Hybrid transmission coolant flow management system

Abstract

Gear assembly (176) comprising: a housing (150) including a first and second drain channel (158, 160); an electric motor arranged in the housing (150) adjacent to the drain channels (158, 160) and a torque converter (179); and a baffle plate (178) arranged in the housing (150) on an inner housing surface, defining an opening (180) to the first and second drain channels (158, 160) and including a baffle flange (182) dimensioned for positioning adjacent to the torque converter (179) in order to minimize contact of oil with the torque converter (179) in the housing (150).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] This disclosure concerns a coolant flow management system for a hybrid vehicle transmission. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Vehicle torque converters are often operated in dry environments. Torque converters in hybrid transmissions are often operated in humid environments. Space constraints between the torque converter and the transmission can restrict the flow of cooling oil. For example, oil can accumulate around an electric motor and the torque converter. This oil buildup can cause a loss of rotation in the torque converter. SUMMARY

[0003] A transmission assembly includes a housing, an electric motor, and a baffle plate. The housing includes a first and second drain channel. The electric motor is located within the housing adjacent to the drain channels and a torque converter. The baffle plate is located within the housing on an inner housing surface, defines an opening to the first and second drain channels, and includes a baffle flange dimensioned for positioning adjacent to the torque converter to minimize contact between oil and the torque converter within the housing. The housing may define a first and second partition, each partially extending over one of the first and second drain channels. The baffle plate may further include a first and second sealing feature, each located at one of two baffle plate ends.Each of the first and second sealing features can be secured to the inner housing surface to prevent oil from accumulating between the baffle plate and the inner housing surface. The housing can further include a first and second groove. The baffle plate can define a third and fourth groove, with the opening positioned between them, each dimensioned to lie within one of the first and second grooves. The grooves can be aligned to facilitate fluid communication between a housing cavity and the first and second drain channels. The baffle plate can further include a first and second cover, each dimensioned to be secured at one end by one of the first and second drain channels.The baffle plate can further include a swirl flap extending at an angle from the baffle flange based on the shape of the torque converter to influence oil flow towards the opening and away from the torque converter. The assembly can also include a housing vent opening into a cavity defined by the housing to help maintain cavity pressure conditions within a predetermined threshold.

[0004] A hybrid vehicle transmission assembly comprises a housing and a baffle plate. The housing is designed to accommodate a torque converter and an adjacent electric machine. The housing defines an inner surface that includes a first and second partition, each partially extending over one of two oil drain channels. The baffle plate is located on the inner surface beneath the electric machine and includes a drain opening that opens to each of the two oil drain channels. The baffle plate is aligned with the torque converter to direct oil entering the housing through the opening to the two oil drain channels. The baffle plate may further include a first and second seal, each located at one of two baffle plate ends.The first and second seals can be sized to be secured to the inner surface to prevent oil from accumulating between the baffle plate and the inner surface. The housing can define a substantially circular profile. The first and second seals can be radially spaced approximately 180 degrees apart with respect to the profile. An oil distributor can be mounted on the housing to discharge oil into the housing. The baffle plate can further include a baffle flange extending from a baffle plate body at approximately ninety degrees and a swirl flap extending from the baffle flange. The baffle flange and swirl flap can be aligned with respect to the torque converter to prevent oil in the housing from coming into contact with the torque converter.The baffle plate can further be arranged with the torque converter such that the baffle flange and swirl flap are adjacent to the torque converter to influence the oil flow towards the drain opening. A housing vent can be located adjacent to an oil distributor and open to a cavity defined by the inner surface of the housing to help maintain cavity pressure conditions within a predetermined threshold.

