Torque limiter, drive assembly, and vehicle

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a torque limiter comprising a flywheel, a first axial load support portion, a second axial load support portion fixed axially to the first axial load support portion and positioned at a predetermined distance from the first axial load support portion, a torque input plate fixed circumferentially to the flywheel and driving the flywheel to rotate integrally around a rotation axis, and a driven plate configured to output torque. The torque input plate and the driven plate are positioned axially between the first axial load support portion and the second axial load support portion, with the torque input plate positioned closer to the first axial load support portion and the driven plate positioned closer to the second axial load support portion. The torque input plate and the driven plate are in contact with each other with a predetermined axial force, and the torque input plate drives the driven plate to rotate around a rotation axis by friction between the two. This disclosure relates to a drive assembly comprising such a torque limiter, and a vehicle comprising the drive assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a torque limiter. In particular, the torque limiter includes a flywheel incorporated therein. The present disclosure further relates to a drive assembly including such a torque limiter and a vehicle including the drive assembly.

Background Art

[0002] The torque generated by an automobile engine is not usually constant and frequently fluctuates. When such non-constant torque is transmitted to a gearbox, the gearbox vibrates, which may cause particularly undesirable noise, shocks, etc. It is already known to provide a torque fluctuation absorption mechanism in a vehicle's drive train to reduce the adverse effects of vibrations and improve the driving comfort of the vehicle. The torque fluctuation absorption mechanism can limit and absorb the torque generated by the vehicle engine. It is known that the torque vibration absorption mechanism can include a torsional vibration damper and a torque limiter. The torsional vibration damper usually absorbs and reduces torque fluctuations by means of a spring structure. On the other hand, the torque limiter can limit torque fluctuations exceeding the maximum torque allowed by the torsional vibration damper. Specifically, when the torque fluctuation exceeds the maximum allowable torque, the torque limiter slides, thereby limiting the transmitted torque.

[0003] In conventional technology, the flywheel, fixed to the engine crankshaft of a vehicle, is the upstream component of the torque limiter in the vehicle's drivetrain. The torque limiter is fixed to and driven by the flywheel. The flywheel and torque limiter are separate structures. For installation, the flywheel is first fixed to the engine crankshaft with bolts or other fasteners, and then the torque limiter is bolted to the flywheel. This separate configuration of the flywheel and torque limiter requires two separate steps for installation, increasing the assembly process. Furthermore, this separate configuration increases the number of parts in the torque limiter, leading to increased material costs.

[0004] Therefore, existing torque limiters and flywheels have drawbacks such as a large number of parts, high cost, and complex assembly. [Overview of the project]

[0005] Therefore, this disclosure is intended to solve the aforementioned problems present in existing torque limiters and flywheels, and its objective is to provide a torque limiter having an internally integrated flywheel, having a compact and robust configuration, and being easy and cost-effective to manufacture and assemble.

[0006] The objective is achieved by a torque limiter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, comprising: a flywheel; a first axial load support portion; a second axial load support portion fixed axially with respect to the first axial load support portion, the first axial load support portion being at a predetermined distance from the first axial load support portion; a torque input plate fixed circumferentially with respect to the flywheel, the torque input plate driving the flywheel to rotate integrally around a rotation axis; and a driven plate configured to output torque. The torque input plate and the driven plate are positioned axially between the first axial load support portion and the second axial load support portion, with the torque input plate positioned closer to the first axial load support portion and the driven plate positioned closer to the second axial load support portion. The torque input plate and the driven plate are in contact with each other with a predetermined axial force, and the torque input plate drives the driven plate to rotate around the rotation axis by friction between the torque input plate and the driven plate.

[0007] The torque limiter according to this disclosure includes an internally integrated flywheel, allowing the flywheel to be mounted to the torque limiter simultaneously in a single assembly operation: mounting the torque limiter. This reduces the number of assembly steps by one. In this disclosure, the flywheel is driven by the torque input plate of the torque limiter. In the prior art, the flywheel is driven directly by the engine's crankshaft, and then the torque limiter is driven by the flywheel. The drive assembly according to this disclosure has a different power transmission path than that of the prior art. The torque input plate of the torque limiter further drives a driven plate configured to output torque by friction. Relative sliding occurs between the torque input plate and the driven plate, which can limit the torque transmitted. Since the torque input plate drives both the flywheel and the driven plate simultaneously, the number of parts in the drive assembly can be reduced.

[0008] The drive assembly according to this disclosure may have one or more of the following features, either individually or in combination:

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the torque limiter further comprises an elastic member disposed in the axial direction between the first axial load support portion and the second axial load support portion, the elastic member biasing one of the torque input plate and the driven plate toward the other of the torque input plate and the driven plate. The biasing force of the elastic member increases the friction between the torque input plate and the driven plate, thereby adjusting the maximum torque that the torque limiter can transmit.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the torque input plate comprises a plurality of transmission teeth extending radially outward or axially from its outer circumference, and the torque input plate drives the flywheel via the transmission teeth. The transmission teeth of the torque input plate allow them to be fixed circumferentially to the flywheel without preventing the torque input plate from being positioned between a first axial load support portion and a second axial load support portion during assembly.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the torque input plate comprises an integrally fastened inner plate and an outer plate, the outer plate being located radially outward of the inner plate, and the transmission teeth being located on the outer circumference of the outer plate.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the elastic member is disposed between the first axial load support portion and the torque input plate, or the elastic member is disposed between the driven plate and the second axial load support portion.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the torque limiter further comprises a friction lining disposed on at least one of two axial sides adjacent to the driven plate. During operation of the torque limiter, the torque input plate, the first axial load support portion, and the second axial load support portion rotate together to form the torque input side. Torque is transmitted from the input side to the driven plate via the friction lining. If the torque input via the torque input plate exceeds the maximum torque that the torque limiter can transmit, sliding occurs between the friction lining and the driven plate, thereby providing a torque fluctuation elimination function.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the torque limiter further comprises an intermediate plate comprising a first ring fastened to the flywheel and a plurality of connecting strips integrally formed with the first ring. At least a portion of the connecting strips extends axially, and the transmission teeth of the torque input plate are insertable between two adjacent connecting strips.

