A torque converter housing for a hydrodynamic transmission module and a method of operation thereof

Abstract

The application belongs to the technical field of hydraulic transmission, and discloses a torque converter shell of a hydraulic transmission module and a working method thereof; the working method of the torque converter shell of the hydraulic transmission module comprises the following steps: oil liquid enters a rough filter oil channel, an oil supply oil channel and a fine filter oil channel in sequence through an oil sump, enters a hydraulic valve plate through the fine filter oil channel, part of the oil liquid of the hydraulic valve plate enters a lock oil channel, another part of the oil liquid of the hydraulic valve plate enters a working oil channel, enters an out-shell oil channel and a cooling oil circuit in sequence through the working oil channel, and flows back to the oil sump through the cooling oil circuit; the application can be adapted to the mounting interfaces of various high-horsepower engine shells, meets the mounting requirements of the torque converter, and can realize the normal operation of the control oil circuit and the working oil circuit; the oil liquid is preliminarily filtered through the rough filter oil channel, and then further purified through the fine filter oil channel, so that the reliability of the entire hydraulic transmission system is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of hydraulic transmission technology, specifically to a torque converter housing for a hydraulic transmission module and its operating method. Background Technology

[0002] In the heavy commercial vehicle sector, the performance of the transmission system in large-tonnage vehicles (weighing approximately 130 tons) is crucial, directly impacting transportation efficiency and operating costs. Traditionally, these vehicles employ a clutch slippage start method, but this method has significant drawbacks. During vehicle start-up, frequent clutch slippage generates substantial heat, accelerating clutch disc wear. This not only reduces starting capability, causing issues like start-up jerking and insufficient power, but also significantly increases the frequency and cost of after-sales maintenance, affecting normal vehicle operation.

[0003] To improve this situation, hydraulic transmission modules have emerged and are gradually being applied. These modules mainly consist of a hydraulic torque converter, installed between the engine and transmission, using hydraulic oil as the medium to transmit power. The torque converter can automatically adjust torque output according to vehicle load, making vehicle starts smoother and more powerful, effectively improving the vehicle's starting ability. At the same time, it reduces direct friction and impact between mechanical parts, lowering the failure rate and thus reducing after-sales maintenance costs, providing strong support for the stable operation of heavy-duty vehicles.

[0004] However, existing hydraulic transmission modules also have significant shortcomings. They are poorly adaptable and cannot perfectly match the mounting interfaces of various high-horsepower engine housings, leading to cumbersome installation processes and even installation failures due to incompatibility. Furthermore, they fail to meet the installation requirements of torque converters, affecting their normal operation. In addition, the control and working hydraulic circuits cannot operate normally, easily resulting in problems such as oil circuit blockage and unstable pressure, which in turn affects power transmission efficiency and poses numerous hidden dangers to vehicle operation. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a torque converter housing for a hydraulic transmission module and its operating method, so as to overcome the problems existing in the prior art. This invention can be adapted to the installation interface of various high-horsepower engine housings, meet the installation requirements of torque converters, and at the same time realize the normal operation of control oil circuit and working oil circuit. The oil is initially filtered through the coarse filter oil channel and then further purified through the fine filter oil channel, ensuring the reliability of the entire hydraulic transmission system.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a torque converter housing for a hydraulic transmission module, including a torque converter housing, an oil pan mounting surface at the bottom of the torque converter housing for mounting an oil pan, a hydraulic valve plate mounting surface inside the oil pan mounting surface for mounting a hydraulic valve plate, and a hollow partition wall inside the torque converter housing, with a through hole in the middle of the hollow partition wall, and an oil distribution plate mounting surface circumferentially provided on the through hole.

[0008] One end of the hollow partition wall is provided with an outlet oil passage, a locking oil passage, and a working oil passage. One end of the outlet oil passage, the locking oil passage, and the working oil passage are respectively connected to the mounting surface of the distribution plate. The other end of the outlet oil passage, the locking oil passage, and the working oil passage are respectively connected to the mounting surface of the hydraulic valve plate, which are used to control the opening and closing of the locking oil passage and to regulate the pressure of the working oil passage. The outlet oil passage is also connected to a cooling oil passage, which is connected to the mounting surface of the oil pan. The cooling oil passage is located on the outside of the torque converter housing near the working oil passage.

[0009] The other end of one side of the hollow partition wall is provided with an oil pump mounting surface for installing an oil pump. The oil pump mounting surface is provided with an oil supply channel, a coarse filter channel and a fine filter channel. One end of the coarse filter channel is connected to the oil pan mounting surface, and the other end of the coarse filter channel is connected to the oil supply channel. One end of the fine filter channel is connected to the oil supply channel, and the other end of the fine filter channel is connected to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface.

[0010] Furthermore, the oil supply channel includes an oil pump inlet and an oil pump outlet. The oil pump inlet is located on the oil pump mounting surface and is connected to the oil pump outlet via the oil pump. The oil pump outlet extends from the oil pump mounting surface to the oil pan mounting surface and is located on one side of the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface.

[0011] Furthermore, the coarse filter oil passage includes a coarse filter outlet and a coarse filter. The coarse filter outlet extends from the oil pump mounting surface to the oil pan mounting surface. The coarse filter outlet located on the oil pump mounting surface is connected to the oil pump inlet. The coarse filter outlet located on the oil pan mounting surface is connected to the outlet of the coarse filter. The inlet of the coarse filter is connected to the oil pan. The coarse filter outlet located on the oil pan mounting surface is located on the side of the oil pump outlet away from the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface.

