Dual Clutch Drive Module with Single Servo Hydraulic Pump
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dual friction clutch differential arrangements for all-wheel drive systems require complex mechanisms and hydraulic circuits for controlling friction clutches, necessitating a simplified actuation means to manage disconnecting and torque-vectoring capabilities effectively.
Innovation Solution
A dual clutch drive module incorporating a single servo hydraulic pump and normally-open valve actuation, featuring a hydraulic circuit with solenoid-operated valves and flow control devices to selectively engage and disengage friction clutches, allowing independent operation of each clutch for simplified control and efficient torque distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex mechanisms and hydraulic circuits are used to control friction clutches, then disconnecting and torque-vectoring capabilities are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic circuit is segmented into two independent circuits, each controlling one friction clutch. Each circuit has its own solenoid-operated valve and flow control device, allowing independent control of each clutch while simplifying the overall control architecture
Solution Approach 2:
A single hydraulic pump serves both clutch circuits simultaneously, providing pressurized fluid to both normally-open valves. This multi-functional pump reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining the ability to independently control both clutches
2Reliability
If normally-closed valves are used for clutch actuation, then reliable clutch engagement is achieved, but additional valve components and complexity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional normally-closed valve approach by using normally-open valves. This reversal simplifies the system because the clutches are spring-engaged and require hydraulic pressure only for disengagement, eliminating the need for complex valve actuation mechanisms while maintaining reliable control
Solution Approach 2:
The spring engagement mechanism is extracted as the primary actuation method, with hydraulic pressure serving only as a release mechanism. This separation of engagement (spring) and disengagement (hydraulic) functions simplifies the valve requirements and reduces overall system complexity
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 simplifies the actuation of friction clutches, reduces complexity, and enhances the ability to manage torque distribution, improving fuel efficiency and handling by enabling selective operation of two-wheel drive modes and torque vectoring without the need for intricate mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
The first valve is a solenoid operated, normally open two-way valve... The second valve is a solenoid operated, normally open two-way valve
Implementation Method 2
The pump is configured to draw hydraulic fluid from the reservoir and provide pressurized hydraulic fluid to the first and second inlet ports
Implementation Method 3
The first friction clutch has a first input portion, which is coupled to the differential case for common rotation, and a first output portion. The second friction clutch has a second input portion, which is coupled to the differential case for common rotation, and a second output portion
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle driveline component having a dual friction clutch differential assembly and a hydraulic circuit for operating the friction clutches. The hydraulic circuit includes a pair of normally open, solenoid operated valves that are selectively closed to control the fluid pressure that acts on the friction clutches. The hydraulic circuit provides a simplified and cost-effective means for providing disconnecting and/or torque vectoring capabilities to the vehicle driveline component.