Solenoid valve fixing clamp, transmission comprising the solenoid valve fixing clamp, parking system and assembly method thereof
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202610190673.0
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-02-28
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-10
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-28
Smart Images
Figure CN122650187A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates generally to electro-hydraulic systems for transmissions, and more specifically to solenoid valves of such electro-hydraulic systems. Background Technology
[0002] One or more solenoid valves may be incorporated into the electro-hydraulic valve assembly of a transmission to selectively deliver one or more fluid pressures to one or more movable parts of the valve assembly. Systems, devices, and / or methods that can avoid the drawbacks associated with existing solenoid valves remain a hot research area. Summary of the Invention
[0003] The present invention may include one or more of the following features and combinations thereof.
[0004] According to one aspect of the invention, a transmission may include an input shaft, an output shaft, and a parking system, the input shaft for receiving torque from a drive unit, the output shaft for transmitting torque to a load, and the parking system for selectively braking the output shaft. The parking system may include an electro-hydraulic valve assembly and a solenoid valve retainer, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly including a solenoid valve, the solenoid valve retainer being pivotally coupled to the solenoid valve to rotate with the solenoid valve about a first rotation axis. The solenoid valve retainer is rotatable about the first rotation axis to a fixed position, in which the solenoid valve retainer cooperates with an adjacent structure to maintain a spatial clearance between the solenoid valve and the adjacent structure.
[0005] In some embodiments, the solenoid valve may include a housing and an electrical connector, the housing being at least partially housed within the valve body of the electro-hydraulic valve assembly, the electrical connector being connected to the housing and disposed outside the valve body; in the fixed position, the solenoid valve retaining clip engages with the adjacent structure to maintain a spatial clearance between the electrical connector and the adjacent structure.
[0006] In some embodiments, in the fixed position, the direct contact between the solenoid valve retaining clip and the adjacent structure restricts the rotation of the solenoid valve about the rotation axis, thereby reducing the contact between the electrical connector of the solenoid valve and the adjacent structure.
[0007] In some embodiments, the solenoid valve may include a housing and an electrical connector, the housing being at least partially housed within the valve body of the electro-hydraulic valve assembly, the electrical connector being connected to the housing and disposed outside the valve body; the housing may have a plurality of notches, the plurality of notches being axially spaced from the electrical connector; the solenoid valve retaining clip may include a pair of retaining fingers, each of the retaining fingers being respectively housed in one of the notches.
[0008] In some embodiments, the plurality of notches on the housing are configured to accommodate the pair of fixed fingers in only one direction.
[0009] In some embodiments, the solenoid valve fixing clip may include a fixing tab, which is connected to and separate from the pair of fixing fingers; in the fixed position, the fixing tab is in direct contact with the end face of the adjacent structure.
[0010] In some embodiments, at the fixed position, the pair of fixed fingers are at least partially spaced from the end face of the adjacent structure.
[0011] In some embodiments, the adjacent structure may be a positioning spring of the parking system, with the first end of the positioning spring fixed to the fixed structure.
[0012] In some embodiments, the positioning spring may include a second end, which is disposed opposite to the first end and connected to the plate of the parking system. The plate is rotatable about a second rotation axis, which is spaced apart from the first rotation axis.
[0013] In some embodiments, the second rotation axis may be perpendicular to the first rotation axis.
[0014] According to another aspect of the invention, a transmission may include an electro-hydraulic valve assembly and a solenoid valve retainer. The electro-hydraulic valve assembly may include a solenoid valve for selectively delivering one or more fluid pressures to a moving part. The solenoid valve retainer is pivotally connected to the solenoid valve to rotate with the solenoid valve about a first rotation axis.
[0015] In some embodiments, the solenoid valve retaining clip can rotate about the first rotation axis to a fixed position, where the solenoid valve retaining clip cooperates with an adjacent structure to reduce contact between the electrical connector of the solenoid valve and the adjacent structure.
[0016] In some embodiments, the solenoid valve may include a housing at least partially housed within the valve body of the electro-hydraulic valve assembly; the housing may have a plurality of notches spaced axially from the electrical connector; the solenoid valve retaining clip may include a pair of retaining fingers, each retaining finger being housed in one of the notches.
[0017] In some embodiments, the solenoid valve retaining clip may include a connecting plate connected to the pair of retaining fingers; the pair of retaining fingers cooperate with the connecting plate to define the inner side surface of the solenoid valve retaining clip; the inner side surface of the solenoid valve retaining clip is sized such that it can only cooperate with the housing in a portion of the circumferential direction along the first rotation axis.
[0018] In some embodiments, the solenoid valve retaining clip can rotate around the first rotation axis to a fixed position. In the fixed position, the solenoid valve retaining clip cooperates with an adjacent structure to reduce the contact between the electrical connector of the solenoid valve and the adjacent structure. The adjacent structure may be a positioning spring of a parking system, and the first end of the positioning spring is fixed to the fixed structure.
[0019] In some embodiments, the positioning spring may include a second end, which is disposed opposite to the first end and connected to the plate of the parking system. The plate is rotatable about a second rotation axis, which is spaced apart from the first rotation axis.
[0020] According to another aspect of the invention, a parking system for selectively braking a transmission output shaft may include an electro-hydraulic valve assembly and a solenoid valve retainer. The electro-hydraulic valve assembly may include a solenoid valve, and the solenoid valve retainer is pivotally connected to the solenoid valve to rotate with the solenoid valve about a first rotation axis. The solenoid valve retainer is rotatable about the first rotation axis to a fixed position where direct contact between the solenoid valve retainer and an adjacent structure restricts rotation of the solenoid valve about the rotation axis and maintains a spatial clearance between the solenoid valve and the adjacent structure.
