1005 as described above. The assembly means 3 more particularly comprise each pair of first extensions 1003, 2003 and each rivet 1005 intended to cooperate with said pair.

In a variant of the invention, the assembly holes 1004, 2004 of the first extensions 1003, 2003 are threaded holes, each configured to receive an assembly screw.

According to the second embodiment shown in fig. 3 and 4, and in contrast to the first embodiment described last, the reaction member 103, 203 of each assembly 1, 2 extends partially radially beyond the respective cavity C1, C2 of the outer disc support 106, 206 of the respective assembly 1, 2. In this configuration, the reaction members 103, 203 are not received in their respective cavities C1, C2 and are no longer prevented from axial movement in the direction of the other clutch by the axial stop abutments. In this configuration, and in contrast to the first embodiment, the reaction members 103, 203 bear axially against each other at least at the level of their first portions 103, 203.

The reaction members 103, 203 are also circular in shape about the axis O and are annular in their centre.

The reaction members 103, 203 are mounted on the outer disc carriers 106, 206 of the first and second clutches 100, 200.

Each reaction member 103, 203 more specifically comprises: a first portion 103A, 203A which extends radially mainly outside the cavity C1, C2, i.e. beyond the peripheral edge 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc support 106, 206; and a second portion 103B, 203B, which is located inside the cavity C1, C2, i.e. inside the peripheral edge 1001, 2001 with respect to the respective outer disc support 106, 206. Each reaction member 103, 203 formed by the first portion 103A, 203A and the second portion 103B, 203B then has an S-shaped cross-section. It should be noted that the first portion 103A, 203A and the second portion 103B, 203B of each reaction member 103, 203 have a common end 103C, 203C, respectively. The second portion 103B, 203B of each reaction member 103, 203 of the assembly 1, 2 comprises an inner radial edge 1031, 2031 extending axially and radially in the direction of the clutch 100, 200 of said respective assembly 1, 2. The first portion 103A, 203A and the second portion 203B, 203B of each reaction member 103, 203 together have an S-shaped cross-section.

However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. In this case, the first portion 103A, 203A and the second portion 203B, 203B of each reaction member 103, 203 may together have an L-shaped cross-section. In this case, unlike the first and second portions 103A, 203A, 103B, 203B described above for this second embodiment, the second portion 103B, 203B of each reaction member 103, 203 of the assembly 1, 2 will comprise an inner radial edge 1031, 2031 extending axially in the direction of the clutch 100, 200 of the respective assembly 1, 2.

In the configuration shown in fig. 3 and 4, second portion 103B, 203B of each reaction member 103, 203 has an inner radial edge 1031, 2031 that axially abuts the stack of coupling plates 101, 201 and friction plates 102, 202 of the respective first clutch 100, 200. As shown, the second portion 103B of the reaction member 103 of the first clutch 100 is continuous with the first portion 103A of the reaction member 103 of the first clutch 100 and extends axially and radially forward, while the second portion 203B of the reaction member 203 of the second clutch 200 is continuous with the first portion 203A of the reaction member 203 of the second clutch 200 and extends axially and radially rearward. Thus, it is apparent that the second portions 103B, 203B extend away from each other.

In the same way as in the first embodiment, the peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the components 1, 2 are arranged facing each other; the peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the components 1, 2 are more particularly symmetrical with respect to each other.

The first portions 103A, 203A of the reaction members 103, 203 are configured such that they both axially abut each other and, by means of the outer radial edges 103E, 203E, axially abut respective peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc holders 106, 106. As shown here, the outer radial edges 103E, 203E of the reaction members 103, 203 are radially flush with the peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc supports 106, 206.

To secure the reaction members 103, 203 to their respective outer disk carriers 106, 206, the first portion 103A, 203A of each reaction member 103, 203 includes an outer radial edge 103E, 203E from which extends radially outward, preferably any number of first angular sectors 1033, 2033 distributed circumferentially about the axis O.

In the same manner as the first embodiment and as shown in fig. 3 and 4, the outer disc carrier 106 of the first clutch 100 includes a first extension 1003. In the same manner, the outer disc holder 206 of the second clutch 200 includes a first extension 2003. The first extensions 1003, 2003 of the outer disc supports 106, 206 extend radially outwardly beyond the respective peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc supports 106, 206. As shown in fig. 4, the respective first extensions 1003, 2003 of each outer disc holder 106, 206 are circumferentially distributed around the peripheral edge 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc holder 106, 206.

For example, each outer disc holder 106, 206 may include eight first extensions 1003, 2003.

