Torque Converter Load Transfer Path Bypasses Energy Accumulators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydrodynamic torque converter devices for motor vehicle drive trains face challenges in manufacturing ease and effective reduction and compensation of torque spikes from combustion engines, particularly in transferring torque without transmitting it through energy accumulators.
Innovation Solution
A hydrodynamic torque converter device with a torsion vibration damper and converter torus, comprising a pump shell, turbine shell, and stator shell, featuring a series connection of first and second energy accumulator means, and a load transfer path with offset connection means such as rivet, bolt, or weld joints, allowing torque transfer without energy accumulator involvement, and a converter lockup clutch for torque transfer when closed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If torque is transferred through the outer turbine shell to the input component, then torque transfer is achieved, but the energy accumulators become involved in torque transmission which complicates the system and reduces manufacturing ease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the torque transfer function from the energy accumulator system by creating a separate load transfer path. The outer turbine shell is directly connected to the input component through connection means (rivets, bolts, or welds) that bypass the energy accumulators, thereby removing the complexity of torque transmission through the vibration damping system while maintaining the structural integrity and functional separation of components.
2Ease of manufacture
If connection means are positioned on the outer turbine shell, then torque transfer is enabled, but warping and manufacturing issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning connection means specifically on the outer turbine shell in regions optimized for their function. The connection means (rivets, bolts, or welds) are strategically located to enable effective torque transfer while avoiding areas prone to warping during manufacturing. This localized optimization allows the connection structure to have different properties at different locations - strong torque transfer capability where needed and warping resistance where critical.
3Reliability
If energy accumulators are used for torque transfer, then vibration damping is achieved, but torque spike reduction is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the torque transfer and vibration damping functions into separate pathways. The load transfer path handles torque transmission from the outer turbine shell to the input component through direct mechanical connections, while the energy accumulators remain dedicated to vibration damping through torsional deformation. This functional segmentation allows each subsystem to optimize its performance without interfering with the other, effectively reducing torque spikes while maintaining vibration damping reliability.
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
Facilitates easy manufacturing and safe reduction of torque spikes by ensuring torque transfer occurs without energy accumulator involvement, enhancing the device's efficiency and reducing manufacturing-related issues like warping.
Implementation Method 1
a first energy accumulator means (38), comprising one or several first energy accumulators (42), and a second energy accumulator means (40) comprising one or several second energy accumulators (44)
Implementation Method 2
a converter torus (12), formed by a pump shell (20), a turbine shell (24) and a stator shell (22)
Data Source
AI summary
A hydrodynamic torque converter device for an automotive drive train, comprising a torsional vibration damper and a converter torus which is formed by an impeller, a turbine wheel and a stator. The torsional vibration damper has a first energy accumulating device with one or more first energy accumulators, and a second energy accumulating device with one or more second energy accumulators, which is connected in series to the first energy accumulating device.