[0012] The fine filter oil passage includes a fine filter outlet and a fine filter. The fine filter outlet is located on the oil pan mounting surface and is located on the side of the oil pump outlet near the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface. One end of the fine filter outlet is connected to the outlet of the fine filter, and the other end of the fine filter outlet is connected to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface. The inlet of the fine filter is connected to the oil pump outlet.

[0013] Furthermore, the working oil passage includes an outlet torque converter oil passage and an inlet torque converter oil passage. One end of the outlet torque converter oil passage and the inlet torque converter oil passage are respectively connected to the mounting surface of the distributor plate, and the other end of the outlet torque converter oil passage and the inlet torque converter oil passage are respectively connected to the mounting surface of the hydraulic valve plate.

[0014] Furthermore, the cooling oil circuit includes a housing oil inlet, an oil cooler, and a housing oil outlet. The housing oil inlet and housing oil outlet are located on the outside of the torque converter housing near the working oil passage. The housing oil inlet is located at the bottom of the housing oil outlet to prevent air bubbles from forming during oil return. A temperature sensor mounting hole is provided at the housing oil outlet for mounting a temperature sensor. One end of the housing oil inlet is connected to the oil pan mounting surface, and the other end of the housing oil inlet is connected to the outlet of the oil cooler. One end of the housing oil outlet is connected to the housing oil passage, and the other end of the housing oil outlet is connected to the inlet of the oil cooler.

[0015] The torque converter housing is also provided with several process mounting holes on the outside of the side near the working oil passage. The process mounting holes are located at the top of the oil outlet of the housing.

[0016] A level gauge mounting hole is provided on the outer side of the torque converter housing away from the working oil passage for mounting a level gauge;

[0017] Furthermore, the torque converter housing located on the side of the hollow partition wall near the working oil passage has several wiring harness clip mounting holes circumferentially extended; the torque converter housing located on the side of the hollow partition wall away from the working oil passage has an engine housing contact surface circumferentially extended, and several housing fixing through holes are opened on the engine housing contact surface; oil seal mounting holes are provided on the through holes of the hollow partition wall, and the oil seal mounting holes are used to cooperate with the torque converter for sealing; and through oil passages are also provided at both ends of the hollow partition wall near the working oil passage to ensure oil flow.

[0018] Furthermore, a vent is provided on the top of the torque converter housing, extending from the top of the torque converter housing into the interior of the torque converter housing. A vent plug mounting hole is provided at one end of the vent at the top of the torque converter housing for installing a vent plug. An oil filling hole is provided on the top of the torque converter housing, located to one side of the vent plug mounting hole. An internal wiring harness mounting port is also provided on the top of the torque converter housing.

[0019] Secondly, the present invention provides a method for operating the torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module, comprising the following steps:

[0020] Step 1: Install the oil pan on the oil pan mounting surface, install the hydraulic valve plate on the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface, and install the oil pump on the oil pump mounting surface.

[0021] Step 2: The oil flows through the oil pan into the coarse filter oil passage, the oil supply oil passage, and the fine filter oil passage in sequence, and then enters the hydraulic valve plate through the fine filter oil passage.

[0022] Step 3: A portion of the oil in the hydraulic valve plate enters the locking oil passage, and another portion of the oil in the hydraulic valve plate enters the working oil passage. Through the working oil passage, the oil flows into the outlet oil passage and the cooling oil passage in sequence, and then flows back to the oil pan through the cooling oil passage.

[0023] Furthermore, the oil supply channel includes an oil pump inlet and an oil pump outlet. The oil pump inlet is located on the oil pump mounting surface and is connected to the oil pump outlet via the oil pump. The oil pump outlet extends from the oil pump mounting surface to the oil pan mounting surface and is located on one side of the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface.

[0024] The coarse filter oil passage includes a coarse filter outlet and a coarse filter. The coarse filter outlet extends from the oil pump mounting surface to the oil pan mounting surface. The coarse filter outlet on the oil pump mounting surface is connected to the oil pump inlet. The coarse filter outlet on the oil pan mounting surface is connected to the outlet of the coarse filter. The inlet of the coarse filter is connected to the oil pan. The coarse filter outlet on the oil pan mounting surface is located on the side of the oil pump outlet away from the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface.

[0025] The fine filter oil passage includes a fine filter outlet and a fine filter. The fine filter outlet is located on the oil pan mounting surface and is located on the side of the oil pump outlet near the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface. One end of the fine filter outlet is connected to the outlet of the fine filter, and the other end of the fine filter outlet is connected to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface. The inlet of the fine filter is connected to the oil pump outlet.

[0026] The oil flows sequentially through the oil pan into the coarse filter oil passage, the oil supply oil passage, and the fine filter oil passage. Specifically, the oil enters the hydraulic valve plate through the fine filter oil passage:

[0027] The oil in the oil pan enters the coarse filter through the inlet of the coarse filter for coarse filtration. The coarsely filtered oil then enters the coarse filter outlet and the oil pump inlet in sequence through the outlet of the coarse filter. After entering the oil pump through the oil pump inlet, the oil flows out through the oil pump outlet. After flowing out of the oil pump outlet, the oil enters the fine filter through the inlet of the fine filter for fine filtration. The finely filtered oil then enters the fine filter outlet through the outlet of the fine filter and enters the hydraulic valve plate through the fine filter outlet.