In the configuration of the second embodiment shown in fig. 3 or 4, the first portion 103A, 203A of the reaction member 103, 203 of at least one assembly 1, 2 is adapted to cooperate with the first extension 1003, 2003 of the respective outer disc support 106, 206 in order to assemble the reaction member 103, 203 to its respective outer disc support 106, 206. Each first angular sector 1033, 2033 of the respective reaction member 103, 203 is more particularly configured to cooperate with the first extension 2003 of the respective outer disk carrier 106, 206 in order to assemble the reaction member 103, 203 to its respective outer disk carrier 106, 206.

It should also be noted that the first angular sector 1033, 2033 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the assembly 1, 2 is configured to face the first extension 1003, 2003 of the outer disc holder 106, 206 of the same assembly 1, 2. The first angular sector 1033, 2033 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the assembly 1, 2 is more specifically configured to axially abut against the first extension 1003, 2003 of the outer disc support 106, 206 of the same assembly 1, 2.

For example, each reaction member 103, 203 may include eight first angular sectors 1033, 2033 configured to mate with eight first extensions 1003, 2003, respectively.

According to this second embodiment of the invention, the assembly means 3 comprise a first angular sector 1033, 2033 and a first extension 1003, 2003 of each pair consisting of the first angular sector 1033, 2033 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the assembly 1, 2 of the first extension 1003, 2003 of the outer disk carrier 106, 206 facing the same assembly 1, 2.

In the first angular sector 1033, 2033 and the first extension 1003, 2003 of each pair, the rivets 1035, 2035 are intended to pass through assembly apertures 1034, 2034 formed in the first angular sector 1033, 2033 of the first portion 103A, 203A of the reaction member 103, 203 of the assembly 1, 2 and through assembly holes 1004, 2004 formed in the first extension 1003, 2003 of the outer disc support 106, 206 of the same assembly 1, 2. It is clear that the assembly apertures 1034, 2034 formed in each first angular sector 1033, 2033 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the assemblies 1, 2 are in corresponding relationship with the assembly holes 1004, 2004 formed in each first extension 1003, 2003 of the same assembly 1, 2.

The assembly device 3 is then able to assemble each reaction member 103, 203 to its respective outer disc support 106, 206 by means of each rivet 1035, 2035 as described above for the second embodiment.

Obviously, to assemble each reaction member 103, 203 to its respective outer disc holder 106, 206, the rivets 1035, 2035 of the first angular sector section 1033, 2033 and first extension 1003, 2003 of each pair extend radially beyond the assembly apertures 1034, 2034 and assembly holes 1004, 2004 to keep the first angular sector section 1033, 2033 and first extension 1003, 2003 of each pair clamped together as described above for this second embodiment.

In the assembled state, the first angular sector 1033, 2033 and the first extension 1003, 2003 of the component 1, 2 face the first angular sector 1033, 2033 and the first extension 1003, 2003 of the other component 1, 2. More specifically, the assembly apertures 1034, 2034 and the assembly holes 1004, 2004 of the components 1, 2 are in corresponding relationship with the assembly apertures 1034, 2034 and the assembly holes 1004, 2004 of the other components 1, 2. Obviously, the rivet 1035 assembling the reaction member 103 to its outer disc support 106 of the assembly 1 formed by the clutch 100 may face the rivet 2035 assembling the reaction member 203 to its outer disc support 206 of the other assembly 2 formed by the second clutch 200. However, due to the axial retraction of the bearing areas of the first portions 103A, 203A of each assembly 1, 2, where the first angular sectors 1035, 2035 abut against each other, the rivets 1035, 2035 of the respective assembly 1, 2 are remote from the rivets 1035, 2035 of the other assembly 1, 2.

According to this second embodiment of the invention, the assembly device 3 also comprises each rivet 1035, 2035 as described above and participating in the assembly of the reaction member 103, 203 to its disc holder 103, 206. More specifically, the assembly means 3 comprise a first angular sector 1033, 2033 and a first extension 1003, 2003 of each pair and each rivet 1035, 2035 intended to cooperate with said pair.

In a variation of the invention, the assembly apertures 1034, 2034 of the first extensions 1003, 2003 are threaded holes, each configured to receive an assembly screw.

Alternatively, the first angular sector 1033, 2033 of each first portion 103A, 203A and its respective outer radial edge 103E, 203E are integral. The first angular sector 1033, 2033 of each first portion 103A, 203A is preferably mounted at its respective peripheral edge 1001, 2001.