[0005] A hybrid vehicle transmission assembly includes a housing and a baffle plate. The housing includes a first and second drain channel extending below a mounting point for an electric motor and a torque converter. The baffle plate is located at the mounting point, defines an opening to the drain channels, and includes a first seal situated at one of two opposing baffle plate ends to be secured against an inner housing surface to prevent oil from accumulating between the baffle plate and the inner housing surface. The housing may further include a first and second groove. The baffle plate defines a third and fourth groove, with the opening located between them, and each of the third and fourth grooves may be dimensioned to lie within one of the first and second grooves.The grooves can be arranged to align the opening, facilitating fluid communication between a housing cavity and the first and second drain channels. One of the first and second grooves can be aligned with the first seal to prevent oil from accumulating on an internal surface of the housing between them. An oil distributor can open into a cavity and be adjacent to a housing vent. The baffle plate can further enclose a second seal. The first seal and the second seal can each be located at one of the two opposing baffle plate ends. The housing can define a substantially circular profile. Each of the first seals and the second seal can be radially spaced from each other by approximately 180 degrees with respect to the substantially circular profile. List of characters Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic representation illustrating an example of a vehicle. Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view of an example of a transmission assembly for a vehicle. Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the gearbox assembly. Fig. 2, which illustrates an example of an operational oil distribution. Fig. Figure 4 is a perspective view of an example of part of a gearbox housing of a gearbox assembly. Fig. Figure 5 is another perspective view of the part of the gearbox housing made of Fig. 4. Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective view of the part of the gearbox housing made of Fig. 4, which illustrates an example of a baffle plate component. Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective view of the baffle plate component. Fig. 6. Fig. Figure 8 is another perspective view of the baffle plate component. Fig. 6. Fig. Figure 9 is a front view in cross-section of a part of the gearbox assembly made of Fig. 2. Fig. Figure 10 is a perspective view of an example of a gearbox assembly, including the gearbox housing made of Fig. 4, which illustrates an example of an operational oil distribution. Fig. 11 is a graph showing rotational losses due to an accumulation of oil in the gearbox assembly from the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 and the gearbox assembly from the Fig. 4 to Fig. 10 can be compared. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0006] Here, embodiments of the present disclosure are described. It is understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples and that other embodiments may take different and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be enlarged or reduced to show details of certain components. Accordingly, the specific structural and functional details disclosed here are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis to illustrate to a person skilled in the art the diverse uses of the embodiments.The person skilled in the art will understand that various features illustrated and described with reference to any of the figures may be combined with features illustrated in one or more other figures to create embodiments not expressly illustrated or described. The combinations of illustrated features provide representative embodiments for typical applications. However, various combinations and modifications of the features, consistent with the teachings of this disclosure, may be desirable for certain applications or implementations.

[0007] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation illustrating an example of a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), as a vehicle 10 described, illustrated. Fig. Figure 1 illustrates representative relationships between the components. The physical arrangement and orientation of the components within the vehicle can vary. The vehicle 10 includes a drivetrain 12 The powertrain 12 includes an internal combustion engine 14 , which is a gearbox 16 It is powered by a hybrid transmission. As described in more detail below, the transmission includes 16 an electric machine, such as an electric motor / generator (motor / generator - M / G) 18 , an assigned traction battery 20 , a torque converter 22 and a multi-stage automatic or manual transmission 24 .

[0008] Both the internal combustion engine 14 as well as the M / G 18 are power sources for the vehicle 10 The internal combustion engine 14Generally, it represents a power source that may include an internal combustion engine, such as one powered by gasoline, diesel, or natural gas, or a fuel cell. The internal combustion engine 14 generates an internal combustion engine power and a corresponding internal combustion engine torque that corresponds to the M / G 18 is provided when a release clutch is used 26 between the combustion engine 14 and the M / G 18 is at least partially engaged. The M / G 18 can be implemented by any of a variety of types of electrical machines. For example, the M / G 18 This involves a permanent magnet synchronous motor. The power electronics condition the direct current (DC) supplied by the traction battery. 20 is provided, according to the requirements of the M / G 18 , as described below. For example, the power electronics can be added to the M / G 18 provide a three-phase alternating current (AC).

[0009] If the release clutch 26 When the engine is at least partially engaged, there is a power flow from the internal combustion engine. 14 to the M / G 18 or from the M / G 18 to the internal combustion engine 14 possible. For example, the release clutch 26 be engaged and the M / G 18 can function as a generator to produce rotational energy generated by a crankshaft 28 and an M / G wave 30 is provided, to be converted into electrical energy, which is stored in the traction battery. 20 is stored. The release clutch 26 can also be disengaged to stop the combustion engine 14 from the rest of the drivetrain 12 to separate, so that the M / G 18 as the sole source of power for the vehicle 10 can function. A wave 30extends through the M / G 18 The M / G 18 is continuously driveable with the shaft 30 connected, whereas the internal combustion engine 14 only then capable of being driven by the shaft 30 is connected when the release clutch 26 is at least partially engaged.