[0028] Furthermore, the working oil passage includes an outlet torque converter oil passage and an inlet torque converter oil passage. One end of the outlet torque converter oil passage and the inlet torque converter oil passage are respectively connected to the mounting surface of the distributor plate, and the other end of the outlet torque converter oil passage and the inlet torque converter oil passage are respectively connected to the mounting surface of the hydraulic valve plate.

[0029] The cooling oil circuit includes a housing oil inlet, an oil cooler, and a housing oil outlet. The housing oil inlet and housing oil outlet are located on the outside of the torque converter housing near the working oil passage. The housing oil inlet is located at the bottom of the housing oil outlet. One end of the housing oil inlet is connected to the oil pan, and the other end of the housing oil inlet is connected to the outlet of the oil cooler. One end of the housing oil outlet is connected to the housing oil passage, and the other end of the housing oil outlet is connected to the inlet of the oil cooler.

[0030] Another portion of the oil from the hydraulic valve plate enters the working oil passage, then sequentially enters the outlet oil passage and the cooling oil passage, and finally flows back to the oil pan through the cooling oil passage. Specifically, this includes:

[0031] Another portion of the hydraulic fluid on the hydraulic valve plate enters the torque converter through the torque converter inlet passage and then flows back to the hydraulic valve plate through the torque converter outlet passage. The fluid flowing back to the hydraulic valve plate enters the housing outlet through the housing outlet passage. The fluid entering the housing outlet enters the oil cooler through the inlet of the oil cooler for cooling. The cooled fluid enters the housing inlet through the outlet of the cooler and flows back to the oil pan.

[0032] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects:

[0033] Firstly, this invention provides a torque converter housing for a hydraulic transmission module. By employing low-pressure casting of aluminum alloy and convex stop positioning, it can be adapted to various heavy-duty truck engines and meets vehicle lightweighting requirements. While maintaining strength, it reduces weight, contributing to improved fuel economy and performance. Through the design of a hydraulic valve plate mounting surface, a torque converter locking oil passage, and a working oil passage within the housing, the pressure of the torque converter's working oil circuit can be regulated, and the opening and closing of the torque converter locking oil circuit can be controlled, satisfying the torque converter's locking and unlocking requirements. This simplifies the structure of other parts, reduces complexity, decreases the probability of failure, and improves transmission efficiency. The system ensures reliability and stability. Preliminary filtration of the oil via a coarse filter channel, followed by further purification via a fine filter channel, provides clean oil to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface, guaranteeing the reliability of the entire hydraulic transmission system and effectively preventing blockages and pressure instability. The cooling oil circuit connected to the housing oil passage effectively removes heat generated by the system, maintaining a suitable operating temperature and extending the service life of components. This invention is adaptable to the mounting interfaces of various high-horsepower engine housings, meeting the installation requirements of torque converters, and simultaneously enabling the normal operation of the control and working oil circuits. This torque converter housing is a crucial component for the hydraulic transmission module to achieve its functions.

[0034] Furthermore, installing the oil pump inlet on the oil pump mounting surface facilitates accurate installation and connection of the oil pump, ensuring the sealing and stability of the oil supply system. The oil pump outlet extends from the oil pump mounting surface to the oil pan mounting surface and is located on one side of the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface, allowing the oil to flow smoothly from the oil pump to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface, reducing oil flow resistance and path, and improving oil supply efficiency. At the same time, the reasonable oil supply channel design helps to ensure the stability of oil pressure and flow, providing reliable working conditions for the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface, thereby ensuring the normal operation of the entire hydraulic transmission module, reducing the probability of failure, and improving the reliability and durability of the system.

[0035] Furthermore, regarding the coarse filter oil passage, the coarse filter outlet connects the oil pump mounting surface and the oil pan mounting surface, and is also connected to the oil pump inlet. The coarse filter inlet is connected to the oil pan, so that the oil flowing out of the oil pan first undergoes preliminary filtration through the coarse filter to remove larger particulate impurities before entering the oil pump. This effectively protects the oil pump, reduces wear caused by impurities, and extends the oil pump's service life. At the same time, the coarse filter outlet is located on the side of the oil pump outlet away from the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface, avoiding oil circuit interference and making the oil flow smoother. Regarding the fine filter oil passage, the fine filter outlet is installed on the oil pan mounting surface and close to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface. The fine filter inlet is connected to the oil pump outlet, and the outlet is connected to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface. After being pressurized by the oil pump, the oil enters the fine filter for further purification, providing the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface with cleaner oil. This ensures precise control and stable operation of the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface, improving the reliability and stability of the entire hydraulic transmission system.

[0036] Furthermore, the torque converter oil passages at the outlet and inlet are connected to the distributor plate mounting surface and the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface, respectively, enabling effective circulation of the oil between the torque converter and the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface. The torque converter oil passage at the inlet delivers the oil adjusted by the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface to the torque converter, providing power support for its normal operation. The torque converter oil passage at the outlet returns the used oil to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface for subsequent processing or readjustment. This ensures a stable supply and circulation of oil during torque converter operation, helps maintain the torque converter's performance and efficiency, reduces malfunctions caused by oil supply issues, improves the reliability and stability of the entire hydraulic transmission module, and extends the service life of the equipment.

[0037] Furthermore, the oil inlet of the cooling oil circuit is located at the bottom of the oil outlet of the housing, which can effectively prevent the formation of air bubbles during oil return, ensure the stability of oil flow and cooling effect, and avoid adverse effects of air bubbles on the system. A temperature sensor is installed at the oil outlet of the housing to monitor the oil temperature in real time, so as to facilitate timely understanding of the system's heat dissipation status and ensure that the system operates at a suitable temperature. The process mounting hole is located at the top of the oil outlet of the housing, which provides convenience for installation, maintenance and other operations and optimizes the space layout. A level gauge is installed on the side of the torque converter housing away from the working oil passage, so as to facilitate observation of the internal oil level and timely replenishment of oil.

