Vehicle and driving system thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to a vehicle and a driving system thereof. The driving system comprises a motor, an internal combustion engine, a differential mechanism and an intermediate shaft, the middle shaft is sleeved with the hollow shaft; the first clutch is arranged between the internal combustion engine and the intermediate shaft, and the second clutch is arranged between the intermediate shaft and the hollow shaft; an output shaft of the motor is connected with the intermediate shaft through the first transmission mechanism; the hollow shaft is in transmission connection with the differential mechanism through the second transmission mechanism; the driving system comprises the following three working modes which can be switched mutually: a motor driving mode, an internal combustion engine driving mode and a range extending mode. According to the vehicle and the driving system thereof, multiple driving modes are provided, and the endurance mileage of the vehicle can be effectively increased.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle manufacturing technology, and in particular to a vehicle and its drive system. Background Technology

[0002] With increasing global emphasis on environmental protection and sustainable development, new energy vehicles are gradually becoming an important development direction for the automotive industry. The drive system of new energy vehicles, as one of its core technologies, has a rich and complex background.

[0003] In the current field of new energy vehicles, the existing drive systems present a rather complex situation. The drive system of new energy vehicles should be the key to achieving efficient energy conversion and stable power output, but the actual situation is far from satisfactory.

[0004] From an overall structural perspective, its drive system comprises numerous components, and the collaborative mechanisms between these components are quite complex. More importantly, existing new energy vehicle drive systems generally lack a range-extending mode. This mode is crucial for extending the long-distance driving range and improving the driving range of new energy vehicles. Without a range-extending mode, new energy vehicles are often significantly limited in terms of driving range, causing range anxiety for consumers on long journeys. When the vehicle's battery is depleted, without other effective energy replenishment methods, the vehicle cannot continue driving, causing considerable inconvenience to users.

[0005] Compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, new energy vehicles should exhibit significant advantages in energy efficiency and environmental friendliness. However, due to the complexity of their drive systems and the lack of range-extending modes, their practical application has been somewhat hampered. In future development, simplifying the drive system structure while introducing effective range-extending modes will be a crucial direction for new energy vehicle technology research and development. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the aforementioned problems in the prior art, this invention proposes a vehicle and its drive system that provide multiple drive modes and can effectively improve the vehicle's driving range.

[0007] Specifically, the present invention proposes a drive system including an electric motor, an internal combustion engine, and a differential, and further comprising:

[0008] intermediate shaft;

[0009] A hollow shaft is fitted over the intermediate shaft;

[0010] A first clutch and a second clutch, wherein the first clutch is disposed between the intermediate shaft and the internal combustion engine, and the second clutch is disposed between the intermediate shaft and the hollow shaft;

[0011] A first transmission mechanism is used to connect the output shaft of the motor to the intermediate shaft.

[0012] The second transmission mechanism is used to drive the hollow shaft to the differential.

[0013] The drive system includes the following three switchable operating modes:

[0014] In motor drive mode, the first clutch is disengaged and the second clutch is engaged. The output shaft of the motor transmits torque to the intermediate shaft through the first transmission mechanism and transmits the torque to the hollow shaft through the second clutch. The hollow shaft transmits torque to the differential through the second transmission mechanism.

[0015] In the internal combustion engine drive mode, the first clutch is engaged, the second clutch is engaged, and the output shaft of the internal combustion engine transmits torque to the intermediate shaft through the first clutch; the output shaft of the internal combustion engine transmits torque to the hollow shaft through the second clutch, and the hollow shaft transmits torque to the differential through the second transmission mechanism.