[0010] The M / G 18 is over the wave 30 with the torque converter 22 connected. Therefore, the torque converter 22 with the internal combustion engine 14 connected when the release clutch 26 at least partially engaged. The torque converter 22 includes one at the M / G wave 30 attached pump wheel and one on a gearbox input shaft 32 Fixed turbine wheel. The torque converter 22 This thus provides a hydraulic coupling between the shaft 30 and the transmission input shaft 32 Ready. The torque converter 22Power is transferred from the pump impeller to the turbine impeller when the pump impeller rotates faster than the turbine impeller. The magnitude of the turbine impeller torque and the pump impeller torque generally depends on their relative rotational speeds. If the ratio between pump impeller speed and turbine impeller speed is sufficiently high, the turbine impeller torque will be a multiple of the pump impeller torque. During operation, oil is introduced to help regulate the thermal conditions of the pump impeller / turbine. 18 to manage.

[0011] A torque converter lock-up clutch 34 It can also be provided that, in the engaged state, engages the pump impeller and the turbine impeller of the torque converter. 22 The torque converter lock-up clutch engages either frictionally or mechanically, enabling more efficient power transmission. 34It can be operated as a launch clutch to provide smooth vehicle acceleration. Alternatively, or in combination with this, a launch clutch can function similarly to a release clutch. 26 between the M / G 18 and the manual transmission 24 provided for applications that do not have a torque converter 22 or no torque converter lock-up clutch 34 include. In some applications, the release clutch is used. 26 generally referred to as a pre-coupling clutch and the starting clutch 34 (which may be a torque converter lock-up clutch) is generally referred to as a downstream clutch.

[0012] The manual transmission 24It can include gear sets (not shown) that are selectively engaged by friction elements, such as clutches and brakes (not shown), to achieve the desired multiple single or stepped drive ratios. The friction elements can be controlled by a shift schedule that engages and disengages specific elements of the gear sets to change the ratio between a transmission output shaft. 36 and the transmission input shaft 32 to control the manual transmission 24 Due to varying vehicle and environmental operating conditions, a connected control unit automatically switches between gear ratios. The manual transmission 24 then represents the output wave 36 a powertrain output torque is available.

[0013] It goes without saying that the hydraulically controlled gearbox24 , which uses a torque converter 22 The following is only one example of a manual transmission or gearbox arrangement; any multi-ratio manual transmission that accepts input torque(s) from an internal combustion engine and / or an electric motor and then provides torque to an output shaft at different ratios is acceptable for use in the embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the manual transmission 24 This may be implemented by an automated mechanical (or manual) transmission (AMT) which includes one or more servomotors to move / rotate shift forks along a shift rod to select a desired gear ratio.

[0014] As in the representative embodiment in Fig. As shown in 1, the output wave 36 with a differential 40 connected. The differential40 drives a pair of wheels 42 via respective axes 44 on, which with the differential 40 are connected. The differential transmits approximately the same torque to each wheel. 42 While it allows for slight variations in rotational speed, such as when the vehicle is cornering, different types of differentials or similar devices can be used to distribute torque from the drivetrain to one or more wheels. In some applications, the torque distribution may vary depending on the specific operating mode or condition.

[0015] The powertrain 12 It also includes an associated control system. 50 , such as a powertrain control unit (PCU). Although illustrated as a controller, the controller can 50 be part of a larger control system and be controlled by various other controls throughout the vehicle 10, such as a vehicle system controller (VSC). Accordingly, it is understood that the control 50 and one or more other controls can be collectively referred to as a "controller" that controls various actuating elements in response to signals from various sensors to perform functions such as starting / stopping the internal combustion engine 14 , Operating the M / G 18 to provide wheel torque or charge the traction battery 20 , to control the selection or scheduling of gear changes, etc. The control 50 It may include a microprocessor or a central processing unit (CPU) connected to various types of computer-readable storage devices or media.

[0016] The control unit communicates with various combustion engine / vehicle sensors and actuators via an input / output (I / O) interface, which can be implemented as a single integrated interface providing various raw data or signal conditioning, processing, and / or conversion, short-circuit protection, and the like. Alternatively, one or more dedicated hardware or firmware chips can be used to condition and process specific signals before they are provided to the CPU. 50 can send signals to and / or from the combustion engine 14 , to and / or from the release clutch 26 , to the and / or from the M / G 18 , to and / or from the starting clutch 34 , to the and / or from the manual transmission 24 and to the and / or from the power electronics 56communicate. Representative examples of parameters, systems, and / or components that can be directly or indirectly actuated using control logic executed by the controller include the injection timing, injection quantity, and injection duration; the throttle position; the ignition timing of the spark plugs (in spark-ignition internal combustion engines); the timing and duration of intake and exhaust valves; front-end accessory drive (FEAD) components, such as an alternator, an air conditioning compressor, battery charging, brake energy recuperation, M / G operation, and clutch pressures for the release clutch. 26 , the starting clutch 34 and the manual transmission 24 and the like.