[0038] Furthermore, several wiring harness clip mounting holes are installed circumferentially on the side of the hollow partition wall near the working oil passage to secure the wiring harness and reduce signal transmission failure caused by vibration. The engine housing contact surface and several housing fixing through holes circumferentially located on the side of the hollow partition wall away from the working oil passage ensure a stable and precise connection between the torque converter housing and the engine housing, guaranteeing the stability and reliability of the entire power transmission system and reducing vibration and noise caused by loose connections. The oil seal mounting holes installed on the through holes of the hollow partition wall can cooperate with the torque converter to achieve a good seal, effectively preventing oil leakage, ensuring the normal circulation and working pressure of the oil inside the system, and improving transmission efficiency.

[0039] Furthermore, the venting channel effectively prevents splashed oil from flowing out of the housing; the oil filling hole is located on one side of the vent plug, making it easy to add oil into the housing; the internal wiring harness mounting port can be connected to the circuit to control the internal solenoid valve, realizing the connection between the lock-up solenoid valve and the controller.

[0040] Secondly, this invention provides a method for operating the torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module. Regarding oil filtration, the oil sequentially passes through a coarse filter channel, a supply channel, and a fine filter channel. This multi-stage filtration mechanism effectively removes impurities from the oil, ensuring the cleanliness of the oil entering the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface. Clean oil not only reduces wear on the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface and subsequent oil channels and components, extending their service life, but also improves the stability and reliability of the entire hydraulic transmission system, reducing the failure rate caused by oil contamination. Regarding oil circulation and control, the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface rationally distributes the oil. A portion enters the locking channel to meet the torque converter's locking and unlocking requirements, while another portion enters the working channel, flowing back to the oil pan via the housing outlet channel and cooling oil circuit, forming a complete cycle. The cooling oil circuit design effectively removes heat generated by the system, maintaining a suitable operating temperature and ensuring system performance. This invention's operating method provides a clear oil flow path, facilitating system monitoring and maintenance, enabling timely detection and resolution of potential problems, improving system maintainability and safety, and ensuring the torque converter operates efficiently and stably.

[0041] Furthermore, the oil is first coarsely filtered by a coarse filter, which effectively removes larger particulate impurities from the oil, preventing these impurities from entering the subsequent oil pump and fine filter. This protects the oil pump, reduces its wear, extends its service life, and lowers equipment maintenance costs. Next, the coarsely filtered oil enters the oil pump for pressurization and then undergoes fine filtration by a fine filter to further remove tiny impurities. This provides highly clean oil to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface, ensuring the accurate and stable operation of the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface and improving the reliability and performance of the entire hydraulic transmission system.

[0042] Furthermore, the hydraulic fluid circulates between the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface and the torque converter through the torque converter inlet and outlet oil passages, ensuring a stable supply of hydraulic fluid required for the normal operation of the torque converter and maintaining its stable performance. The hydraulic fluid flowing back to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface enters the oil cooler through the housing outlet oil passage and housing outlet to cool down, which can effectively reduce the hydraulic fluid temperature and prevent the system performance and component life from being affected by excessively high oil temperature. The cooled hydraulic fluid flows back to the oil pan through the housing inlet, forming a complete cycle. The circulating cooling design can remove the heat generated by the system in a timely manner, ensuring that the hydraulic fluid is always within a suitable operating temperature range, improving the reliability and stability of the system, reducing failures caused by high temperature, extending the overall service life of the equipment, and reducing maintenance costs. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to the present invention;

[0044] Figure 2 This is a front view of the torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to the present invention;

[0045] Figure 3 This is a rear view of the torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to the present invention.

[0046] Figure 4 This is a left view of the torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to the present invention;

[0047] Figure 5 This is a right view of the torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to the present invention;

[0048] Figure 6 This is a top view of the torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to the present invention;

[0049] Figure 7 This is a bottom view of the torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to the present invention;

[0050] In the diagram, 1. Torque converter housing; 2. Outlet oil passage; 3. Locking oil passage; 4. Outlet torque converter oil passage; 5. Inlet torque converter oil passage; 6. Oil pump outlet; 7. Oil pump inlet; 8. Hydraulic valve plate mounting surface; 9. Fine filter outlet; 10. Coarse filter outlet; 11. Oil pan mounting surface; 12. Process mounting hole; 13. Housing inlet; 14. Housing outlet; 15. Housing fixing through hole; 16. Engine housing contact surface; 17. Oil seal mounting hole; 18. Hollow partition wall; 19. Lifting threaded hole; 20. Filler hole; 21. Internal wiring harness mounting port; 22. Vent plug mounting hole; 23. Vent passage; 24. Temperature sensor mounting hole; 25. Wiring harness clip mounting hole; 26. Level gauge mounting hole; 27. Oil pump mounting surface; 28. Through oil passage; 29. ​​Oil distribution plate mounting surface. Detailed Implementation

[0051] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments. These descriptions are for explanation purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0052] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0053] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0054] Example:

