Integrated Electric Drive Module Torque Vectoring Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torque-vectoring differentials (TVDs) in vehicles are complex and costly, and while they can effectively re-allocate rotary power across differential mechanisms, they are susceptible to improvement in terms of efficiency and operational modes.
Innovation Solution
A drive module with a dual planetary gear set, an electric motor, and a control module that switches between torque vectoring and propulsion modes based on predetermined conditions such as vehicle speed, torque demand, and lateral instability, using a shiftable element and actuator to adjust the operational state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a torque-vectoring differential is implemented using traditional mechanical configurations (friction clutches, magnetic particle brakes), then torque distribution control is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the torque-vectoring differential function with the propulsion motor into a single integrated drive module. The motor serves dual purposes: providing propulsion torque and enabling torque vectoring by selectively applying braking torque to the differential mechanism. This merging eliminates the need for separate torque-vectoring mechanisms, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining torque distribution control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The electric motor in the drive module performs multiple functions: it acts as both the propulsion source and the torque-vectoring actuator. By controlling the motor's braking torque, the system achieves torque distribution between drive wheels without requiring dedicated torque-vectoring components. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components and simplifies the differential mechanism.
2Stability of the object's composition
If torque vectoring mode is continuously activated, then vehicle handling and stability are improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically switches between torque vectoring mode and propulsion mode based on real-time vehicle conditions (speed, steering angle, lateral acceleration). The system activates torque vectoring only when stability enhancement is needed, rather than operating continuously. This dynamic mode switching optimizes energy consumption by engaging the energy-intensive torque vectoring function only when necessary for vehicle stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system monitors vehicle operating parameters (speed, steering angle, lateral acceleration) and adjusts the torque vectoring activation status based on these changing conditions. When vehicle speed is high and stability requirements are met, the system transitions to propulsion mode to conserve energy. When stability deteriorates or vehicle conditions change, the system switches to torque vectoring mode to enhance stability, thus adapting energy usage to actual vehicle needs.
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 enables efficient power transmission and improved vehicle handling by dynamically switching between modes to optimize torque distribution, enhancing stability and reducing complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
a motor, an input member, a differential assembly... The input member can be driven by the motor
Data Source
AI summary
An electric drive module and a method for switching a drive module between a torque vectoring and at least one propulsion mode are provided. A controller can switch the drive module to the torque vectoring mode when a first set of conditions is met and can switch to one of the propulsion modes when either a second or a third set of conditions is met. The first set can include: torque requested by an operator is less than or equal to a first demand threshold; and a vehicle velocity is greater than or equal to a first velocity threshold. The second set can include: the vehicle velocity is less than a second velocity threshold; and a vehicle lateral instability is less than or equal to an instability threshold. The third set can include: the torque requested by the operator of the vehicle is greater than a second demand threshold.