[0017] The control logic can be implemented in software, which is controlled by a microprocessor-based vehicle, combustion engine and / or powertrain control system, such as the control unit. 50 , is executed. When implemented in software, the control logic can be provided in one or more computer-readable storage devices or media on which data representing code or instructions is stored, which is executed by a computer to control the vehicle or its subsystems.

[0018] An accelerator pedal 52 The accelerator pedal is used by the driver of the vehicle to provide a required torque, power, or drive command to propel the vehicle. Generally, pressing and releasing the accelerator pedal results in this. 52 to an accelerator pedal position signal, which is provided by the control unit 50This can be interpreted as a need for a higher or lower level of performance. The control system 50 Based on at least one input from the pedal, it commands a torque from the internal combustion engine 14 and / or the M / G 18 The control 50 It also controls the timing of gear changes within the manual transmission. 24 as well as engaging or disengaging the release clutch 26 and the torque converter lock-up clutch 34 Like the release clutch 26 can the torque converter lock-up clutch 34 The torque is modulated over a range between the engaged and disengaged positions. This creates variable slip in the torque converter. 22 In addition to the variable slip generated by the hydrodynamic coupling between the pump impeller and the turbine impeller, the torque converter lock-up clutch can also be used.34 They can be operated locked or open without using a modulated operating mode, depending on the specific application.

[0019] To the vehicle 10 with the internal combustion engine 14 The release clutch is used to drive the 26 at least partially engaged, in order to transmit at least part of the combustion engine torque through the release clutch 26 on the M / G 18 and then from the M / G 18 through the torque converter 22 and the manual transmission 24 to transfer. If the internal combustion engine 14 If the engine alone provides the torque necessary to propel the vehicle, this operating mode can be referred to as "internal combustion engine mode", "internal combustion engine only mode" or "mechanical mode".

[0020] The M / G 18 can the combustion engine 14 by providing additional power to rotate the shaft30 This operating mode can be referred to as "hybrid mode", "internal combustion engine / electric motor mode" or "electrically assisted mode".

[0021] To equip the vehicle with the M / G 18 To be driven as the sole power source, the power flow remains the same, except that the release clutch 26 the internal combustion engine 14 from the rest of the drivetrain 12 isolated. During this period, combustion in the internal combustion engine can continue. 14 deactivated or otherwise switched off to save fuel. The traction battery 20 transmits the stored electrical energy via cables 54 to the power electronics 56 , which may include, for example, an inverter. The power electronics 56 converts direct current from the traction battery 20 into alternating current, which is generated by the M / G 18is to be used. The control 50 commands the power electronics 56 , the voltage from the traction battery 20 to convert into an alternating voltage that corresponds to the M / G 18 is provided to the wave 30 to provide a positive or negative torque. This operating mode can be referred to as "purely electric mode", "electric vehicle mode" or "electric motor mode".

[0022] In any operating mode, the M / G 18 function as an electric motor and provide a driving force for the drive train 12 provide. Alternatively, the M / G 18 act as a generator and extract kinetic energy from the drivetrain 12 convert it into electrical energy, which is stored in the traction battery. 20 to be saved. The M / G 18 For example, it can function as a generator while the combustion engine 14 Drive power for the vehicle10 provides. The M / G 18 It can also function as a generator during periods of brake energy recuperation, during which rotational energy is drawn from the rotating wheels. 42 back through the gearbox 24 is transferred and converted into electrical energy, which is stored in the traction battery. 20 is saved.

