Torque Converter Damper Assembly With Nested Multi-Stage Springs
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Solution Overview
Problem
The capacity of existing damper assemblies in torque converters is limited due to restricted spacing within the torque converter envelope, making it challenging to accommodate all necessary components while meeting durability and performance requirements.
Innovation Solution
A damper assembly configuration that includes an input flange, cover plate, intermediate flange, hub flange, first spring, second spring, and third spring, where each spring is compressed by different components, allowing for efficient torque transmission and increased capacity within the torque converter envelope.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If springs are arranged in series within the damper assembly, then the torque transmission capacity is improved, but the axial spacing required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional single-plane spring arrangement to a multi-dimensional configuration where springs are distributed both axially and radially. The intermediate flange creates a staggered arrangement with first springs between input and cover plates, second springs between cover plate and intermediate flange, and third springs between intermediate and hub flanges. This spatial distribution in multiple dimensions allows torque capacity enhancement while managing axial spacing constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The damper assembly employs a nested structure where multiple spring sets are arranged concentrically and axially within the torque converter envelope. The intermediate flange is positioned axially between the cover plate and hub flange, creating nested layers of spring elements that efficiently utilize the limited radial and axial space available in the torque converter assembly.
2Reliability
If multiple springs are added to increase damper capacity, then performance requirements are met, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate flange serves multiple functions: it acts as a mounting surface for the second and third springs, provides structural support for the damper assembly, and enables the staggered spring configuration. The cover plate similarly serves as both a structural component and a mounting surface for multiple spring sets. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple spring sets are combined within a single integrated damper assembly structure. The first, second, and third springs are merged into one cohesive unit with shared mounting surfaces (cover plate, intermediate flange, hub flange), allowing enhanced torque capacity without proportionally increasing overall assembly complexity.
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
This configuration enhances the capacity of the damper assembly within the limited torque converter envelope, ensuring effective torque transmission and meeting performance and durability standards.
Implementation Method 1
The first spring is arranged to be compressed by the input flange and the cover plate. The second spring is arranged to be compressed by the cover plate and the intermediate flange. The third spring is arranged to be compressed by the intermediate flange and the hub flange.
Data Source
AI summary
A damper assembly for a torque converter includes: an input flange; a cover plate; an intermediate flange; a hub flange; a first spring; and second spring; and a third spring. The input flange is arranged to receive a torque. The cover plate is connected to the input flange. The intermediate flange is axially spaced from the input flange and is connected to the cover plate radially outside of the input flange. The hub flange is disposed axially between the intermediate flange and the cover plate and is arranged to connect to a transmission input shaft. The first spring is arranged to be compressed by the input flange and the cover plate. The second spring is arranged to be compressed by the cover plate and the intermediate flange. The third spring is arranged to be compressed by the intermediate flange and the hub flange.