One-way clutch with dampening

Abstract

The present invention broadly comprises a one-way clutch in an automotive drive component. In some aspect, the component is a stator and the clutch includes first, second, and third radially disposed elements. The first and second elements lockingly engage. The third element is between the first and second plates and hydraulically or mechanically dampens energy associated with the locking engagement. In some aspects, the third element forms structures to partially enclose torque converter fluid and one of the first or second elements rotates to causes displacement of the fluid. In some aspects, the clutch includes a fourth radially disposed element at least partially blocking openings in the first or second elements. In some aspects, the third element includes at least one elastically deformable extension and rotation of one of the first or second elements causes the first and second elements to compress the at least one elastically deformable extension.