Abstract: The present invention broadly comprises a torque transfer apparatus for a torque converter including at least one connection element attached to an inner circumferential surface for a cover of the converter; a lock-up clutch, and at least one resilient element connected to the connection element and the piston plate. The clutch includes a piston plate with extruded rivets and the resilient element is connected to the piston plate with the extruded rivets. In some aspects, the clutch includes a friction material having inner and outer radii and the extruded rivets are disposed at a radial distance greater than the inner radius; the extruded rivets are disposed between the inner and outer radii; a radial segment for the connection element extends radially from the inner surface and has an edge at a greater radial distance than the inner radius; or the resilient element is between the inner and outer radii.

Abstract: An assembly for improving a connection between splined assemblies generally includes first and second assemblies each having at least one spline thereon, an integral fastening assembly for axially fastening the first assembly with respect to the second assembly, and a biasing assembly for asserting a force to oppositely rotationally dispose the first and second assemblies with respect to one another. In an embodiment, the first and second assemblies are annular plates. A method for improving a connection between splined assemblies generally includes asserting a bias upon first and second assemblies such that are oppositely rotationally disposed with respect to one another. In the above method, the first assembly and the second assembly each have at least one spline, an integral fastening assembly for axially securing the first and second assemblies, and a biasing assembly. In an embodiment of the above method, the first and second assemblies are annular plates.

Abstract: A torsional vibration damping disk having receiving spaces for spring elements, particularly for bow spring elements, which are each arranged between two limit stop areas in the peripheral direction. In order to create a torsional vibration damping disk, which is producible easily and cost-effectively, the spring elements are each clamped with a slight pretension between two limit stop areas.

Abstract: A device for producing an operative connection between an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle and a downstream transmission is described. The device is a substitute for a torque converter and can be designed as a wet clutch or a torsion damper. The installation space between the internal combustion engine and the transmission does not have to be redesigned. The only requirement for the installation of the device is to replace the transmission/engine control software.

Abstract: A method and a device are described for influencing the flow in a torque converter. The peripheral velocity of the fluid on its way to the open end of the transmission input shaft is made to approach the respective peripheral velocity of the converter housing.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a retractable door assembly in a panel van type of vehicle comprising a cargo area having at least one door opening for access thereto. The retractable door assembly is positioned in at least one door opening, with the retractable door assembly comprising a flexible door member slideable between open and closed positions within opposing track assemblies. Access to the cargo area is provided by selectively sliding the flexible door to the open position. The vehicle conversion system comprises a retractable door assembly of predetermined dimensions, and a frame assembly selectively secured in a door opening of a vehicle. The retractable door assembly is mounted to the frame assembly to substantially close the door opening. A method of vehicle conversion is also set forth, comprising the steps of providing a door opening in a vehicle, and securing a frame assembly in association with the door opening.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a retractable door assembly in a panel van type of vehicle comprising a cargo area having at least one door opening for access thereto. The retractable door assembly is positioned in at least one door opening, with the retractable door assembly comprising a flexible door member slideable between open and closed positions within opposing track assemblies. Access to the cargo area is provided by selectively sliding the flexible door to the open position. The vehicle conversion system comprises a retractable door assembly of predetermined dimensions, and a frame assembly selectively secured in a door opening of a vehicle. The retractable door assembly is mounted to the frame assembly to substantially close the door opening. A method of vehicle conversion is also set forth, comprising the steps of providing a door opening in a vehicle, and securing a frame assembly in association with the door opening.