[0055] This invention provides a torque converter housing for a hydraulic transmission module. The housing contains complex oil passages. To meet the vehicle's lightweight requirements, it is designed as a one-piece structure formed by low-pressure casting of aluminum alloy. The structure includes a torque converter housing 1, an oil pan mounting surface 11, a hydraulic valve plate mounting surface 8, a hollow partition wall 18, a distributor plate mounting surface 29, an outlet oil passage 2, a locking oil passage 3, a working oil passage, an oil pump mounting surface 27, a cooling oil circuit, an oil supply oil passage, a coarse filter oil passage, a fine filter oil passage, a temperature sensor mounting hole 24, a process mounting hole 12, and a level gauge mounting hole 2. 6. Wiring harness clip mounting hole 25, engine housing contact surface 16, housing fixing through hole 15, oil seal mounting hole 17, through oil passage 28, vent passage 23, vent plug 22, and internal wiring harness mounting port 21; Cooling oil circuit includes housing oil inlet 13, oil cooler, and housing oil outlet 14; Oil supply oil circuit includes oil pump inlet 7, oil pump, and oil pump outlet 6; Coarse filter oil circuit includes coarse filter outlet 10 and coarse filter; Fine filter oil circuit includes fine filter outlet 9 and fine filter; Working oil circuit includes torque converter outlet oil passage 4 and torque converter inlet oil passage 5;

[0056] See Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 7 An oil pan mounting surface 11 is located at the bottom of the torque converter housing 1, and is used to mount the oil pan. A hydraulic valve plate mounting surface 8 is installed inside the oil pan mounting surface 11, and is used to mount the hydraulic valve plate. A hollow partition wall 18 is provided inside the torque converter housing 1, with a through hole in the center of the hollow partition wall 18. A distribution plate mounting surface 29 is arranged around the through hole. One end of one side of the hollow partition wall 18 is provided with an outlet oil passage 2, a locking oil passage 3, and a working oil passage. One end of the outlet oil passage 2, the locking oil passage 3, and the working oil passage are respectively connected to the distribution plate mounting surface 29, and the other end of the outlet oil passage 2, the locking oil passage 3, and the working oil passage are respectively connected to... The hydraulic valve plate mounting surface 8 is connected to control the opening and closing of the locking oil passage 3 and to regulate the pressure of the working oil passage; the outlet oil passage 2 is also connected to the cooling oil passage, which is connected to the oil pan mounting surface 11. The cooling oil passage is located on the outside of the torque converter housing 1 on the side near the working oil passage; the other end of the hollow partition wall 18 is provided with an oil pump mounting surface 27 for installing an oil pump. The oil pump mounting surface 27 is provided with an oil supply passage, a coarse filter passage, and a fine filter passage. One end of the coarse filter passage is connected to the oil pan mounting surface 11, and the other end of the coarse filter passage is connected to the oil supply passage. One end of the fine filter passage is connected to the oil supply passage, and the other end of the fine filter passage is connected to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface 8.

[0057] The oil pump inlet 7 of the oil supply channel is located on the oil pump mounting surface 27. The oil pump inlet 7 is connected to the oil pump outlet 6 through the oil pump. The oil pump outlet 6 extends from the oil pump mounting surface 27 to the oil pan mounting surface 11 and is located on one side of the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface 8. The coarse filter outlet 10 of the coarse filter channel extends from the oil pump mounting surface 27 to the oil pan mounting surface 11. The coarse filter outlet 10 located on the oil pump mounting surface 27 is connected to the oil pump inlet 7, and the coarse filter outlet 10 located on the oil pan mounting surface 11 is connected to the outlet of the coarse filter. The inlet of the oil pump is connected to the oil pan. The coarse filter outlet 10 located on the oil pan mounting surface 11 is located on the side of the oil pump outlet 6 away from the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface 8. The fine filter outlet 9 of the fine filter oil passage is located on the oil pan mounting surface 11. The fine filter outlet 9 is located on the side of the oil pump outlet 6 close to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface 8. It is used to provide finely filtered hydraulic oil to the entire torque converter. One end of the fine filter outlet 9 is connected to the outlet of the fine filter, and the other end of the fine filter outlet 9 is connected to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface 8. The inlet of the fine filter is connected to the oil pump outlet 6.

[0058] Preferably, the torque converter housing 1 is an integral cylindrical structure;

[0059] Preferably, a hydraulic valve plate mounting surface 8 is provided inside the oil pan mounting surface 11 for regulating the working oil circuit pressure of the torque converter and controlling the opening and closing of the torque converter lock-up oil circuit.

[0060] Preferably, both the coarse filter and the fine filter are located below the torque converter housing 1 for easy subsequent inspection and maintenance.

[0061] See Figure 4 and Figure 5The working oil passage includes an outlet torque converter oil passage 4 and an inlet torque converter oil passage 5. One end of the outlet torque converter oil passage 4 and the inlet torque converter oil passage 5 are respectively connected to the distributor plate mounting surface 29, and the other end of the outlet torque converter oil passage 4 and the inlet torque converter oil passage 5 are respectively connected to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface 8. The housing inlet 13 and housing outlet 14 of the cooling oil circuit are located on the outside of the torque converter housing 1 near the working oil passage. The housing inlet 13 is located at the bottom of the housing outlet 14 to prevent air bubbles from forming during oil return. A temperature sensor mounting hole 24 is provided at the housing outlet 14 for mounting a temperature sensor to detect the outlet oil temperature for controlling the torque converter. The system provides a temperature signal. One end of the housing oil inlet 13 is connected to the oil pan mounting surface 11, and the other end of the housing oil inlet 13 is connected to the outlet of the oil cooler. One end of the housing oil outlet 14 is connected to the housing oil passage 2, and the other end of the housing oil outlet 14 is connected to the inlet of the oil cooler. Several process mounting holes 12 are also provided on the outer side of the torque converter housing 1 near the working oil passage for clamping the housing, which helps with process assembly. The process mounting holes 12 are located at the top of the housing oil outlet 14. A level gauge mounting hole 26 is provided on the outer side of the torque converter housing 1 away from the working oil passage for installing a level gauge, which can display the liquid level in real time.

