Hybrid Drive System Clutch Coupling for Power Distribution

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hybrid drive systems for vehicles face inefficiencies in powering accessories under various operating conditions, necessitating improved solutions for propulsive power and mechanical shaft power transmission.

Innovation Solution

A hybrid drive system comprising a combustion engine, an electrical machine, and an accessory drive system, where the electrical machine is coupled to the combustion engine via a clutch, allowing for selective power supply from either source to the drive train and accessories, with the ability to start the combustion engine using the electrical machine and control power distribution based on operating conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the electrical machine is coupled to the combustion engine via a clutch for selective power supply, then the adaptability and flexibility of power transmission are improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional coupling mechanisms and control systems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility of power transmissionVSAvoidcomplexity of coupling mechanisms
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical machine is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a motor to drive the generator when the combustion engine is running, and as a generator to recharge the battery when the combustion engine is off. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby improving adaptability while managing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If the electrical machine can start the combustion engine and control power distribution, then the ease of operation and control are improved, but the device complexity increases due to advanced control systems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol of power distributionVSAvoidcomplexity of control systems
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system automatically manages power distribution between the combustion engine and electrical machine based on real-time operating conditions without requiring manual intervention. The system self-regulates by monitoring battery charge levels, engine status, and power demands, thereby improving ease of operation while keeping the control system architecture relatively simple through automated decision-making algorithms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enhances the efficiency and flexibility of power transmission to the drive train and accessories, improving vehicle performance across different operating conditions by optimizing power usage from both the combustion engine and electrical machine.

Implementation Method 1

an electrical machine coupled to the combustion engine via a clutch... the hybrid vehicle drive system is configured to start the combustion engine using the electrical machine

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a combustion engine... the hybrid vehicle drive system is configured to supply mechanical power to the accessory drive system from the combustion engine

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCombustion: Combustion

Data Source

PatentUS9132725B2Vehicle and hybrid drive system
Publication Date: 2015.09.15 CUMMINS INC
  • US9132725B2 patent drawing
  • US9132725B2 patent drawing
  • US9132725B2 patent drawing

AI summary

One embodiment is a unique vehicle having a hybrid drive system. Other embodiments include unique hybrid drive systems. Still other embodiments include apparatuses, systems, devices, hardware, methods, and combinations for fluid driven actuation systems. Further embodiments, forms, features, aspects, benefits, and advantages of the present application shall become apparent from the description and figures provided herewith.