Clutch plate anti-rattle mechanism

Abstract

The torque converter includes a front cover positioned to receive torque and a lock-up clutch engaged with the front cover. The lock-up clutch includes a reaction plate, clutch plates, and an anti-rattle plate. The reaction plate is fixed to the front cover and includes a plurality of windows spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The clutch plates include a plurality of tabs, each of which engages with the reaction plate through one window. The anti-rattle plate is fixed to the front cover and engages with each of the plurality of tabs in the corresponding windows.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Non - Provisional Application No. 18 / 206,792, filed on Jun. 7, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Technical Field The present disclosure generally relates to clutch plates for torque converters, and more specifically, to an anti - rattle mechanism for clutch plates and a torque converter including the anti - rattle mechanism.

Background Art

[0003] Many vehicles include a starting device between the engine and the transmission. A torque converter is a type of starting device commonly used in vehicles with automatic transmissions. A typical torque converter includes an impeller fixed to the crankshaft of the engine and a turbine fixed to the turbine shaft which is an input to the transmission. To improve fuel efficiency, most torque converters include a bypass or lock - up clutch that mechanically couples the turbine shaft to the torque converter case, bypassing the fluid coupling.

[0004] A clutch plate generally has a driving connection with a reaction plate that is non - rotatably connected to the impeller. For example, the clutch plate may include tabs disposed in corresponding windows of the reaction plate. Due to the radial tolerance between the tabs and the sides of the corresponding windows, the clutch plate may vibrate or rattle relative to the reaction plate as a result of engine speed variations and general operating conditions. Therefore, it is desirable to have alternative designs and configurations to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) between the clutch plate and the reaction plate.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a torque converter comprising a front cover positioned to receive torque and a lock-up clutch engaged with the front cover. The lock-up clutch includes a reaction plate fixed to the front cover. The reaction plate includes a plurality of windows spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The lock-up clutch further includes a clutch plate comprising a plurality of tabs, each of which engages with the reaction plate through one respective window. The lock-up clutch further includes an anti-rattle plate fixed to the front cover and engaged with each tab in the corresponding window.

[0006] In embodiments, the anti-rattle plate may press each tab circumferentially against the reaction plate in the corresponding window. In embodiments, the multiple tabs may be configured to receive drive torque and transmit coasting torque. In embodiments, the clutch plate may include a plurality of further tabs, each engaged with the reaction plate through a respective window. Each of the plurality of tabs may be spaced circumferentially away from each of the plurality of further tabs. The plurality of tabs and the plurality of further tabs may be arranged alternately circumferentially around the clutch plate. Each of the plurality of further tabs may be configured to receive drive torque only. The plurality of tabs may be configured to receive drive torque and transmit coasting torque.

[0007] In embodiments, the anti-rattle plate may include a plurality of fingers spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. Each finger may contact each tab in each window. The plurality of fingers may extend radially outward from the outer diameter of the anti-rattle plate.

[0008] In the embodiment, each window may include a drive side and a coast side circumferentially separated from the drive side. Multiple tabs may each contact the drive side of their respective windows and each be separated from the coast side of their respective windows. A clutch plate may be positioned to receive drive torque via the interface between each tab and the corresponding drive side of the window. An anti-rattle plate may include multiple fingers, each configured to engage with one of their respective tabs. Each finger may contact one of their respective tabs in each of their respective windows. Each of the multiple fingers may be separated from the respective coast side of each of their respective windows. A clutch plate may be positioned to transmit coast torque via the interface between each finger and the corresponding tab.

[0009] In embodiments, the reaction plate may include a plurality of notches spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. Each notch may be positioned between two circumferentially adjacent windows of a plurality of windows. The anti-rattle plate may include a plurality of fingers fixed to the front cover. Each of the fingers may extend through one of each notches. The anti-rattle plate may include a plurality of further fingers, each positioned circumferentially adjacent to one of each finger. Each further finger may extend through one of two circumferentially adjacent windows. Each tab may be positioned circumferentially between one of each finger and one of each further finger. The plurality of further fingers may be positioned to receive coasting torque from the clutch plate. Each tab may contact the reaction plate and, in one of the two circumferentially adjacent windows, one of each further finger.