[0021] In some embodiments, the solenoid valve may include a housing, which is at least partially housed within the valve body of the electro-hydraulic valve assembly; the housing may have a plurality of notches, which are axially spaced from the electrical connector of the solenoid valve; the solenoid valve retaining clip may include a pair of retaining fingers and a retaining tab, each of the retaining fingers being housed in one of the notches, and the retaining tab being connected to and separate from the pair of retaining fingers.
[0022] In some embodiments, the plurality of notches on the housing are configured to accommodate the pair of fixed fingers in only one direction.
[0023] In some embodiments, at the fixed position, the fixing tab is in direct contact with the end face of the adjacent structure, and the pair of fixing fingers are at least partially spaced from the end face of the adjacent structure.
[0024] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for assembling a parking system, the parking system including an electro-hydraulic valve assembly and a solenoid valve retainer, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly including a solenoid valve, the method comprising: advancing a housing of the solenoid valve into a hole formed in a valve body of the electro-hydraulic valve assembly, such that the housing is at least partially received within the valve body; inserting the solenoid valve retainer through the valve body into a plurality of notches formed in the housing, such that the solenoid valve retainer is pivotally connected to the solenoid valve to rotate with the solenoid valve about a rotation axis; rotating the housing and the solenoid valve retainer relative to the valve body about the rotation axis to a fixed position, wherein in the fixed position, the solenoid valve retainer engages with an adjacent structure to maintain a spatial clearance between the solenoid valve and the adjacent structure.
[0025] In some embodiments, the step of advancing the housing into the hole includes: disposing one end of the solenoid valve in the valve body, disposing the other end of the solenoid valve outside the valve body, the other end being disposed opposite to the first end and formed by an electrical connector.
[0026] In some embodiments, the step of inserting the solenoid valve retaining clip into the plurality of notches includes: inserting each of the two retaining fingers of the solenoid valve retaining clip into one of the notches.
[0027] In some embodiments, the step of rotating the housing and the solenoid valve retaining clamp about the rotation axis to the fixed position includes: bringing the retaining tab of the solenoid valve retaining clamp into contact with the adjacent structure to reduce the contact between the electrical connector of the solenoid valve and the adjacent structure.
[0028] These and other features of the present invention will become clearer through the following description of exemplary embodiments. Attached Figure Description
[0029] The invention described herein is illustrated by way of example, not limitation, in the accompanying drawings. For simplicity and clarity, the elements shown in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements may be enlarged relative to others to improve clarity. Furthermore, reference numerals are repeated in the drawings where deemed appropriate to indicate corresponding or similar elements.
[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the drive system of a vehicle, including the transmission;
[0031] Figure 2 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the manifold or valve body of an electro-hydraulic circuit; Figure 3 This is a partial schematic diagram of a powertrain system applicable to vehicles; Figure 4This is a perspective view of a solenoid valve having an electrical connector and a solenoid valve retaining clip pivotally coupled to the solenoid valve, wherein the solenoid valve retaining clip is in a fixed position in contact with an adjacent structure. Figure 5 Is with Figure 4 A similar 3D view shows the solenoid valve retainer clip not obstructed in a fixed position; Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A perspective view of the solenoid valve and solenoid valve retaining clip in the figure shows the solenoid valve retaining clip coupled to the solenoid valve in the first mounting position, with adjacent structures and electrical connectors omitted for clarity. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The exploded assembly diagram of the solenoid valve and solenoid valve retaining clip shown. Figure 8 yes Figure 4 The front view of the solenoid valve and its mounting clip shows the angular displacement of the solenoid valve between its initial and final installation positions; and Figure 9 This is a partial sectional view showing the solenoid valve in its final position (with the electrical connector installed) and the solenoid valve retaining clip in its fixed position. Detailed Implementation
[0032] While the concept of the invention can be modified and alternatively implemented in various ways, specific embodiments thereof have been illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the concept of the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific forms disclosed, but rather is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives consistent with the invention and the appended claims.
[0033] The use of terms such as "an embodiment," "embodiment," and "exemplary embodiment" in the specification indicates that the described embodiment may include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic, but each embodiment is not necessarily required to include that specific feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Further, when a specific feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it should be assumed that implementing that feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments (whether explicitly described or not) is within the scope of knowledge of those skilled in the art. Additionally, it should be understood that items listed in the form of "at least one A, B, and C" can represent (A); (B); (C); (A and B); (A and C); (B and C); or (A, B, and C). Similarly, items listed in the form of "at least one A, B, or C" can represent (A); (B); (C); (A and B); (A and C); (B and C); or (A, B, and C).
[0034] In the accompanying drawings, some structural or methodological features (e.g., structural or methodological features representing devices, modules, instruction blocks, and data elements) may be shown in a particular arrangement and / or order for ease of description. However, it should be understood that such a particular arrangement and / or order is not necessary. Rather, in some embodiments, such features may be arranged in a different manner and / or order than shown in the exemplary drawings. Furthermore, the inclusion of a structural or methodological feature in a particular drawing does not mean that the feature is necessary in all embodiments; in some embodiments, the feature may be absent or may be combined with other features.