[0023] Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view of a previously known example of a part of a vehicle transmission assembly, referred to here generally as a transmission assembly. 100 The gearbox assembly is referred to as such. 100 includes an electric motor 104 and a torque converter 106 The electric motor 104 and the torque converter 106 are each located in a cavity of a gearbox housing 110 arranged. The electric motor 104It acts as a motor to supply power to the vehicle and its components. The torque converter 106 It acts as a fluid coupler to allow an internal combustion engine to rotate to a certain extent independently of a gearbox. The gearbox housing 110 defines a drainage channel 114 in fluid communication with the cavity of the gearbox housing 110 An oil distributor 120 Distributes coolant into the cavity of the gearbox housing to power the electric motor 104 to cool during operation.

[0024] Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing an example of an accumulation of oil in the gearbox housing. 110 illustrated after about five seconds, whereby the torque converter 106 It rotates at approximately 2000 rpm. During operation, oil flows into the gearbox housing. 110It is pumped to help manage the thermal conditions of the components it contains. This oil collects in areas that affect the performance of components within the transmission assembly. 100 prevent. The electric motor 104 will be in Fig. 3 removed to prevent an accumulation of oil throughout the entire cavity of the gearbox housing. 110 to show more clearly the accumulation of oil through the coating. 122 As shown, oil collects throughout the entire cavity on an inner surface of the gearbox housing. 110 and on the torque converter 106 on, instead of in a desirable manner via the drainage channel 114 to leak out. Furthermore, oil can accumulate in a housing vent. 124 Oil accumulates. This oil buildup negatively affects the performance of the torque converter. 106This can lead to torque losses of approximately 3.1 Nm at 2000 rpm, for example. Improving the oil drainage system can help alleviate the problem of oil accumulation in the gearbox housing. 110 to minimize or eliminate.

[0025] The Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 shows perspective views of an example of part of a gearbox housing, generally referred to as a gearbox housing. 150 The gearbox housing is referred to as the gearbox housing. 150 It is operated with different components to compare with the one in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 gearbox housings shown 110 to provide an improved oil drainage system. For example, the gearbox housing defines 150 a cavity 154 , a first drainage channel 158 , a second drainage channel 160 and a lip 162 An oil distributor 166 is mounted on the housing to supply oil to the cavity 154to be given away. A first partition wall 170 can extend over part of the first drainage channel 158 extend and a second partition 172 can extend over part of the second drainage channel 160 extend. It is considered that alternative embodiments, which have different space constraints, may or may not include one or more partitions. A housing vent 173 can help to regulate the pressure conditions of the cavity 154 to keep it within a predetermined threshold. The gearbox housing 150 is dimensioned to accommodate the electric motor and a torque converter (in the Fig. 4 and Fig. (5 not shown) to absorb oil that is in the cavity. 154 The distributed heat helps to cool the electric motor during operation, as further described herein.

[0026] Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective view of part of a gearbox assembly. 176 , including the gearbox housing 150 from the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, which is shown with additional components mounted in it. A baffle plate 178 is in the cavity 154 on an inner surface of the gearbox housing 150 mounted. In one example, the baffle plate can be 178 It consists of a thermoplastic material. A torque converter 179 is shown in such a way that it is adjacent to the baffle plate 178 is mounted. An electric motor (not shown) can be mounted above the baffle plate. 178 and adjacent to the torque converter 179 be mounted. The baffle plate 178 closes a drain opening 180 and a baffle flange 182 one. The drain opening 180 is for fluid communication with the first drainage channel 158 and the second drainage channel 160aligned. For example, oil that flows over the oil distributor can 166 into the gearbox housing 110 when this occurs, it can be influenced in such a way that it leads to the drainage opening. 180 and then to the first drainage channel 158 and the second drainage channel 160 moved.

[0027] The Fig. 7 and Fig. Figure 8 shows further details of the baffle plate. 178 The baffle plate 178 can a first furrow 186 and a second furrow 188 include those located on opposite sides of the drain opening 180 each of the first furrows 186 and the second furrow 188 can be dimensioned to sit in a similarly dimensioned groove that passes through the gearbox housing 150 is defined to align the baffle plate 178 in the gearbox housing 150 to contribute.