[0062] Preferably, the oil inlet 13 of the housing is positioned lower than the oil outlet 14 of the housing, which can effectively prevent air bubbles from forming during oil return.

[0063] Preferably, the number of process mounting holes 12 can be 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10, or other numbers that can achieve the clamping of the housing.

[0064] See Figure 1 and Figure 3 The torque converter housing 1 located on the side of the hollow partition wall 18 near the working oil passage has several wire harness clip mounting holes 25 arranged circumferentially to fix the wire harness and reduce signal transmission failure caused by vibration. The torque converter housing 1 located on the side of the hollow partition wall 18 away from the working oil passage has an engine housing contact surface 16 arranged circumferentially, and several housing fixing through holes 15 are opened on the engine housing contact surface 16. Oil seal mounting holes 17 are provided on the through holes of the hollow partition wall 18. The oil seal mounting holes 17 are used to cooperate with the torque converter to seal and prevent internal hydraulic leakage. At both ends of the hollow partition wall 18 near the working oil passage, there are also through oil passages 28 to ensure that the oil flows through both ends.

[0065] Preferably, the engine housing contact surface 16 is in the form of a convex stop, and the torque converter housing 1 is connected to the mounting surface of the engine housing through the engine housing contact surface 16 and a plurality of housing fixing through holes 15 for fixing the torque converter housing 1.

[0066] Preferably, the engine housing contact surface 16 is circular, and a plurality of housing fixing through holes 15 are circumferentially formed around the engine housing contact surface 16.

[0067] Preferably, the number of housing fixing through holes 15 can be 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30, or other numbers that can achieve connection with the mounting surface of the engine housing;

[0068] Preferably, the number of wire harness clip mounting holes 25 can be 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30, or any other number that can secure the wire harness.

[0069] See Figure 6 A vent duct 23 is provided on the top of the torque converter housing 1, extending from the top of the torque converter housing 1 into the interior of the torque converter housing 1. A vent plug mounting hole 22 is provided at one end of the top of the vent duct 23 for installing a vent plug. A filler hole 20 is provided on the top of the torque converter housing 1 for easy addition of hydraulic oil. The filler hole 20 is located on one side of the vent plug 22. An internal wiring harness mounting port 21 is also provided on the top of the torque converter housing 1 for connecting the circuit to control the internal solenoid valve, thereby realizing the connection between the lock-up solenoid valve and the controller.

[0070] Preferably, the ventilation duct 23 is a horizontal duct, which can effectively prevent splashed oil from flowing out of the housing;

[0071] Preferably, the top of the torque converter housing 1 is also provided with several lifting threaded holes 19 for installing lifting lugs;

[0072] Preferably, the number of lifting threaded holes 19 can be 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, or other numbers that can achieve lifting.

[0073] In one embodiment of the present invention, a method for operating the torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module is provided, comprising the following steps:

[0074] Step 1: Install the oil pan on the oil pan mounting surface 11, install the hydraulic valve plate on the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface 8, and install the oil pump on the oil pump mounting surface 27.

[0075] Step 2: The oil flows through the oil pan into the coarse filter oil passage, the oil supply oil passage, and the fine filter oil passage in sequence, and then enters the hydraulic valve plate through the fine filter oil passage.

[0076] Specifically, the oil in the oil pan enters the coarse filter through the inlet of the coarse filter for coarse filtration. The coarsely filtered oil then enters the coarse filter outlet 10 and the oil pump inlet 7 through the outlet of the coarse filter. After entering the oil pump through the oil pump inlet 7, the oil flows out through the oil pump outlet 6. The oil that flows out of the oil pump outlet 6 enters the fine filter through the inlet of the fine filter for fine filtration. The finely filtered oil then enters the fine filter outlet 9 through the outlet of the fine filter and enters the hydraulic valve plate through the fine filter outlet 9.

[0077] Step 2: A portion of the oil from the hydraulic valve plate enters the locking oil passage 3, and another portion of the oil from the hydraulic valve plate enters the working oil passage. Through the working oil passage, the oil flows sequentially into the outlet oil passage 2 and the cooling oil passage, and then flows back to the oil pan through the cooling oil passage.

[0078] Specifically, another portion of the hydraulic valve plate's oil enters the torque converter through the torque converter inlet oil passage 5 and then flows back to the hydraulic valve plate through the torque converter outlet oil passage 4. The oil flowing back to the hydraulic valve plate enters the housing outlet 14 through the housing outlet oil passage 2. The oil entering the housing outlet 14 enters the oil cooler through the inlet of the oil cooler for cooling. The cooled oil enters the housing inlet 13 through the outlet of the cooler. The oil entering the housing inlet 13 flows back to the oil pan.