[0035] In some embodiments, the schematic elements representing the blocks of a method may be manually executed by a user. In other embodiments, the implementation of these schematic elements may be automated using any suitable form of machine-readable instructions (e.g., software or firmware applications, programs, functions, modules, routines, processes, program plugins, applets, widgets, code snippets, etc.), and each such instruction may be implemented using any suitable programming language, library, application programming interface (API), and / or other software development tools. For example, in some embodiments, the schematic elements may be implemented using Java™, C++™, and / or other programming languages. Similarly, the schematic elements representing data or information may be implemented using any suitable electronic layout or structure (e.g., registers, data storage devices, tables, records, arrays, indexes, hash tables, maps, trees, lists, graphs, files (any file type), folders, directories, databases, etc.).
[0036] Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, when connecting elements (e.g., solid or dashed lines or arrows) are used to illustrate connections, relationships, or associations between two or more other schematic elements, the absence of any such connecting element does not imply the absence of a connection, relationship, or association. In other words, some connections, relationships, or associations between elements may not be shown in the drawings to avoid obscuring the invention. Additionally, for ease of illustration, a single connecting element may be used to represent multiple connections, relationships, or associations between elements. For example, when a connecting element represents communication of signals, data, or instructions, those skilled in the art will understand that such an element may represent one or more signal paths (e.g., a bus) required to achieve the communication.
[0037] Now for reference Figure 1 An exemplary vehicle drive system 100 includes a transmission 120. The transmission 120 is configured to receive rotational power provided by a drive unit 102 and, in use, provide said rotational power to an exemplary load (e.g., an axle 132 and wheels 134A, 134B mounted thereon). The transmission 120 includes an input shaft 122, an output shaft 124, and, at least in some embodiments, includes a parking system with a stop spring 420 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 4The input shaft 122 includes, or alternatively embodies, any structure or set of structures configured to receive torque / rotational power from the drive unit 102. The output shaft 124 includes, or alternatively embodies, any structure or set of structures configured to transmit torque / rotational power from the input shaft 122 to a load, which, in addition to the axle 132 and wheels 134A, 134B, may include, for example, one or more transmission drive axles, differentials, transfer cases, final drive units, and / or wheels. In at least some embodiments, the parking system includes at least one component in direct contact with the output shaft 124. The parking system is configured to selectively brake the output shaft 124 during a parking operation mode of the transmission 120.
[0038] In some embodiments, the parking system includes a parking gear assembly (not shown). The parking gear assembly may include components (e.g., gears) arranged to contact the output shaft 124. Additionally, in some embodiments, the parking system may include an actuator valve (not shown) coupled to the parking gear assembly. The actuator valve may include, or alternatively embodied as, any device or collection of devices having a movable valve element capable of moving in response to one or more fluid pressures applied thereto to actuate operation of the parking system in various operating modes. In some embodiments, the actuator valve may be incorporated into the electro-hydraulic valve assembly 210 of the parking system.
[0039] Now for reference Figure 3 In some embodiments, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly 210 may be integrated into the vehicle 300. In one example, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly 210 may be included in or alternatively embodied as part of the transmission 330. In some embodiments, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly 210 integrated into the transmission 330 may be used in conjunction with and / or included therein with the transmission drive axle or transmission drive axle system 320 of the powertrain 310 of the vehicle 300. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly 210 may be used to drive the operation of a system separate from the parking system.
[0040] Now for reference Figure 4 In an exemplary embodiment, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly 210 includes a solenoid valve 410 for selectively delivering one or more fluid pressures to a movable element (e.g., a valve element of an actuator valve) to actuate the parking system 200 in various operating modes (e.g., parking operation mode and non-parking operation mode). However, in other embodiments, the solenoid valve 410 may selectively deliver one or more fluid pressures to another valve element to actuate another system different from the parking system. In any case, the parking system includes a solenoid valve retainer 450 pivotally coupled to the solenoid valve 410 and rotatable with the solenoid valve 410 about a rotation axis RA. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the preferred embodiment shown, the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is rotatable about the rotation axis RA to a fixed position 550, in which the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 cooperates with the adjacent structure 420 to maintain the spatial gap between the solenoid valve 410 and the adjacent structure 420.
[0041] Refer again Figure 1 It should be understood that the exemplary transmission 120 and the drive system 100 including the transmission 120 are suitable for use in one or more vehicles in a variety of applications. In some embodiments, the transmission 120 may be adapted to be used in conjunction with or alternatively incorporated into fire and emergency vehicles, garbage trucks, long-distance buses, recreational vehicles and motorhomes, municipal and / or service vehicles, agricultural vehicles, mining vehicles, special vehicles, energy vehicles, defense vehicles, port service vehicles, engineering vehicles, and public transport vehicles. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the transmission 120 may be adapted to be used in conjunction with or alternatively incorporated into other suitable equipment such as tractors, front-end loaders, scraper systems, cutters and shredders, hay and feed equipment, planting equipment, seeding equipment, sprayers and fertilizer applicators, tillage equipment, multi-purpose vehicles, lawnmowers, dump trucks, backhoe excavators, track loaders, track bulldozers, bulldozers, excavators, graders, skid steer loaders, tractor loaders, wheel loaders, harrows, rippers, timber harvesters, balers, lumber carriers, harvesters, rotary machinery, articulated boom loaders, diesel engines, axles, planetary gear drives, pump drives, transmissions, generators, and marine engines.
[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, the transmission 120 includes one or more clutches (not shown). The one or more clutches may be included in or alternatively adapted to be used in conjunction with an electrohydraulic system 138 and coupled between an input shaft 122 and an output shaft 124 to selectively transmit rotational power between the shafts 122, 124 in one or more operating modes of the transmission 120. Each of the one or more clutches may selectively engage in response to one or more fluid pressures applied thereto.