It is to be noted that, in this configuration, the assembly device 3 described above for this second embodiment does not enable the two components 1, 2 to be assembled with each other; however, as described below, it participates in assembling the two components 1, 2 to each other.

In order to fasten the assemblies 1, 2 to each other, the first portion 103A of the reaction member 103 of one assembly 1 is adapted to cooperate with the first portion 203A of the reaction member 203 of the other assembly 2, the assembly means 3 comprising the first portions 103A, 203A of the reaction members of each assembly. More specifically, the second angular sectors 1036, 2036, distributed circumferentially about the axis O and extending radially outwards from the outer radial edges 103E, 203E of the respective reaction members 103, 203, enable the assembly 1, 2 to be assembled to each other.

It is apparent that the second angular sectors 1036, 2036 are separate from the first angular sectors 1033, 2033. Thus, the first portion 103A, 203A of each reaction member 103, 203 includes both a plurality of first angular sectors 1033, 2033 and a plurality of second angular sectors 1036, 2036. According to this second embodiment, the first angular sectors 1033, 2033 of the assemblies 1, 2 are distributed circumferentially about the axis O, alternating with the second angular sectors 1036, 2036 of the same assemblies 1, 2.

It is also apparent that the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of each first portion 103A, 203A extends radially outwardly from the cavity C1, C2 of its respective assembly 1, 2.

For example, each reaction member 103, 203 may include eight second angular sectors 1036, 2036.

As shown in fig. 3 or 4, the first portion 103A of the reaction member 103 of the assembly 1 forming the first clutch 100 is adapted to cooperate with the first portion 203A of the reaction member 203 of the assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200. More specifically, the second angular sector 1036 of the first portion 103A of the reaction member 103 forming the assembly 1 of the first clutch 100 is adapted to cooperate with the second angular sector 2036 of the first portion 203A of the reaction member 203 forming the assembly 2 of the second clutch 200. It is then evident that in this configuration the two assemblies 1, 2 are assembled to each other by means of their respective reaction members 103, 203.

It should also be noted that the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of one assembly 1, 2 is configured to face the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2. More specifically, the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of one assembly 1, 2 is configured to axially abut against the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2.

For example, the eight second angular sectors 1036 of the reaction members 103 of assembly 1 forming the clutch 100 are configured to cooperate with the eight second angular sectors 2036 of the reaction members 203 of assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200.

According to this second embodiment of the invention, the assembly means 3 further comprise each pair of second angular sectors 1036, 2036 formed by the second angular sectors 1036 of the first portion 103A of the reaction member 103 of the assembly 1 facing the second angular sectors 2036 of the first portion 203A of the reaction member 203 of the other assembly 2.

In each pair of second angular sectors 1036, 2036, the rivet 1007 is intended to pass through an assembly aperture 1037, 2037 formed in the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the first part 103A, 203A of the reaction member 103, 203 of the assembly 1, 2 and through an assembly aperture 1037, 2037 formed in the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the first part 103A, 203A of the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2. It is clear that the assembly apertures 1037, 2037 formed in each second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the assembly 1, 2 are in a corresponding relationship to the assembly apertures 1037, 2037 formed in each second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2.

The assembly device 3 then enables the assemblies 1, 2 to be assembled to each other by means of the reaction members 103, 203 of each assembly 1, 2, by means of each rivet 1007 which achieves this assembly and which is described above in relation to this second embodiment.

Obviously, in order to assemble the assemblies 1, 2 to each other by means of the reaction members 103, 203 of each assembly 1, 2, the rivets 1007 of each pair of second angular sectors 1036, 2036 extend radially beyond the respective pair of assembly apertures 1037, 2037 to keep the second angular sectors 1036, 2036 of each pair participating in the assembly of the two assemblies 1, 2 clamped together as described above for this second embodiment.

It is clear that in the assembled state the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of one assembly 1, 2 faces the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the other assembly 1, 2. More specifically, the assembly apertures 1037, 2037 of the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the assembly 1, 2 are in a corresponding relationship to the assembly apertures 1037, 2037 of the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the other assembly 1, 2.

According to this second embodiment of the invention, the assembly device 3 further comprises each rivet 1007 as described above. More specifically, the assembly device 3 comprises each pair of second angular sectors 1036, 2036 and each rivet 1007 intended to cooperate with said.

It is clear that in this second embodiment the outer disc holders 106, 206 of the assemblies 1, 2 are fastened to each other by their respective reaction members 103, 203.