[0079] This invention provides a torque converter housing for a hydraulic transmission module, which is compatible with the mounting interfaces of various high-horsepower engine housings, meeting the installation requirements of the torque converter. It also ensures the normal operation of the control and working oil circuits. This torque converter housing is a crucial component for the hydraulic transmission module to achieve its functions. Manufactured using low-pressure aluminum alloy casting and featuring a raised stop for positioning, it is compatible with various heavy-duty truck engines while meeting vehicle lightweighting requirements. The torque converter housing 1 incorporates a locking oil passage 3 and a working oil passage, fulfilling the torque converter's locking and unlocking requirements and reducing the complexity of other parts. It also includes mounting interfaces for the control hydraulic valve plate and the oil pump, enabling the torque converter's oil supply and control circuits. An external mounting interface for a level gauge 26 is provided on the outside of the torque converter housing 1 for easy observation of the internal oil level. A vent plug 22 is installed on the top of the torque converter housing 1 to ensure stable internal pressure. These designs fulfill various operational requirements of the torque converter, solve the problem of complex torque converter housing design, and reduce the design and manufacturing difficulty of other mating parts.

[0080] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A torque converter housing for a hydraulic transmission module, characterized in that, The torque converter housing (1) includes an oil pan mounting surface (11) at the bottom for mounting an oil pan, a hydraulic valve plate mounting surface (8) inside the oil pan mounting surface (11) for mounting a hydraulic valve plate, and a hollow partition wall (18) inside the torque converter housing (1) with a through hole in the middle and an oil distribution plate mounting surface (29) on the upper ring of the through hole. One end of the hollow partition wall (18) is provided with an outlet oil passage (2), a locking oil passage (3) and a working oil passage. One end of the outlet oil passage (2), the locking oil passage (3) and the working oil passage are respectively connected to the oil distribution plate mounting surface (29). The other end of the outlet oil passage (2), the locking oil passage (3) and the working oil passage are respectively connected to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface (8) to control the opening and closing of the locking oil passage (3) and adjust the pressure of the working oil passage. The outlet oil passage (2) is also connected to a cooling oil passage. The cooling oil passage is connected to the oil pan mounting surface (11). The cooling oil passage is located on the outside of the torque converter housing (1) near the working oil passage. The other end of the hollow partition wall (18) is provided with an oil pump mounting surface (27) for installing an oil pump. The oil pump mounting surface (27) is provided with an oil supply channel, a coarse filter channel and a fine filter channel. One end of the coarse filter channel is connected to the oil pan mounting surface (11), and the other end of the coarse filter channel is connected to the oil supply channel. One end of the fine filter channel is connected to the oil supply channel, and the other end of the fine filter channel is connected to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface (8).

2. The torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The oil supply channel includes an oil pump inlet (7) and an oil pump outlet (6). The oil pump inlet (7) is located on the oil pump mounting surface (27). The oil pump inlet (7) is connected to the oil pump outlet (6) through the oil pump. The oil pump outlet (6) extends from the oil pump mounting surface (27) to the oil pan mounting surface (11). The oil pump outlet (6) is located on one side of the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface (8).

3. The torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The coarse filter oil passage includes a coarse filter outlet (10) and a coarse filter. The coarse filter outlet (10) extends from the oil pump mounting surface (27) to the oil pan mounting surface (11). The coarse filter outlet (10) on the oil pump mounting surface (27) is connected to the oil pump inlet (7). The coarse filter outlet (10) on the oil pan mounting surface (11) is connected to the outlet of the coarse filter. The inlet of the coarse filter is connected to the oil pan. The coarse filter outlet (10) on the oil pan mounting surface (11) is located on the side of the oil pump outlet (6) away from the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface (8). The fine filter oil passage includes a fine filter outlet (9) and a fine filter. The fine filter outlet (9) is located on the oil pan mounting surface (11). The fine filter outlet (9) is located on the side of the oil pump outlet (6) near the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface (8). One end of the fine filter outlet (9) is connected to the outlet of the fine filter, and the other end of the fine filter outlet (9) is connected to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface (8). The inlet of the fine filter is connected to the oil pump outlet (6).

4. The torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The working oil passage includes an outlet torque converter oil passage (4) and an inlet torque converter oil passage (5). One end of the outlet torque converter oil passage (4) and the inlet torque converter oil passage (5) are respectively connected to the oil distribution plate mounting surface (29), and the other end of the outlet torque converter oil passage (4) and the inlet torque converter oil passage (5) are respectively connected to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface (8).

5. The torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooling oil circuit includes a housing oil inlet (13), an oil cooler, and a housing oil outlet (14). The housing oil inlet (13) and the housing oil outlet (14) are located on the outside of the torque converter housing (1) near the working oil passage. The housing oil inlet (13) is located at the bottom of the housing oil outlet (14) to prevent air bubbles from being generated during oil return. A temperature sensor mounting hole (24) is provided at the housing oil outlet (14) for mounting a temperature sensor. One end of the housing oil inlet (13) is connected to the oil pan mounting surface (11), and the other end of the housing oil inlet (13) is connected to the outlet of the oil cooler. One end of the housing oil outlet (14) is connected to the housing oil passage (2), and the other end of the housing oil outlet (14) is connected to the inlet of the oil cooler. The torque converter housing (1) is provided with several process mounting holes (12) on the outside of the side near the working oil passage. The process mounting holes (12) are located at the top of the oil outlet (14) of the housing. The torque converter housing (1) has a level gauge mounting hole (26) on the side away from the working oil passage for mounting a level gauge.

6. The torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The torque converter housing (1) located on the side of the hollow partition wall (18) near the working oil passage has several wire harness clip mounting holes (25) circumferentially extended; the torque converter housing (1) located on the side of the hollow partition wall (18) away from the working oil passage has an engine housing contact surface (16) circumferentially extended, and several housing fixing through holes (15) are opened on the engine housing contact surface (16); oil seal mounting holes (17) are provided on the through holes of the hollow partition wall (18), and the oil seal mounting holes (17) are used to cooperate with the torque converter for sealing; the two ends of the hollow partition wall (18) near the working oil passage are also provided with through oil passages (28) to ensure the oil flow.