[0016] In range-extending mode, the first clutch is engaged and the second clutch is disengaged. The output shaft of the internal combustion engine transmits torque to the intermediate shaft through the first clutch, and the intermediate shaft transmits torque to the output shaft of the motor through the first transmission mechanism.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first clutch and the second clutch are coaxial.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first transmission mechanism includes a gear set, the gear set including a first gear and a second gear meshing with each other, the first gear being arranged on the output shaft of the motor, and the second gear being coupled to the intermediate shaft.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the output shaft of the electric motor is not coaxial with the output shaft of the internal combustion engine.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first transmission mechanism includes a planetary gear set, and the output shaft of the motor transmits torque to the intermediate shaft through the planetary gear set.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the output shaft of the motor is coaxial with the intermediate shaft.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the second transmission mechanism includes a driving gear, a first driven gear, and a second driven gear. The driving gear and the first driven gear mesh, and the first driven gear and the second driven gear are fixed by a connecting shaft. The hollow shaft transmits torque to the first driven gear through the driving gear, and the second driven gear is used to drive the differential to operate.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the drive system further includes an energy storage device connected to the motor, wherein in range-extending mode, the energy generated by the motor is stored in the energy storage device.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present invention, in the internal combustion engine drive mode, the first transmission mechanism and the motor are in an idling state.

[0025] The present invention also provides a vehicle including the aforementioned drive system.

[0026] The present invention provides a vehicle and its drive system, which provides three working modes through a first clutch, a second clutch, a first transmission mechanism and a second transmission mechanism, wherein the range-extending mode can effectively improve the driving range.

[0027] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description of the present invention are exemplary and illustrative, and are intended to provide further explanation of the present invention. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention. They are incorporated in and constitute a part of this application. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with this specification, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0029] In the attached image:

[0030] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the drive system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0031] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the drive system according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0032] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0033] Drive system 100

[0034] Motor 101

[0035] Internal Combustion Engine 102

[0036] Differential 103

[0037] Drive shaft 104

[0038] Intermediate shaft 105

[0039] Hollow shaft 106

[0040] First transmission mechanism 108

[0041] Second transmission mechanism 109

[0042] First clutch 110

[0043] Second clutch 111

[0044] (Motor) Output shaft 112

[0045] (Internal combustion engine) output shaft 113

[0046] First gear 114

[0047] Second gear 115

[0048] Drive gear 116

[0049] First driven gear 117

[0050] Second driven gear 118

[0051] Torsional shock absorber 119 Detailed Implementation

[0052] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other.

[0053] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit this application or its application or use. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0054] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0055] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps described in these embodiments do not limit the scope of this application. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following drawings denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one drawing, it need not be further discussed in subsequent drawings.

[0056] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" is usually based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this application; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0057] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0058] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, these terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this application. In addition, although the terminology used in this application is selected from commonly known and used terms, some terms mentioned in this application's specification may have been chosen by the applicant according to his or her judgment, and their detailed meanings are explained in the relevant sections of this description. Moreover, this application should be understood not only through the actual terms used, but also through the meaning implied by each term.

[0059] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a drive system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. As shown, the present invention provides a drive system 100, which mainly includes a motor 101, an internal combustion engine 102, and a differential 103. The differential 103 is disposed on the drive shaft 104 of the wheels, and the differential 103 transmits the power it receives to the drive shaft 104, thereby driving the wheels mounted at the ends of the drive shaft 104 to rotate. The drive system 100 also includes an intermediate shaft 105, a hollow shaft 106, a first clutch 110, a second clutch 111, a first transmission mechanism 108, and a second transmission mechanism 109.

[0060] The hollow shaft 106 is sleeved outside the intermediate shaft 105, and the two work together to achieve power transmission in the system.

[0061] The connection between the internal combustion engine 102 and the intermediate shaft 105 and the hollow shaft 106 is achieved through two clutches. Specifically, the first clutch 110 is located between the internal combustion engine 102 and the intermediate shaft 105, and the second clutch 111 is located between the intermediate shaft 105 and the hollow shaft 106. This design allows the intermediate shaft 105 to be selectively powered by the internal combustion engine 102 and / or the hollow shaft 106 through the engagement or disengagement of the first clutch 110 and / or the second clutch 111.