[0043] In an exemplary embodiment, the drive unit 102 may embody or alternatively include any device capable of generating rotational power to drive other components of the drive system 100 (e.g., the torque converter 108 and the transmission 120) in use. In some embodiments, the drive unit 102 may embody or alternatively include an internal combustion engine, a diesel engine, an electric motor, or other power-generating device. In any case, the drive unit 102 is configured to rotatably drive an output shaft 104 coupled to the input shaft or pump shaft 106 of the torque converter 108.
[0044] An input shaft or pump shaft 106 of an exemplary hydraulic torque converter 108 is coupled to an impeller or pump 110, which is rotatably driven by a drive unit output shaft 104. The hydraulic torque converter 108 also includes a turbine 112 coupled to a turbine shaft 114. In an exemplary embodiment, the turbine shaft 114 is coupled to or integrally formed with the input shaft 122 of a transmission 120.
[0045] An exemplary torque converter 108 also includes a lock-up clutch 136 connected between a pump 110 and a turbine 112. The torque converter 108 can operate in a so-called "torque converter mode" under certain operating conditions (e.g., during vehicle start-up, low-speed conditions, and certain shift conditions). In torque converter mode, the lock-up clutch 136 disengages, and the pump 110 rotates at the rotational speed of the drive unit output shaft 104, while the turbine 112 is rotatably driven by the pump 110 via fluid (not shown) between the pump 110 and the turbine 112. In this operating mode, torque multiplication is achieved through fluid coupling, such that the torque on the turbine shaft 114 is greater than the torque provided by the drive unit 102. The torque converter 108 can optionally operate in a so-called "lock-up mode" under other operating conditions (e.g., when torque multiplication is not required). In lock-up mode, the lock-up clutch 136 engages, thereby directly fixing the pump 110 to the turbine 112, so that the drive unit output shaft 104 is directly coupled to the input shaft 124 of the transmission 118 via the torque converter 108.
[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, the transmission 120 includes an internal pump 118 configured to pressurize and / or dispense fluid into one or more fluid (e.g., hydraulic fluid) circuits therein. In some embodiments, the pump 118 may be configured to pressurize and / or dispense fluid into a main circuit, a lubrication circuit, an electrohydraulic control circuit, and / or any other circuit incorporated into the electrohydraulic system 138. It should be understood that in some embodiments, the pump 118 may be driven by a shaft 116 coupled to the output shaft 104 of the drive unit 102. In this arrangement, the drive unit 102 may transmit torque to the shaft 116 to drive the pump 118 and build up pressure in different circuits of the transmission 120.
[0047] An exemplary transmission 120 includes a gear system 126 coupled between an input shaft 122 and an output shaft 124. It should be understood that the gear system 126 may include one or more gear arrangements (e.g., planetary gear arrangements, planetary drive arrangements, etc.) that are provided or alternatively associated with one or more gear ratios. When used in conjunction with one or more clutches and electro-hydraulic systems 138 under the control of a control system (not shown), the gear system 126 may be provided or alternatively associated with one or more operator-selectable operating ranges.
[0048] The output shaft 124 of the transmission 120 is exemplarily coupled to or integrally formed with the drive shaft 128. The drive shaft 128 is coupled to a universal joint 130, which is coupled to and rotatably drives the axle 132 and wheels 134A, 134B during use of the drive system 100. In this arrangement, during use of the drive system 100, the output shaft 124 drives the wheels 134A, 134B via the drive shaft 128, universal joint 130, and axle 132. It should be understood, of course, that in other embodiments, the output shaft 124 may drive the wheels 134A, 134B via another suitable combination of mechanisms and / or structures.
[0049] The exemplary transmission 120 includes an electro-hydraulic system 138, which is traversed via multiple (i.e. J) fluid paths 1401-140. J Fluid coupling is performed to gear system 126, where J can be any positive integer. The electro-hydraulic system 138 is configured to receive control signals from various electro-hydraulic control devices (not shown), such as one or more sensors and one or more flow and / or pressure control devices. In response to these control signals and under the control of the control system, the electro-hydraulic system 138 selectively directs fluid flow through one or more fluid paths 1401-140. J To control the operation (e.g., engagement and disengagement) of one or more friction devices (e.g., one or more clutches) contained in or alternatively adapted to be used in conjunction with the gear system 126.
[0050] Of course, it should be understood that the one or more friction devices may include, but are not limited to, one or more braking devices, one or more torque transmission devices (i.e., clutches), etc. Typically, the operation (e.g., engagement and disengagement) of the one or more friction devices is controlled by selectively controlling the frictional forces applied by or alternatively associated with the one or more friction devices (e.g., by controlling the fluid pressure applied to each friction device). In an exemplary embodiment, which is not intended to be limiting in any way, the electro-hydraulic system 138 may be coupled to or alternatively adapted to be used in conjunction with one or more brakes. Similar to a clutch, each of the one or more brakes can be controllably engaged and disengaged by the fluid pressure provided by the electro-hydraulic system 138. In any case, the operation is controlled by controlling multiple fluid paths 1401-140... J The fluid pressure inside is used to selectively control the friction device, thereby enabling switching or shifting between various gears in the transmission 120.
[0051] exist Figure 1 In the exemplary drive system 100 shown, the torque converter 108 and transmission 120 include a plurality of sensors configured to generate sensor signals indicating one or more operating states of the torque converter 108 and transmission 120. For example, the torque converter 108 exemplary includes a speed sensor 146 configured to generate a speed signal corresponding to the rotational speed of a pump shaft 106, which rotates at the same speed as the output shaft 104 of the drive unit 102 during use of the drive system 100. The speed sensor 146 is electrically connected via signal path 152 to a pump speed input (i.e., PS) of a controller 190, and the controller 190 is operable to process the speed signal generated by the speed sensor 146 to determine the rotational speed of the pump shaft 106 / drive unit output shaft 104.
