EGR Support on Transmission for Powertrain Serviceability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing configuration of automotive powertrain units, where the external exhaust gas recirculator (EGR) is supported by the cylinder head, complicates engine overhaul and can deteriorate noise vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics due to vibration transmission.
Innovation Solution
The EGR is supported by the transmission instead of the cylinder head, allowing for easier engine maintenance and reducing vibration transmission, which improves serviceability without compromising NVH characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the EGR is supported by the cylinder head, then the EGR can be stably positioned, but the engine overhaul process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the support function into two independent parts: the EGR is supported by the transmission housing rather than the cylinder head. This segmentation allows the EGR to remain fixed during engine overhaul when the cylinder head is removed, eliminating the need to detach and store the EGR separately.
2Ease of operation
If the EGR is supported by the vehicle body, then the EGR can be easily accessed for maintenance, but vibration from the engine is transmitted to the vehicle body through the EGR
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the transmission housing as an intermediary support structure between the EGR and the vehicle body. The transmission housing provides a stable mounting point for the EGR that is acoustically and vibrationally isolated from the vehicle body, preventing vibration transmission while maintaining EGR positioning stability.
3Ease of repair
If the EGR is supported by the transmission, then the engine overhaul process is simplified and vibration transmission is reduced, but the transmission housing must accommodate additional support structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the EGR support function with the existing transmission housing structure. The support bracket is integrated into the transmission housing, combining the transmission mounting function with the EGR support function in a single structural element, thereby minimizing additional 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 engine overhaul by eliminating the need to remove the EGR from the cylinder head and reduces vibration-induced noise, enhancing both serviceability and NVH performance.
Implementation Method 1
an EGR cooler for cooling burned gas
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure improves serviceability of an automotive powertrain unit without deteriorating NVH characteristics. A powertrain P includes an engine 1 having a cylinder head 14; and a transmission 2 coupled to the engine 1. The engine 1 includes an EGR 60 connected between an intake passage 30 and an exhaust passage 50. The transmission 2 is provided below the cylinder head 14 in a vehicle height direction. The EGR 60 is provided along a side of the cylinder head 14 toward the transmission 2, and supported by the transmission 2.