Abstract: A method and apparatus for assembling a clutch plate includes forming arcuate segments from a friction material sheet, applying the arcuate segments to the ring in a fixed location with a temporary adherent, preferably to define intermediate spaces between the arcuate segments, and bonding the arcuate segments to the annular ring surface to form an automatic transmission clutch plate. Preferably, a set of multiple arcuate segments with independent edge boundaries are applied in a single workstation, and one or more sets may be applied to each annular surface by appropriately indexing the ring with respect to the application equipment. Preferably, the arcuate segments are formed by stamping the segments from sheets, the cuttings arranged at closely spaced positions on the sheet to reduce friction material waste. Preferably, the stamping die displaces the cut arcuate segment to its fixed location on the annular ring.

Abstract: A transmission band assembly including a circular band member 12 with connector members 14 and 16 disposed on the exterior of the ends of the band member, a friction lining 22 that is bonded to the interior surface of the band member 12, a first pair of spaced slot 24 that extend from one end of the band member 12 over approximately one half the length of the band member, and a second pair of slots 26 that are aligned with the first pair of slots 24 and that extend over the remaining length of the band member. A hole 28 extends therefor through the band member 12 and the lining 22 between the slots 24 and 26.