Family of transmission mechanisms with three planetary gear sets and a stationary member

Patent 6634981 Issued on October 21, 2003. Estimated Expiration Date:

April 16, 2022. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.

Abstract Claims Description Full Text

Patent References

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Inventors

Assignee

General Motors Corporation

Application

No. 10/123667 filed on 04/16/2002

US Classes:

475/275, Transmission includes three relatively rotatable sun gears475/278, And brake for carrier475/286Brake for orbit and carrier

Examiners

Primary: Wright, Dirk

International Classes

F16H 3/66 (20060101)
F16H 3/44 (20060101)

Abstract

The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least seven forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include three planetary gear sets having six torque-transmitting mechanisms and one fixed interconnection. Also, one planetary gear member is continuously connected with the transmission housing. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting mechanisms provide interconnections between various gear members and with the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least seven forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio.