Optimized outer clutch housing for reduced spin loss, improved oil flow and improved clutch durability

摘要

A torque transfer device can include a housing and a clutch. The housing can define a clutch cavity and a pocket. The pocket can be formed at an axial end of the clutch cavity and have a generally arcuate shape that extends circumferentially about the clutch cavity above a static lubrication level. The clutch can include an outer carrier, an inner carrier, a plurality of first and second interleaved friction plates. One of an outer and an inner plate carrier of the clutch can be coupled to an input member for common rotation. The other of the carriers can be coupled to a differential case for common rotation. Rotation of the outer carrier relative to the housing through a fluid in the clutch cavity can sling a portion of the fluid toward an inner surface of the housing to cause the portion of the fluid to collect in the pocket.

主权项

1. A torque transfer device comprising:
a housing defining a clutch cavity and a pocket, the pocket being formed at an axial end of the clutch cavity and having a generally arcuate shape extending circumferentially about the clutch cavity and being above a static lubrication level when the torque transfer device is disposed in a predetermined orientation; an input pinion configured for rotation about a first axis; an input member configured for rotation about a second axis and being meshingly engaged with the input pinion; a first output member and a second output member; a differential including a differential case and a differential gearset, the differential gearset being configured to transmit rotary power between the differential case and the first and second output members; a shaft supported within the housing for rotation about the second axis and coupled for common rotation with the differential case; a fluid received in the clutch cavity; and a friction clutch including an outer carrier, an inner carrier, a plurality of first friction plates, and a plurality of second friction plates, the outer carrier having a first plate mount onto which the first friction plates are non-rotatably mounted, the inner carrier having a second plate mount onto which the second friction plates are non-rotatably mounted, the second friction plates being interleaved with the first friction plates, one of the outer and inner carriers being coupled to the shaft for common rotation, the other of the outer and inner carriers being coupled to the input member for common rotation; wherein rotation of the outer carrier relative to the housing in a predetermined rotational direction through the fluid in the clutch cavity slings a portion of the fluid toward an inner surface of the housing to cause the portion of the fluid to collect in the pocket.