Torque-Limiting Flex Plate Assembly for Reverse Torque Spikes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Internal combustion engines face issues with reverse torque and torsional vibrations, which conventional systems like dual mass flywheels and pendulum absorbers cannot effectively mitigate without increasing space requirements.
Innovation Solution
A torque limiting flex plate assembly is integrated with a torque limiting clutch, allowing the flex plate and clutch to rotate independently during torque spikes, preventing reverse torque transmission to the engine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If dual mass flywheels or pendulum absorbers are used to mitigate torsional vibration, then torsional vibration is effectively reduced, but the space occupied increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the flex plate and torque limiting clutch into a single integrated assembly. The clutch is mounted directly to the flex plate, eliminating the need for separate torsional mitigation devices. This merging allows the system to achieve torsional vibration mitigation within the existing space constraints of the conventional transmission packaging.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional torque converters or clutch slip are used to prevent reverse torque, then reverse torque is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The torque limiting clutch is integrated directly with the flex plate, combining two functions (torque limitation and flex plate operation) into a single assembly. This reduces device complexity compared to separate torque converters or additional clutch systems while still providing reverse torque protection.
3Volume of moving object
If a torque limiting clutch assembly is integrated with the flex plate, then space usage is optimized, but the frictional engagement mechanism adds complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The torque limiting clutch uses friction discs that are designed to be simple, inexpensive components. When wear occurs or the clutch slips, these friction elements can be replaced without replacing the entire assembly, making the complexity manageable through ease of maintenance and replacement.
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 system effectively reduces reverse torque and torsional vibrations without increasing space, enabling more efficient use of existing packaging by integrating a larger torsional mitigation device.
Implementation Method 1
The torque limiting clutch assembly is in frictional engagement with the flex plate such that the torque limiting clutch assembly and the flex plate are coupled for common rotation during normal engine operation. Upon receiving a torque spike from a transmission input shaft, the torque limiting clutch assembly is configured to slip such that the flex plate and the torque limiting clutch assembly rotate independently at different speeds
Data Source
AI summary
A torque limiting flex plate assembly includes a flex plate configured to couple to a crankshaft of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, and a torque limiting clutch assembly integrated with the flex plate. The torque limiting clutch assembly is in frictional engagement with the flex plate such that the torque limiting clutch assembly and the flex plate are coupled for common rotation during normal engine operation. Upon receiving a torque spike from a transmission input shaft, the torque limiting clutch assembly is configured to slip such that the flex plate and the torque limiting clutch assembly rotate independently at different speeds to thereby prevent the torque spike from being transferred through the flex plate to the internal combustion engine.