[0015] According to this technical solution, the transmission teeth of the torque input plate can contact the connecting strip of the intermediate plate, thereby transmitting torque to the intermediate plate, and then the torque is transmitted to the flywheel via the integrally formed first ring, thus achieving torque transmission between the torque input plate and the flywheel.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first ring comprises a ring body and a plurality of first teeth, each first tooth positioned between two adjacent connecting strips in the circumferential direction.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the ring body is fastened to the flywheel, and the first teeth are arranged on the inner circumference of the ring body and form either the first axial load support portion or the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the ring body is fastened to the flywheel, the first teeth are arranged on the inner circumference of the ring body fastened to the flywheel, and the ring body forms either the first axial load support portion or the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first tooth is located at a predetermined distance from the ring body in the axial direction and is connected to the ring body via a bent portion.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the intermediate plate further comprises a second ring, the second ring being positioned at a predetermined axial distance from the first ring and integrally formed with the connecting strip, the second ring forming the other of the first axial load support portion and the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter. That is, the elastic member, the torque input plate, and the driven plate are clamped between the ring body or first teeth of the first ring and the second ring.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the connecting strip comprises a radial extension section, the radial extension section being at a predetermined axial distance from the first ring, and the radial extension section forming the other of the first axial load support portion and the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter. That is, the elastic member, torque input plate, and driven plate are clamped between the ring body of the first ring and the radial extension section of the connecting strip.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the flywheel comprises a body portion and a flange portion extending radially inward from the body portion, wherein the flange portion forms either the first axial load support portion or the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the flywheel further comprises a support projection extending radially inward from the main body portion, the support projection being at a predetermined distance from the flange portion in the axial direction, and the support projection forming the other of the first axial load support portion or the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter. That is, the elastic member, torque input plate, and driven plate are clamped between the flange portion and the support projection of the flywheel.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the torque limiter further comprises a carrier plate integrally fastened to the flywheel, the carrier plate being at a predetermined axial distance from the flange portion, and the carrier plate forming the other of the first axial load support portion or the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter. That is, the elastic member, torque input plate, and driven plate are clamped between the flange portion of the flywheel and the carrier plate.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the flywheel is provided with a connection hole located in the flange portion, and the transmission teeth extend axially from the outer circumference of the torque input plate and are insertable into the connection hole, thereby fixing the torque input plate circumferentially to the flywheel. That is, torque transmission between the torque input plate and the flywheel is achieved by the cooperation of the transmission teeth of the torque input plate with the connection hole.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the flywheel is provided with a connecting groove located on the inner circumference of the main body portion, and the transmission teeth extend radially from the outer circumference of the torque input plate and are insertable into the connecting groove, thereby fixing the torque input plate circumferentially to the flywheel. That is, torque transmission between the torque input plate and the flywheel is achieved by the transmission teeth of the torque input plate cooperating with the connecting groove.

[0027] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one of the plurality of the supporting convex portions is provided with an anti-rotation groove.

[0028] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the elastic member includes a plurality of outer peripheral teeth, each outer peripheral tooth is supported by one supporting convex portion, and one of the outer peripheral teeth presses the bottom surface of the anti-rotation groove. According to this technical solution, when sliding occurs in the circumferential direction between the elastic member and the flywheel, the outer peripheral tooth abuts against the side wall of the anti-rotation groove, and excessive sliding of the elastic member can be prevented. Therefore, the anti-rotation groove functions to limit the circumferential sliding between the elastic member and the flywheel.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the outer peripheral teeth of the elastic member have dimensions such that the outer peripheral teeth can pass through the space between adjacent supporting convex portions in the axial direction, and the elastic member can rotate by a certain angle in the circumferential direction during assembly so that the outer peripheral teeth are supported on the supporting convex portions.

[0030] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the transmission teeth extend radially from the outer periphery of the torque input plate, each transmission tooth is supported by one supporting convex portion, and one of the plurality of transmission teeth presses the bottom surface of the anti-rotation groove. According to this technical solution, relative circumferential fixation of the flywheel is realized through the cooperation between the transmission teeth and the anti-rotation groove by the torque input plate. Torque transmission between the torque input plate and the flywheel is realized by the transmission teeth of the torque input plate abutting against the side wall of the anti-rotation groove.

