This inventionrelates to
electromagnetic clutches for use with vehicle air conditioning
compressors in general, and specifically to such a clutch in which the
driving engagement between the movable members of the clutch is
improved in terms of speed, strength, feel,wear and high speed
stability.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONElectromagnetic
clutches used with fluid pumping devices such as automotive air
conditioning system connect and disconnect engine power to the
compressor based on pumping demand. Such clutches have several
common elements, despite the myriaddesigns reflected in the published
patents. A central hub is fixed to the end of a central drive shaft that
extends out of the compressor. A rotor, typically an engine belt powered
pulley, runs freely on solid compressor housing bearings,concentrically
surrounding, and perpendicular to, the shaft.