[0052] In the exemplary drive system 100, the transmission 120 includes a speed sensor 148 configured to generate a speed signal corresponding to the rotational speed of a transmission input shaft 122, which rotates at the same speed as the turbine shaft 114 of a torque converter 108 during use of the system 100. The input shaft 122 of the transmission 120 may be directly coupled to or integrally formed with the turbine shaft 114. It should be understood that the speed sensor 148 may alternatively be configured to generate a speed signal corresponding to the rotational speed of the turbine shaft 114. In any case, the speed sensor 148 is electrically connected via a signal path 154 to the transmission input shaft speed input (i.e., TIS) of a controller 190, and the controller 190 is operable to process the speed signal generated by the speed sensor 148 to determine the rotational speed of the turbine shaft 114 / transmission input shaft 124.
[0053] Furthermore, in the exemplary system 100, the transmission 120 includes a speed sensor 150 configured to generate a speed signal corresponding to the rotational speed and direction of the output shaft 124 of the transmission 120. The speed sensor 150 is electrically connected via a signal path 156 to the transmission output shaft speed input (TOS) of a controller 190. The controller 190 is configured to process the speed signal generated by the speed sensor 150 to determine the rotational speed of the transmission output shaft 124.
[0054] In some embodiments, the electro-hydraulic system 138 includes one or more actuators configured to control various operations within the transmission 120. For example, the electro-hydraulic system 138 may include a plurality of actuators connected via a corresponding number of signal paths 721-72. J Multiple (i.e., J) control outputs CP1-CP are electrically connected to controller 190. J , where J can be any positive integer as described above. Each actuator can be connected via a corresponding signal path 721-72. J Receive a corresponding control signal CP1-CP generated by controller 190 J In response, each actuator can control one or more corresponding fluid channels 1401-140 J The fluid pressure inside the system is used to control the frictional force applied by each friction device, thereby controlling the operation of one or more corresponding friction devices based on information provided by various speed sensors 146, 148 and / or 150 during the use of the system 100.
[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, the drive system 100 includes a drive unit controller 160 having input / output ports (I / O) electrically coupled to the drive unit 102 via a plurality of (i.e., K) signal paths 162, where K can be any positive integer. The drive unit controller 160 is operable to control and manage the overall operation of the drive unit 102. The drive unit controller 160 includes a communication port (i.e., COM) electrically connected to a similar communication port (i.e., COM) of a controller 190 via a plurality of (i.e., L) signal paths 164, where L can be any positive integer. It should be understood that one or more signal paths 164 may be collectively referred to as a data link. Typically, the drive unit controller 160 and the transmission controller 190 are operable to share information via one or more signal paths 164. For example, in one embodiment, the drive unit controller 160 and the transmission controller 190 are operable to share information via one or more messages via one or more signal paths 164 in accordance with the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J-1939 communication protocol. Of course, it should be understood that the present invention covers other embodiments in which the drive unit controller 160 and the transmission controller 190 are operable to share information via one or more signal paths 164 according to one or more other communication protocols (e.g., communication protocols from conventional data buses such as J1587 data bus, J1939 data bus, IESCAN data bus, GMLAN, Mercedes PT-CAN).
[0056] Now for reference Figure 2 In an exemplary embodiment, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly 210 is included in the electro-hydraulic circuit 200. A solenoid valve 410 of the electro-hydraulic valve assembly 210 is coupled to and at least partially housed in a manifold or valve body 430 of the electro-hydraulic circuit 200. The manifold 430 is embodied as including, among other things, a network of fluid channels in fluid communication with each other to direct hydraulic fluid to various devices of the electro-hydraulic circuit 200. In such embodiments, the various devices of the electro-hydraulic circuit 200 can be fluidly coupled to each other via fluid paths established by the manifold 430.
[0057] As discussed further below, the slot 650 extends in the vertical direction VD through the valve body 430 (i.e., through its solenoid valve mounting block 440). Figure 6 and Figure 7In the preferred embodiment shown, the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is sized for insertion into the slot 650 from above, such that when the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is positioned in the slot 650, it engages with the solenoid valve 410. Furthermore, as discussed below, the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is configured to rotate with the solenoid valve 410 about the rotation axis RA when the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is positioned in the slot 650.
[0058] In some embodiments, the parking system may include an actuation link (not shown) coupled between the actuator valve and the parking gear assembly. The actuation link may include multiple mechanical and / or electromechanical structures that cooperate to operatively couple the actuator valve to the parking gear assembly. Thus, in some configurations, the actuator valve can drive the operation of the parking gear assembly via the actuation link to establish multiple operating states of the parking gear assembly. In one example, translation of the valve element of the actuator valve can drive the operation of the parking gear assembly in both an engaged and disengaged state through the coupling established by the actuation link. In at least some embodiments, in the engaged state, the parking system prevents rotation of the output shaft 124. In at least some embodiments, in the disengaged state, the parking system allows rotation of the output shaft 124.
[0059] In some embodiments, the actuation link may include a stop spring (e.g., stop spring 420). The stop spring may include one end coupled to a fixing structure (e.g., the fixing structure of manifold 430) and one end coupled to a stop pin (not shown). In at least some embodiments, the stop pin is sized to be positioned in one of a plurality of recesses formed in a plate (not shown) of the actuation link in each of the engaged and disengaged states of the parking gear assembly.
