Hydrodynamic converter with channel inserts
US6360533B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 10, 2000 |
| Grant date | Mar 26, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 10, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16H45/02
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A hydrodynamic converter coupling member for a torque converter has a simplified structure that can include plastic materials and permit a reduction in components with simplified assembly processes which may result in lighter components and reduced assembly costs. For a turbine, the coupling is made with an outer shell and a plurality of channel inserts. The inserts form the curved channels or fluid passages of the turbine and include generally concentric curved inner and outer sides integrally connected to one another along one edge by a connecting wall that acts as a blade or vane. The inserts are secured in the outer shell with their outer sides against the outer shell. The inner sides are supported at both edges by the connecting walls, which are integral with one edge and include grooves for receiving the opposite free edges. Thus, the inner sides close the channels inwardly and avoid the need for a separate inner shell in the improved assembly.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.