Engine Disconnect Clutch Torque Converter Feed-Through Activation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current hybrid electric powertrains with torque converter clutches (TCC) face inefficiencies due to complex control systems, potential leaks, and increased costs, which can affect fuel economy and overall system complexity.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of an engine disconnect clutch (K0 clutch) that selectively connects and disconnects the internal combustion engine from the transmission and electric motor via a torque converter feedthrough, utilizing the existing transmission oil pump and oil supply to eliminate the need for an auxiliary control body and dedicated oil supply, thereby simplifying the powertrain architecture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an auxiliary control body and dedicated oil supply are used for torque converter clutch activation, then the clutch can be reliably controlled, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the clutch control function with the existing torque converter control body and oil supply system. The clutch is activated using the same control body that manages torque converter operations, and the same transmission oil supply is used for both systems. This integration eliminates the need for separate auxiliary control bodies and dedicated oil supplies, reducing system complexity while maintaining reliable clutch control through the shared hydraulic system.
Solution Approach 2:
The control body and oil supply system are designed to serve multiple functions: controlling both the torque converter and the clutch. The same hydraulic passages and control mechanisms are utilized for both operations, making the system more versatile and reducing the overall number of components needed in the powertrain.
2Ease of operation
If an auxiliary control body and dedicated oil supply are implemented, then clutch operation can be independently controlled, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the clutch control functionality with the existing torque converter control infrastructure. By using the same control body and oil supply system for both operations, the manufacturing cost is reduced due to fewer unique components, while the control logic within the existing system maintains independent clutch operation capability through programmed control sequences.
3Shape
If dedicated packaging space is allocated for clutch components, then proper component placement is ensured, but vehicle weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the clutch assembly within the existing torque converter housing and transmission component layout. By sharing the same packaging space and structural components with the torque converter system, no additional dedicated packaging space is required, thereby avoiding the weight increase that would result from separate mounting structures and additional spatial allocation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate control systems are used for clutch and torque converter, then each system can be optimized independently, but system reliability decreases due to potential leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates the clutch and torque converter control systems into a single integrated hydraulic system. By using the same oil supply and control body for both operations, the number of potential leak points is reduced, as there are fewer seals, hoses, and connections required. The integrated system maintains optimization flexibility through software-controlled hydraulic actuation that can independently manage each component's operation timing and pressure requirements.
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 solution reduces system complexity, minimizes costs, and enhances efficiency by eliminating potential leaks and dedicated packaging space, while providing a more straightforward control mechanism for the clutch, leading to improved fuel economy and reduced vehicle weight.
Implementation Method 1
a hydrodynamic torque converter interposed between the engine and the transmission
Implementation Method 2
A hydraulic pump modulates fluid pressure within the torque converter housing to regulate the transfer of rotational energy
Data Source
AI summary
Presented are engine disconnect clutches, methods for making/using such clutch devices, and vehicles with an engine that is coupled to/decoupled from a transmission and motor via a disconnect clutch. A vehicle includes a transmission with an input shaft connected with a transmission gearing arrangement, and an output shaft connecting the gearing arrangement with the vehicle's wheels. A torque converter pump housing drivingly connects to the vehicle's traction motor. A turbine is mounted inside the pump housing in fluid communication with an impeller. A turbine shaft connects the turbine to the transmission's input shaft. A clutch hub of a disconnect clutch drivingly connects to the vehicle's engine and selectively attaches to the pump housing. The disconnect clutch selectively connects the engine to the motor and transmission by drawing oil from the transmission's oil sump, through a turbine shaft channel and a pump housing port, and into a clutch hub cavity.