HYDRODYNAMIC TORQUE CONVERTER WITH LOCK-UP DEVICE

摘要

This hydrodynamic torque converter for the automatic transmission of motor vehicles which provide several gear ratios comprises means for bridging the input and output shafts of the converter. The hydraulic fluid supplied through the hollow transmission shaft penetrates into the converter inner space via a gaged orifice; the outlet of the control chamber of the converter is closed by a solenoid valve in one position thereof; the pressure in the converter inner space is the same as in the control chamber, and spring means are provided for urging the control piston to its release position when the assembly operates as a torque converter. In the other valve position the pressure prevailing in the converter inner space having its outlet closed is applied to the control piston against the force of the spring means. The pressure in the control chamber is low and thus the friction lining carried by the control piston produces the desired bridging action.