[0010] In this embodiment, the clutch plate may be disposed axially between the anti-rattle plate and the front cover.

[0011] Embodiments of the present disclosure further provide a method for assembling a torque converter, including providing a front cover defining a cavity. The method further includes inserting a clutch plate, which includes a plurality of tabs, into the cavity. The method further includes providing a reaction plate, which includes a plurality of windows spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The method further includes coupling the clutch plate to the reaction plate by inserting each of the tabs into one of the respective windows. The method further includes aligning an anti-rattle plate with respect to the reaction plate. The method further includes pushing the anti-rattle plate into the cavity. The method further includes rotating the anti-rattle plate with respect to the reaction plate in each window to press the tabs against the reaction plate. The method further includes securing the reaction plate and the anti-rattle plate with respect to the front cover.

[0012] Instead of allowing a lash connection between the clutch plate and the reaction plate, the embodiments described herein provide an anti-rattle plate fixed to the front cover of the torque converter and having a plurality of fingers, each configured to engage with the respective tabs of the clutch plate in a corresponding window of the reaction plate. Furthermore, during assembly, the anti-rattle plate is rotated so that the plurality of fingers each press the respective tabs of the clutch plate against the reaction plate in a corresponding window. This can reduce or eliminate radial lash between the clutch plate and the reaction plate, thereby reducing NVH between the clutch plate and the reaction plate when the lock-up clutch is disengaged, i.e., when no torque is being transmitted. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This is a cross-sectional view of the torque converter according to this disclosure. [Figure 2A] Let's illustrate this with an enlarged view of the torque converter region shown in Figure 1. [Figure 2B] Let's illustrate with an example of a region offset circumferentially from the torque converter region shown in Figure 2A. [Figure 3] Figure 1 illustrates this point by point. [Figure 4] Let's illustrate this with an example using the perspective view of the clutch plate of the torque converter shown in Figure 1. [Figure 5] Figure 1 illustrates this point by point. [Figure 6A] Let's take an anti-rattle plate in the disengaged position as an example. [Figure 6B] Let's illustrate this with an anti-rattle plate in an engagement position. [Figure 7] A flowchart illustrating the process for assembling a torque converter having an anti-rattle plate according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein. It should be understood that similar drawing numbers appearing in different drawings identify identical or functionally similar structural elements. Furthermore, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples, and other embodiments may take various alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to illustrate details of specific components. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as representative criteria for teaching those skilled in the art to use the embodiments in various ways. As those skilled in the art will understand, various features illustrated and described with reference to any one of the drawings can be combined with features illustrated in one or more other drawings to create embodiments not expressly illustrated or described. Combinations of illustrated features provide representative embodiments for typical applications. However, various combinations and modifications of features consistent with the teachings of the present disclosure may be desired for specific applications or implementations.

[0015] The terms used herein are for the sole purpose of describing specific aspects and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those generally understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Any method, apparatus, or material similar or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the implementation or testing of this disclosure, but the following exemplary methods, apparatus, and materials are described herein.

[0016] Referring to Figures 1 to 2B, a portion of a torque converter 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. At least some portions of the torque converter 100 are rotatable about a central axis A. Although only a portion of the torque converter 100 above the central axis A is shown in Figure 1, it should be understood that the torque converter 100 can be viewed substantially similarly below the central axis A, as many of its components extend around the central axis A. Terms such as “axial,” “radial,” “circumferential,” and “outward” as used herein are intended to be relative to the central axis A.

[0017] The torque converter 100 includes a front cover 102, an impeller assembly 104, a turbine assembly 106, a damper assembly 108, and a lock-up clutch assembly 110, all positioned to receive torque. The impeller assembly 104 includes an impeller shell 112 non-rotatably coupled to the front cover 102, at least one impeller blade 114 mounted on the inner surface of the impeller shell 112, and an impeller hub 116 fixed to the radially inner end of the impeller shell 112. The turbine assembly 106 includes a turbine shell 118 and at least one turbine blade 120 mounted on the turbine shell 118. "Non-rotatably coupled" components mean that the components are coupled so that when one of the components rotates, all components rotate, and relative rotation between the components is not possible. Radial and / or axial movement of components non-rotatably coupled to one another is possible, but not required.

[0018] The torque converter 100 may include a stator 122 disposed axially between the impeller assembly 104 and the turbine assembly 106 to increase the efficiency of the torque converter 100. The stator 122 functions to change the direction of the fluid flowing from the turbine blade 120 before the fluid reaches the impeller assembly 104. For example, when the impeller blade 114 rotates about the central axis A, it pushes the fluid outward. The fluid is pressed against the turbine assembly 106 of the torque converter 100, causing the turbine assembly 106 to rotate about the central axis A. The stator 122 functions to return the fluid from the turbine assembly 106 to the impeller assembly 104 with minimal power or without any power loss. The driving force is transmitted from the turbine assembly 106 to the transmission input shaft 124. The torque converter 100 may further include, for example, a one-way clutch 126 disposed within the stator 122, a thrust bearing 128 disposed axially between the stator 122 and the impeller shell 112, and a side plate 130 configured to hold the one-way clutch 126 within the stator 122.

[0019] The damper assembly 108 is positioned axially between the front cover 102 and the turbine assembly 106 and is configured to transmit torque from the front cover 102 to the transmission input shaft 124. The damper assembly 108 includes a spring 132, cover plates 134, 136, and an output flange 138.

[0020] The cover plate 134 may support the spring 132 on one axially side portion. The cover plate 136 may support the spring 132 on the other opposite axially side portion. The cover plates 134, 136 may be connected to each other radially outward of the spring 132, for example, via rivets. The cover plate 134 may be connected to the lock-up clutch assembly 110 (as further described below), and the cover plate 136 may be connected to the turbine shell 118. That is, the cover plates 134, 136 are arranged to act as an input to the damper assembly 108.

[0021] The lock-up clutch assembly 110 is configured to selectively transmit torque from the front cover 102 to the transmission input shaft 124. The lock-up clutch assembly 110 includes a piston 140, a clutch pack 142, a reaction plate 144, and an anti-rattle plate 146. The reaction plate 144 can be fixed to the front cover 102, for example, via a weld. The reaction plate 144, for example, at least a portion thereof, is disposed axially between the piston 140 and the anti-rattle plate 146.

[0022] The piston 140 is axially slidable to press the clutch pack 142 against the reaction plate 144. The piston 140 is disposed axially between the front cover 102 and the clutch pack 142, and is sealed to the front cover 102 at the outer end of the piston 140 via a seal 174, and can be configured to be sealed to the hub 176 at the inner end of the piston 140 via a seal 178. The piston 140 can be further connected to the front cover 102 via a leaf spring connection, and the leaf spring connection allows axial displacement of the piston 140 in a first axial direction AD1 and a second axial direction AD2 for selective engagement of the lock-up clutch assembly 110.

[0023] During the axial movement of the piston 140, the piston 140 slides along the hub 176. The piston 140 closes the lock-up clutch assembly 110 in response to the pressurization of the medium (e.g., a fluid such as oil) in the piston apply chamber 180 defined between the front cover 102 and the piston 140. Seals 174 and 178 maintain fluid separation between the piston apply chamber 180 and the rest of the torque converter 100. The piston apply chamber 180 is further defined by or bounded between the front cover 102, the hub 176, seal 174, the piston 140, and seal 178. "Partially bounded" means that a portion of the cited chamber, flow path, or other structure is bounded or formed by the cited element.

[0024] Referring to Figure 3, the reaction plate 144 includes a plurality of windows 148 extending axially through it. The windows 148 are spaced apart from each other circumferentially with respect to a central axis A. Each window 148 includes a drive side 150 and a coast side 152 spaced circumferentially away from the drive side 150 with respect to the central axis A. Each window 148 has a window width W1 determined from the drive side 150 to the coast side 152 of each window 148. The window widths W1 may be substantially identical to each other. The windows 148 may be uniformly spaced apart from each other with respect to the central axis A. "Substantially identical" means that the window widths W1 may differ from each other due to manufacturing tolerances and capacity.

