Torque Converter Hub Rivet Slot for Blind Solid Joint Strength
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blind rivets are not as durable or robust as solid rivets, particularly in applications where access to both sides of the joint is limited.
Innovation Solution
A blind solid rivet connection is achieved by installing a rivet in a bore of one component, with the rivet's upset tail engaging a slot extending radially from the bore, thereby securing the components together without the need for access from both sides.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If blind rivets are used for single-sided installation, then ease of operation is improved, but strength and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state and geometry of the rivet tail by forming an upset or bulge through pressing or swelling operations. This transforms the rivet tail from a simple cylindrical shape to a expanded form that engages with the slot, significantly increasing the joint strength while maintaining blind rivet installation advantages
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a slot feature that extends radially beyond the bore, creating a new dimensional space for the upset tail to engage. This radial extension provides additional engagement surface area and geometric interlocking, enhancing the joint strength without requiring access from both sides of the workpiece
2Strength
If solid rivets are used for robust connection, then strength is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring access from both sides
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connection function into two distinct features: the bore for rivet insertion and the radially extending slot for upset tail engagement. This segmentation allows the rivet to be installed from one side while achieving solid rivet-like strength through the slot engagement, eliminating the need for dual-sided access
3Ease of operation
If rivet tail is expanded within bore for blind rivet connection, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to limited engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the engagement geometry radially by creating a slot that protrudes beyond the bore surface. The upset tail engages with this radially extended slot rather than merely expanding within the bore, providing superior mechanical interlocking and significantly improved connection reliability while maintaining blind installation capability
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 solution provides a durable and robust blind rivet connection that is comparable to solid rivets, while maintaining the single-sided installation advantage of blind rivets, resulting in a lighter and more compact assembly.
Implementation Method 1
pressing a tail of the at least one rivet against an axial end face of the hub body to upset the tail of the at least one rivet within the circumferential slot
Data Source
AI summary
A torque converter assembly including a hub and a housing at least partially surrounding the hub. The hub includes a hub body having a radially-inwardly extending circumferential slot defining a connection portion of the hub body, and a plurality of axially extending bores extending through the connection portion of the hub body to the circumferential slot. At least a portion of the housing is coupled to the hub with at least one rivet installed in a corresponding bore of the connection portion of the hub body.