Torque split type automatic speed change device

Claim 1

A torque split type of automatic speed change device connected to an engine crankshaft comprising a hydraulic torque converter having a pump, a turbine and a stator; a torque converter brake allowing said stator to rotate only in the same direction as said engine crankshaft; a long spindle axially aligned with said torque converter and having one end thereof connected to one end of said pump and said turbine; a direct connection clutch operatively connected to said long spindle; a rotary member revolving around said long spindle and connected to the other of said pump and said turbine; two split power transmission routes consisting of a route including said long spindle, said direct connection clutch and a first brake and another route including said rotary member; a second brake; a planetary gear assembly disposed in parallel with said long spindle and connected to said torque converter through said two split power transmission routes, said planetary gear assembly synthesizing powers transmitted thereto through said two split power transmission routes for producing an output power; an output means receiving said output power from said planetary gear assembly, said planetary gear assembly having a first sun gear operatively connected to said rotary member; a second sun gear operatively connected to said long spindle through said direct connection clutch and engageable with said first brake; an internal gear engageable with said second brake, first planet gears meshed wIth said first sun gear, second planet gears meshed with both said second sun gear and said internal gear, each said said first planet gear being meshed with one of said second planet gears, and a carrier pivotally holding said first and second planet gears and connected to said output means, whereby said first brake is actuated while releasing said second brake for driving said output means at a forward low speed stage, said direct connection clutch is engaged while releasing said first and second brakes for driving said output means at a forward high speed stage, and said second brake is actuated while disengaging said direct connection clutch and releasing said first brake for driving said output means in a rearward direction.