[0025] Continuing to refer to Figure 3, the reaction plate 144 may include a plurality of notches 154 extending radially through it. The notches 154 may be located on the outer circumference of the reaction plate 144. The plurality of notches 154 may be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction with respect to the central axis A. Each notch 154 may have a notch width W2 extending circumferentially with respect to the central axis A. The notch width W2 may be smaller than the window width W1. The notch widths W2 may be substantially the same. The plurality of notches 154 may be spaced uniformly apart from each other with respect to the central axis A. Each notch 154 may be located between two circumferentially adjacent windows 148. The reaction plate 144 may include a number of windows 148 greater than the number of notches 154. For example, the reaction plate 144 may include two windows 148 located between circumferentially adjacent notches 154.

[0026] Returning to Figures 1 to 2B, the clutch pack 142 is positioned between the reaction plate 144 and the piston 140 and is connected to the cover plate 134 of the damper assembly 108. The clutch pack 142 may include clutch plates 156, 158, and 160.

[0027] The clutch plates 156 and 160 may be spaced apart from each other in the axial direction and may be directly connected to the input portion of the damper assembly 108. For example, the clutch plates 156 and 160 may each be driven to the cover plate 134, for example, via tabbed connectors to transmit torque.

[0028] The clutch plate 158 may be disposed axially between the clutch plate 156 and the clutch plate 160. The clutch plate 158 may be supported by the reaction plate 144. For example, the clutch plate 158 may engage with the reaction plate 144 radially outward from the clutch plates 156 and 160, for example via a tabbed connector (more described below). Friction paper or friction rings (not indicated) may be further attached to the clutch plate 156, the clutch plate 158, the clutch plate 160, the reaction plate 144, and / or the piston 140. For example, friction material (facing) may be attached to the clutch plates 156 and 160, and the clutch plate 158 may act as a friction surface for the friction facing.

[0029] Referring to Figure 4, the clutch plate 158 includes a plurality of first tabs 164 spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction about a central axis A. The plurality of first tabs 164 are positioned on the outer diameter of the clutch plate 158 and extend axially from the outer diameter of the clutch plate 158. Each first tab 164 includes a first width W4 that is smaller than the window width W1. Each of the first tabs 164 is configured to engage with each of the windows 148 of the reaction plate 144. That is, the plurality of first tabs 164 are positioned to be received by each of the windows 148 of the reaction plate 144, as shown in Figures 6A to 6B. For example, the plurality of first tabs 164 may extend axially through each of the windows 148 of the reaction plate 144. Each of the plurality of first tabs 164 is positioned to contact the drive side 150 of the respective window 148 and to be spaced apart from the coast side 152 of the respective window 148.

[0030] Continuing to refer to Figure 4, the clutch plate 158 may further include a plurality of second tabs 162. The plurality of second tabs 162 may be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction with respect to the central axis A. The plurality of second tabs 162 may be arranged on the outer diameter of the clutch plate 158 and may extend axially from the outer diameter of the clutch plate 158. For example, the plurality of second tabs 162 may be arranged alternately with a plurality of first tabs 164 with respect to the central axis A. Each second tab 162 may include a second width W3 that is smaller than the window width W1. The first width W4 may also be smaller than the second width W3. Each of the second tabs 162 may be configured to engage with each of the windows 148 of the reaction plate 144. That is, the plurality of second tabs 162 may be arranged to be received by each of the windows 148 of the reaction plate 144, as shown in Figures 6A to 6B. For example, multiple second tabs 162 may extend axially through each window 148 of the reaction plate 144. Each of the multiple second tabs 162 may be positioned to contact the drive side 150 of each window 148 and to be spaced away from the coast side 152 of each window 148.

