Abstract: An automatic transmission using a torque converter as a starting apparatus comprises a stator hub, an one-way clutch both of which are offset on the pump impeller side respectively, a brake cylinder case provided in an inner diameter portion of the torque converter, a brake piston provided in the brake cylinder case, a part or the whole of a reverse brake and a part of or the whole of a planetary gear which are accommodated in the inner diameter portion of the torque converter, thereby the axial length of the automatic transmission can be reduced.

Abstract: A motor vehicle torque transmission apparatus incorporating a multi-stage torque converter, a main reduction gear and a stepless speed-change transmission. The multi-stage torque converter comprises separate stators. The main reduction gear is connectable to an output section of the multi-stage torque converter. Connected to one of the stators and to the main reduction gear is a stepless speed-change transmission therebetween, such that output torque of the stator is added to output torque of the main reduction gear.

Abstract: In an automatic transmission incorporating a planetary gear transmission at a rear stage of a four-element torque converter comprising two stators, a turbine and a pump; a planetary gear train of an automatic transmission, wherein a reversal torque of a first stator reversing in a low speed ratio zone is converted into a normal torque by the planetary gear train so that this output from the first stator can be added to an output shaft, when a first speed of the planetary gear transmission is selected; a friction element is provided for limiting a rotation of the first stator in the speed ratio zone where the first stator rotates in the reverse direction, a one-way clutch for transmitting a torque only in a specified direction is installed, and the first stator is permitted to run idle by this one-way clutch so that a fluid loss in a stator portion can be minimized, when a second speed of the planetary gear transmission is selected.

Abstract: A power transmission system includes a multi-stage torque converter and an integrated vibration damper assembly. The torque converter fluid circuit includes, in series relation, an impeller, circulatory turbine, main turbine, and reaction member or stator. The vibration damper assembly includes an input member, an output hub assembly and a resilient member interposed between. The output hub assembly is operatively connected to the transmission output. A circulator turbine output is drivingly connected to an output shaft through the vibration damper assembly, rather than through the separate circulatory turbine drive plate of a conventional torque converter. In this matter, the vibration damper assembly where a conventional damper assembly would not provide a power output path.