A TORQUE LIMITER WITH A PRESSURE PLATE

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to a torque limiter, comprises: a first ring designed to be driven in rotation around a rotation axis; a second ring disposed axially at a distance from the first ring; a friction disc slidably sandwiched between the second ring and the first ring.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In motor vehicles, the transmission of torque to the gearbox in excess of the desired level causes deterioration in various transmission elements, including gears. Torque limiting mechanisms are used in order to eliminate the aforementioned problem.

In some known solutions, the entire system is halted in order to prevent high torque inflicting damage on the mechanism. Another approach in prior art is that when the torque reaches a predetermined level, slipping is performed by a friction element, for example, by a friction plate, in order to prevent the transmitted torque from exceeding the aforementioned value.

Today, torque limiters are used especially in hybrid vehicles; it has a pressure plate provided between two covers. A pressure spring provided on one side of the pressure plate ensures that a friction plate provided on the other side is compressed between the pressure plate and the covers. Thanks to the mentioned structure, when the friction plate is rotated on the central axis of the torque limiter, both covers are rotated. In addition, when the torque transmitted by the covers from the friction plate to each other exceeds a predetermined value, it is possible for the covers to move relative to the friction plate. Document US2020173521 discloses a damper which includes: first and second rotating elements rotatable around a rotation center; an elastic element elastically expanding and contracting in response to relative rotation of the first and second rotating elements; and a limiter provided in the first rotating element.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a torque limiter for use in vehicles for bringing new advantages to the related technical field.

The object of the invention is to provide a torque limiter with a reduced number of components.