[0031] The anti-rattle plate 146 extends in an annular shape around a central axis A. The anti-rattle plate 146 is fixed to the reaction plate 144. For example, as shown in Figure 5, the anti-rattle plate 146 may include a plurality of first fingers 166 arranged on its outer diameter. Each of the plurality of first fingers 166 may extend from the outer diameter of the anti-rattle plate 146. Each first finger 166 may include an axial portion 168 extending axially from the outer diameter of the anti-rattle plate 146 and a radial portion 170 extending radially outward from the axial portion 168 to a first radial end. Each first finger 166, for example its first radial end, may be fixed to the front cover 102 via a weld, as shown, for example, in Figure 2B. The first fingers 166 may be fixed to the front cover 102 via the same or different welds as the reaction plate 144. Alternatively, the anti-rattle plate 146 can be fixed to the reaction plate 144, for example, by a weld.

[0032] Referring to Figure 5, multiple first fingers 166 can be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. Each first finger 166 can be circumferentially aligned with one of its respective notches 154. Each finger 166, for example, each radial portion 170, is positioned to extend through one of its respective notches 154. That is, each notch 154 is configured to receive one of its respective fingers 166, for example, its radial portion 170. Each first finger 166 may include a first finger width W5 that is smaller than the notch width W2. The number of first fingers 166 may coincide with the number of notches 154.

[0033] Continuing to refer to Figure 5, the anti-rattle plate 146 includes a plurality of second fingers 172 arranged on its outer diameter. The plurality of first fingers 166 may be arranged alternately with the plurality of second fingers 172 around the central axis A. Each of the plurality of second fingers 172 extends radially outward from the outer diameter of the anti-rattle plate 146 to a second radially outer end. The second radially outer end is located radially inward of the first radially outer end. Each second finger 172 extends into one of its respective windows 148. Specifically, each second finger 172 extends into the same window 148 as one of its respective first tabs 164, as shown in Figures 6A to 6B. Each second finger 172 is circumferentially aligned with the corresponding first tab 164 in its respective window 148. That is, lines extending circumferentially around the central axis A pass through the first tab 164 and the second finger 172 in the window 148. Each second finger 172 includes a second finger width W6 that is smaller than the window width W1. The sum of the second finger widths W6 and W4 is smaller than the window width W1. The number of second fingers 172 may be the same as the number of first tabs 164.

[0034] Each second finger 172 is positioned within the respective window 148 between the corresponding first tab 164 and the coast side 152 of the window 148. During the assembly of the lock-up clutch assembly 110, the anti-rattle plate 146 is aligned with the reaction plate 144 such that each second finger 172 is positioned circumferentially between one first tab 164 and the coast side 152 of each respective window 148. In addition, the anti-rattle plate 146 is rotatable with respect to the reaction plate 144 from a disengaged position (shown in Figure 6A) to an engaged position (shown in Figure 6B). In the disengaged position, each second finger 172 is separated from the corresponding first tab 164 within the respective window 148. Each second finger 172 may contact the coast side 152 of the respective window 148 in the disengaged position. In the engaged position, each second finger 172 contacts the corresponding first tab 164 in each window 148. Specifically, each second finger 172 presses the corresponding first tab 164 against the drive side 150 in each window 148. In the engaged position, each second finger 172 is separated from the coast side 152 of each window 148.

[0035] The following should be considered in reference to Figures 1 to 6B. The following describes an exemplary method for operating the lock-up clutch assembly 110 in drive mode, i.e., to transmit drive torque. However, it should be understood that this method may involve fewer steps and / or the steps may be performed in a different order. In the first step, drive torque is supplied to the front cover 102. In the second step, drive torque is transmitted to the reaction plate 144 via the interface between the reaction plate 144 and the front cover 102. In the third step, drive torque is transmitted to the clutch plate 158 via the interface between each of the multiple tabs 162, 164 and the drive side 150 of each window 148. In the fourth step, drive torque is transmitted to the clutch plates 156, 158, for example, via the friction surface between the clutch plates 160, 156, 160. In the fifth step, for example, the drive torque is transmitted to the damper assembly 108 via a tabbed connection between the clutch plates 156, 160 and the cover plate 134.

