Electrified Axle Driveline With Selective Dual Power Paths
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrified axles lack efficient powertrain assemblies that can accommodate varied torque and speed levels, leading to inefficiencies and component wear.
Innovation Solution
A driveline assembly with a power source, intermediate shaft, and transmission components, including a planetary gearset and differential, allowing selective coupling of power transmission paths to achieve multiple gear ratios, enhancing efficiency and reducing wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single power transmission path is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate varied torque and speed levels efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The power transmission system is divided into multiple discrete paths (first power transmission path through planetary gearset, second power transmission path through fourth power transmission component) with different gear ratios. Each path is optimized for specific torque and speed ranges, allowing the system to segment the operating conditions and handle them through appropriate transmission routes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different power transmission paths based on operating conditions. The controller selectively engages the first or second power transmission path depending on whether high torque or high speed is required, making the transmission system adaptable and versatile without requiring a complex multi-speed transmission for all conditions.
2Productivity
If multiple power transmission paths are added, then efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate shaft serves multiple functions by being coupled to both the planetary gearset and the fourth power transmission component. It acts as a common transmission element for both power paths, reducing the need for separate dedicated components and thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while maintaining multiple efficient transmission paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary that selectively engages clutches to connect the appropriate power transmission path based on operating conditions. This intermediary control mechanism allows efficient switching between paths without requiring mechanical complexity in the transmission assembly itself, as the selection is managed through controlled engagement rather than permanent mechanical configurations.
3Reliability
If continuous operation at high torque is maintained, then power delivery is consistent, but component wear increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the gear ratio parameter by switching between the first power transmission path (with planetary gearset providing higher gear ratio for torque multiplication) and the second power transmission path (with fourth power transmission component providing lower gear ratio for speed). This parameter change allows the system to operate at optimal efficiency points, reducing battery consumption and component wear while maintaining reliable power delivery.
Data Source
AI summary
A driveline assembly comprises a power source and an output operably coupled to the power source. Further, a transmission assembly comprises an intermediate shaft comprising a first power transmission component and a second power transmission component and the intermediate shaft is operably coupled to the power source. An output assembly comprises a drive member coupled to the output, a planetary gearset operably coupled to the drive member and a third power transmission component coupled between the first power transmission component and the planetary gearset. Further, the output assembly comprises a fourth power transmission component coupled between the second power transmission component and the drive member independent of the planetary gearset, both the third power transmission component and the fourth power transmission component are selectively coupled to the power source to drive the output.