[0060] Now for reference Figure 3An exemplary vehicle 300 includes a chassis or main frame 302, wheels 304 coupled to the chassis 302 and each configured to rotate about a rotation axis RA", and a powertrain 310 mounted to the chassis 302. In an exemplary embodiment, the powertrain 310 embodies or alternatively includes a collection of devices capable of cooperatively generating rotational power and transmitting said rotational power to the wheels 304 of the vehicle 300 to propel the vehicle 300 in use. In some embodiments, the powertrain 310 is mounted to the chassis 302 transversely to a longitudinal axis LA along which the chassis 302 extends. In those embodiments, the powertrain 310 is arranged transversely to the driving direction TD of the vehicle 300, and the powertrain 310 may be referred to as having a transverse mounting arrangement relative to the chassis 302. However, in other embodiments, the powertrain 310 may be mounted to the chassis 302 in another suitable manner.
[0061] In an exemplary embodiment, the powertrain 310 includes a drive unit 312 to generate rotational power. The drive unit 312 may be embodied as or alternatively comprise any device or collection of devices capable of generating rotational power that can be transmitted to the wheels 304 to drive the vehicle 300. An exemplary drive unit 312 may be embodied as or alternatively comprise one or more electric motors. Because the powertrain 310 incorporates one or more electric motors or power devices at least in some embodiments, the vehicle 300 may be embodied as or alternatively comprise an electric vehicle. In one example, the vehicle 300 may be embodied as or alternatively comprise a medium- or heavy-duty electric truck or electric bus, and the powertrain 310 is used in place of one or more conventional powertrains associated with one or more internal combustion engine configurations. In any case, the operation of the drive unit 312 may be controlled by an engine control module (not shown) comprising one or more processors and one or more storage devices.
[0062] The exemplary powertrain 300 also includes a variable speed drive axle 320 coupled to a drive unit 312 to receive rotational power therefrom and transmit rotational power to wheels 304. The variable speed drive axle 320 may be embodied as, or alternatively comprise, a collection of any devices capable of receiving rotational power from the drive unit 312 and transmitting rotational power to wheels 304. In an exemplary embodiment, the variable speed drive axle 320 includes a transmission 330, a differential 340 coupled to the transmission 330, and an axle assembly 350 coupled to the differential 340.
[0063] Now for reference Figure 4 and Figure 5In an exemplary embodiment, the solenoid valve 410 includes a housing 412 at least partially received within a valve body 430 of the electro-hydraulic valve assembly 210. In some embodiments, the valve body 430 may define, include, or alternatively embody as part of a solenoid valve mounting block 440, which includes a bore 442 (shown in dashed lines) in which the housing 410 is partially received. The exemplary solenoid valve 410 also includes an electrical connector 460 coupled to the housing 412. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, when the housing 412 is arranged in the valve body 430 and the electrical connector 460 is coupled to the housing 412, the electrical connector 460 is arranged outside the valve body 430.
[0064] An exemplary housing 412 of the solenoid valve 410 includes a generally cylindrical body 414 and a connector mount 416 coupled to the body 414 and configured to secure the electrical connector 460. The connector mount 416 defines one end 419 of the solenoid valve 410, which is disposed opposite to the other end 421 of the solenoid valve 410. The end 421 is exemplary received within the valve body 430 to allow the solenoid valve 410 to be in an initial mounting position 600 relative to the valve body 430 about a rotation axis RA (see [reference]). Figure 6 ) and final position 800 (see Figure 8 Rotate between ).
[0065] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, when the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is pivotally coupled to the solenoid valve 410 and the solenoid valve 410 is rotated about the rotation axis RA to its final position 800, the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is exemplarily arranged in a fixed position 550. In the fixed position 550, the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 cooperates with the adjacent structure 420 to maintain a spatial clearance between the connector mounting base 416 / electrical connector 460 and the adjacent structure 420. More specifically, in the fixed position 550, the direct contact between the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 and the adjacent structure 420 restricts the rotation of the solenoid valve 410 about the rotation axis RA to reduce and / or minimize the contact between the electrical connector 460 and the adjacent structure 420.
[0066] like Figure 5In the preferred embodiment shown, when the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is in the fixed position 550, the retaining tab 560 of the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is in direct contact with the surface 522 (shown in dashed lines) of the adjacent structure 420. In an exemplary arrangement, the structure 420 at least partially covers the solenoid valve 410 and the solenoid valve retaining clip 450, such that the surface 522 is arranged opposite to the solenoid valve 410 and the solenoid valve retaining clip 450. Therefore, in the exemplary arrangement, the surface 522 is arranged on the lower side 524 (shown in dashed lines) of the adjacent structure 420.
[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, the adjacent structure 420 is a stop spring of the parking system. An exemplary spring 420 includes a flared end 422 secured to the valve body 430 by bolts 432, and a notched end 532 disposed opposite the flared end 422. In some embodiments, the notched end 532 is adapted to secure a stop pin. In any case, the exemplary stop spring 420 includes interconnected extension arms 534, 536 and a notch 538 defined at the notched end 532 between the extension arms.
[0068] In some embodiments, the notched end 532 of the stop spring 420 can be attached to a plate of the parking system via the stop pin. In such embodiments, the plate can be configured to rotate about a rotation axis spaced apart from the rotation axis RA. Furthermore, in such embodiments, the rotation axis can be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis RA.
[0069] In some embodiments, the adjacent structure 420 may include or alternatively embody another suitable structure. In those embodiments, the structure may not be incorporated into the parking system and / or may not be a component of the parking system. In one example, the structure 420 may be a component of the transmission 330. In another example, the structure 420 may be a component of the differential 340. In yet another example, the structure 420 may be a component of the axle assembly 350.