In a variation of the present invention, each assembly aperture 1037, 2037 of the second angular sectors 1036, 2036 is a threaded bore, each configured to receive an assembly screw.

Alternatively, the second angular sectors 1036, 2036 of each first portion 103A, 203A and their respective outer radial edges 103E, 203E are integral. The second angular sectors 1036, 2036 of each first portion 103A, 203A are preferably mounted on their respective peripheral edges 1001, 2001.

According to a particular variant of the invention, the reaction members 103, 203 of the assemblies 1, 2 are made in one piece, for example by moulding. Obviously, in this case, the component made by molding and forming the reaction member may be machined on the side so as to be dimensionally configured with the clutch mechanism 10.

According to the third embodiment shown in fig. 5 and 6 and in the same way as in the second embodiment described above, the reaction member 103, 203 of each assembly 1, 2 extends partially radially beyond the respective cavity C1, C2 of the outer disc support 106, 206 of the respective assembly 1, 2.

The reaction members 103, 203 of this third embodiment are similar to the second embodiment. The reaction members 103, 203 are particularly mounted on the outer disc carriers 106, 206 of the first and second clutches 100, 200.

In the same way, each reaction member 103, 203 comprises: a first portion 103A, 203A which extends radially mainly outside the cavity C1, C2, i.e. beyond the peripheral edge 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc support 106, 206; and a second portion 103B, 203B located inside the cavity C1, C2, i.e. inside the peripheral edge 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc support 106, 206. Obviously, the first portions 103A, 203A and the second portions 103B, 203B have the same configuration as the second embodiment.

In the same manner as in the second embodiment, the peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the components 1, 2 are disposed facing each other; more specifically, the peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the components 1, 2 are symmetrical with respect to each other.

The reaction members 103, 203 are secured to their respective outer disc holders 106, 206 in the same manner as described above for the second embodiment.

It should be understood that the modifications contemplated in the second embodiment may be applied to this third embodiment.

In the same way as in the second embodiment, in order to assemble the assemblies 1, 2 to each other, the first portion 103A of the reaction member 103 of one assembly 1 is adapted to cooperate with the first portion 203A of the reaction member 203 of the other assembly 2. In the same way, the reaction members 103, 203 are connected to each other by their respective second angular sectors 1036, 2036.

It is therefore evident that, in a manner similar to the second embodiment, the outer disc holders 106, 206 of the assemblies 1, 2 are fastened to each other by their reaction members 103, 203. However, in contrast to the second embodiment, in this third embodiment the outer disc holders 106, 206 of the assemblies 1, 2 are also fastened to each other by being in direct contact with each other.

To create this direct contact, the outer disc holder 106, 206 of each assembly 1, 2 comprises a second extension 1006, 2006, as shown in fig. 5 and 6. The second extension 1006, 2006 of each outer disc holder 106, 206 extends beyond the peripheral edge 1001, 2001 of the outer disc holder 106, 206 of the respective assembly 1, 2. It is clear that the second extensions 1003, 2003 of the outer disc holders 106, 206 also extend from the respective peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc holders 106, 206. As shown here, the respective second extensions 1006, 2006 of each outer disc holder 106, 206 are angularly distributed around the peripheral edge 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc holder 106, 206. It will be appreciated that the respective second extensions 1006, 2006 of each outer disc holder 106, 206 are regularly circumferentially distributed about the axis O.

Each second extension 1006, 2006 comprises a first portion 1006A, 2006A and a second portion 1006B, 2006B suitable for assembling the assemblies 1, 2 to each other. It should be noted that the second portion 1006B, 2006B of each second extension 1006, 2006 is a continuation of the first portion 1006A, 2006A of the same second extension 1006, 2006. In other words, the first and second portions 1006A, 2006A, 1006B, 2006B of the same second extension 1006, 2006 have a common edge. As shown here, the first portion 1006A, 2006A of each second extension 1006B, 2006B of one assembly 1, 2 extends axially from the peripheral edge 1001, 2001 in the direction of the first portion 1006A, 2006A of the second extension 1006B, 2006B of the other assembly 1, 2. In addition, the radially outer edge 103E, 203E of the first portion 103A, 203A of the reaction member 103, 203 of each assembly 1, 2 radially abuts against each first portion 1006A, 2006A of the second extension 1006, 2006 of the outer disc holder 106, 206 of the same assembly 1, 2. The second portion 1006B, 2006B of each second extension 1006, 2006 extends radially outward from the first portion 1006A, 2006A of the same second extension 1006, 2006.

