Coaxial P2 Hybrid Transmission Layout for Compact Motor Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current P2 hybrid powertrains face packaging concerns due to the addition of an electric motor-generator unit, requiring increased space within the vehicle, as the unit is often positioned externally or increases the transmission size when housed within.

Innovation Solution

The electric motor-generator unit is positioned coaxially within the transmission, supported by a pump support, with a torque converter and planetary gearset, allowing for compact integration and minimizing additional space requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the electric motor-generator unit is positioned externally or housed within the transmission, then the hybrid powertrain achieves its intended purpose, but the lateral and axial space needed for the powertrain increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehybrid powertrain functionalityVSAvoidpowertrain space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The electric motor-generator unit is merged with the transmission by positioning it coaxially within the transmission housing, sharing the same space and eliminating the need for separate mounting space. The motor-generator unit integrates with existing transmission components such as the pump support and torque converter, combining multiple functions into a single compact assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The electric motor-generator unit is nested within the transmission housing, with the motor positioned inside the transmission case and the generator coupled to the same input shaft. This nested arrangement allows the motor-generator to occupy space already allocated for transmission components, rather than requiring additional external space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Device complexity

If the MGU is placed coaxially to the input of the transmission, then power transfer is simplified, but the overall size of the transmission must be increased to accommodate the MGU

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower transfer mechanismVSAvoidtransmission size
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The transmission input shaft serves multiple functions: it receives power from the engine through the torque converter and simultaneously receives power from the electric motor-generator unit. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate power input paths, allowing the transmission to handle both power sources without increasing its overall size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The motor-generator unit is positioned in the axial dimension within the transmission housing, utilizing the existing axial space rather than requiring additional lateral or longitudinal expansion. This dimensional arrangement allows the MGU to be accommodated within the transmission's existing envelope.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Area of stationary object

If an MGU is housed within the transmission, then packaging space is reduced, but the transmission size must be increased to accommodate the MGU

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepackaging spaceVSAvoidtransmission size
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The motor-generator unit is positioned in a specific local area within the transmission housing, utilizing unused or underutilized space near the input shaft and torque converter. This localized placement allows the MGU to be accommodated without requiring a uniform increase in transmission size throughout the entire housing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This configuration enables the addition of an electric motor-generator unit without increasing the transmission size, addressing packaging concerns and allowing for efficient power transfer while maintaining existing transmission design parameters.

Implementation Method 1

a torque converter positioned between and interconnecting the engine to the input shaft of the transmission

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic coupling: Hydraulic Press

Implementation Method 2

the torque converter having a one-way clutch adapted to drivingly connect the torque converter to the input shaft of the transmission

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction clutching: Friction

Implementation Method 3

an electric motor-generator unit adapted to provide power to the input shaft of the transmission

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11745578B2P2 hybrid transmission
Publication Date: 2023.09.05 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • US11745578B2 patent drawing
  • US11745578B2 patent drawing
  • US11745578B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A hybrid powertrain for an automobile includes a transmission adapted to provide power to wheels of the automobile, an engine adapted to provide power to an input shaft of the transmission, and an electric motor-generator unit adapted to provide power to the input shaft of the transmission, wherein the electric motor-generator is positioned within the transmission, coaxial with the transmission input shaft, the electric motor-generator being supported by and enclosed within a pump support of the transmission.