[0031] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the transmission teeth have dimensions such that the transmission teeth can pass through the space between adjacent supporting convex portions in the axial direction, and the torque input plate can rotate by a certain angle in the circumferential direction during assembly so that the outer peripheral teeth are supported on the supporting convex portions.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the torque limiter further comprises two carrier plates, each integrally fastened to the flywheel on two axial sides of the flywheel, the two carrier plates forming a first axial load support portion and a second axial load support portion of the torque limiter, respectively. That is, the torque input plate and the driven plate are clamped between the two carrier plates.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one of the two carrier plates is provided with a transmission hole, and the transmission teeth extend axially from the outer circumference of the torque input plate and are insertable into the transmission hole, thereby fixing the torque input plate circumferentially to the flywheel. Consequently, torque transmission between the torque input plate and the flywheel is achieved by the cooperation of the transmission teeth of the torque input plate with the transmission hole.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the flywheel is provided with a connecting groove located on the inner circumference of its main body portion, and the transmission teeth extend radially from the outer circumference of the torque input plate and are insertable into the connecting groove, thereby fixing the torque input plate circumferentially to the flywheel. Consequently, torque transmission between the torque input plate and the flywheel is achieved by the cooperation of the transmission teeth of the torque input plate with the connecting groove.

[0035] This disclosure further relates to a drive assembly comprising the torque limiter and torsional vibration damper described above. The torsional vibration damper comprises an input portion, an output portion, and a spring arranged to be circumferentially compressed between the input portion and the output portion. The input portion of the torsional vibration damper is fastened integrally with the driven plate of the torque limiter, or the input portion of the torsional vibration damper is integrally formed with the driven plate of the torque limiter.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the torsional vibration damper is provided with a through hole, and a fastener is able to pass through the through hole, so that the torque input plate of the torque limiter is fastened to the upstream component of the drive assembly.

[0037] Furthermore, this disclosure relates to a vehicle equipped with the aforementioned drive assembly.

[0038] The features described above and other features and advantages of this specification will become more apparent from the detailed description of embodiments made with reference to the drawings. The description and drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this specification in any way. The following drawings are not scale drawings based on actual dimensions and are focused on illustrating the main purpose of this specification. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0039] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a drive assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an exploded view of a drive assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a drive assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a magnified view of a portion of Figure 3, showing the torsion limiter in detail. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows in detail a portion of the intermediate plate of the torsion limiter in the embodiment shown in Figure 3. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows the torque input plate of the embodiment shown in Figure 3. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the transmission teeth of the torque input plate and the connecting strip of the intermediate plate. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of a torque limiter according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a part of the flywheel of the embodiment shown in Figure 8 in detail. [Figure 10]Figure 10 shows the elastic member of the embodiment shown in Figure 8. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows the torque input plate of the embodiment shown in Figure 8. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of a torque limiter according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows the flywheel of the embodiment shown in Figure 12. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0040] In the drawings, identical or similar parts are given the same reference numeral.

[0041] To clarify the purpose, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this disclosure, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure are described below clearly and completely, together with the drawings of this disclosure.

[0042] Unless otherwise specified, technical or scientific terms used herein have the general meanings understood by those skilled in the art. Words such as “one,” “any,” or “specific” used in the descriptions and claims of patent applications disclosed herein do not indicate a limit on quantity, but mean at least one or more. “Composes,” “includes,” or other similar terms mean that the element or subject described before the term encompasses, but does not exclude, the elements or subjects described after the term and their equivalents. “Axial,” “radial,” “circumferential,” and other directions are defined with respect to the rotation axis X of the torque limiter, where axial is the direction in which the rotation axis X extends, radial is the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis X, and circumferential is the direction of the circumference centered on the rotation axis X.

[0043] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a drive assembly 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is an exploded view of the drive assembly shown in Figure 1.

[0044] The drive assembly 1 may be configured to transmit torque between the engine and gearbox of an automobile. The drive assembly 1 may be divided into two parts: a torque limiter 100 and a torsional vibration damper 200. The torque limiter 100 is connected to the crankshaft of the vehicle's engine and is driven by the crankshaft to transmit torque around the axis of rotation X. The torsional vibration damper 200 is located inside the torque limiter 100 as a whole, and the torque transmitted by the torque limiter 100 is output to the automobile's gearbox by the torsional vibration damper. The torque limiter 100 has a predetermined maximum torque. Even if the torque generated by the engine exceeds the maximum torque, the torque transmitted to the torsional vibration damper 200 does not exceed the maximum torque.

[0045] Referring to Figure 3, the torsional vibration damper 200 has an input portion 210, an output portion 220, and four springs 230 arranged to be compressed circumferentially between the input portion 210 and the output portion 220. The input portion 210 is fixed to the driven plate 20 of the torque limiter 100, or is integrally formed with the driven plate 20, so as to receive torque transmitted from the torque limiter 100. The springs 230 are coil springs, one end of which is acted upon by the input portion 210, and the other end acting upon the output portion 220. As a result, torque is transmitted from the input portion 210 to the output portion 220. The springs 230 can absorb and reduce torque fluctuations by expanding and contracting. It is conceivable that the driven plate 20 of the torque limiter 100 is also fixed to the output portion 220 of the torsional vibration damper 200. The torsional vibration damper 200 is provided with a through hole 201. Furthermore, because fasteners such as bolts can pass through the through-hole 201, the torque input plate 10 of the torque limiter 100 is fastened to an upstream component of the drive assembly 1, such as the engine's crankshaft.

[0046] Referring further to Figures 1 and 2 in conjunction with Figures 3 to 7, the torsion limiter 100 comprises a flywheel 60, a torque input plate 10, a driven plate 20, an elastic member 30, and an intermediate plate 40. The torque input plate 10 is connected radially inward to an upstream component such as the engine's crankshaft. Therefore, the torsion limiter 100 receives torque from the engine via the torque input plate 10. Since the torque input plate 10 needs to be connected to the engine's crankshaft, it is positioned closer to the engine (lower side in Figure 4) than the driven plate 20, which is configured to output torque.

