Integrated Torque Converter Friction Clutch Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydrodynamic torque converters with lockup clutches are complex and costly due to their construction, which complicates the efficient transmission of torque and can result in jerky engagement when the friction clutch is activated.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a hydrodynamic torque converter with a turbine and pump, integrated with a parallel friction clutch featuring ring-shaped frictional and flow segments, where the segments are matched to achieve improved torque transmission and controlled engagement through specific value ratios, allowing for a simpler and more efficient torque transmission system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hydrodynamic torque converter with lockup clutch is constructed with separate components, then torque transmission capability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the friction clutch and torque converter into a single integrated device where the frictional segments are coupled to the pump and turbine respectively, and the flow segment connects both components. This merging eliminates the need for separate clutch and torque converter assemblies while maintaining torque transmission capability through the unified structure with common housing and fluid coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions simultaneously: the pump and turbine provide hydrodynamic torque multiplication, the frictional segments enable direct mechanical coupling when engaged, and the flow segment maintains fluid communication between components. This multi-functionality in a single device reduces overall system complexity compared to separate components.
2Speed
If the friction clutch is engaged rapidly for quick torque buildup, then connecting speed is improved, but engagement comfort deteriorates due to jerky engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The frictional segments are designed with adjustable axial positioning relative to the flow segment, allowing the engagement process to be dynamically controlled. The axial displacement enables progressive engagement where the friction surfaces can gradually contact and adapt, providing controlled torque transfer that balances speed with engagement smoothness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes geometric parameters including the axial thickness of frictional segments, radial dimensions of the flow segment, and the axial displacement between pump and turbine. By carefully selecting these parameters within specific ranges, the engagement characteristics are tuned to achieve both rapid connecting speed and comfortable engagement without jerky motion.
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 provides a cost-effective, integrated torque transmission device that balances connecting speed and engagement comfort, ensuring smooth and rapid torque buildup while avoiding jerky engagement by optimizing the ratios between the ring-shaped frictional and flow segments.
Implementation Method 1
a friction clutch that is connected in parallel to the torque converter, having a first and a second frictional segment
Implementation Method 2
a hydrodynamic torque converter having a turbine and a pump
Data Source
AI summary
A device for transmitting torque includes a hydrodynamic torque converter having a turbine and a pump, as well as a friction clutch that is connected in parallel to the torque converter, having a first and a second frictional segment. The first frictional segment is integrated with the pump, and the second frictional segment is integrated with the turbine. A ring-shaped frictional segment, on which the frictional elements may be brought into engagement with each other axially, and a ring-shaped flow segment, on which vanes of the pump and of the turbine are located opposite each other axially, are matched with one another in their dimensions, in order to realize a balanced transmission behavior.