Vehicle Drive Unit Layout for Compact Motor-Inverter Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to reduce the size of a driving unit in vehicles equipped with rotary electric machines and electric power conversion devices without compromising their functionality, as larger driving units encroach on passenger and luggage compartment space.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves strategically positioning the electric power conversion device relative to the rotary electric machine, with electrical and coolant connections optimized to minimize the unit's size by utilizing space between the components, including the placement of connecting portions and coolant pipes in orthogonal directions, and immersing parts in lubricating oil for cooling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the electric power conversion device is directly fixed to the rotary electric machine, then the electrical connection is simplified, but the height dimension increases reducing layout freedom
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the electric power conversion device in the width direction (orthogonal direction) rather than stacking it vertically on the rotary electric machine. This dimensional shift allows electrical connections to be made through side connections instead of top-down connections, reducing the height dimension while maintaining electrical connectivity.
2Volume of moving object
If the driving unit size is reduced, then passenger and luggage compartment space is preserved, but space for electrical connections and cooling systems becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
By arranging components in the width direction rather than vertically, the patent creates efficient use of lateral space. The electrical connections and cooling systems are routed through the width direction, allowing compact packaging without compromising connection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates the electrical connecting portion and sensor connecting portion into the same orthogonal space between the rotary electric machine and electric power conversion device, consolidating multiple connection functions into a compact arrangement that reduces overall driving unit size.
3Volume of moving object
If connecting portions are disposed in the orthogonal direction between components, then the driving unit size is reduced, but the routing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical connecting portion and sensor connecting portion in the same orthogonal direction, allowing both connections to be made through the same spatial pathway. This merging of connection functions simplifies the overall routing architecture while achieving compact dimensions.
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 effectively reduces the size of the driving unit by optimizing the use of available space and maintaining efficient cooling, allowing for a more compact design without increasing the unit's height or width, thus preserving compartment space.
Implementation Method 1
a first coolant is stored in the rotary electric machine accommodating portion of the rotary electric machine case; at least a part of the first connecting portion being immersed in the first coolant
Implementation Method 2
a coolant introduction pipe introducing a second coolant into the driving unit and a coolant discharge pipe discharging the second coolant from the driving unit are connected to the driving unit
Data Source
AI summary
A driving unit includes a rotary electric machine which has a rotation axis extending in a horizontal direction, a rotary electric machine case, and an electric power conversion device. The electric power conversion device is disposed on one side of the rotary electric machine in an orthogonal direction. A first coolant is stored in a rotary electric machine accommodating portion of the rotary electric machine case. The driving unit has a first connecting portion electrically connecting the rotary electric machine and the electric power conversion device and a second connecting portion electrically connecting a sensor provided to the rotary electric machine and the electric power conversion device. The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are disposed between the rotary electric machine and the electric power conversion device in the orthogonal direction.