Variable K-factor torque converter
US7785229B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 14, 2007 |
| Grant date | Aug 31, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 20, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16H61/58
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A controllable hydrodynamic torque converter is provided for use within a vehicle having a detectable throttle level, the torque converter comprising a first stator having a first outlet angle and a second stator having a higher second outlet angle. The second stator is selectively engageable with the first stator using a hydraulic clutch to thereby vary the torque converter K-factor during idle and high-throttle conditions, and is permitted to freewheel during low or part throttle conditions. The first outlet angle is at least five degrees lower than the second outlet angle. A vehicle is also provided including an engine having an engine torque and a detectable throttle level, a transmission, a torque converter operable to transmit the engine torque to the transmission and having a stator assembly with two stators, a selectively controllable clutch, and a controller configured to selectively actuate the clutch to vary the K-factor depending on the throttle level.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.