Integrated Dual Pump Module for Compact Drive Unit Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pump arrangements in motor vehicles require significant installation space and are complicated to install due to multiple separate components, especially when multiple pumps are needed for lubrication and cooling of drive units.
Innovation Solution
A compact pump module with a housing module containing an electronics housing and pump housing, integrated hydraulic pumps, and a circuit board, allowing axial mounting and direct connection to the drive unit, with features like connector plugs and exposed stators for cooling and modular design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate pumps are installed in the motor vehicle, then each pump can perform its specific hydraulic function, but the installation space requirement increases and the installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate hydraulic pumps into a single integrated pump module that houses multiple pump units (e.g., vane pump, gear pump, piston pump) within one common structure. This merging approach maintains the ability to perform multiple hydraulic functions while significantly reducing the total installation space and simplifying the installation process to a single component.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump module is designed as a universal component that can simultaneously perform multiple hydraulic functions through its integrated multiple pump units. Each pump unit can be selectively activated depending on the required function, allowing the single module to replace multiple separate pumps and provide versatile hydraulic solutions for various vehicle systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate pumps are installed in the motor vehicle, then each pump can perform its specific hydraulic function, but the installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate hydraulic pumps into a single integrated pump module that houses multiple pump units (e.g., vane pump, gear pump, piston pump) within one common structure. This merging approach maintains the ability to perform multiple hydraulic functions while significantly reducing the total installation space and simplifying the installation process to a single component.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump module employs segmentation by providing individual control circuits for each pump unit, allowing selective activation of specific pumps based on required functions. This modular segmentation enables simplified installation of the entire module while maintaining the flexibility to activate only the needed pump units, reducing overall system complexity.
3Volume of stationary object
If the pump module is arranged in an oil sump, then the available space is reduced, but the cooling of the stator requires a separate coolant circuit
Solution Approach 1:
The stator is designed to be directly exposed to the oil environment in the oil sump, allowing it to cool itself by direct thermal contact with the circulating oil. This self-service cooling approach eliminates the need for separate coolant circuits, reducing system complexity while enabling the pump module to be compactly arranged within the oil sump.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the stator from its traditional enclosed housing and positions it directly in the oil environment, allowing direct thermal exchange with the oil. This extraction of the stator from the protective housing enables passive cooling through oil contact, eliminating the need for active coolant circuits while maintaining compact overall dimensions.
4Reliability
If connector plugs are used to connect the pump module to vehicle electronics, then the connection is reliable and sealed, but the installation space and routing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector plug is integrated directly into the pump module housing, combining the electrical connection function with the mechanical pump housing structure. This integration eliminates the need for separate cable routing and external connectors, reducing installation space and simplifying the overall installation while maintaining reliable and sealed electrical connections to the vehicle electronics.
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 solution reduces installation space requirements and simplifies installation by allowing a single component to be fitted, provides efficient cooling without separate coolant circuits, and enables modular pump configurations with reduced production costs.
Implementation Method 1
oil can wash directly around the stator. This allows the stator to be cooled without requiring a separate, costly coolant circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A pump module for a drive unit of a motor vehicle, includes a housing module having an electronics housing and a pump housing, a circuit board which is received in the electronics housing and is equipped with electronic components. At least one connector plug is provided on the electronics housing and has electrical contacts which are electrically connected to conductors of the circuit board. Two hydraulic pumps are mounted in the pump housing and each have an electric motor, wherein the pump housing is axially mounted on the electronics housing.