[0047] The flywheel 60 takes the shape of an inertia ring, is fixed circumferentially to the torque input plate 10, and is driven by the torque input plate 10 to rotate around the axis of rotation X. The flywheel 60 may have a large moment of inertia and may be configured to absorb the engine's torque output and make that torque output more uniform. Referring to Figure 6, radially outward-extending transmission teeth 11 may be provided on the outer circumference of the torque input plate 10 and may be configured to drive the flywheel 60. Referring also to Figure 11, a torque input plate 10 consisting of an integrally fastened inner plate 10a and an outer plate 10b is shown. The outer plate 10b is located radially outward from the inner plate 10a, and the transmission teeth 11 are located on the outer circumference of the outer plate 10b. The inner plate 10a and the outer plate 10b may have different material properties. For example, the inner plate 10a may be heat-treated to have higher strength.

[0048] The radially inner portion of the driven plate 20 is fixedly connected to the input portion 210 of the torsional vibration damper 200, while its radially outer portion abuts the torque input plate 10 with a predetermined axial force. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the friction lining 21 is positioned adjacent to the driven plate 20 on two axial sides of the driven plate 20. Thus, the driven plate 20 contacts and cooperates with the friction lining 21 on its two axially opposing surfaces. In other embodiments not shown in the drawings, the friction lining 21 may be positioned on only one of the two axial sides of the driven plate 20. Another conceivable technical solution is to omit the friction lining 21 and instead treat the surface of the torque input plate 10 or the driven plate 20 to be suitable for constant torque transmission.

[0049] In the operation of the drive assembly, the vehicle's engine drives the torque input plate 10, which in turn drives the flywheel 60 via the transmission teeth 11, causing it to rotate around the rotation axis X. Direct friction between the torque input plate 10 and the driven plate 20, or indirect friction caused by the friction lining 21, allows the torque input plate 10 to also drive the driven plate 20 and the input portion 210 of the torsional vibration damper 200, causing them to rotate around the rotation axis X. This enables torque transmission to the torsional vibration damper 200. When the torque transmitted from the engine to the torque limiter 100 reaches or exceeds the maximum torque of the torque limiter 100, sliding occurs between the driven plate 20 and the torque input plate 10, limiting the torque transmitted to the torsional vibration damper 200 to the maximum torque of the torque limiter 100.

[0050] The torque limiter 100 has two axial load support portions so that the torque input plate 10 and the driven plate 20 can come into contact with each other, and the torque input plate 10 and the driven plate 20 must be axially positioned between the two axial load support portions. Without loss of generality, the axial load support portion closer to the torque input plate 10 may be referred to as the first axial support portion, and the axial load portion closer to the driven plate 20 may be referred to as the second axial support portion.

[0051] The greater the friction between the torque input plate 10 and the driven plate 20, the greater the maximum torque that the torque limiter 100 can transmit. The friction between the two can be increased by increasing the axial force between the torque input plate 10 and the driven plate 20 relative to each other. For this reason, the torsion limiter 100 includes an elastic member 30 axially positioned between the first axial load support portion and the second axial load support portion. The elastic member 30 can take the shape of a leaf spring and is supported by either the first axial load support portion or the second axial load support portion, pressing the torque input plate 10 axially toward the driven plate 20, or pressing the driven plate 20 axially toward the torque input plate 10. Selectively, the torque input plate 10 may be formed from an elastic material. This eliminates the need for a dedicated elastic member, as the torque input plate 10 itself can generate an axial force that presses the driven plate 20 toward the second ring 42.

[0052] In the embodiments shown in Figures 4 to 7, the first axial load support portion and the second ring 42 of the torsion limiter 100 are provided by an intermediate plate 40. As will be described in detail below, the intermediate plate 40 may also have the function of transmitting torque from the torque input plate 10 to the flywheel 60.

[0053] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the intermediate plate 40 is integrally formed and comprises a first ring 41, a second ring 42, and a plurality of connecting strips 43 that connect these two to each other. The first ring 41 is fastened to the flywheel 60 and comprises a ring body 41a and a plurality of first teeth 44. The ring body 41a has a plurality of evenly distributed through holes. The through holes are configured to fasten the first ring 41 to the flywheel 60 by screws (not shown) or the like. Since the second ring 42 is integrally formed with the first ring 41, it rotates together with the first ring 41 about the axis of rotation X. The second ring 42 and the first ring 41 are separated by a predetermined distance in the axial direction. Furthermore, since the inner diameter of the ring body 41a of the first ring 41 is larger than the outer diameter of the second ring 42, the axial projection of the ring body 41a of the first ring 41 is on the outside of the second ring 42.

[0054] The driven plate 20 is slidably clamped in the axial direction by an elastic member 30 positioned between the first ring 41 and the torque input plate 10, and between the second ring 42 and the torque input plate 10. The torque input plate 10 and the driven plate 20 are positioned in the axial direction between the first tooth 44 of the first ring 41 and the second ring 42. The first tooth 44 and the second ring 42 form two axial load support portions of the torque limiter 100. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the first tooth 44 forms the first axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100, and the second ring 42 forms the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100.

