Torque Converter Seal Plate Assembly for Axial Space Constraints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torque converter designs face challenges in fitting all necessary components within the limited envelope while meeting durability and performance requirements, particularly due to axial constraints.
Innovation Solution
A torque converter design incorporating a thrust washer and seal plate assembly, where the thrust washer is fixed to the seal plate and the seal plate is non-rotatably connected to the front cover, allowing for axial and radial positioning that optimizes component placement and reduces wear, with a damper assembly and lock-up clutch configuration to enhance efficiency and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional torque converter designs are used, then component durability and performance requirements can be met, but it is difficult to fit all necessary components within the limited envelope due to axial constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the thrust washer from its traditional location on the turbine to the seal plate, utilizing the radial dimension between the seal plate and output flange. This dimensional reconfiguration allows the thrust washer to occupy space that would otherwise be unused, enabling all components to fit within the limited envelope while maintaining proper spacing and function.
Solution Approach 2:
The thrust washer is nested within the radial space between the seal plate and output flange, with the seal plate positioned axially between the front cover and output flange. This nesting arrangement allows multiple components (seal plate, thrust washer, output flange) to occupy overlapping or adjacent spaces efficiently, maximizing space utilization within the constrained envelope.
2Volume of moving object
If components are positioned to fit within the limited envelope, then space utilization improves, but component durability and performance requirements may not be met
Solution Approach 1:
By moving the thrust washer to the seal plate and utilizing radial spacing, the design maintains adequate axial spacing between the thrust washer and other components (turbine, output flange) despite the compact envelope. This ensures the thrust washer has sufficient space to perform its load-bearing function without excessive wear while fitting within the constrained volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal plate is specifically designed with an axial position between the front cover and output flange to provide a mounting surface for the thrust washer. This localized structural feature ensures proper spacing and load distribution for the thrust washer, maintaining component durability while accommodating the compact design.
3Reliability
If the thrust washer is positioned traditionally on the turbine, then component function is maintained, but it is difficult to fit all components within the limited envelope
Solution Approach 1:
The thrust washer is extracted from its traditional location on the turbine and repositioned to the seal plate. This extraction allows the thrust washer to be placed in a different location where it can perform its function while occupying space that does not interfere with other components, thereby enabling all components to fit within the limited envelope.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal plate serves as an intermediary structure between the front cover and output flange, providing a mounting surface for the thrust washer. This intermediary position allows the thrust washer to be supported at an optimal location that maintains its load-bearing function while fitting within the constrained envelope and coordinating with other components.
Data Source
AI summary
A torque converter includes a front cover arranged to receive a torque and a damper assembly including an output flange arranged to non-rotatably connect to a transmission input shaft. The torque converter further includes a seal plate disposed between the front cover and the output flange. The seal plate is non-rotatably connected to the cover. The torque converter further includes a thrust washer including a body axially disposed between the seal plate and the output flange. The thrust washer is fixed to the seal plate.