In order to realize all of the above mentioned objects and the objects which are to be deducted from the detailed description below, the present invention is a torque limiter, comprising: a first ring designed to be driven in rotation around a rotation axis; a second ring disposed axially at a distance from the first ring; a friction disc axially slidably sandwiched between the second ring and the first ring. Accordingly; a pressure plate, which extends between the first ring and the friction disc in a manner having a first angle with this one and which presses the friction disc towards the second ring, comprises at least one friction area rested to the friction disc. Thus, said pressure plate eliminates the need to use pressure members and separately plates. The limitation of the components that constitute the torque limiter makes it possible to greatly reduce the manufacturing and assembly costs of this one as well as to reduce the risks of errors during its manufacture.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the pressure plate is provided in a Belleville spring form and is designed to perform the functions of a flat pressure plate and of a Belleville spring at the same time. Thus, the number of components required for an optimum performance of the torque limiter is limited, which helps to keep manufacturing costs down.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the first angle is an acute angle. This acute angle is between 5° (degree) and 30°. This acute angle is between 7° and 20°. Thus, the pressure plate presses the friction plate towards the first ring or the second ring and the axial space requirement of the torque limiter is reduced.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one friction area of the friction disc rested directly to the friction disc. Thus, the axial space requirement of the torque limiter is reduced without deteriorating its efficiency.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the pressure plate comprises a support part which extends away from the friction disc at the continuation of the friction area. Thus, the resistance of the pressure plate is increased.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, at least one friction lining is provided on the face of the friction disc which faces the pressure plate. The at least one friction area rested to the least one friction lining. Preferably, the at least one friction area rested directly to the least one friction lining. Thus, the torque limiter performance is improved.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, at least another friction lining is provided on an opposite face of the friction disc which faces the second ring.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one friction lining is composed of a single element. The single element is circular. Thus, the at least one friction lining is easy to set up and inexpensive.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one friction lining is composed of a plurality of elements. These elements are identical. These elements are equally distributed on the surface of, for example, the face of the friction disc which faces the pressure plate. Thus, the efficiency of the plurality of elements is identical to that of a single element and the manufacturing costs are reduced. In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one friction area of the pressure plate is steady. Steady means that the at least one friction area is flawless, i.e. the at least one friction area should not have coining or stamping or forming or any deformation. This steady surface maximizes the specific pressure on the friction lining at new condition of the torque limiter and or during stabilization phase of the torque limiter.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one friction area of the pressure plate comprises a deformation with a radius lower than 3 mm (millimeter). The deformation can be performed by coining, stamping or forming. The deformation is superficial, less than 3 mm. This superficiality maximizes the specific pressure on the friction lining at new condition of the torque limiter and or during stabilization phase of the torque limiter.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the pressure plate extends radially between an inner edge and an outer edge, the friction area being located on the inner edge. The inner edge is radially closer to the rotation axis than the outer edge. Thus, the pressure plate is easy to make.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the pressure plate comprises radially three portions, an inner portion, extending radially from an inner edge, an outer portion, extending radially from an outer edge, and an intermediate portion, located radially between the inner portion and the outer portion, the friction area being located on the intermediate portion. The inner edge is radially closer to the rotation axis than the upper edge. Thus, the plate is easy to fit.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one friction lining rested to the at least one friction area is steady before the assembly of the torque limiter and comprises at least one groove after the assembly of the torque limiter. Thus, the groove will take place on friction lining by the pressure applied by the pressure plate during the actuation of the torque limiter. This groove will eliminate the radial misalignment of a damping portion relative to the torque limiter cover (i.e.the first ring and the second ring). This radial misalignment leading to wear/failure of damper portion components such as springs, spring seat, bushings... This also reduces manufacturing steps of the torque limiter.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one friction lining comprises at least one groove. This groove is performed before the assembly of the torque limiter. The direct contact between the pressure plate and the at least one groove permits, during the torque limiter actuation, to reduce the radial misalignment of a damping portion relative to the torque limiter cover (i.e.the first ring and the second ring). This radial misalignment leading to wear/failure of damper portion components such as springs, spring seat, bushings...This at least one groove is easy and inexpensive to produce. The preformed groove optimizes the pressure plate positioning.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one groove is performed in regard to the at least one friction area of the pressure plate. The at least one groove is in direct contact with the at least one friction area of the pressure plate. Thus, this contact reduce the risk of radial misalignment between the damping portion relative to the torque limiter cover.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one friction lining comprises a plurality of grooves. Each groove runs parallel to the others. Thus, the at least one friction lining can be designed to different pressure plate. This reduces manufacturing costs and minimizes the risk of assembly errors.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one groove is linear. Thus, this at least one groove is easy and inexpensive to produce if the groove is preformed or this is due to the correct positioning and optimal pressure of the pressure plate when the groove is not preformed.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one groove is uninterrupted. Thus, this at least one groove is easy and inexpensive to produce if the groove is preformed or this is due to the correct positioning and optimal pressure of the pressure plate when the groove is not preformed. In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one groove is in several segments.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one groove has a depth between 0.02 and 0.15 mm (millimeter), and preferably between 0.04 and 0.1 mm (millimeter). Thus, this selecting ratio optimizes radial alignment protection between the damping portion and the torque limiter cover, the filtration performance of the torque limiter and the lifespan of the at least one friction lining. The depth value can be the value of the groove radius.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the pressure plate is connected to one of the first ring and the second ring in a manner preventing rotational freedom in between. Thus, the structure of the torque limiter is stable over time and has a long lifespan.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the first ring having at least one first stopping member and the pressure plate having at least one second stopping member supported by the at least one first stopping member. Thus, the anti-rotation system is simple, effective, inexpensive and easy to set up.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one second stopping member forms a protrusion on the pressure plate and at least partially inserted into the at least one first stopping member provided as a recess on the first ring. Thus, the anti-rotation system is simple, effective, inexpensive and easy to set up.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one first stopping member forms an extension provided on the first ring and at least partially located in the at least one second stopping member provided as a recess on the pressure plate. Thus, the anti-rotation system is simple, effective, inexpensive and easy to set up.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one second stopping member forms a protrusion on the pressure plate and at least partially inserted into the at least one first stopping member provided as a gap on the first ring. Thus, the anti-rotation system is simple, effective, inexpensive and easy to set up.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one first stopping member is a connecting element which connecting the first ring and the second ring to each other and forms, and this connecting element is inserted into the at least one second stopping member provided on the pressure plate. Thus, the anti-rotation system is simple, effective, inexpensive and easy to set up.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one second stopping member forms a set of two tabs on the pressure plate positioned on either side of the at least one first stopping member provided by the first ring. Thus, the anti-rotation system is simple, effective, inexpensive and easy to set up.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the at least one first stopping member forms a pin extending axially from said first ring, wherein the at least one second stopping member forms a notch, the notch cooperates with the pin in a form-fitting manner. Thus, the anti-rotation system is simple, effective, inexpensive and easy to set up.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the notch covers between 40 and 60% of the outer surface of the pin and preferably between 45 and 55% of the outer surface of the pin. Thus, the anti-rotation system is simple, effective, inexpensive and easy to set up.

