Compact Torque Transmitting Assembly Radial Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torque transmitting devices in automatic and hybrid transmissions are limited by axial length constraints, which can impact motor torque output and vehicle performance, necessitating a compact design that reduces transmission length without compromising operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A compact torque transmitting device featuring an annular piston, an apply plate, an apply disc, a backing disc, and a friction plate, where the apply plate translates radially to compress the friction plate between the apply and backing discs, allowing for axial compaction through radial stacking of components, and is actuated hydraulically for engagement and disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the axial length of the transmission is reduced, then the axial packaging is improved, but the motor torque output and vehicle performance are impacted
Solution Approach 1:
The torque transmitting device transitions from a conventional axial stacking arrangement to a radial stacking arrangement where friction plates and metal plates are disposed radially outward from the piston. This dimensional change allows the friction plates to be positioned between the apply plate and piston in the radial direction rather than requiring additional axial space, thereby reducing the axial length of the transmission while maintaining the necessary friction engagement surfaces for torque transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction plates are nested within the radial space between the piston and the outer housing, with the apply plate extending radially inward to engage the friction plates. This nesting arrangement allows the friction plates to occupy the radial dimension rather than requiring additional axial length, enabling compact axial packaging while preserving the torque transmitting function.
2Length of moving object
If the axial length of the torque transmitting device is reduced, then the overall transmission length is reduced, but the engagement smoothness and operational effectiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The apply plate incorporates a radially extending friction surface that locally contacts the friction plates, creating a dedicated engagement zone. This local quality feature ensures smooth torque transfer by providing a specific contact area optimized for friction engagement, while the rest of the apply plate maintains its structural function. The localized friction surface allows effective engagement within a compact axial footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque transmitting device is segmented into distinct functional zones: the piston with radial friction surfaces, the apply plate with radially extending engagement surfaces, and the friction plates positioned in the radial gap. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together in a compact radial arrangement, achieving both reduced axial length and smooth operational engagement.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution achieves a compact transmission design that maintains torque transmission efficiency while reducing axial length, thereby enhancing vehicle performance without the need to reduce other components' lengths, allowing for effective engagement and disengagement of torque transmission.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic clutch control system that employs a hydraulic fluid to selectively actuate pistons within the torque transmitting devices
Implementation Method 2
the friction plate is compressed between the apply disc and the backing disc, thereby rotationally coupling the apply disc and backing disc with the friction plate
Data Source
AI summary
A torque transmitting device for transmitting torque between a first and second members includes an annular piston that defines an axis and an apply plate translatable along the axis between an unengaged position and an engaged position. The apply plate has a first end disposed radially inward of a second end and is in contact with the piston. An apply disc is rotationally coupled to the first member and is translatable between unengaged and engaged positions. The apply disc is disposed radially outward of the piston. A backing disc is rotationally and axially fixed to the first member and disposed radially outward of the piston. A friction plate is disposed between the apply disc and the backing disc. The friction plate has a first end disposed radially inward of a second end and is rotationally coupled to the second member. The friction plate is disposed radially outward of the piston.