Obviously, the second extensions 1006, 2006 are separate from the first extensions 1003, 2003. The peripheral edge 1001, 2001 of the outer disc support 106, 206 of each assembly 1, 2 comprises both a plurality of first extensions 1003, 2003 and a plurality of second extensions 1006, 2006. According to this second embodiment, the first extensions 1003, 2003 of the assemblies 1, 2 are distributed circumferentially around the axis O, alternating with the second extensions 1006, 2006 of the same assemblies 1, 2.

It is also apparent that the second extensions 1006, 2006 of each disc holder 106, 206 extend radially outside of the cavities C1, C2 of their respective assemblies 1, 2.

As shown in fig. 5 or 6, the outer disc carrier 106 of the assembly 1 forming the first clutch 100 is adapted to cooperate with the outer disc carrier 206 of the assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200. More specifically, the second extension 1006 of the outer disc carrier 106 of the assembly 1 forming the first clutch 100 is adapted to mate with the second extension 2006 of the outer disc carrier 206 of the assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200. It is then evident that in this configuration the two assemblies 1, 2 are assembled to each other by means of their respective reaction members 103, 203 and by means of their respective outer disc supports 106, 206.

It should also be noted that the second portion 1006B, 2006B of the second extension 1006, 2006 of the outer disc holder 106, 206 of one assembly 1, 2 is configured to face the second portion 1006B, 2006B of the second extension 1006, 2006 of the outer disc holder 106, 206 of the other assembly 1, 2. More specifically, the second portion 1006B, 2006B of the second extension 1006, 2006 of the outer disc holder 106, 206 of one assembly 1, 2 is configured to axially abut the second portion 1006B, 2006B of the second extension 1006, 2006 of the outer disc holder 106, 206 of the other assembly 1, 2.

For example, the eight second extensions 1006 of the outer disc carrier 106 forming the assembly 1 of the first clutch 100 may be configured to cooperate with the eight second extensions 2006 of the outer disc carrier 206 forming the assembly 2 of the second clutch 200 by means of the second portions 1006B, 2006B thereof.

According to this third embodiment of the invention, the assembly device 3 further comprises each pair of second extensions 1006, 2006 consisting of the second extensions 1006 of the outer disc carrier 106 of the assembly 1 forming the first clutch 100 facing the second extensions 2006 of the outer disc carrier 206 of the assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200.

In each pair of second extensions 1006, 2006, the rivet 1008 is intended to pass through an assembly aperture 1038, 2038 formed in the second portion 1006B, 2006B of the second extension 1006, 2006 of the outer disc bracket 106, 206 of the assembly 1, 2 and through an assembly aperture 1038, 2038 formed in the second portion 1006B, 2006B of the second extension 1006, 2006 of the outer disc bracket 106, 206 of the other assembly 1, 2. It is apparent that the assembly apertures 1038, 2038 formed in the second portions 1006B, 2006B of the second extension portions 1006, 2006 of the outer disc holders 106, 206 of one assembly 1, 2 are in corresponding relationship with the assembly apertures 1038, 2038 formed in the second portions 1006B, 2006B of the second extension portions 1006, 2006 of the outer disc holders 106, 206 of the other assembly 1, 2.

The assembly device 3 then enables the assembly of the assemblies 1, 2 to be completed by means of the outer disc support 106, 206 of each assembly 1, 2, by virtue of each rivet 1008 creating this assembly configuration and as described above for the third embodiment.

Obviously, in the assembled state, the second extension 1006, 2006 of one assembly 1, 2 faces the second extension 1006, 2006 of the other assembly 1, 2. More specifically, the assembly apertures 1038, 2038 of the second portion 1006B, 2006B of the second extension portion 1006, 2006 of one assembly 1, 2 are in a corresponding relationship with the assembly apertures 1038, 2038 of the second extension portion 1006, 2006 of the other assembly 1, 2.

According to this third embodiment of the invention, the assembly device 3 further comprises each rivet 1008 as described above and participating in the assembly of the outer disc supports 106, 206 to each other. More specifically, the assembly device 3 comprises each pair of second extensions 1006, 2006 and each rivet 1008 intended to cooperate with said pair.

It is clear that in this third embodiment the assemblies 1, 2 are fastened to each other by their respective reaction members 103, 203 and by their respective outer disc holders 106, 206.

In a variation of the invention, each assembly aperture 1038, 2038 of the second portion 1006B, 2006B of the second extension portion 1006, 2006 is a threaded hole, each configured to receive an assembly screw.