[0070] Now for reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The housing 412 of the solenoid valve 410 and the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 are shown in more detail. Figure 7In the preferred embodiment shown, near end 421 of the solenoid valve 410, the housing 412 includes notches or recesses 714, 716. As discussed further below, the notches 714, 716 are axially spaced from the connector mount 416 / electrical connector 460 and sized to receive corresponding features (i.e., retaining fingers) of the solenoid valve retaining clip 450. In some embodiments, the notches 714, 716 are circumferentially spaced 180 degrees around the housing 412. In any case, the exemplary housing 412 includes only two notches 714, 716.
[0071] In an exemplary arrangement, when the housing 412 of the solenoid valve 410 is at least partially received within the valve body 430, the notches 714, 716 are aligned with and / or arranged in a slot 650 extending in the vertical direction VD through the solenoid valve mounting block 440. The slot 650 defines an opening 652 in the top surface 642 of the solenoid valve mounting block 440. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is sized to be inserted into the slot 650 from above through the opening 652, such that when the solenoid valve 410 is in the initial installation position 600, the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is received by the notches 714, 716 arranged in the slot 650.
[0072] like Figure 7 As shown, the exemplary solenoid valve retaining clip 450 includes a pair of retaining fingers 760, 780, which are interconnected with and separate from the retaining tab 560. The retaining fingers 760, 780 are sized to be received in corresponding notches 714, 716 of the housing 412 of the solenoid valve 410. In an exemplary embodiment, the notches 714, 716 are formed in the housing 412 and can only receive the pair of retaining fingers 760, 780 in one direction / orientation. Therefore, the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 can only be inserted into the slot 650 in one direction / orientation.
[0073] In the mounting position 700 of the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 (in which the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is inserted into the slot 650 through the opening 652), the retaining finger 760 is arranged on the right side, and the retaining finger 780 is arranged on the left side. Furthermore, in the mounting position 700 of the solenoid valve retaining clip 450, the retaining tab 560 is arranged on the right side and extends outward in the horizontal direction HD away from the retaining finger 760. In the initial mounting position 600 of the solenoid valve 410 and the mounting position 700 of the solenoid valve retaining clip 450, the notch 714 is aligned with the retaining finger 760, and the notch 716 is aligned with the retaining finger 780.
[0074] An exemplary solenoid valve retaining clip 450 includes a connecting plate or bridging member 770 connecting the retaining fingers 760, 780. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining fingers 760, 780 cooperate with the connecting plate 770 to define a closed inner surface 790 of the solenoid valve retaining clip 450. The inner surface 790 is sized such that it mates with the housing 412 of the solenoid valve 410 only around a portion of the rotation axis RA. Therefore, when the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is pivotally coupled to the solenoid valve 410, the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 does not extend completely around the rotation axis RA.
[0075] In an exemplary embodiment, the fixing finger 760 of the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 defines a curved profile along the inner side surface 790. The fixing finger 760 extends from the connecting plate 770 to the fingertip 762 (e.g., in the vertical direction VD). The fixing finger 760 includes a protrusion or widening portion 764 that at least partially defines the inner side surface 790 and is arranged in the vertical direction VD closer to the connecting plate 770 than the fingertip 762.
[0076] In an exemplary embodiment, the fixing finger 780 of the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 defines a curved profile along the inner side surface 790. The fixing finger 780 extends from the connecting plate 770 to the fingertip 782 (e.g., in the vertical direction VD). The fixing finger 780 includes a protrusion or widening portion 784 that at least partially defines the inner side surface 790 and is arranged in the vertical direction VD closer to the connecting plate 770 than the fingertip 782.
[0077] Now for reference Figure 8 and Figure 9The solenoid valve 410 rotates counterclockwise about the rotation axis RA from the initial mounting position 600 to the final position 800. Due to the pivotal coupling between the solenoid valve 410 and the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 established by the interaction between the notches 714, 716 and the fixing fingers 760, 780, the rotation of the solenoid valve 410 causes the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 to rotate from the mounting position 700 to the fixed position 550. As described above, in the fixed position 550 of the solenoid valve retaining clip 450, the fixing tab 560 abuts and directly contacts the stop spring 420, thereby restricting the clockwise rotation of the solenoid valve 410 about the rotation axis RA and maintaining the spatial clearance between the connector 460 and the stop spring 420.
[0078] In an exemplary embodiment, when the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is in the fixed position 550, the retaining fingers 760 and 780 of the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 are at least partially spaced from the surface 522 of the stop spring 420. Furthermore, when the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 is in the fixed position 550, the retaining finger 760 is arranged on the left side, the retaining finger 780 is arranged on the right side, and the retaining tab 560 is arranged on the left side and extends outward in the vertical direction VD away from the retaining finger 760 to contact the stop spring 420. In an exemplary embodiment, the solenoid valve 410 and the solenoid valve retaining clip 450 are only allowed to rotate counterclockwise about the rotation axis RA to the final position 800 and the fixed position 550, respectively.
[0079] Although the present invention has been shown and described in detail in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, the drawings and description should be regarded as exemplary rather than restrictive. It should be understood that only exemplary embodiments have been shown and described, and all changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention are intended to be protected.
Claims
1. A transmission, characterized in that, include: An input shaft for receiving torque from a drive unit; An output shaft for transmitting torque to a load; as well as A parking system for selectively braking the output shaft, the parking system comprising: An electro-hydraulic valve assembly, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly including a solenoid valve; and A solenoid valve retaining clip is pivotally coupled to the solenoid valve, and the solenoid valve retaining clip rotates with the solenoid valve about a first rotation axis. The solenoid valve fixing clamp rotates around the first rotating axis to a fixed position. In the fixed position, the solenoid valve fixing clamp cooperates with the adjacent structure to maintain the spatial gap between the solenoid valve and the adjacent structure.
