초록 ▼

A friction element which can be used in the lockup clutch of a hydrokinetic torque converter and has a friction face engaging a complementary friction face when the clutch is at least partially engaged is provided with one or more channels which are machined, impressed or otherwise formed in its fri

A friction element which can be used in the lockup clutch of a hydrokinetic torque converter and has a friction face engaging a complementary friction face when the clutch is at least partially engaged is provided with one or more channels which are machined, impressed or otherwise formed in its friction face to permit a fluid coolant to flow from a first compartment containing a pressurized fluid into a second compartment wherein the fluid pressure is lower. Each channel includes at least one fluid flow restricting portion which communicates with the first compartment and establishes a turbulent flow of fluid into a major portion of the respective channel. The major portion is designed to establish a laminar flow of fluid toward one or more outlets communicating with the second compartment. The reduction of pressure differential between the fluid in the first compartment and the fluid in the second compartment is effected by the respective fluid flow restricting portion or portions, either entirely or substantially entirely. This ensures a more satisfactory exchange of heat between the fluid in the major portion of each channel and the adjacent parts of the clutch.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] As a novel article of manufacture, a friction element for use in an engageable and disengageable lockup clutch of a hydrokinetic torque converter including a housing for said clutch, for a turbine and for a pump and having a chamber including first and second fluid-contai

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] As a novel article of manufacture, a friction element for use in an engageable and disengageable lockup clutch of a hydrokinetic torque converter including a housing for said clutch, for a turbine and for a pump and having a chamber including first and second fluid-containing compartments partially separable from each other by a piston forming part of the lockup clutch and having a first friction face engageable with a second friction face of the clutch in response to engagement of the clutch, said housing and said piston being rotatable about a common axis and one of said compartments being disposed radially inwardly of said friction faces, one of said friction faces being provided on a substantially washer-like part of the friction element and having inner and outer annular portions, said friction element further having at least one elongated fluid conveying channel provided in said one friction face and extending between said annular portions to establish at least one path for the flow of fluid between said compartments in the engaged condition of said clutch, said at least one channel having at least one fluid flow restricting portion which determines the rate of fluid flow between said compartments along said at least one path.