Alternatively, the second extensions 1006, 2006 of each outer disc holder 106, 206 and their respective outer radial edges 103E, 203E are integral. The second extension 1006, 2006 of each outer disc holder 106, 206 is preferably mounted on its respective peripheral edge 1001, 2001.

According to a fourth embodiment shown in fig. 7, and in the same way as in the second and third embodiments described above, the reaction member 103, 203 of each assembly 1, 2 extends partially radially beyond the respective cavity C1, C2 of the outer disc support 106, 206 of the respective assembly 1, 2.

The reaction member 103, 203 of this fourth embodiment is similar to the second or third embodiment. The reaction members 103, 203 are particularly mounted on the outer disc carriers 106, 206 of the first and second clutches 100, 200.

In the same way, each reaction member 103, 203 comprises: a first portion 103A, 203A which extends radially mainly outside the cavity C1, C2, i.e. beyond the peripheral edge 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc support 106, 206; and a second portion 103B, 203B, which is located inside the cavity C1, C2, i.e. inside the peripheral edge 1001, 2001 with respect to the respective outer disc support 106, 206. Obviously, the configuration of the first portion 103A, 203A and the second portion 103B, 203B is the same as that of the second or third embodiment.

In the same manner as in the second and third embodiments, the peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the components 1, 2 are disposed facing each other; more specifically, the peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the components 1, 2 are symmetrical with respect to each other.

The reaction members 103, 203 are secured to their respective outer disc holders 106, 206 in the same manner as described above for the second and third embodiments.

In the same manner, it is apparent that the modification conceived in the second embodiment can be applied to this fourth embodiment.

In the same way as in the second and third embodiments, for assembling the assemblies 1, 2 to each other, the first portion 103A of the reaction member 103 of one assembly 1 is adapted to cooperate with the first portion 203A of the reaction member 203 of the other assembly 2. In the same way, the reaction members 103, 203 are connected to each other by their respective second angular sectors.

It is therefore evident that the outer disc holders 106, 206 of the assemblies 1, 2 are fastened to each other by their reaction members 103, 203 in a similar manner to the second and third embodiments. However, in contrast to the third embodiment, in this fourth embodiment the outer disc holder 106, 206 of one assembly 1, 2 is also secured thereto by direct contact with the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2.

In order to fasten the outer disc holder 106, 206 of one assembly 1, 2 to the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2, the outer disc holder 106, 206 of one assembly 1, 2 comprises a second extension 1006, 2006 as described for the third embodiment described in detail above, and which is intended to cooperate with the other second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2 as described for the third embodiment described in detail above.

It is furthermore evident that the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of one assembly 1, 2, which is intended to cooperate with the second extension 1006, 2006 of the disk holder 106, 206 of the other assembly 1, 2, is separate from the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of one assembly 1, 2, which is intended to cooperate with the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2.

As shown in fig. 7, the reaction member 103 of the assembly 1 forming the first clutch 100 is adapted to cooperate with the outer disc carrier 206 of the assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200. More specifically, the second angular sector 1036 of the reaction member 103 of assembly 1 forming the first clutch 100 is adapted to cooperate with the second extension 2006 of the outer disc carrier 106 of assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200. It is then evident that in this configuration the two assemblies 1, 2 are assembled to each other both by means of their respective reaction members 103, 203 and by means of the outer disc support 106 of the assembly 1 cooperating with the reaction member 203 of the other assembly 2.

It should also be noted that the second portion 1006B, 2006B of the second extension 1006, 2006 of the outer disc carrier 106, 206 of one assembly 1, 2 for assembly to the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2 is configured to face the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2 which results in the same assembly. More specifically, the second portions 1006B, 2006B of the second extension portions 1036, 2036 are configured to axially abut the second angular sectors 1036, 2036.

For example, the eight second angular sectors 1036 of the reaction members 103 of the assembly 1 forming the first clutch 100 may be configured to cooperate, by means of the second portions 2006B thereof, with the eight second extensions 2006 of the outer disc carrier 206 of the assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200.

According to this fourth embodiment of the invention, the assembly means 3 comprise a second angular sector 1036, 2036 of one assembly 1, 2 and a second extension 1006, 2006 of the other assembly 1, 2 of each pair, which is made up of the second angular sector 1036 of the reaction member 103 of the assembly 1 forming the first clutch 100 facing the second extension 2006 of the outer disc support 206 of the assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200.

