Dual-Path Electric Drive Unit With Torque Converter Bypass
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric car drive systems face inefficiencies in torque transmission, particularly when a torque converter is used to amplify torque output from an electric motor, as it requires rotation in specific directions and lacks efficient alternatives for non-rotation scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A drive unit configuration that includes an electric motor, two torque transmission paths, a torque converter, and gear trains, along with switch mechanisms and clutches, allowing for efficient torque transmission by switching between paths based on motor direction and reducing the need for torque converter rotation when not required, utilizing a controller to manage these components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a torque converter is used to amplify torque output from an electric motor, then torque amplification is achieved, but torque transmission efficiency deteriorates when the torque converter is not required for rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two torque transmission paths based on operating conditions. The first path includes the torque converter for torque amplification when needed, while the second path bypasses the torque converter for efficient direct transmission when amplification is not required. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt to varying torque requirements and optimize efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive unit incorporates a multi-functional torque transmission system that can operate in multiple modes. The torque converter serves as an optional component that can be engaged or disengaged based on whether torque amplification is needed. The switch mechanism enables the system to universally handle both torque amplification scenarios and direct transmission scenarios through a unified design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the torque converter is always engaged in the torque transmission path, then torque amplification is available, but device complexity and energy loss increase when amplification is not needed
Solution Approach 1:
The torque transmission system is segmented into two distinct paths: a first path that includes the torque converter for torque amplification, and a second path that bypasses the torque converter for direct transmission. The switch mechanism selectively engages one path or the other based on operational requirements, allowing the system to simplify its configuration when amplification is not needed while maintaining the capability for amplification when required.
3Device complexity
If a single torque transmission path is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different driving conditions (forward/reverse, torque amplification needed/not needed) deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic switching between two torque transmission paths adapted to different driving conditions. The switch mechanism responds to operational requirements such as forward/reverse movement and torque amplification needs, selectively engaging the appropriate path. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain simplicity when a single path suffices while providing full adaptability when varying driving conditions require different transmission modes.
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
Enables efficient torque transmission by bypassing the torque converter when not necessary, allowing for higher reduction ratios in gear trains and optimizing motor direction modes for forward and reverse movements, thereby improving drive efficiency and reducing energy loss.
Implementation Method 1
The torque converter is disposed in the first torque transmission path. The torque converter is configured to amplify the torque outputted from the electric motor when the torque is directed in the first rotational direction.
Data Source
AI summary
A drive unit includes an electric motor, first and second torque transmission paths, a torque converter, first and second gear trains, and a first switch mechanism. The first and second torque transmission paths are provided parallel to each other. The torque converter is disposed in the first torque transmission path. The torque converter amplifies a torque outputted from the motor when the torque is directed in a first rotational direction. The first gear train is disposed in the first torque transmission path. The first gear train is disposed downstream with respect to the torque converter. The second gear train is disposed in the second torque transmission path. The first switch mechanism switches between the first torque transmission path and the second torque transmission path as a path for transmitting the torque outputted from the motor.