[0055] The second ring 42 and the first ring 41 are connected to each other via a plurality of connecting strips 43. Specifically, referring to Figure 5, one end of a connecting strip 43 is connected to the radial inner surface of the first ring 41 and extends to the height of the second ring 42, connecting to the radial outer surface of the second ring 42. The inner diameter of the first ring 41 is larger than the outer diameter of the second ring. In the circumferential direction, the plurality of connecting strips 43 of the first ring 41 are evenly distributed. The first tooth 44 is located on the inner circumference of the ring body 41a between two adjacent connecting strips 43 and is at a predetermined radial distance from the ring body 41a. Furthermore, since the first tooth is connected to the ring body 41a via a bent portion 45, it is located inside the ring body 41a in the radial direction. Before assembling the torque limiter 100, the first tooth 44 may extend axially from the ring body 41a. The bent portion 45 is formed by bending the first tooth 44 during the assembly of the torque limiter 100. Therefore, the first tooth 44 does not obstruct the axial assembly of the torque input plate 10, the driven plate 20, and / or the elastic member 30, and can support the elastic member 30 after assembly. For this reason, the torque input plate 10, the driven plate 20, and / or the elastic member 30 are clamped between the first tooth 44 and the second ring 42.

[0056] Figure 7 shows the cooperation between the torque input plate 10 and the intermediate plate 40. As shown in the figure, in the assembly configuration of the torque limiter 100, the transmission teeth 11 of the torque input plate 10 extend radially and are inserted between two adjacent connecting strips 43. In other words, the angular position of the transmission teeth 11 is approximately coincident with that of the first teeth 44. If relative sliding occurs between the torque input plate 10 and the intermediate plate 40, the transmission teeth 11 abut against the side walls of the connecting strips 43, preventing further sliding of the torque input plate 10. Therefore, the transmission teeth 11 fix the torque input plate 10 circumferentially relative to the intermediate plate 40 and also fix it relative to the flywheel 60 via the fastening connection between the intermediate plate 40 and the flywheel 60. This also enables torque transmission from the torque input plate 10 to the flywheel 60. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the width of the transmission teeth 11 is approximately equal to the width of the gap between the two adjacent connecting strips 43, thereby eliminating relative sliding as much as possible. As those skilled in the art will understand, the width of the transmission tooth 11 may be smaller than the width of the gap between the two connecting strips 43.

[0057] With the above configuration, the intermediate plate 40 of the torque limiter 100 and the flywheel 60 are relatively fixed in the circumferential direction and rotate together, thereby jointly forming the input side of the torque limiter 100. The torque output from the torque limiter 100 to the torsional vibration damper 200 is realized via the driven plate 20.

[0058] The intermediate plate 40 shown in Figure 4 provides the torque limiter 100 with two axial load support portions via the first ring 41 and the second ring 42. The torque input plate 10 can also drive and rotate the flywheel 60 via the connecting strip 43. It is conceivable that the intermediate plate 40 may have a different structure than that shown in Figure 4. For example, the axial positions of the first ring 41 and the second ring 42 may be reversed such that the first ring 41 is connected to the flywheel 60 axially on the upper side, the elastic member 30 is supported on the second ring 42, and the driven plate 20 presses against the first tooth 44 of the first ring 41. In this case, the second ring 42 forms the first axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100, and the first tooth 44 forms the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100.

[0059] The intermediate plate 40 does not necessarily have a second ring. In this configuration, the connecting strip 43 is positioned at a predetermined axial distance from the first ring 41 by having a radial extension section located at the end of the connecting strip 43 that is away from the first ring 41. The radial extension sections of the multiple connecting strips 43 are not connected via the ring body. The torque input plate 10, the elastic member 30, and the driven plate 20 can be clamped between the first tooth 44 and the radial extension section. In this case, the first tooth 44 and the radial extension section form the first axial load support portion and the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100, respectively.

[0060] Furthermore, in embodiments where the connecting strip 43 has a radially extended section, the radial positional relationship between the ring body 41a of the first ring 41 and the first teeth 44 may also differ. That is, the first teeth 44 may be positioned on the outer circumference of the ring body 41a and may be fastened to the flywheel 60. The ring body 41a is positioned radially inward of the flywheel 60. With this configuration, the radially extended section of the connecting strip 43 can be formed by bending the connecting strip 43 with a workpiece during the assembly of the torque limiter 100, so that the assembly of the torque input plate 10, the driven plate 20, and / or elastic member 30 is not hindered in the axial direction. In this case, the ring body 41a and the radially extended section form the first axial load support portion and the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100, respectively.

[0061] The intermediate plate 40 may be omitted by providing the axial load support portion and torque transmission function of the torque limiter 100 with other components. Figures 8 to 13 show different embodiments of the torque limiter without the intermediate plate 40. The following description will focus on the differences from the embodiments shown in Figures 4 to 7.

[0062] In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the flywheel 60 of the torque limiter 100 comprises a main body portion 61, a flange portion 62, and a support projection 63 extending radially inward from the main body portion 61. Referring further to Figure 9, the support projection 63 is located at a predetermined distance from the flange portion 62 in the axial direction. The torque input plate 10 and the driven plate 20 are positioned between the support projection 63 and the flange portion 62 in the axial direction. The support projection 63 and the flange portion 62 form two axial load support portions of the torque limiter 100. In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the support projection 63 forms the first axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100, and the flange portion 62 forms the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100. It is also conceivable to reverse the axial positions of the flange portion 62 and the support projection 63 of the flywheel 60. In other words, the flange portion 62 forms the first axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100, and the support projection 63 forms the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100.