In the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the assembly 1, 2 and the second extension 1006, 2006 of the other assembly 1, 2 of each pair, the rivet 1009 is intended to pass through an assembly aperture 1037, 2037 formed in the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the first portion 103A, 203A of the reaction member 103, 203 of the assembly 1, 2 and through an assembly aperture 1038, 2038 formed in the second portion 1006B, 2006B of the second extension 1006, 2006 of the outer disc holder 106, 206 of the other assembly 1, 2. In these pairs, as described for this fourth embodiment, it is apparent that the assembly apertures 1037, 2037 formed in the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the first portion 103A, 203A of the reaction member 103, 203 of one assembly 1, 2 are in a corresponding relationship to the assembly apertures 1038, 2038 formed in the second portion 1006B, 2006B of the second extension 1006, 2006 of the outer disc holder 106, 206 of the other assembly 1, 2.

The assembly device 3 then enables the assembly of the assemblies 1, 2 to be completed by means of the outer disc support 106, 206 of one assembly 1, 2 and the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2, by virtue of each rivet 1009 resulting in such an assembly configuration and described above for this fourth embodiment.

In the assembled state, the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of one assembly 1, 2 faces the second extension 1006, 2006 of the other assembly 1, 2. More specifically, the assembly apertures 1037, 2037 of the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of one assembly 1, 2 are in a corresponding relationship with the assembly apertures 1038, 2038 of the second extension 1006, 2006 of the other assembly 1, 2.

According to this fourth embodiment of the invention, the assembly means 3 also comprise each rivet 1009, as described above and participating in the assembly of the outer disc support 106, 206 of one assembly 1, 2 with the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2. More specifically, the assembly means 3 comprise the second angular sectors 1036, 2036 of one assembly 1, 2 and the second extensions 1006, 2006 of the other assembly 1, 2 of each pair and each rivet 1009 intended to cooperate with said pair.

In this fourth embodiment, it is evident that the assemblies 1, 2 are fastened to each other by their respective reaction members 103, 203 and by the outer disc carriers 106, 206 of one assembly 1, 2 cooperating with the reaction members 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2.

In a variant of the invention, each assembly aperture 1037, 2037 of the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of one assembly 1, 2 and each assembly aperture 1038, 2038 of the second portion 1006B, 2006B of the second extension 1006, 2006 configured to cooperate with each other are threaded holes, each configured to receive an assembly screw.

According to a particular variant of the fourth embodiment shown in fig. 8, the outer disc support 106, 206 of each assembly 1, 2 is fastened to the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2. To this end, the outer disc holder 106, 206 of each assembly 1, 2 comprises a further second extension 1006, 2006, as described for the third embodiment detailed above and intended to cooperate with a further second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2, as described for the third embodiment detailed above.

It is clear that the second extension 1006, 2006 of the outer disc holder 106, 206 of each assembly 1, 2, which is intended to cooperate with the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2, is separate from the second extension 1006, 2006 of the disc holder 106, 206 of the assembly 1, 2, which is intended to cooperate with the second extension 1006, 2006 of the disc holder 106, 206 of the other assembly 1, 2.

It is furthermore evident that the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of each reaction member 103, 203 of one assembly 1, 2, which is intended to cooperate with the second extension 1006, 2006 of the disk holder 106, 206 of the other assembly 1, 2, is separate from the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the assembly 1, 2, which is intended to cooperate with the second angular sector 1036, 2036 of the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 1, 2.

As shown in fig. 8, the reaction member 103 of the assembly 1 forming the first clutch 100 is adapted to cooperate with the outer disc carrier 206 of the assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200, and the reaction member 203 of the assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200 is adapted to cooperate with the outer disc carrier 106 of the assembly 1 forming the first clutch 100. More specifically, the second angular sector 1036 of the reaction member 103 of the assembly 1 forming the first clutch 100 is adapted to cooperate with the second extension 2006 of the outer disc carrier 206 of the assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200, and alternatively, the second angular sector 2036 of the reaction member 203 of the assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200 is adapted to cooperate with the second extension 1006 of the outer disc carrier 106 of the assembly 1 forming the first clutch 100. It is then evident that in this configuration the two assemblies 1, 2 are assembled to each other both by means of their respective reaction members 103, 203 and by means of the outer disc support 106, 206 of each assembly 1, 2 cooperating with the reaction member 103, 203 of the other assembly 2.

By alternating is meant that a pair of second angular sector 1036 of the assembly 1 forming the first clutch 100 and a second extension 2006 of the other assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200 are arranged circumferentially around the axis O alternately with a pair of second angular sector 2036 of the assembly 2 forming the second clutch 200 and a second extension 1006 of the other assembly 1 forming the first clutch 100.