[0062] The first transmission mechanism 108 establishes a connection between the motor 101 and the intermediate shaft 105. The output shaft 112 of the motor 101 is connected to the intermediate shaft 105 through the first transmission mechanism 108, thereby realizing the transmission of power from the motor 101 to the intermediate shaft 105.

[0063] The second transmission mechanism 109 establishes a transmission connection between the hollow shaft 106 and the differential 103, transmitting power to the wheels and driving the vehicle.

[0064] The drive system 100 has three interchangeable operating modes, each with its own unique power transmission path and operating principle.

[0065] The first mode is the motor 101 drive mode. In this mode, the first clutch 110 is disengaged and the second clutch 111 is engaged. The output shaft 112 of the motor 101 transmits torque to the intermediate shaft 105 through the first transmission mechanism 108, and then transmits the torque to the hollow shaft 106 through the engaged second clutch 111. Finally, the hollow shaft 106 transmits torque to the differential 103 through the second transmission mechanism 109, thereby driving the vehicle forward. In this mode, the vehicle mainly relies on the motor 101 for power, which is suitable for low-speed urban driving and other operating conditions, and features quiet operation and high efficiency.

[0066] The second mode is the internal combustion engine 102 drive mode. In this mode, the first clutch 110 is engaged, and the second clutch 111 is engaged. The output shaft 113 of the internal combustion engine 102 transmits torque to the intermediate shaft 105 through the engaged first clutch 110. Simultaneously, the output shaft 113 of the internal combustion engine 102 transmits torque to the hollow shaft 106 through the engaged second clutch 111. The hollow shaft 106 transmits torque to the differential 103 through the second transmission mechanism 109, thus driving the vehicle. This mode is suitable for high-speed driving or situations requiring greater power output. In this operating mode, the electric motor 101 can be in operation. Its output shaft 112 transmits torque to the intermediate shaft 105 through the first transmission mechanism 108, and transmits torque to the hollow shaft 106 through the second clutch 111. Together with the internal combustion engine 102, it transmits torque to the differential 103 through the second transmission mechanism 109, although in this operating mode, the power is mainly provided by the internal combustion engine 102. Alternatively, in this operating mode, the electric motor 101 can act as a generator to generate electricity.

[0067] The third mode is the range-extending mode. In this mode, the first clutch 110 is engaged, and the second clutch 111 is disengaged. The output shaft 113 of the internal combustion engine 102 transmits torque to the intermediate shaft 105 through the engaged first clutch 110. The intermediate shaft 105 then transmits torque to the output shaft 112 of the electric motor 101 through the first transmission mechanism 108. The output shaft 112 of the electric motor 101 drives the rotating shaft inside the motor 101 housing to rotate in the opposite direction. In this mode, the electric motor 101 operates as a generator, providing electrical energy or current. In this mode, the internal combustion engine 102 does not directly drive the vehicle but generates electricity for the electric motor 101. The range-extending mode can extend the vehicle's driving range, which is particularly suitable for situations where the battery is low but continued driving is still necessary.

[0068] The drive system 100 disclosed herein can serve as an auxiliary drive system for a vehicle, particularly an auxiliary drive system located on the front axle. In this case, the vehicle also includes a main drive system located on the rear axle. It is readily understood that when the drive system 100 provides a range-extending mode and serves as an auxiliary drive, it plays the following important roles:

[0069] I. Enhanced Power Performance

[0070] Enhanced acceleration: When the vehicle needs to accelerate quickly, the drive assist system can work in conjunction with the main drive system to provide additional power output, significantly improving the vehicle's acceleration performance. This is particularly helpful when overtaking or merging onto highways; Increased climbing ability: When facing steep inclines or heavy loads, the drive assist system can provide additional torque to ensure the vehicle can climb smoothly without experiencing insufficient power.

[0071] II. Expanding the driving range

[0072] Extending pure electric driving range: For pure electric vehicles, the range extender mode can be activated when the battery charge is low to provide continuous power to the vehicle, thereby extending the driving range in pure electric mode.

[0073] In some examples, the first clutch 110 and the second clutch 111 are coaxial.

