Michael Kühnle

Title: Michael Kühnle: Innovator in Torque Converter Technology

Introduction

Michael Kühnle is a notable inventor based in Bühl, Germany. He has made significant contributions to the field of mechanical engineering, particularly in the development of advanced torque converter technologies. With a total of 3 patents to his name, Kühnle's work has garnered attention for its innovative approaches to solving complex engineering challenges.

Latest Patents

One of Kühnle's latest patents is for a hydrodynamic torque converter. This invention features a pump wheel and a turbine wheel that are rotatable about an axis of rotation. A fluid is present in the region between these two components, where a first axial contact surface is formed on the pump wheel and a second axial contact surface is formed on the turbine wheel. The design allows for a frictional connection to be produced when the two wheels are pressed axially against one another. Notably, one of the contact surfaces is designed to be flexible, enabling it to conform under axial pressure loads.

Another significant patent is for a centrifugal force pendulum. This invention is aimed at suppressing torsional oscillations in a drive train. It consists of a first and a second flange that are non-rotatably connected to the drive train, along with a first and a second pendulum mass arranged axially offset between the flanges. The pendulum masses are engineered to have different suppressing frequencies, enhancing the overall stability of the drive system.

Career Highlights

Kühnle is currently employed at Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG, a leading company in the automotive and industrial sectors. His role involves the application of his innovative ideas to improve existing technologies and develop new solutions that meet the demands of modern engineering.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Kühnle has collaborated with talented professionals, including David Schnädelbach and Toros Güllük. These partnerships have allowed for the exchange of ideas and the advancement of technology in their respective fields.

Conclusion

Michael Kühnle's contributions to torque converter technology and his innovative patents reflect his commitment to engineering excellence. His work continues to influence the industry and pave the way for future advancements.