Torque Converter Extended Impeller Rim Datum
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current torque converter designs require expensive select fit washer designs and extra processing to meet tight overall length tolerances, which is costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The torque converter incorporates an extended impeller rim with a lug or folded portion to create a datum plane, allowing for connection to an engine drive plate assembly without the need for additional washers, using a single component to maintain height tolerances and simplify machining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a select fit washer design is used to meet tight overall length tolerances, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity and processing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple separate components (impeller, front cover, and connector) into an integrated assembly where the connector is formed as part of the impeller shell. This merging eliminates the need for separate select fit washers and reduces the number of parts while maintaining tight overall length tolerances through the unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector on the axially extending section of the impeller shell serves multiple functions: it provides the connection interface to the engine drive plate, establishes the datum plane for height tolerances, and eliminates the need for separate washer components. This multi-functional design simplifies the assembly while achieving the required precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If a select fit washer design is used to meet tight overall length tolerances, then manufacturing precision is improved, but processing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple separate components (impeller, front cover, and connector) into an integrated assembly where the connector is formed as part of the impeller shell. This merging eliminates the need for separate select fit washers and reduces the number of parts while maintaining tight overall length tolerances through the unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive select fit washers with a simpler, integrated connector design that is formed as part of the impeller shell. This approach uses standard manufacturing processes to create the connection feature, eliminating the need for costly selective fitting and extra processing steps.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple components are used to meet height tolerances, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple separate components (impeller, front cover, and connector) into an integrated assembly where the connector is formed as part of the impeller shell. This merging eliminates the need for separate select fit washers and reduces the number of parts while maintaining tight overall length tolerances through the unified structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A torque converter is provided. The torque converter includes a front cover and an impeller shell including an axially extending section fixed to the front cover. The impeller shell includes a connector on the axially extending section. The connector is configured for connecting to an engine drive plate assembly. A method for forming a torque converter is also provided. The method includes providing connector on an axially extending section of an impeller shell, the connector being configured for connecting to an engine drive plate assembly; and fixing the axially extending section to a front cover.