[0074] In some examples, reference Figure 1 The first transmission mechanism 108 includes a gear set. This gear set includes a first gear 114 and a second gear 115 that mesh with each other. The first gear 114 is mounted on the output shaft 112 of the motor 101, and the second gear 115 is coupled to an intermediate shaft 105. In motor 101 drive mode, the output shaft drives the first gear 114 to rotate. When the first gear 114 rotates, power is transmitted to the second gear 115 through meshing, which in turn drives the intermediate shaft 105 to rotate. This design allows the power of the motor 101 to be smoothly and efficiently transmitted to the intermediate shaft 105 through the gear set, providing power support for vehicle operation. In range-extending mode, the intermediate shaft 105 drives the second gear 115 to rotate. Through meshing with the first gear 114, power is transmitted to the first gear 114, which in turn drives the output shaft 112 of the motor 101 to rotate, allowing the motor 101 to operate as a generator, thereby increasing the vehicle's driving range. In this structural arrangement, the output shaft 112 of the motor 101 and the output shaft 113 of the internal combustion engine 102 are not coaxial. For the overall vehicle design, this non-coaxial arrangement allows for more flexible placement of the motor 101 and internal combustion engine 102 within the vehicle, freeing up more space for other components such as the battery pack, electronic control system, and cooling system, thus optimizing space utilization and making the vehicle's interior layout more rational. Furthermore, the non-coaxial design makes the structures of the motor 101 and internal combustion engine 102 relatively independent, facilitating maintenance and repair. Technicians can inspect, maintain, and repair the motor 101 and internal combustion engine 102 separately, reducing the difficulty and cost of maintenance and repair.

[0075] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the drive system according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown. As shown in the figure, besides... Figure 1 Except for the specific structure of the first transmission mechanism 108, the other structures are completely identical. Specifically, the first transmission mechanism 108 includes a planetary gear set, through which the output shaft 112 of the motor 101 transmits torque to the intermediate shaft 105. The planetary gear set can smoothly and efficiently transmit torque to the intermediate shaft 105. With its unique structure and operation mode, the planetary gear set achieves reasonable torque distribution and transmission. This transmission process not only ensures smooth power output, but also allows for flexible adjustment of the magnitude and direction of torque according to needs under different operating conditions, providing strong support for stable vehicle driving and good performance, enabling the vehicle to adapt to various complex road conditions. In this structural arrangement, the output shaft 112 of the motor 101 and the output shaft 113 of the internal combustion engine 102 are coaxial. The coaxial design simplifies the transmission structure, reduces the number of parts, and thus reduces the probability of failure. Secondly, it can effectively shorten the power transmission path, reduce energy loss, make power transmission more efficient and direct, and improve the energy utilization rate of the vehicle. Furthermore, coaxial operation can enhance system stability, reduce vibration and noise, and provide drivers with a more comfortable driving experience.

[0076] In some examples, the second transmission mechanism 109 includes a drive gear 116, a first driven gear 117, and a second driven gear 118. The drive gear 116 meshes tightly with the first driven gear 117, while the first driven gear 117 and the second driven gear 118 are securely fixed together by a connecting shaft. The internal combustion engine 102 or the electric motor 101 transmits torque from the drive gear 116 to the first driven gear 117 via a central shaft, and then to the differential 103. During this process, the second driven gear 118 drives the differential 103 to operate, thereby achieving reasonable power distribution and transmission, and ensuring the stable operation of the entire transmission system.

[0077] In some examples, the drive system 100 also includes an energy storage device connected to the motor 101. In range-extending mode, the energy generated by the motor 101 is stored in the energy storage device. The energy storage device can effectively collect and store the electrical energy generated by the motor 101. This allows the vehicle to flexibly utilize this stored energy under different operating conditions, providing stable power support for the continuous operation of the vehicle, further improving the vehicle's energy efficiency and range.