[0063] The flywheel 60 may have a connection portion that connects directly to the transmission teeth 11 of the torque input plate 10. This allows the torque input plate 10 to transmit torque directly to the flywheel 60.

[0064] Specifically, referring to Figures 9 and 11, the flywheel 60 is provided with a connection hole 64 located in the flange portion 62. The transmission teeth 11 of the torque input plate 10 extend axially from its outer circumference and can be inserted into the connection hole 64. If relative sliding occurs between the torque input plate 10 and the flywheel 60, the transmission teeth 11 abut against the side wall of the connection hole 64, preventing further sliding of the torque input plate 10. Thus, the engagement of the transmission teeth 11 and the connection hole 64 fixes the torque input plate 10 circumferentially to the flywheel 60 and enables torque transmission from the torque input plate 10 to the flywheel 60. The width of the transmission teeth 11 is approximately equal to the width of the connection hole 64, thereby eliminating relative sliding as much as possible. Selectively, the width of the transmission teeth 11 may be smaller than the width of the distance between the connection holes 64.

[0065] Referring to Figures 8 to 10, the elastic member 30 has a plurality of circumferential teeth 31 on its outer circumference. Each circumferential tooth 31 is supported by a single support projection 63. The support projection 63 is provided with an anti-rotation groove 66. In the assembly configuration of the torque limiter 100, the circumferential teeth 31 of the elastic member 30 press against the bottom surface of the anti-rotation groove 66. That is, the bottom surface of the anti-rotation groove 66 provides axial support to the elastic member 30. On the other hand, the anti-rotation groove 66 defines the angular position of the elastic member 30. If relative sliding occurs in the circumferential direction between the elastic member 30 and the first ring 41, the circumferential teeth 31 come into contact with the side wall of the anti-rotation groove 66, preventing excessive sliding of the elastic member 30. In the illustrated example, the width of the anti-rotation groove 66 is approximately equal to the width of the circumferential teeth 31, thereby eliminating relative sliding as much as possible.

[0066] In order to support the elastic member 30 on the support projection 63, the dimensions of the support projection 63 must be specially designed. Specifically, in Figure 8, the diameters of the torque input plate 10 and the driven plate 20 should be smaller than the diameter corresponding to the innermost radial portion of the support projection 63. This makes it suitable for axial penetration of the support projection 63. The diameter of the main body portion of the elastic member 30 is also smaller than the diameter corresponding to the innermost radial portion of the support projection 63. Furthermore, its outer circumferential teeth 31 are sized so that they can pass through the axial space between adjacent support projections 63. Therefore, when assembling the torque limiter, the angular position of the elastic member 30 is first adjusted so that the outer circumferential teeth 31 correspond to the gap between the support projections 63, and then the elastic member 30 is moved axially. With the above dimensional setting, the support projection 63 does not obstruct the outer circumferential teeth 31. Therefore, the elastic member 30 passes through the support projection 63 in the axial direction and contacts the torque input plate 10. Subsequently, the elastic member 30 can be rotated to adjust its angular position so that the outer teeth 31 press against the bottom surface of the anti-rotation groove 66.

[0067] In an embodiment not shown, the elastic member 30 may be supported on the flange portion 62 of the flywheel 60. In this case, the torque input plate 10 may have a plurality of transmission teeth 11 extending radially from its outer circumference. Each transmission tooth 11 is supported by a support projection 63. One of the transmission teeth 11 presses against the bottom surface of the anti-rotation groove 66. When relative circumferential sliding occurs between the torque input plate 10 and the flywheel 60, the transmission teeth 11 come into contact with the side wall of the anti-rotation groove 66, preventing excessive sliding of the torque input plate 10. Thus, the engagement of the transmission teeth 11 and the anti-rotation groove 66 fixes the torque input plate 10 circumferentially to the flywheel 60 and enables torque transmission from the torque input plate 10 to the flywheel 60. Similarly, the transmission teeth 11 have dimensions that allow them to pass axially through the space between adjacent support projections 63. During assembly, the torque input plate 10 first passes the support projection 63 in the axial direction, and then rotates at a constant angle in the circumferential direction so that the transmission teeth 11 are supported on the support projection 63.

[0068] The flywheel 60 of the torque limiter 100 does not necessarily have a support projection. Instead, an axial load support function is provided by a carrier plate 50 fastened to the flywheel 60. This is illustrated in the embodiments shown in Figures 12 and 13. In the embodiment shown in Figure 12, the torque limiter 100 includes a carrier plate 50 that is integrally fastened to the flywheel 60 and is located at a predetermined axial distance from the flange portion 62. The torque input plate 10 and the driven plate 20 are positioned axially between the carrier plate 50 and the flange portion 62. The carrier plate 50 and the flange portion 62 form two axial load support portions of the torque limiter 100. In the embodiment shown in Figure 12, the carrier plate 50 forms the first axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100, and the flange portion 62 forms the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100. It is also conceivable that the axial positions of the carrier plate 50 and the flange portion 62 may be reversed. In other words, the flange portion 62 forms the first axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100. The carrier plate 50 forms the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100. The carrier plate 50 may be formed integrally as a ring-shaped plate, or it may consist of a plurality of separate arch-shaped ring sections.

