A synchronizer is a special friction plate whose main function is to create friction between the gear set and the engaging sleeve in advance, allowing the higher-speed gear to transfer energy to the lower-speed gear, thereby achieving speed synchronization.
Unlike general friction plates, the friction surface of a synchronizer is conical, which allows it to better adapt to the contact methods of different gears. By adjusting the number and material of the conical friction plates, the performance of the synchronizer can be improved. This ensures smooth gear shifting, reduces shifting impact, and enhances the driving experience. Therefore, synchronizers play a crucial role in the automotive industry.