Hybrid Drive System Torque Converter Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hybrid electric vehicles experience drive loss when both the engine and motor are connected to a torque converter, even when only the engine is used for travel, due to unnecessary rotation of the motor and torque converter.
Innovation Solution
A drive system configuration where the engine outputs torque directly to an output shaft member without using the torque converter, and the motor's torque is amplified through a torque converter, allowing for starting movement using only the motor and reducing drive loss by avoiding concurrent rotation of the motor and torque converter with the engine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If both the engine and motor are connected to the torque converter, then the torque can be amplified for starting movement, but drive loss occurs when only the engine is used for travel due to unnecessary rotation of the motor and torque converter
Solution Approach 1:
The drive system is segmented into two independent torque transmission paths: one path through the torque converter for motor torque amplification during starting, and another direct path from engine to output shaft for efficient cruising. This segmentation allows selective engagement of appropriate transmission paths based on operating conditions, eliminating unnecessary rotation and energy loss during engine-only operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different torque transmission modes using a clutch mechanism. During starting movement, the clutch engages to connect both engine and motor to the torque converter for amplified torque. During cruising, the clutch disengages the torque converter from the output shaft, allowing direct engine-to-output-shaft connection. This dynamic reconfiguration optimizes efficiency by preventing unnecessary rotation of the torque converter and motor during engine-only operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the torque converter is used for both motor and engine torque transmission, then versatile operation is enabled, but device complexity increases due to additional components and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The torque converter is designed to serve multiple functions: it amplifies motor torque during starting movement and can also transmit engine torque during cruising when directly connected. The output shaft member is configured to receive torque from either the torque converter or the engine directly, enabling versatile operation modes (motor-only starting, engine-only cruising, and combined operation) without requiring separate transmission paths for each function.
3Power
If the engine torque is transmitted through the torque converter, then torque can be amplified, but vibration from the engine is transferred to the output shaft member
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the vibration problem from the torque transmission path by providing a separate direct connection from the engine to the output shaft member that bypasses the torque converter. During cruising operation, engine torque is transmitted directly without passing through the torque converter, thereby eliminating vibration transfer. The torque converter is only engaged when motor torque amplification is needed, separating the torque amplification function from the engine torque transmission path.
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 configuration enables efficient torque utilization, reduces drive loss, and allows for starting movement using only the motor while minimizing fuel consumption and mechanical friction, enhancing torque performance and reducing vibration through elastic members and dynamic vibration absorption.
Implementation Method 1
the turbine can be used as a dynamic vibration absorber (hereinafter referred to as a turbine dynamic damper as well). In other words, vibration transferred from the engine can be absorbed by the turbine dynamic damper
Data Source
AI summary
A drive system includes a motor, an engine, a torque converter and an output shaft member. The torque converter is a device to which a torque outputted from the motor is inputted. The output shaft member outputs the torque inputted thereto from the torque converter or a torque inputted thereto from the engine. The engine outputs the torque to the output shaft member without through the torque converter.