2. The transmission according to claim 1, characterized in that: The solenoid valve includes a housing and an electrical connector, the housing being at least partially housed within the valve body of the electro-hydraulic valve assembly, and the electrical connector being connected to the housing and disposed outside the valve body; and In the fixed position, the solenoid valve retaining clip cooperates with the adjacent structure to maintain the spatial gap between the electrical connector and the adjacent structure.
3. The transmission according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the fixed position, the direct contact between the solenoid valve retaining clip and the adjacent structure restricts the rotation of the solenoid valve about the rotation axis, thereby reducing the contact between the electrical connector of the solenoid valve and the adjacent structure.
4. The transmission according to claim 1, characterized in that: The solenoid valve includes a housing and an electrical connector. The housing is at least partially housed within the valve body of the electro-hydraulic valve assembly, and the electrical connector is connected to the housing and disposed outside the valve body. The housing includes a plurality of notches, which are axially spaced from the electrical connector; and The solenoid valve retainer includes a pair of retaining fingers, each of which is accommodated in one of the plurality of notches.
5. The transmission according to claim 4, characterized in that, The plurality of notches on the housing are configured to accommodate the pair of fixed fingers in only one direction.
6. The transmission according to claim 4, characterized in that: The solenoid valve retaining clip includes a retaining tab, which is connected to and separate from the pair of retaining fingers; and At the fixed position, the fixing tab is in direct contact with the end face of the adjacent structure.
7. The transmission according to claim 6, characterized in that, At the fixed position, the pair of fixed fingers are at least partially spaced from the end face of the adjacent structure.
8. The transmission according to claim 1, characterized in that, The adjacent structure is the stop spring of the parking system, and the stop spring includes a first end fixed to the fixed structure.
9. The transmission according to claim 8, characterized in that: The second end of the stop spring is disposed opposite to the first end, and the second end is attached to a plate of the parking system; and The plate rotates about a second rotation axis that is spaced apart from the first rotation axis.
10. The transmission according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second rotation axis is perpendicular to the first rotation axis.
11. A transmission, characterized in that, include: An electro-hydraulic valve assembly, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly including a solenoid valve for selectively delivering one or more fluid pressures to a moving part; as well as A solenoid valve retaining clip is pivotally coupled to the solenoid valve, and the solenoid valve retaining clip rotates with the solenoid valve about a first rotation axis.
12. The transmission according to claim 11, characterized in that, The solenoid valve retaining clip rotates around the first rotating axis to a fixed position. In the fixed position, the solenoid valve retaining clip cooperates with the adjacent structure to reduce the contact between the solenoid valve's electrical connector and the adjacent structure.
13. The transmission according to claim 11, characterized in that: The solenoid valve includes a housing, which is at least partially housed within the valve body of the electro-hydraulic valve assembly; The housing has multiple notches, which are axially spaced from the electrical connector of the solenoid valve; and The solenoid valve retainer includes a pair of retaining fingers, each of which is accommodated in one of the plurality of notches.
14. The transmission according to claim 13, characterized in that: The solenoid valve fixing clamp includes a connecting plate, which is connected to the pair of fixing fingers; The pair of fixing fingers cooperate with the connecting plate to define the inner surface of the solenoid valve fixing clamp; and The inner surface dimension of the solenoid valve retainer is configured to cooperate with the housing only in a portion of the area surrounding the first rotation axis.
15. The transmission according to claim 11, characterized in that: The solenoid valve retaining clamp rotates around the first rotation axis to a fixed position. In this fixed position, the solenoid valve retaining clamp cooperates with an adjacent structure to reduce contact between the solenoid valve's electrical connector and the adjacent structure. The adjacent structure is a parking system stop spring, and the first end of the stop spring is fixed to the fixed structure.
16. The transmission according to claim 15, characterized in that: The stop spring includes a second end disposed opposite to the first end, and the second end is attached to a plate of the parking system. The plate rotates about a second rotation axis that is spaced apart from the first rotation axis.
17. A parking system for selectively braking the output shaft of a transmission, characterized in that, The parking system includes: An electro-hydraulic valve assembly, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly including a solenoid valve; and A solenoid valve retaining clip is pivotally coupled to the solenoid valve, and the solenoid valve retaining clip rotates with the solenoid valve about a first rotation axis. The solenoid valve retaining clamp is rotatable around the first rotation axis to a fixed position. In the fixed position, the direct contact between the solenoid valve retaining clamp and the adjacent structure restricts the rotation of the solenoid valve around the rotation axis and maintains the spatial gap between the solenoid valve and the adjacent structure.
18. The parking system according to claim 17, characterized in that: The solenoid valve includes a housing, which is at least partially housed within the valve body of the electro-hydraulic valve assembly; The housing has multiple notches, which are spaced axially from the electrical connector of the solenoid valve. The solenoid valve retaining clip includes a pair of retaining fingers and a retaining tab. Each retaining finger is accommodated in one of the plurality of notches. The retaining tab is connected to and separate from the pair of retaining fingers.
19. The parking system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The plurality of notches on the housing are configured to accommodate the pair of fixed fingers in only one direction.
20. The parking system according to claim 18, characterized in that, At the fixed position, the fixing tab is in direct contact with the end face of the adjacent structure, and the pair of fixing fingers are at least partially spaced from the end face of the adjacent structure.