[0078] In some examples, when the internal combustion engine 102 is in drive mode, the first transmission mechanism 108 and the electric motor are in an idling state. Idling reduces unnecessary energy loss, allowing the power output of the internal combustion engine 102 to be more focused and efficient, thereby improving the vehicle's fuel economy. Simultaneously, idling reduces wear on various components, extending their service life. Furthermore, it reduces noise and vibration, creating a quieter and more comfortable driving environment and enhancing the driving experience.

[0079] In some examples, a torsional damper 119 is provided on the output shaft 113 of the internal combustion engine 102. During operation, the internal combustion engine 102 experiences periodic torsional vibrations in the output shaft 113 due to combustion explosions in the cylinders and the reciprocating motion of the piston. The torsional damper 119 absorbs this vibrational energy through its elasticity and damping characteristics, reducing the vibration amplitude of the output shaft 113 and making the operation smoother. It also acts as a buffer, reducing impact damage to the transmission system and extending the service life of components.

[0080] The present invention also provides a vehicle including the aforementioned drive system 100.

[0081] This invention provides a vehicle and its drive system, offering multiple driving modes, among which the range-extending mode significantly improves the vehicle's driving range. In range-extending mode, the internal combustion engine drives the electric motor to generate electricity, providing sufficient power for the vehicle's continuous driving and effectively alleviating the user's range anxiety. Simultaneously, this drive system facilitates four-wheel drive, precisely distributing power to the front and rear wheels, enabling the vehicle to maintain good traction and stability under various road conditions.

[0082] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the exemplary embodiments described above without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that this invention cover modifications and variations falling within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A drive system comprising an electric motor, an internal combustion engine, and a differential, characterized in that, Also includes: intermediate shaft; A hollow shaft is fitted over the intermediate shaft; A first clutch and a second clutch, wherein the first clutch is disposed between the intermediate shaft and the internal combustion engine, and the second clutch is disposed between the intermediate shaft and the hollow shaft; A first transmission mechanism is used to connect the output shaft of the motor to the intermediate shaft. The second transmission mechanism is used to drive the hollow shaft to the differential. The drive system includes the following three switchable operating modes: In motor drive mode, the first clutch is disengaged and the second clutch is engaged. The output shaft of the motor transmits torque to the intermediate shaft through the first transmission mechanism and transmits the torque to the hollow shaft through the second clutch. The hollow shaft transmits torque to the differential through the second transmission mechanism. In the internal combustion engine drive mode, the first clutch is engaged, the second clutch is engaged, and the output shaft of the internal combustion engine transmits torque to the intermediate shaft through the first clutch; the output shaft of the internal combustion engine transmits torque to the hollow shaft through the second clutch, and the hollow shaft transmits torque to the differential through the second transmission mechanism. In range-extending mode, the first clutch is engaged and the second clutch is disengaged. The output shaft of the internal combustion engine transmits torque to the intermediate shaft through the first clutch, and the intermediate shaft transmits torque to the output shaft of the motor through the first transmission mechanism.

2. The drive system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first clutch and the second clutch are coaxial.

3. The drive system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first transmission mechanism includes a gear set, which includes a first gear and a second gear that mesh with each other. The first gear is arranged on the output shaft of the motor, and the second gear is engaged.

4. The drive system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The output shaft of the electric motor is not coaxial with the output shaft of the internal combustion engine.

5. The drive system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first transmission mechanism includes a planetary gear set, through which the output shaft of the motor transmits torque to the intermediate shaft.

6. The drive system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The output shaft of the motor is coaxial with the intermediate shaft.

7. The drive system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second transmission mechanism includes a driving gear, a first driven gear, and a second driven gear. The driving gear and the first driven gear mesh, and the first driven gear and the second driven gear are fixed by a connecting shaft. The hollow shaft transmits torque to the first driven gear through the driving gear, and the second driven gear is used to drive the differential.

8. The drive system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an energy storage device connected to the motor, in which the energy generated by the motor is stored during range-extending mode.

9. The drive system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, In internal combustion engine drive mode, the first transmission mechanism and motor are in idle state.

10. A vehicle comprising the drive system as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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