Hybrid Vehicle Disconnector Shift Fork Position Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hybrid vehicles using engine clutches to interrupt or transmit rotary power suffer from reduced engine efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A disconnector system that accurately controls rotary power interruption or transmission by measuring and monitoring the transfer distance of a shift fork using a linear sensor, comprising an upper housing, input shaft, hub, sleeve, shift fork, actuator, and linear sensor, allowing precise control through a reversible motor and lead screw mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a clutch is used to interrupt or transmit rotary power of the engine, then the rotary power can be controlled, but the engine efficiency is lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the clutch component from the power transmission system and replaces it with a disconnector mechanism consisting of a shift fork, sleeve, and linear sensor. This removal of the clutch eliminates the energy loss associated with clutch engagement and disengagement while maintaining the ability to interrupt or transmit rotary power through the disconnector's shifting mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical clutch system with a disconnector mechanism that uses a shift fork, sleeve, and linear sensor for precise positioning. This substitution eliminates the need for friction-based clutch engagement, thereby reducing energy loss and improving engine efficiency while maintaining reliable rotary power control.
2Measurement precision
If a linear sensor is added to measure shift fork position, then control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linear sensor serves multiple functions: it measures the shift fork position, provides feedback for control system adjustment, and enables precise monitoring of the sleeve's engagement state. This multi-functionality justifies the addition of the sensor by providing comprehensive measurement and control capabilities within a single component.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear sensor provides real-time feedback on the shift fork position to the control system, enabling closed-loop control of the disconnector mechanism. This feedback ensures precise positioning and engagement control, improving measurement precision while the systematic integration keeps the overall complexity manageable.
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
Enables accurate and efficient control of rotary power transmission and interruption, enhancing engine efficiency by ensuring precise positioning and operation of the shift fork.
Implementation Method 1
a linear sensor sensing a transfer distance of the shift fork
Implementation Method 2
a lead screw converting a rotary motion into a linear motion
Data Source
AI summary
A disconnector for a hybrid vehicle, which can accurately control interruption or transmission of rotary power by accurately measuring and monitoring a transfer distance of a shift fork using a linear sensor while interrupting or transmitting the rotary power of an engine or a motor using the shift fork.