Electrified Axle Driveline with Selective Multi-Path Gear Transmission

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrified axles lack efficient and compact powertrain assemblies that can accommodate varied torque and speed levels, limiting their performance and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A driveline assembly with a power source, transmission assembly, and output assembly that includes multiple power transmission components, including a planetary gearset and selectively coupled components to provide discrete power transmission paths with varying gear ratios, allowing efficient power distribution to the wheels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single power transmission path is used in electrified axles, then the structure is simple, but the ability to accommodate varied torque and speed levels is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to accommodate varied torque and speed levelsVSAvoidstructure of power transmission assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power transmission assembly is segmented into multiple discrete power transmission paths (first path through planetary gearset, second path through fourth power transmission component, third path through fifth and sixth power transmission components). Each path provides different gear ratios and is suitable for different torque and speed levels, allowing the system to adapt to varied operating conditions without requiring a single complex variable transmission mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple power transmission components are added to provide discrete power transmission paths, then torque and speed options increase, but component wear increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque and speed optionsVSAvoidcomponent wear
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically selects which power transmission path to use based on the required torque and speed levels. By switching between discrete paths rather than continuously varying parameters, the system reduces unnecessary wear on components that would occur with continuous adjustment mechanisms. The selective engagement of specific power transmission components based on operating conditions helps manage and distribute wear more evenly across the system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Volume of moving object

If compact design is prioritized in electrified axles, then space efficiency improves, but power output capability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace efficiency of powertrain assemblyVSAvoidpower output
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The planetary gearset is nested within the compact powertrain assembly, with the sun gear, planet gears, and ring gear arranged in a concentrated radial configuration. This nested arrangement allows multiple gear ratios to be achieved within a small volume. Additionally, the intermediate shaft and various power transmission components are arranged in a space-efficient manner that maximizes power output capability while maintaining compact dimensions, enabling the system to deliver high torque and power in a limited space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS12372144B1Electrified axle
Publication Date: 2025.07.29 ALLISON TRANSMISSION INC
  • US12372144B1 patent drawing
  • US12372144B1 patent drawing
  • US12372144B1 patent drawing

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.