Abstract: A control system used to change the gear ratio in a gear set regulated by a signal from an electronic control unit is disclosed. A transducer provides an output torque signal which is compared to other signals for controlling the gear change. The ratio change is accomplished through a friction element engaged by hydraulic pressure. A unique diaphragm and solenoid control valve is used responsive to the electronic control unit to follow a shift control ramp to insure a smooth shift.

Abstract: A speed-responsive engaging mechanism, adapted for use in a hydrodynamic device to couple the turbine and impeller members, including a disc secured to the turbine member having a series of cam surfaces formed in apertures in the periphery thereof with a series of engaging devices or friction shoes in said pockets. The friction shoes engage with the impeller member at a predetermined speed of rotation of the turbine element. The cam means will induce a wedging engagement of the shoes upon further increase of speed. A spring is carried by each shoe urging them toward a disengaged position and retaining the shoes in the apertures.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a hydraulic torque converter impeller member and the product of such manufacture in which a hardened steel cylindrical bearing is assembled to a drawn hub portion of a generally annular sheet metal part to comprise a torque converter impeller comprising the steps of (1) semidrawing the part to include a partly drawn hub portion, (2) placing a hardened cylindrical bearing in a die mechanism, (3) assembling the generally annular part into the die mechanism with the hub portion engaged in the cylindrical bearing (4) drawing and extruding the hub by moving an object the size of the desired finished inside diameter of the hub through same whereby the hub is formed and forced against the bearing member with sufficient force to make a permanent connection between the hub and bearing, and (5) trimming the excess material from the outer end of the hub portion to conform same to the dimensions of the cylindrical bearing.

Abstract: A piston for a fluid actuator being formed of two annular sheet metal members having axially and radially extending portions whereby when said piston transmits force, a box-like sheet metal structure is formed.

Abstract: A speed responsive engaging mechanism, adapted for use in a hydrodynamic device to couple the turbine and impeller members, including a series of ramps formed in the turbine member each defining a cam surface. A friction shoe is provided in each ramp in contact with a cam surface and wedgingly engageable with the impeller member at a predetermined speed of rotation of the turbine element.

Abstract: A control system used to change the gear ratio in a gear set regulated by a change-gear signal from a control unit is disclosed. A transducer provides an output torque signal which is compared to other signals for initiating the gear change.In another arrangement, an automatic transmission changes a gear ratio when engine torque is transferred from one member to another member of a three member planetary gear set. This transfer is accomplished through friction elements engaged by hydraulic pressure. A closed loop electrical circuit is completed between a transducer, which provides an electrical signal related to the output torque of the transmission, and a control valve, to vary the control valve pressure. A circuit for computing reaction torque is coupled between the transducer and a logic control circuit, which provides logic command signals for controlling operation of components in the closed loop circuit.

Abstract: A lubricant valve for use in a control system for an automatic transmission including a shift valve adapted to change ratio in the transmission mechanism by exhausting a first friction device of pressure and engaging a second friction device with pressure. The lubricant valve is connected to the shift valve and to lubricant distributing ports in the device for conducting lubricating oil to the friction plates. The lubricant valve is connected to an exhaust conduit for the first friction device whereby when pressure is exhausted through the exhaust conduit, as initiated by the shift valve when the second friction device is to be engaged, the initial high value of pressure in the exhaust conduit acts on the lubricant valve to move same to a position to connect additional pressure momentarily to the lubricant distributing ports in the second friction device whereby temporarily a large flow of fluid is provided to said clutch plates to provide increased heat dissipation for same during engagement.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a hydraulic torque converter impeller member and the product of such manufacture in which a hardened steel cylindrical bearing is assembled to a drawn hub portion of a generally annular sheet metal part to comprise a torque converter impeller comprising the steps of (1) semidrawing the part to include a partly drawn hub portion, (2) placing a hardened cylindrical bearing in a die mechanism, (3) assembling the generally annular part into the die mechanism with the hub portion engaged in the cylindrical bearing (4) drawing and extruding the hub by moving an object the size of the desired finished inside diameter of the hub through same whereby the hub is formed and forced against the bearing member with sufficient force to make a permanent connection between the hub and bearing, and (5) trimming the excess material from the outer end of the hub portion to conform same to the dimensions of the cylindrical bearing.