In another preferred embodiment of the subject matter invention, the torque limiter also comprising a cover forms by the first ring and the second ring, the first ring and the second ring being obtained by bending a single plate. Thus, the number of components is limiter.

A further subject of the invention is a component for a motor vehicle transmission system, the component notably being a dual-mass flywheel, a hydrodynamic torque converter, a flywheel secured to the crankshaft or a friction disk of a wet or dry clutch, comprising a torque limiter according to the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figurel shows representational cross sections of a first embodiment of the torque limiter which are the subjects of the invention and which comprise the first embodiment of the anti-rotation system.

Figure 2 shows representational cross sections of an alternative of the first embodiment of the torque limiter which are the subjects of the invention.

Figure 3 and 4 show representational cross sections of another alternatives of the first embodiment of the torque limiter which are the subjects of the invention.

Figure 5 shows representational cross sections of a second embodiment of the torque limiter which are the subjects of the invention and which comprise the second embodiment of the anti-rotation system.

Figure 6, 7 and 8 show representational cross sections of alternatives of the second embodiment of the torque limiter which are the subjects of the invention.

Figure 9 shows a third embodiment of the anti-rotation system in the second embodiment of the torque limiter.

Figure 10 shows a fourth embodiment of the anti-rotation system in the second embodiment of the torque limiter.

Figure 11 shows a fifth embodiment of the anti-rotation system in the first embodiment of the torque limiter.

Figure 12 shows friction linings in segments.

Figure 13 shows friction lining with a groove according to the invention.

Figure 14 shows representational cross sections of a torque limiter according to the invention, the friction area being on the inner edge of the pressure plate.

Figure 15 and 16 shows a sixth embodiment of the anti-rotation system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PROBABLE EMBODIMENT(S)

In this detailed description, a torque limiter (10) is explained with references to examples without forming any restrictive effect in order to make the subject more understandable. As can be seen in Fig.1 said torque limiter (10) can comprise a first ring (20) designed to be driven in rotation around a rotation axis (a), and a second ring (30) disposed axially at a distance from the first ring (20). The torque limiter (10) can also comprise a friction disc (50) slidably sandwiched between the second ring (30) and the first ring (20). The first ring (20) can have a base, which can extend circumferentially. A pressure plate (40) can be provided to ensure that the friction disc (50) is slidably sandwiched. Said pressure plate (40) can be connected to one of the first ring (20) and the second ring (30) in a way that prevents rotation of the pressure plate (40). The pressure plate (40) can extend between the first ring (20) and the friction disc (50) in a manner having a first angle (a). The pressure plate (40) can press the friction disc (50) towards the second ring (30). The pressure plate (40) can comprise at least one friction area (41 ) rested to the friction disc (50). In other words, the pressure plate (40) is provided in the form of a belleville spring. There can be a friction area (41 ) between the pressure plate (40) and the friction disc (50). In other words, the pressure plate (40) and the friction disc (50) are in contact with each other.

The pressure plate (40) can extend radially between an inner edge (44) and an outer edge (45). The inner edge (44) can be radially closer to the rotation axis (a) than the outer edge (45). The friction area (41 ) can be located on the inner edge (44). Alternatively, the friction area (41 ) can be located on the outer edge (45). Alternatively, the friction area (41 ) can be located between the inner edge (44) and the outer edge (45). More precisely, the pressure plate (40) can comprise radially three portions. The pressure plate (40) can comprise an inner portion (46). The inner portion (46) can extend radially from the inner edge (44). The pressure plate (40) can comprise an outer portion (47). The outer portion (47) can extend radially from the outer edge (45). The pressure plate (40) can comprise an intermediate portion (48). The intermediate portion (48) can be located radially between the inner portion (46) and the outer portion (47). The friction area (41 ) can be located on the intermediate portion (48). The pressure plate (40) can be a single piece. The pressure plate (40) can be in two portions. The friction area (41 ) can be formed at the intersection between the two portions of the pressure plate (40).

The friction area (41 ) can represent a portion of the surface of the pressure plate (40) which facing the friction disc (50). For example, the friction area (41 ) can represent less than 10% of said surface, preferably 5% of said surface.

