Functionally enhanced hydrokinetic device having clutch assembly operable at low engine speeds
US6000510A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 16, 1997 |
| Grant date | Dec 14, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 16, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16H2200/0034
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A torque converter for translating kinetic energy between a prime mover and a transmission including a torque input member and an impeller assembly operatively coupled for rotation with the torque input member. A turbine assembly is fluidly connected in driven relationship with the impeller assembly. A clutch assembly is supported for selective operation with the turbine assembly and interposed between the turbine assembly and the torque input member. The clutch assembly may be a continuously slipping bypass clutch which is selectively movable into engagement with the torque input member to provide torque translation between the torque input member and the turbine assembly at low engine speeds. The continuously slipping bypass clutch includes annular friction clutch facings having at least one circuitous groove providing fluid communication between the high and low pressure cavity in the torque converter and wherein the groove includes at least one bridge portion spanning the groove to interconnect either side of the groove in the clutch facing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.