[0036] The following should be considered in reference to Figures 1 to 6B. Below is an exemplary method for operating the lock-up clutch 110 in coast mode, i.e., to transmit coast torque. However, it should be understood that this method may involve fewer steps and / or the steps may be performed in a different order. In the first step, coast torque is supplied to the transmission input shaft 124. In the second step, coast torque is transmitted to the damper assembly 108 via the interface between the transmission input shaft 124 and the output flange 138. In the third step, coast torque is transmitted to the clutch plate 156, for example, via the tabbed connection between the clutch plates 156, 160 and the cover plate 134. In the fourth step, coast torque is transmitted to the clutch plate 156, for example, via the friction surface between the clutch plates 158, 158, 160. In the fifth step, coast torque is transmitted to the anti-rattle plate 146 via the interface between each of the multiple second fingers 172 and each of the first tabs 164. In the sixth step, coast torque is transmitted to the front cover 102 via the interface between each second finger 172 and the front cover 102.

[0037] Referring to Figure 7, a flowchart of process 700 for assembling a torque converter having an anti-rattle plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. However, it should be understood that process 700 may consist of fewer steps and / or the steps may be performed in a different order. Process 700 begins in block 705 by providing the front cover 102. In block 710, the clutch pack 142 is inserted into the cavity defined by the front cover 102. In block 715, the reaction plate 144 is coupled to the clutch plate 158 by inserting each of the tabs 162, 164 into one of the respective windows 148. In block 720, the reaction plate 144 is pressed into the cavity. In block 725, the anti-rattle plate 146 is provided and aligned with the reaction plate 144. That is, each second finger 172 is inserted into one of the respective windows 148 along with the corresponding first tab 164. In addition, each of the multiple first fingers 166 can be aligned with one of each notches 154. In block 730, the anti-rattle plate 146 is press-fitted into the cavity. In block 735, the anti-rattle plate 146 is rotated relative to the reaction plate 144 from the disengaged position to the engaged position. By rotating the anti-rattle plate 146 to the engaged position, lash between the first tab 164 and each window 148 is reduced or eliminated. In block 740, the anti-rattle plate 146 is fixed to the front cover 102, for example by a weld. In addition, the reaction plate 144 is fixed to the front cover 102, for example by a weld. In one embodiment, the anti-rattle plate 146 and the reaction plate 144 may be fixed to the front cover 102 via the same weld. In another embodiment, as discussed above, the anti-rattle plate 146 may be fixed to the reaction plate 146.

[0038] Embodiments of the present disclosure offer a variety of advantages, including providing an anti-rattle plate that presses the tabs of the clutch plates against the drive side of each window of the reaction plate in order to reduce or eliminate lash between the clutch plates and the reaction plates, thereby improving NVH between the clutch plates and the reaction plates when the lock-up clutch assembly 110 is in the open position.

[0039] While exemplary embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to describe all possible forms encompassed by the claims. The terms used herein are descriptive, not restrictive, and it should be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. As described above, features of various embodiments can be combined to form further embodiments of this disclosure, which may not be expressly described or illustrated. While various embodiments have been described as offering advantages or being preferable to other embodiments or prior art implementations with respect to one or more desired characteristics, those skilled in the art will recognize that one or more features or characteristics can be compromised to achieve desired overall system attributes, depending on the specific application and implementation. These attributes may include, but are not limited to, cost, strength, durability, lifecycle cost, marketability, appearance, packaging, size, maintainability, weight, manufacturability, and ease of assembly. Therefore, as long as any embodiment is described as being less desirable than other embodiments or prior art implementations with respect to one or more characteristics, these embodiments may not be outside the scope of this disclosure and may be desirable for a particular application. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0040] 100 Torque Converter 102 Front Cover 104 Impeller Assembly 106 Turbine Assembly 108 Damper Assembly 110 Lock-up clutch assembly 112 Impeller Shell 114 Impeller Blades 116 Impeller Hub 118 Turbine Shell 120 Turbine Blades 122 Stator 124 Transmission input shaft 126 One-way clutch 128 Thrust Bearing 130 Side Plate 132 springs 134 Cover Plate 136 Cover Plate 138 Output flange 140 pistons 142 Clutch Pack 144 Reaction Plate 146 Anti-rattle plate 148 windows 150 Drive side 152 Coast side 154 Notches 156 Clutch Plate 158 Clutch Plate 160 Clutch Plate 162 tabs 164 tabs 166 Fingers 168 Axial section 170 Radial section 172 Fingers 174 stickers 176 Hub 178 stickers 180 Apply Chamber 700 processes 705 blocks 710 blocks 715 blocks 720 blocks 725 blocks 730 blocks 735 blocks 740 blocks 745 blocks A center axis W1 width W2 width W3 width W4 width W5 width W6 width AD1 Axial direction AD2 axial direction