In a possible alternative of the invention, there can be a friction lining (51 ) provided in the contacting part of the friction disc (50). The friction lining (51 ) is directly in contact with the friction disc (50). Alternatively, there is as element between the friction lining (51 ) and the friction disc (50). According to the said structure, the friction disc (50) is sandwiched between one of the first ring (20) or the second ring (30) and the pressure plate (40). The friction lining (51 ) can be a single continuous element. Alternatively, the friction lining (51) can be discontinuous. The friction lining (51 ) can comprise a plurality of regularly distributed elements, for example four (as shown in figure 12). In other words, these elements can be called segments.

In a first embodiment of the invention, said friction disc (50) is connected to a damping portion (12). In a second embodiment, the first ring (20) and the second ring (30) are connected to the damping portion (12), while the friction disc (50) extends between the first ring (20) and the second ring (30).

As can be seen in the first embodiment (Figure 1 -4), the first ring (20) and the second ring (30) can be provided integrally on a cover (11 ). In other words, the cover (11 ), the first ring (20) and the second ring (30) are obtained by bending a plate. In order to achieve this, the first ring (20) and the second ring (30) can be formed on the inner wall of a circular plate. One of the first ring (20) and the second ring (30) can be bent to lie substantially parallel to the other. Thus, the first ring (20) and the second ring (30) can form the cover (11 ). Thus, a distance is obtained between the first ring (20) and the second ring (30) where the friction disc (50) and the pressure plate (40) can be positioned. In this first embodiment, said friction disc (50) is connected with a damping portion (12). The friction disc (50) can extend between the first ring (20) and the second ring (30). The friction disc (50) can rest on the face of one of the first ring (20) and the second ring (30). In the exemplary embodiment given in Figure 1 , the friction disc (50) rests on the second ring (30). The pressure plate (40) can rest on the first ring (20) on one side and rest on the friction disc (50) on the other side. Said pressure plate (40) can be provided in the form of a Belleville spring. The inner wall of the pressure plate (40) can have a support part (42) extending away from the friction disc (50). The part of the pressure plate (40) that rests on the friction disc (50) can be defined as a friction area (41 ). In the part where the pressure plate (40) and the first ring (20) come into contact, there is a first stopping member (21 ) and a second stopping member (43). The first stopping member (21 ) and the second stopping member (43) can form the anti-rotation system so as to prevent the rotation between the pressure plate (40) and the first and second rings. Thus, the structure of the torque limiter is stable over time and has a long lifespan. The first ring (20) can comprise the first stopping member (21 ). The pressure plate (40) can comprise the second stopping member (43).

In a first embodiment of the anti-rotation system, the first stopping member (21 ) can comprise a extension. The extension can extend radially between a first end, rigidly connected to the base, and a free second end. The first ring (20) can comprise a plurality of extensions provided on the base. This plurality of extensions can be circumferentially uniformly distributed. The first stopping member (21 ) can also comprise or can be provided as a recess on the first ring (20). More precisely, the recess can be made on the extension of the first ring (20). Each extension of the first ring (20) can comprise a recess. The second stopping member (43) can be provided as a protrusion on the pressure plate (40). The protrusion can extend radially between a first end, rigidly connected to the outer edge (45) of the pressure plate (40), and a free second end. The pressure plate (40) can comprise a plurality of protrusions provided on the outer edge (45). This plurality of protrusions can be circumferentially uniformly distributed. The pressure plate (40) can comprise a protrusion for each recess. Accordingly, the second stopping member (43) can be at least partially embedded in the recess of the first stopping member (21 ). Thus, rotation of the pressure plate (40) relative to the first ring (20) is prevented. The pressure plate (40) can be stamped.

The first stopping member (21 ) and the second stopping member (43) can form the anti-rotation system.

As can be seen in Figure 11 , in a possible fifth embodiment of the anti-rotation system, using the same components as the first embodiment, with the exception of the second stopping member (43) can form a set of two tabs on the pressure plate (40). Each tabs can extend between a first end, rigidly connected to the outer edge (45) of the pressure plate (40), and a free second end. The two tabs can be identical. The two tabs can be curved. The distance between the two tabs can be less than twice the width of one of these tabs. The pressure plate (40) can comprise a plurality of pair of tabs. This plurality of pair of tabs can be circumferentially uniformly distributed. The two tabs can be positioned on either side of the first stopping member (21 ) which can be provided by the first ring (20). More precisely, the first stopping member (21 ) can comprise the extension and the two tabs can be positioned on either side of said extension of the first ring (20). The pressure plate (40) can be stamped.