[0028] The baffle plate 178can a first seal 190 and a second seal 192 include those located on opposite sides of the drain opening 180 are located. The first seal 190 can with the first furrow 186 be arranged to prevent oil from accumulating on the inner surface of the gearbox housing 150 accumulates in between and the second seal 192 can with the second furrow 188 be arranged to prevent oil from accumulating on the inner surface of the gearbox housing 150 accumulates in between. Each of the first seals 190 and the second seal 192 can be located at opposite ends of the baffle plate 178 are located and each can be sized to fit on the inner surface of the gearbox housing 150 to be secured to prevent oil from getting between the baffle plate 178 and accumulates on the inner surface. Each of the first seals 190and the second seal 192 helps prevent oil from getting between the baffle plate 178 and the gearbox housing 150 moves and contributes to influencing the oil so that it flows towards the drain opening. 180 moved. In one example, the first seal can be 190 and the second seal 192 with regard to a circular profile that extends from the gearbox housing 150 The baffle plate is defined as being radially spaced approximately 180 degrees apart. In another embodiment, the baffle plate can be 178 merely one of the first seals 190 and the second seal 192 include.

[0029] The impact flange 182 is designed to be adjacent to the torque converter 179 to be located so that oil which is via the oil distributor 166 into the cavity 154 occurs, is prevented from using the torque converter 179to avoid contact or to minimize such contact. Consideration is being given to the impact flange. 182 over 360 degrees or less across the cavity 154 can extend. A flap 196 can detach from the impact flange 182 based on a type of torque converter 179 Extend at an angle to facilitate a sealing relationship between them. The impact flange 182 and the flap 196 can be dimensioned to fit the torque converter 179 or located adjacent to it, to prevent oil from entering the gearbox housing 150 is introduced with the torque converter 179 comes into contact with the baffle plate. 178 can provide initial coverage 198 and a second cover 200 include each of the first covers 198 and the second cover 200Can a surface be used for securing the gearbox housing? 150 Provide via a fastening element. The first cover 198 can provide a cover to protect the first drainage channel 158 to seal and the second cover 200 can provide a cover for the second drain channel 160 to seal.

[0030] Fig. Figure 9 is a front cross-sectional view showing a fluid path for oil from the oil distributor. 166 to the first drainage channel 158 and the second drainage channel 160 This illustrates the point. For example, oil can be supplied via the oil distributor. 166 into the cavity 154 of the gearbox housing 150 enter. The oil can then pass through the baffle plate. 178 to the drain opening 180 can be affected. The oil can then flow into the first drainage channel. 158 or the second drainage channel 160occur. By including two separate drainage channels, compared to a single drainage channel... 114 , which is in the gearbox assembly 100 It is used, offering advantages regarding the oil drainage of the gearbox assembly. 176 Provided. Additionally, oil is contained by the baffle plate. 182 , the first seal 190 and the second seal 192 so affected that instead of becoming the torque converter 179 to the drain opening 180 moved to improve the oil drainage properties of the transmission assembly 176 to improve.

[0031] Fig. Figure 10 is a perspective view of part of the gearbox assembly. 176 , which is an example of an accumulation of oil in the gearbox housing 150 illustrated after about five seconds, whereby the torque converter 179 It rotates at approximately 2000 rpm. The electric motor is in Fig. Figure 10 is not shown to more clearly illustrate the oil accumulation. The oil accumulation is caused by the coating. 206 depicted. As shown in Fig. As shown in 10, the addition of the baffle plate is achieved by adding the baffle plate. 178 compared to a gearbox housing system 110 more efficient oil drainage and less oil accumulation in the gearbox housing 150 provided. For example, shows Fig. 10 on the torque converter 179 and in the case ventilation 173 an accumulation of oil approaching zero. Fig. Figure 10 also shows an accumulation of oil on the inner surface of the gearbox. 150 , which is significantly less than an accumulation of oil on an inner surface of the gearbox housing 110 .

[0032] Fig. 11 is a graph 228 , which is an example of a comparison of the rotational loss of torque converters between the transmission assembly 100and the gearbox assembly 176 This is illustrated by an accumulation of oil in the corresponding gearbox housing. The x-axis 230 represents time and the y-axis 232 represents the drag torque in Nm. The line 238 represents a rotational loss of the torque converter 106 the gearbox assembly 100 This is represented under a torque converter operating condition of 2000 rpm. The line 240 represents a rotational loss of the torque converter 179 the gearbox assembly 176 This is the case with a torque converter operating condition of 2000 rpm.

[0033] As shown in the graph 228 The gearbox assembly is shown. 176 at 2000 rpm compared to the gearbox assembly 100 It operates with less drag torque. This improvement in drag torque is due to the inclusion of the baffle plate. 178 to improve oil flow in the gearbox housing 150and the inclusion of the first drainage channel 158 and the second drainage channel 160 to be attributed to.