According to the fifth embodiment shown in fig. 9, and in the same way as in the second to fourth embodiments described above, the reaction member 103, 203 of each assembly 1, 2 extends partially radially beyond the respective cavity C1, C2 of the outer disc support 106, 206 of the respective assembly 1, 2.

The reaction members 103, 203 of this fifth embodiment are similar to the second through fourth embodiments. The reaction members 103, 203 are particularly mounted on the outer disc carriers 106, 206 of the first and second clutches 100, 200.

In the same way, each reaction member 103, 203 comprises: a first portion 103A, 203A which extends radially mainly outside the cavity C1, C2, i.e. beyond the peripheral edge 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc support 106, 206; and a second portion 103B, 203B located inside the cavity C1, C2, i.e. inside the peripheral edge 1001, 2001 of the respective outer disc support 106, 206. Obviously, the configuration of the first portion 103A, 203A and the second portion 103B, 203B is the same as that of the second or third embodiment.

In the same manner as in the second to fourth embodiments, the peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the components 1, 2 are disposed facing each other; more specifically, the peripheral edges 1001, 2001 of the components 1, 2 are symmetrical with respect to each other.

The reaction members 103, 203 are secured to their respective outer disc holders 106, 206 in a similar manner to the second to fourth embodiments described above.

In the same way, it is apparent that the modifications envisaged for the second embodiment can be applied to this fifth embodiment.

In the same way as in the second to fourth embodiments, for assembling the assemblies 1, 2 to each other, the first portion 103A of the reaction member 103 of one assembly 1 is adapted to cooperate with the first portion 203A of the reaction member 203 of the other assembly 2. In the same way, the reaction members 103, 203 are connected to each other by their respective second angular sectors.

It is therefore evident that, in a similar manner to the second to fourth embodiments, the outer disc holders 106, 206 of the assemblies 1, 2 are fastened to each other by their reaction members 103, 203. As described in detail for the second embodiment, the first angular sector 1033, 2033 and the first extension 1003, 2003 of one component 1, 2 face the first angular sector 1033, 2033 and the first extension 1003, 2003 of the other component 1, 2. Thus, the first angular sector 1033, 2033 and the first extension 1003, 2003 of the same assembly 1, 2 of each pair are configured to be arranged facing the first angular sector 1033, 2033 and the first extension 1003, 2003 of the other assembly 1, 2 of the pair.

However, in contrast to the above described embodiments, in this fifth embodiment and alternating with the configuration of the first extensions 1003, 2003 described in detail for the second embodiment, the first angular sector 1033, 2033 and the first extension 1003, 2003 of the assembly 1, 2 of a pair and the first angular sector 1033, 2033 and the first extension 1003, 2003 of the other assembly 1, 2 of a pair are configured to receive the same rivet 1010. Thus, in the same assembly 1, 2, the same rivet 1010 is intended to pass through the assembly aperture 1034, 2034 formed in the first angular sector 1033, 2033 of the first portion 103A, 203A of the reaction member 103, 203 and the assembly hole 1004, 2004 formed in the first extension 1003, 2003 of the outer disc holder 106, 206, and then in the other assembly 1, 2, is intended to pass through the assembly aperture 1034, 2034 formed in the first angular sector 1033, 2033 of the first portion 103A, 203A of the reaction member 103, 203 and the assembly hole 1004, 2004 formed in the first extension 1003, 2003 of the outer disc holder 106, 206.

In this configuration, the rivets 1010 enable the disc holder 106, 206 and the reaction member 103, 203 of each assembly 1, 2 to be fastened to each other by direct contact.

Obviously, in order to ensure the correct assembly of the assemblies 1, 2 to each other, each rivet 1010 described in this fifth embodiment extends radially beyond the assembly holes 1004, 2004, thus keeping the first angular sectors 1033, 2033 and the first extensions 1003, 2003 of each pair clamped together, as described above for this second embodiment. It should also be noted that the rivet 1010 includes a shoulder at its center that is configured and dimensioned to axially abut the same pair of first angular sectors 1033, 2033 as described for this fifth embodiment.

It is clear that the above-described embodiments are generally characterized in that pairs of the described first and/or second extensions and/or the described first and/or second angular sectors are circumferentially distributed in an alternating manner about the axis O.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples just described, and many modifications may be made to those examples without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, the various features, forms, variants and embodiments of the invention may be associated with one another in various combinations, as long as they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, all the variants and embodiments described above can be combined with one another.