As can be seen in Figures 15 and 16, in a possible sixth embodiment of the antirotation system, using the same components as the first embodiment, with the exception of the first stopping member (21 ) can also comprise a pin (22). The pin (22) can extend axially from said extension of the first ring (20). The pin (22) can extend axially from a first end, solidary connected to said extension, and a free second end. More precisely, each extension can comprise a pin. The pin (22) can be circular. The pin (22) can be in a single piece with the extension. The pin (22) can be realized by stamping. The pin (22) can be an external material addition. For example, the pin (22) can be a rivet. The second stopping member (43) can comprise a notch (49). The notch (49) can be realized on the outer edge (45) of the pressure plate (40). More precisely, the second stopping member (43) can comprise a plurality of notches (49). Each notch of the plurality of notches (49) can cooperate with one of the pins (22) in a form-fitting manner. The pressure plate (40) can be rolled or welded. The pin (22) can present an outer perimeter. The notch (49) can cover between 40% and 60% of the outer perimeter of the pin (22). Preferably, the notch (49) can cover between 45% and 55% of the outer perimeter of the pin (22).

As can be seen in Figure 1 , the friction disc (50) can directly contact the pressure plate (40) and the second ring (30). In alternative, a friction lining (51 ) may be present at the parts where the friction disc (50) contacts the pressure plate (40) and the second ring (30).

As can be seen in Figure 2, the friction lining (51 ) can be provided only on the side of the friction disc (50) facing the second ring (30).

As can be seen in Figure 3, the friction lining (51 ) can be provided only on the side of the friction disc (50) facing the pressure plate (40).

As can be seen in Figure 4, friction lining (51 ) can be provided on the side of the friction disc (50) facing both the second ring (30) and the friction disc (50).

As can be seen in Figure 5-10, in the second embodiment of the invention, the first ring (20) and the second ring (30) can be each provided in the form of a plate and the damping portion (12) is fixed between them. The inner wall of the friction disc (50) can extend between the first ring (20) and the second ring (30). The friction disc (50) can rest on one of the face of the first ring (20) and the second ring (30). In the exemplary embodiment given in Fig. 5, the friction disc (50) rests on the second ring (30). The pressure plate (40) can abutting the first ring (20) on one side and the friction disc (50) on the other side. Said pressure plate (40) can be provided in the form of a Belleville spring. The outer wall of the pressure plate (40) can have a support part (42) extending away from the friction disc (50). The part of the pressure plate (40) that rests on the friction disc (50) can be defined as a friction area (41 ). In the part where the pressure plate (40) and the first ring (20) come into contact, there are a first stopping member (21 ) and a second stopping member (43). In one possible embodiment seen in Fig.5, the first stopping member (21 ) is provided in the form of an extension provided on the first ring (20). The first stopping member (21 ) and the second stopping member (43) can form the antirotation system.

In a second embodiment of the anti-rotation system (figures 5 to 8), the first stopping member (21 ) can comprise a tab. The tab can extend axially between a first end, rigidly connected to the base of the first ring (20), and a free second end. The tab can be obtained by bending a portion of the first ring (20). The first ring (20) can comprise a plurality of tabs provided on the base. This plurality of tabs can be circumferentially uniformly distributed. The second stopping member (43) can be provided as a recess on the pressure plate (40). The recess can be realized on the inner edge (44) of the pressure plate (40). The pressure plate (40) can comprise a plurality of recesses. This plurality of recesses can be circumferentially uniformly distributed. The pressure plate (40) can comprise a recess for each tab. Accordingly, the first stopping member (21 ) can be at least partially located in the second stopping member (43) which can be provided as a recess on the pressure plate (40). Thus, rotation of the pressure plate (40) relative to the first ring (20) is prevented.

As can be seen in Fig.9, in a possible third embodiment of the anti-rotation system, the first stopping member (21 ) can be in the form of a gap provided on the first ring (20). The second stopping member (43) can comprise a protrusion. The protrusion can extend between a first end, rigidly connected to the inner edge (44) of the pressure plate (40), and a free second end. The protrusion can be obtained by bending a portion of the inner edge (44) of the pressure plate (40). The pressure plate (40) can comprise a plurality of protrusions provided on the inner edge (44). This plurality of protrusions can be circumferentially uniformly distributed. The second stopping member (43) can be at least partially inserted into the first stopping member (21 ). Thus, rotation of the pressure plate (40) relative to the first ring (20) is prevented.

