Patent ID: 7438168

Claim:
A multi-plate frictional engagement element for an automatic transmission comprising: a piston controlled by oil pressure for axial movement; an outer friction plate in splined engagement with a member on an outer peripheral side of the element; an inner friction plate in splined engagement with a member on an inner peripheral side of the element, the outer friction plate and the inner friction plate being axially arranged and pressed into frictional contact by the piston, so that the member on the outer peripheral side and the member on the inner peripheral side become mutually engaged; a cushion plate provided axially between the piston and the outer friction plate, the cushion plate comprising: a main annular plate body portion defining an outer periphery; a pawl extending radially outward from the outer periphery of the main body and splined to the member on the outer peripheral side, said pawl having opposing side walls extending radially outward from a base joined to the periphery of the main body and a curved recess in at least one side wall, said curved recess located adjacent the base, radially outward of the periphery of the main body, and extending circumferentially of the main body.