[0069] In the embodiments shown in Figures 12 and 13, the flywheel 60 has a connecting groove 65 on the inner circumference of the main body portion 61. The transmission teeth 11 extend radially from the outer circumference of the torque input plate 10 and can be inserted into the connecting groove 65, thereby fixing the torque input plate 10 circumferentially to the flywheel 60. If relative sliding occurs circumferentially between the torque input plate 10 and the flywheel 60, the transmission teeth 11 abut against the side wall of the connecting groove 65, preventing further sliding of the torque input plate 10. Therefore, the engagement of the transmission teeth 11 and the connecting groove 65 fixes the torque input plate 10 circumferentially to the flywheel 60 and enables torque transmission from the torque input plate 10 to the flywheel 60. The width of the transmission teeth 11 is approximately equal to the width of the connecting groove 65, thereby eliminating relative sliding as much as possible. Selectively, the width of the transmission teeth 11 may be smaller than the width of the spacing between the connecting holes 64. In embodiments not shown, transmission holes may similarly be provided in the carrier plate 50. The transmission teeth 11 extend axially from the outer circumference of the torque input plate 10 and can be inserted into the transmission holes. This fixes the torque input plate 10 circumferentially to the flywheel 60, enabling torque transmission from the torque input plate 10 to the flywheel 60.

[0070] Although not shown in the drawings, the axial load support function of the torque limiter 100 may be provided solely by carrier plates 50 fastened to the flywheel 60. In such embodiments, the flywheel 60 may not have a flange portion. Instead, the torque limiter 100 comprises two carrier plates 50, each fastened to the flywheel 60 on two axial sides of the flywheel 60. The two carrier plates 50 form a first axial load support portion and a second axial load support portion of the torque limiter 100. Torque transmission between the torque input plate 10 and the flywheel 60 may be achieved by inserting axially extending transmission teeth 11 into transmission holes provided in the carrier plates 50, or by inserting radially extending transmission teeth 11 into connection grooves 65 provided in the flywheel 60. This is not described in detail herein.

[0071] Specific features, structures, or characteristics of one or more embodiments of this disclosure may be combined as appropriate.

[0072] The above is a description of the Disclosure and should not be considered as limiting it. While several exemplary embodiments of the Disclosure have been described, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications are possible to the embodiments without departing from the novel teachings and merits of the Disclosure. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the Disclosure as defined by the claims. It should be understood that the above is a description of the Disclosure and should not be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and furthermore, that modifications to the disclosed embodiments and other embodiments are intended to fall within the scope of the Disclosure.

Claims

1. Flywheel (60) and First axial load support portion, A second axial load support portion fixed in the axial direction to the first axial load support portion, the first axial load support portion being located at a predetermined distance from the first axial load support portion, A torque input plate (10) fixed circumferentially to the flywheel (60), the torque input plate (10) drives the flywheel (60) to rotate integrally around the rotation axis (X), A driven plate (20) configured to output torque, A torque limiter (100) characterized by comprising: The torque input plate (10) and the driven plate (20) are positioned between the first axial load support portion and the second axial load support portion in the axial direction, such that the torque input plate (10) is positioned closer to the first axial load support portion and the driven plate (20) is positioned closer to the second axial load support portion. The torque input plate (10) and the driven plate (20) are in contact with each other with a predetermined axial force, and the torque input plate (10) drives the driven plate (20) to rotate around the rotation axis (X) by friction between the torque input plate (10) and the driven plate (20). A torque limiter (100) characterized by the following.

2. The torque limiter (100) further comprises an elastic member (30) positioned between the first axial load support portion and the second axial load support portion in the axial direction. The elastic member (30) biases one of the torque input plate (10) and the driven plate (20) toward the other of the torque input plate (10) and the driven plate (20). The torque limiter (100) according to feature 1.

3. The torque input plate (10) is provided with a plurality of transmission teeth (11) extending radially outward or axially from its outer circumference. The torque input plate (10) drives the flywheel (60) via the transmission teeth (11). The torque limiter (100) according to feature 2.

4. The torque input plate (10) comprises an inner plate (10a) and an outer plate (10b) that are fastened together. The outer plate (10b) is located radially outward of the inner plate (10a), The transmission teeth (11) are located on the outer circumference of the outer plate (10b), The torque limiter (100) according to feature 3.

5. The elastic member (30) is positioned between the first axial load support portion and the torque input plate (10), or The elastic member (30) is positioned between the driven plate (20) and the second axial load support portion. The torque limiter (100) according to feature 3.

6. The torque limiter (100) further comprises a friction lining (21) positioned adjacent to the driven plate (20) on at least one of two axial sides. The torque limiter (100) according to feature 3.

7. The torque limiter (100) further comprises an intermediate plate (40), The aforementioned intermediate plate (40) is The first ring (41) is fastened to the flywheel (60), Multiple connecting strips (43) formed integrally with the first ring (41), Equipped with, At least a portion of the connecting strip (43) extends in the axial direction, The transmission teeth (11) of the torque input plate (10) are insertable between two adjacent connecting strips (43). A torque limiter (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 6.

8. The first ring (41) comprises a ring body (41a) and a plurality of first teeth (44), Each first tooth (44) is positioned between two adjacent connecting strips (43) in the circumferential direction. The torque limiter (100) according to feature 7.

9. The ring body (41a) is fastened to the flywheel (60), The first tooth (44) is positioned on the inner circumference of the ring body (41a) and forms one of the first axial load support portion or the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter (100). The torque limiter (100) according to feature 8.

