Dual-Motor Traction Assembly With Selectable Axle Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing traction assemblies for vehicles, particularly commercial vehicles, face challenges in being both compact and versatile while meeting diverse operational requirements, and there is a need for a cost-effective solution.
Innovation Solution
A traction assembly with a pair of electric machines and a transmission system that allows independent or combined torque supply to axle shafts, featuring a compact design with a casing housing the transmission and reduction stages, and selector means controlled by actuator means for torque distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traction assembly uses multiple electric motors to provide various functional configurations and torque supply options, then versatility and operational adaptability are improved, but device complexity and number of mechanical elements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling each electric motor to operate in multiple modes: independent torque supply to individual axle shafts, combined torque supply to both axle shafts, and torque supply to a single axle shaft only. This allows the traction assembly to adapt to various operational requirements without requiring separate dedicated motors for each function, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through selector means that can dynamically reconfigure the torque transmission paths. The selector means allow the system to switch between different operational configurations (independent torque supply, combined torque supply, single axle supply) based on real-time operational requirements, enabling the system to adapt its mechanical configuration without physical reassembly or additional components.
2Weight of moving object
If a traction assembly is designed to be compact to reduce vehicle dimensions and weight, then vehicle overall dimensions and weight are reduced, but the ability to provide various functional configurations may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by combining multiple functional capabilities into a single integrated traction assembly design. The housing contains all necessary components (electric motors, reduction stages, selector means, differential) in a unified compact structure. This merging allows the system to provide multiple functional configurations (independent torque supply, combined torque supply, single axle supply) without requiring separate assemblies or excessive space, thereby maintaining vehicle weight and dimension constraints while ensuring operational versatility.
3Ease of operation
If a traction assembly includes selector means and actuator means for controlled torque distribution, then ease of operation and electronic control capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing complex manual or mechanical control systems with electronic control. The actuator means are electronically controllable, allowing torque distribution to be managed through electronic signals rather than mechanical linkages or manual operations. This substitution simplifies the control interface and ease of operation while the integrated electronic control system manages the complexity of torque distribution across multiple motors and axle shafts.
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
The assembly provides efficient, compact, and cost-effective torque transmission, reducing mechanical elements and maintenance costs, while allowing electronic control for optimal torque distribution and energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least one electric machine (5a, 5b), optionally even only configured as an electric motor, configured to supply torque using electrical energy
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
A traction assembly (1) for a vehicle provided with a left and a right axle shaft (2, 3), a first and a second electric machine (5a, 5b), a casing (7) defining a housing (8), and a transmission (6) housed in said housing (8), the transmission (6) comprising selector means (30) which are controlled so that the transmission (6) allows at least two operating conditions: - one in which the second electric machine (5b) provides torque to the axle shafts (2, 3), and the differential (17) connects the axle shafts (2, 3) together; another in which the first and second electric machines (5a, 5b) provide torque to a respective axle shaft (2, 3), the differential (17) disconnecting the axle shafts (2, 3) from each other.