Claims

1. It is a torque converter, The front cover is positioned to receive torque, The front cover is engaged with a lock-up clutch, and the lock-up clutch is A reaction plate fixed to the front cover, comprising a plurality of windows spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction, A clutch plate comprising a plurality of tabs, each engaged with the reaction plate through a window, An anti-rattle plate fixed to the front cover and engaged with each tab in the corresponding window, Torque converter, including.

2. The torque converter according to claim 1, wherein the anti-rattle plate presses each tab against the reaction plate in the circumferential direction in the corresponding window.

3. The torque converter according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of tabs are configured to receive driving torque and to transmit coasting torque.

4. The torque converter according to claim 1, wherein the clutch plate includes a plurality of further tabs, each of which is engaged with the reaction plate through a window, and each of the plurality of tabs is spaced circumferentially away from each of the plurality of further tabs.

5. The torque converter according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of tabs and the plurality of further tabs are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction with respect to the clutch plate.

6. The torque converter according to claim 4, wherein each of the plurality of further tabs is configured solely to receive drive torque, and the plurality of tabs are configured to receive the drive torque and to transmit coast torque.

7. The torque converter according to claim 1, wherein the anti-rattle plate includes a plurality of fingers spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction, and each finger is in contact with each tab in each window.

8. The torque converter according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of fingers extend radially outward from the outer diameter of the anti-rattle plate.

9. The torque converter according to claim 1, wherein each window includes a drive side and a coast side circumferentially separated from the drive side, and each of the plurality of tabs is in contact with the drive side of the respective window and separated from the coast side of the respective window.

10. The torque converter according to claim 9, wherein the clutch plates are arranged to receive driving torque via the interface between each tab and the respective driving side of the corresponding window.

11. The torque converter according to claim 9, wherein the anti-rattle plate includes a plurality of fingers, each configured to engage with one of the respective tabs, and each finger is in contact with one of the respective tabs in one of the respective windows.

12. The torque converter according to claim 11, wherein each of the plurality of fingers is spaced apart from the respective coast side of each of the windows.

13. The torque converter according to claim 12, wherein the clutch plates are arranged to transmit coast torque through the interface between each finger and the corresponding tab.

14. The aforementioned Action plate includes a plurality of notches spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction, and each notch is positioned between two circumferentially adjacent windows among the plurality of windows. The torque converter according to claim 1, wherein the anti-rattle plate includes a plurality of fingers fixed to the front cover, each of the fingers extending through a respective notch.

15. The torque converter according to claim 14, wherein the anti-rattle plate includes a plurality of further fingers, each of which is circumferentially adjacent to one of the respective fingers, and each further finger extends through one of the two circumferentially adjacent windows.

16. The torque converter according to claim 15, wherein each tab is positioned between each individual finger and each individual further finger in the circumferential direction.

17. The torque converter according to claim 15, wherein the plurality of further fingers are arranged to receive coasting torque from the clutch plate.

18. The torque converter according to claim 17, wherein each tab is in contact with the reaction plate and each of the additional fingers in one of the two circumferentially adjacent windows.

19. The torque converter according to claim 1, wherein the clutch plate is disposed in the axial direction between the anti-rattle plate and the front cover.

20. A method for assembling a torque converter, To provide a front cover that defines the cavity, A clutch plate, comprising a plurality of tabs, is inserted into the cavity. To provide a reaction plate including a plurality of windows spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction, The clutch plate is coupled to the reaction plate by inserting each of the tabs into its respective window, Aligning the anti-rattle plate with respect to the reaction plate, The anti-rattle plate is pushed into the cavity, In each of the windows, the anti-rattle plate is rotated relative to the reaction plate in order to press the tab against the reaction plate, The anti-rattle plate is fixed to the front cover, A method that includes this.

Images