10. The first tooth (44) is positioned on the outer circumference of the ring body (41a) and fastened to the flywheel (60). The ring body (41a) forms one of the first axial load support portion or the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter (100). The torque limiter (100) according to feature 8.

11. The first tooth (44) is positioned at a predetermined distance from the ring body (41a) in the axial direction and is connected to the ring body (41a) via a bent portion (45). A torque limiter (100) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized by the above.

12. The intermediate plate (40) further comprises a second ring (42), The second ring (42) is positioned at a predetermined distance from the first ring (41) in the axial direction and is integrally formed with the connecting strip (43). The second ring (42) forms the other of the first axial load support portion and the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter (100). The torque limiter (100) according to claim 8 or 9.

13. The connecting strip (43) includes a radially extending section, The radial extension section is located at a predetermined distance from the first ring (41) in the axial direction. The radial extension section forms the other of the first axial load support portion and the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter (100). The torque limiter (100) according to the feature described in 10.

14. The flywheel (60) comprises a main body portion (61) and a flange portion (62) extending radially inward from the main body portion (61), The flange portion (62) forms one of the first axial load support portion or the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter (100). A torque limiter (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 6.

15. The flywheel (60) further comprises a support projection (63) extending radially inward from the main body portion (61), The support projection (63) is located at a predetermined distance from the flange portion (62) in the axial direction. The support projection (63) forms the other of the first axial load support portion or the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter (100). The torque limiter (100) according to feature 14.

16. The torque limiter (100) further comprises a carrier plate (50) integrally fastened to the flywheel (60), The carrier plate (50) is positioned at a predetermined distance from the flange portion (62) in the axial direction. The carrier plate (50) forms the other of the first axial load support portion or the second axial load support portion of the torque limiter (100). The torque limiter (100) according to feature 14.

17. The flywheel (60) is provided with a connection hole (64) located in the flange portion (62), The transmission teeth (11) extend axially from the outer circumference of the torque input plate (10) and are insertable into the connection hole (64), thereby fixing the torque input plate (10) to the flywheel (60) in the circumferential direction. A torque limiter (100) according to any one of claims 14 to 16, characterized by the above.

18. The flywheel (60) is provided with a connecting groove (65) located on the inner circumference of the main body portion (61), The transmission teeth (11) extend radially from the outer circumference of the torque input plate (10) and are insertable into the connection groove (65), thereby fixing the torque input plate (10) circumferentially to the flywheel (60). A torque limiter (100) according to any one of claims 14 to 16.

19. A rotation prevention groove (66) is provided in at least one of the multiple support protrusions (63). The torque limiter (100) according to claim 15.

20. The elastic member (30) is provided with a plurality of outer teeth (31), Each outer tooth (31) is supported by a single support projection (63). One of the outer teeth (31) presses against the bottom surface of the anti-rotation groove (66). The torque limiter (100) according to feature 19.

21. The outer teeth (31) of the elastic member (30) have dimensions such that they can pass through the space between adjacent support protrusions (63) in the axial direction. The elastic member (30) is rotatable by a certain angle in the circumferential direction during assembly so that the outer teeth (31) are supported on the support projection (63). The torque limiter (100) according to the 20th invention.

22. The transmission teeth (11) extend radially from the outer circumference of the torque input plate (10), Each transmission tooth (11) is supported by a single support projection (63). One of the multiple transmission teeth (11) presses against the bottom surface of the anti-rotation groove (66). The torque limiter (100) according to claim 15.

23. The transmission teeth (11) have dimensions such that they can pass through the space between adjacent support protrusions (63) in the axial direction. The torque input plate (10) is rotatable by a certain angle in the circumferential direction during assembly so that the outer teeth (31) are supported on the support projection (63). The torque limiter (100) according to feature 22.

24. The torque limiter (100) further comprises two carrier plates (50) which are integrally fastened to the flywheel (60) on two axial sides of the flywheel (60), The two carrier plates (50) each form a first axial load support portion and a second axial load support portion of the torque limiter (100), A torque limiter (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 6.

25. A transmission hole is provided in at least one of the two carrier plates (50). The transmission teeth (11) extend axially from the outer circumference of the torque input plate (10) and are insertable into the transmission holes, thereby fixing the torque input plate (10) to the flywheel (60) in the circumferential direction. The torque limiter (100) according to feature 24.

26. The flywheel (60) is provided with a connecting groove (65) located on the inner circumference of its main body portion (61), The transmission teeth (11) extend radially from the outer circumference of the torque input plate (10) and are insertable into the connection groove (65), thereby fixing the torque input plate (10) circumferentially to the flywheel (60). The torque limiter (100) according to feature 24.

27. A torque limiter (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 26, Torsional vibration damper (200), A drive assembly (1) comprising, The torsional vibration damper (200) comprises an input portion (210), an output portion (220), and a spring (230) arranged between the input portion (210) and the output portion (220) to be compressed in the circumferential direction. In the drive assembly (1), The input portion (210) of the torsional vibration damper (200) is integrally fastened to the driven plate (20) of the torque limiter (100), or The input portion (210) of the torsional vibration damper (200) is integrally formed with the driven plate (20) of the torque limiter (100). A drive assembly (1) characterized by the following.

28. The torsional vibration damper (200) is provided with a through hole (201), Because the fastener can pass through the through hole (201), the torque input plate (10) of the torque limiter (100) is fastened to the upstream component of the drive assembly. The drive assembly (1) according to the feature of 27.

29. A vehicle comprising the drive assembly (1) according to claim 27 or 28.

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