Torque Converter Lock-Up Device with Axially Split Inertia Rings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lock-up devices for torque converters occupy excessive axial space and weight due to the configuration of torsion springs and inertia members, which limits their ability to effectively inhibit rotational speed variations while maintaining low fuel consumption.
Innovation Solution
A lock-up device with a dynamic damper system comprising axially split inertia rings and torque transmission elastic members, where the elastic members are accommodated in recesses of the inertia rings, allowing for series-like action and reduced space occupation, coupled with an intermediate member to enhance rotational variation inhibition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If torsion springs and inertia members are mounted between the output member and inertia member to form a dynamic damper, then rotational speed variation is inhibited, but axial space occupied and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places the dynamic damper device inside the torque converter housing, nesting it within the existing structure. The inertia member is positioned within the torque converter body, and the torsion springs are contained within the space between the inertia member and the output member, effectively utilizing available space without adding external components.
Solution Approach 2:
The output member serves multiple functions: it transmits torque from the turbine and simultaneously supports the dynamic damper device. The inertia member not only provides inertial damping but also serves as a mounting structure for the torsion springs. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby reducing overall weight.
2Stability of the object's composition
If torsion springs and inertia members are mounted between the output member and inertia member to form a dynamic damper, then rotational speed variation is inhibited, but axial space occupied increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a purely axial arrangement to a radial and circumferential configuration. The torsion springs are arranged radially around the inertia member, and the dynamic damper device is positioned in the circumferential direction. This dimensional redistribution allows the components to fit within the radial width of the torque converter rather than extending axially.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic damper device is nested within the torque converter housing, with the inertia member contained within the torque converter body. The torsion springs are nested between the inertia member and the output member, utilizing the radial space available rather than requiring additional axial length.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a conventional dynamic damper configuration is used with torsion springs disposed between the piston and turbine, then rotational variation is attenuated, but device complexity and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the dynamic damper device with the torque transmission path. The inertia member is integrated into the torque converter body, and the torsion springs are combined with the existing output member structure. This integration eliminates the need for separate, standalone dynamic damper components, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The output member and inertia member serve dual purposes: torque transmission and dynamic damping. The torsion springs not only provide elastic coupling but also serve as the damping element. This multi-functionality reduces the number of dedicated components needed, simplifying the overall structure.
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 lightweight, compact design that effectively inhibits rotational speed variations and reduces fuel consumption by optimizing the dynamic damper's space usage and assembly, while preventing secondary resonance.
Implementation Method 1
The plural torque transmission elastic members elastically and rotation-directionally couple the clutch portion and the output rotary member
Implementation Method 2
The plural dynamic damper elastic members are accommodated in the pairs of the accommodation recesses of the first and second inertia rings, and elastically couple the intermediate member and the inertia rings
Implementation Method 3
The first and second inertia rings are axially split and have pairs of accommodation recesses axially opposed to each other. The plural dynamic damper elastic members are accommodated in the pairs of the accommodation recesses of the first and second inertia rings
Data Source
AI summary
A lock-up device includes an output rotary member rotatable relatively to a clutch portion and coupled to a turbine. A plurality of torque transmission elastic members elastically and rotation-directionally couple the clutch portion and the output rotary member. An intermediate member rotatable relatively to the clutch portion and the output rotary member causes at least two of the plural torque transmission elastic members to act in a series-like manner. A dynamic damper device includes a first inertia ring, a second inertia ring and a plurality of dynamic damper elastic members, the first and second inertia rings axially split and having pairs of accommodation recesses axially opposed to each other, the plural dynamic damper elastic members accommodated in the pairs of the accommodation recesses of the first and second inertia rings and elastically coupling the intermediate member and the first and second inertia rings.