As can be seen in Figure 10, in a possible fourth embodiment of the anti-rotation system, a connecting element can connecting the first ring (20) and the second ring (30) to each other. The connecting element can also has the function of the first stopping member (21 ). The second stopping member (43) can be provided as a recess on the pressure plate (40). The recess can be realized on the inner edge (44) of the pressure plate (40). The pressure plate (40) can comprise a plurality of recesses. This plurality of recesses can be circumferentially uniformly distributed. The pressure plate (40) can comprise a recess for each connecting element. The connecting element and can be inserted into the second stopping member (43) which can be provided on the pressure plate (40). In all the aforementioned possible embodiments, the first ring (20) and the pressure plate (40) are connected together to make a rotational movement.

Also, as can be seen in Fig.5, the friction disc (50) can be in direct contact with the pressure plate (40) and the second ring (30). In a possible alternative seen in Fig.6, there is a friction lining (51 ) on the face of the friction disc (50) facing the second ring (30). In a possible alternative seen in Fig.7, there is friction lining (51 ) provided on the face of the friction disc (50) facing the pressure plate (40). In a possible alternative seen in Fig.8, friction lining (51 ) can be provided on both sides of the pressure plate (40).

As a result, the pressure plate (40) provided in the Belleville spring form, which is included in all possible embodiments of the torque limiter (10), which is the subject of the invention, performs the functions of the flat pressure plate and the Belleville spring parts used in the prior art at the same time.

For each embodiment comprising at least one friction lining (51 ), the at least one friction area (41 ) of the pressure plate (40) can be steady. Steady means flawless, i.e. the at least one friction area (41 ) should not have coining or stamping or forming or any deliberate deformation.

Alternatively, the at least one friction area (41 ) of the pressure plate (40) can comprise a deformation with a radius lower than 3 mm (millimeter). The deformation can be performed by coining, stamping or forming. The deformation can be superficial, kept to a minimum, for example less than 3 mm.

The at least one friction lining (51 ) can be rested to the at least one friction area (41 ) can be steady before the assembly of the torque limiter (10). The at least one friction lining (51 ) can comprise at least one groove (60) after the assembly of the torque limiter (10). The pressure of the pressure plate (40) on the friction lining (51 ) create, after the stabilization phase of the torque limiter (10), at least one groove (60) on the friction lining (51 ). This at least one groove (60) can reduce the risk of radial misalignment between the damping portion (12) and the torque limiter cover (11 ).

Alternatively, the friction lining (51 ) can comprise at least one groove (60) before the assembly of the torque limiter (10). The at least one groove (60) can be linear. The at least one groove (60) can be uninterrupted (i.e. a continuous groove). Alternatively, the at least one groove (60) can be discontinuous. The at least one groove (60) can comprise a plurality of regularly distributed portions of groove in the same linear line. In other words, these portions can be called segments of the at least one groove. The at least one groove (60) can have a depth between 0.02 and 0.15 mm (millimeter), and preferably between 0.04 and 0.1 mm (millimeter). The at least one groove (60) can be in a direct contact with the pressure plate (40). In particular, the at least one groove (60) can be in a direct contact with the friction area (41 ) of the pressure plate (40). The friction lining (51 ) can comprise a unique groove (60). Alternatively, the at least one groove (60) can comprise a plurality of grooves. Each groove of the plurality of groove can run parallel to the others. Thus, the friction lining (51 ) can be designed to different pressure plate (40).

The groove (60) can comprise a base and two lateral walls. The lateral walls can be curved. Alternatively, the lateral walls can be straight. The friction area (41 ) can be in contact with the base. The friction area (41 ) can be in contact with at least one of the two lateral walls. Alternatively, the friction area (41 ) can be at a distance from the two lateral walls.

The protection scope of the present invention is set forth in the annexed claims and cannot be restricted to the illustrative disclosures given above, under the detailed description. It is because a person skilled in the relevant art can obviously produce similar embodiments in the light of the foregoing disclosures, without departing from the main principles of the present invention. REFERENCE NUMBERS

10 Torque limiter

11 Cover

12 Damping portion

20 First ring

21 First stopping member

22 Pin

30 Second ring

40 Pressure plate

41 Friction area

42 Support part

43 Second stopping member

44 Inner edge

45 Outer edge

46 Inner portion

47 Outer portion

48 Intermediate portion

49 Notch

50 Friction disc

51 Friction lining

60 Groove a Rotation axis a First angle