One-Way Clutch Support Structure Eliminating Snap Rings
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing torque converter designs require complex structures and increased manufacturing costs due to the use of snap rings and grooves to position annular plates relative to the stator, which complicates the assembly and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
A supporting structure for a one-way clutch that uses a protrusion at the stator's inner periphery and a first contact plate to support the clutch, eliminating the need for snap rings and grooves, with additional annular plates and bearings to enhance positioning precision and reduce wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If snap rings and grooves are used to position annular plates relative to the stator, then positioning is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the snap ring and groove components from the positioning system. Instead of using a snap ring fitted into a groove to position the annular plate, the patent uses a simplified direct positioning mechanism where the annular plate is positioned relative to the stator without requiring additional fastening components, thereby reducing structural complexity while maintaining positioning accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the positioning function directly into the annular plate and stator structure themselves, rather than using separate positioning components. The annular plate is designed to be positioned relative to the stator through integrated structural features, combining the positioning function with the main components and eliminating the need for separate snap rings and grooves
2Reliability
If snap rings and grooves are used to support the one-way clutch, then positioning is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the snap ring and groove components from the assembly, eliminating the need for additional parts and assembly steps. This reduction in component count directly lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining the positioning and support functions through simplified structural design
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive additional components (snap rings, grooves requiring precision machining) with a simpler, more cost-effective structural arrangement where the annular plate and stator directly provide positioning and support functions, reducing material and manufacturing costs
3Ease of operation
If the first contact plate directly contacts the first bearing, then support is provided, but wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces an intermediary element or structural arrangement between the first contact plate and the first bearing that prevents direct contact between these two components. This intermediary mechanism allows the support function to be maintained while eliminating the wear that would occur from direct contact, thereby extending component lifespan
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts or eliminates the direct contact interface between the first contact plate and the first bearing. By removing this direct contact path, the wear mechanism is eliminated while the support function is maintained through alternative structural arrangements that prevent deteriorative interaction between components
Data Source
AI summary
A supporting structure for a one-way clutch supports the one-way clutch arranged between a stator of a torque converter for transmitting a torque from an engine to a transmission side via a fluid and a shaft at the transmission side. The supporting structure includes a first protrusion and a first contact plate. The first protrusion is provided at an inner periphery of the stator and protruding towards an inner-peripheral side of the stator. The first contact plate is fitted between the one-way clutch and the first protrusion of the stator and supports the one-way clutch while restraining an axial movement of the one-way clutch.