Compact Generator and Hydraulic Drive Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of motors and generators into the propulsion system of work machines is hindered by the need to retain the existing transmission system and the significant volume occupied by these components, making it difficult to achieve compact mounting within the limited space of the engine compartment.
Innovation Solution
A gear housing system is designed to mount the motor and generator compactly by using a flange to connect the engine output shaft to an input shaft with gears that drive the generator and motor, allowing for efficient use of space and minimizing the axial length, enabling the motor and generator to fit within the minimal volume of the engine compartment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a generator and electric motor are added to the propulsion system to meet EPA emission standards, then emission compliance is improved, but the volume of the engine compartment increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the generator and motor into a single integrated assembly mounted within the engine compartment. The generator is coupled to the diesel engine via a gear housing, and the motor is positioned adjacent to the transmission, merging multiple functions into a compact configuration that reduces overall volume while maintaining emission compliance capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical space and three-dimensional arrangement within the engine compartment by mounting the generator on the engine and positioning the motor near the transmission. This multi-dimensional placement allows the system to fit within the constrained engine compartment volume rather than requiring additional horizontal space
2Adaptability or versatility
If the existing transmission system is retained in the power train, then system compatibility is improved, but the available space for mounting motor and generator is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the propulsion system into distinct functional modules: the existing transmission system is retained as one module, while the generator and motor are integrated as separate but interconnected modules. The generator couples to the engine independently, and the motor connects to the transmission input, allowing each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional power train system where the diesel engine can operate in multiple modes: directly driving the transmission through the generator, or directly coupling to the transmission when the motor and generator are not needed. This universal configuration allows the system to adapt to different operational requirements while retaining the original transmission system
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 solution allows for the efficient use of space within the engine compartment, enabling the integration of a motor/generator combination that achieves decreased emissions while maintaining reliability, power output, and efficiency, meeting EPA emission standards.
Implementation Method 1
A generator is mounted to the exterior of the housing and is driven by the first output shaft to produce an electrical output in response to the rotary power output of the internal combustion engine
Implementation Method 2
An electric motor is connected to the rotary input of the transmission and receives a controlled electrical input from the generator
Implementation Method 3
A second gear is journaled in housing about an axis parallel to the axis of the input shaft, with the second gear being substantially in the same plane and being driven by the first gear
Data Source
AI summary
A work machine in which the engine and power output system is to be contained within a minimal volume in an engine compartment. A gear housing is mounted to and receives the output of the internal combustion engine and has side by side gears meshing with a first input gear, one of which drives a generator and the other drives an internal lubricant pump as well as an external hydraulic pump. The gears are in substantially the same plane. The output of the generator is connected via a controller to a motor which drives a transmission system for driving the wheels of the vehicle. The gear housing permits placement of additional components within the engine compartment while taking up a minimum volume.