[0034] Although various embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to describe all possible forms encompassed by the claims. Rather, the terms used in the description are descriptive rather than limiting, and it is understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. As previously described, the features of different embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments of the disclosure, which may not be expressly described or illustrated.Although different embodiments may be described as advantageous or preferred over other embodiments or implementations in the prior art with respect to one or more desired properties, a person skilled in the art recognizes that one or more features or properties may be compromised in order to achieve the desired overall attributes of the system, which depend on the specific application and implementation. These attributes may include, but are not limited to, marketability, appearance, consistency, robustness, consumer acceptance, reliability, accuracy, etc. As such, embodiments described as less desirable than other embodiments or implementations in the prior art with respect to one or more properties are not outside the scope of disclosure and may be desirable for certain applications.

Claims

[1] Gear assembly comprising: a housing, including a first and second drainage channel; an electric motor located in the housing adjacent to the drainage channels and a torque converter; and a baffle plate arranged in the housing on an inner housing surface, defining an opening to the first and second drain channels and including a baffle flange dimensioned for positioning adjacent to the torque converter in order to minimize contact of oil with the torque converter in the housing. [2] Assembly according to claim 1, wherein the housing defines a first and second partition wall, each of which extends partially over one of the first and second drainage channels. [3] Assembly according to claim 1, wherein the baffle plate further includes a first and second sealing feature, each arranged at one of two baffle plate ends, and wherein each of the first and second sealing feature is secured to the inner housing surface to prevent oil from accumulating between the baffle plate and the inner housing surface. [4] Assembly according to claim 1, wherein the housing further includes a first and second groove, wherein the baffle plate defines a third and fourth groove, wherein the opening is arranged between them and each of these is dimensioned to lie in one of the first and second grooves, and wherein the grooves are arranged together to align the opening to facilitate fluid communication between a housing cavity and the first and second drain channels. [5] Assembly according to claim 1, wherein the baffle plate further includes a first and second cover, each dimensioned to be secured at one end by one of the first and second drainage channels. [6] Assembly according to claim 1, wherein the baffle plate further includes a swirl flap extending from the baffle flange based on a shape of the torque converter at an angle to influence oil so that it flows towards the opening and away from the torque converter. [7] Assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a housing vent which is open to a cavity and is defined by the housing to help maintain pressure conditions of the cavity within a predetermined threshold. [8] Hybrid vehicle transmission assembly comprising: a housing for receiving a torque converter and an adjacent electric machine and defining an inner surface having a first and second partition, each extending partially over one of two oil drain channels and a baffle plate arranged on the inner surface beneath the electric machine and including a drain opening open to each of the two oil drain channels, the baffle plate is arranged with the torque converter to direct oil introduced into the housing through the opening to the two oil drain channels. [9] Assembly according to claim 8, wherein the baffle plate further includes a first and second seal, each arranged at one of two baffle plate ends, and wherein the first and second seals are dimensioned to be secured to the inner housing surface to prevent oil from accumulating between the baffle plate and the inner surface. [10] Assembly according to claim 9, wherein the housing defines a substantially circular profile, and wherein the first and second seals are radially spaced apart from each other by about 180 degrees with respect to the profile. [11] Assembly according to claim 8, further comprising an oil distributor mounted on the housing to dispense oil into the housing. [12] Assembly according to claim 8, wherein the baffle plate further comprises a baffle flange extending from a baffle plate body at about ninety degrees and including a swirl flap extending from the baffle flange, and wherein the baffle flange and the swirl flap are aligned with respect to the torque converter to prevent oil in the housing from coming into contact with the torque converter. [13] Assembly according to claim 12, wherein the baffle plate is further arranged with the torque converter such that the baffle flange and the swirl flap are adjacent to the torque converter in order to influence oil so that it moves towards the drain opening. [14] Assembly according to claim 8, further comprising a housing vent located adjacent to an oil distributor and opening to a cavity defined by the inner surface of the housing to help maintain pressure conditions of the cavity within a predetermined threshold. [15] Hybrid vehicle transmission assembly comprising: a housing, including a first and second drain channel extending below a mounting point for an electric motor and a torque converter; and a baffle plate arranged at the mounting point, defining an opening to the drain channels, and including a first seal located at one of two opposing baffle plate ends to be secured against an inner housing surface to prevent oil from accumulating between the baffle plate and the inner housing surface.

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