7. The torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The top of the torque converter housing (1) is provided with a vent passage (23), which extends from the top of the torque converter housing (1) to the interior of the torque converter housing (1). The vent passage (23) located at one end of the top of the torque converter housing (1) is provided with a vent plug mounting hole (22) for installing a vent plug. The top of the torque converter housing (1) is provided with a filler hole (20), which is located on one side of the vent plug mounting hole (22). The top of the torque converter housing (1) is also provided with an internal wiring harness mounting port (21).

8. A method for operating the torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module, characterized in that, A torque converter housing for a hydraulic transmission module according to any one of claims 1-7 includes the following steps: Install the oil pan on the oil pan mounting surface (11), install the hydraulic valve plate on the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface (8), and install the oil pump on the oil pump mounting surface (27); The oil flows through the oil pan into the coarse filter oil passage, the oil supply oil passage and the fine filter oil passage in sequence, and then enters the hydraulic valve plate through the fine filter oil passage. A portion of the oil from the hydraulic valve plate enters the locking oil passage (3), while another portion of the oil from the hydraulic valve plate enters the working oil passage. The oil then flows through the working oil passage into the outlet oil passage (2) and the cooling oil passage, and finally back to the oil pan through the cooling oil passage.

9. The method for operating the torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to claim 8, characterized in that, The oil supply channel includes an oil pump inlet (7) and an oil pump outlet (6). The oil pump inlet (7) is located on the oil pump mounting surface (27). The oil pump inlet (7) is connected to the oil pump outlet (6) through the oil pump. The oil pump outlet (6) extends from the oil pump mounting surface (27) to the oil pan mounting surface (11). The oil pump outlet (6) is located on one side of the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface (8). The coarse filter oil passage includes a coarse filter outlet (10) and a coarse filter. The coarse filter outlet (10) extends from the oil pump mounting surface (27) to the oil pan mounting surface (11). The coarse filter outlet (10) on the oil pump mounting surface (27) is connected to the oil pump inlet (7). The coarse filter outlet (10) on the oil pan mounting surface (11) is connected to the outlet of the coarse filter. The inlet of the coarse filter is connected to the oil pan mounting surface (11). The coarse filter outlet (10) on the oil pan mounting surface (11) is located on the side of the oil pump outlet (6) away from the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface (8). The fine filter oil passage includes a fine filter outlet (9) and a fine filter. The fine filter outlet (9) is located on the oil pan mounting surface (11). The fine filter outlet (9) is located on the side of the oil pump outlet (6) near the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface (8). One end of the fine filter outlet (9) is connected to the outlet of the fine filter, and the other end of the fine filter outlet (9) is connected to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface (8). The inlet of the fine filter is connected to the oil pump outlet (6). The oil flows sequentially through the oil pan into the coarse filter oil passage, the oil supply oil passage, and the fine filter oil passage. Specifically, the oil enters the hydraulic valve plate through the fine filter oil passage: The oil in the oil pan enters the coarse filter through the inlet of the coarse filter for coarse filtration. The coarsely filtered oil enters the coarse filter outlet (10) and the oil pump inlet (7) in sequence through the outlet of the coarse filter. After entering the oil pump through the oil pump inlet (7), the oil flows out through the oil pump outlet (6). After flowing out of the oil pump outlet (6), the oil enters the fine filter through the inlet of the fine filter for fine filtration. The finely filtered oil enters the fine filter outlet (9) through the outlet of the fine filter and enters the hydraulic valve plate through the fine filter outlet (9).

10. The method for operating the torque converter housing of a hydraulic transmission module according to claim 8, characterized in that, The working oil passage includes an outlet torque converter oil passage (4) and an inlet torque converter oil passage (5). One end of the outlet torque converter oil passage (4) and the inlet torque converter oil passage (5) are respectively connected to the oil distribution plate mounting surface (29), and the other end of the outlet torque converter oil passage (4) and the inlet torque converter oil passage (5) are respectively connected to the hydraulic valve plate mounting surface (8). The cooling oil circuit includes a housing oil inlet (13), an oil cooler, and a housing oil outlet (14). The housing oil inlet (13) and the housing oil outlet (14) are located on the outside of the torque converter housing (1) near the working oil passage. The housing oil inlet (13) is located at the bottom of the housing oil outlet (14). One end of the housing oil inlet (13) is connected to the oil pan mounting surface (11), and the other end of the housing oil inlet (13) is connected to the outlet of the oil cooler. One end of the housing oil outlet (14) is connected to the housing oil passage (2), and the other end of the housing oil outlet (14) is connected to the inlet of the oil cooler. Another portion of the oil from the hydraulic valve plate enters the working oil passage, and then sequentially enters the outlet oil passage (2) and the cooling oil passage, before flowing back to the oil pan through the cooling oil passage. Specifically, this includes: Another part of the hydraulic valve plate enters the torque converter through the torque converter oil passage (5) and then flows back to the hydraulic valve plate through the torque converter oil passage (4). The oil flowing back to the hydraulic valve plate enters the housing oil outlet (14) through the housing oil passage (2). The oil entering the housing oil outlet (14) enters the oil cooler through the inlet of the oil cooler for cooling. The cooled oil enters the housing oil inlet (13) through the outlet of the cooler. The oil entering the housing oil inlet (13) flows back to the oil pan.

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