Importance

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Abstract

A torque limiting flex plate assembly includes a flex plate configured to couple to a crankshaft of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, and a torque limiting clutch assembly integrated with the flex plate. The torque limiting clutch assembly is in frictional engagement with the flex plate such that the torque limiting clutch assembly and the flex plate are coupled for common rotation during normal engine operation. Upon receiving a torque spike from a transmission input shaft, the torque limiting clutch assembly is configured to slip such that the flex plate and the torque limiting clutch assembly rotate independently at different speeds to thereby prevent the torque spike from being transferred through the flex plate to the internal combustion engine.

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First Claim