Hybrid Drive Unit Segmentation for Multiple Drive Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hybrid drive units for hybrid vehicles are limited in their ability to cover various driving conditions, such as low state of charge situations and high drive force requirements, due to their complex structure and limited number of drive modes.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid drive unit comprising a first and second differential mechanism, with clutch devices and a brake device, allowing for multiple drive modes including forward and reverse propulsion, energy-efficient torque distribution, and motor speed control, enabling the vehicle to operate in various conditions without complicating the structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex structure with multiple planetary gear units and engagement devices is used to provide multiple drive modes, then the versatility and adaptability of the hybrid drive unit is improved, but the device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the powertrain into two independent differential mechanisms (first and second), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows the system to achieve multiple drive modes by selectively engaging different mechanisms rather than using a single complex gear train, thereby reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Each differential mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions - the first differential mechanism can operate independently for motor-driven modes, the second for engine-driven modes, and they can work together for hybrid modes. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated mechanisms for each drive mode, reducing device complexity.
2Force
If the engine is continuously connected to the powertrain through complex gear mechanisms, then the drive force is maintained, but the energy efficiency decreases due to parasitic losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the engine from the continuous powertrain connection by introducing a clutch device that can disengage the engine from the first differential mechanism. This allows the engine to be disconnected when not needed, eliminating parasitic power losses while maintaining the capability to reconnect when drive force is required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the connection state between the engine and powertrain using clutch devices. The engine can be selectively engaged or disengaged based on operating conditions, transforming the static continuous connection into a dynamic conditional connection that optimizes both drive force availability and energy efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple clutch devices and brake devices are added to enable reverse stage fixing mode and motor speed control, then the adaptability to various driving conditions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the reverse stage fixing function and motor speed control functions within the existing differential mechanism structure. The brake device fixes the reaction element of the second differential mechanism to achieve reverse stage fixing, while the same mechanism enables motor speed control by regulating the connection between the engine and motors. This merging of functions avoids adding separate complex control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A drive unit for a hybrid-vehicle to realize a variety of drive modes for covering various running conditions. A first planetary gear unit is included of a first carrier, a first sun gear, and a first ring gear. A second planetary gear unit is included of a second carrier, a second sun gear, and a second ring gear. A first clutch connects the engine selectively with the first carrier. A first motor is connected with the first sun gear, the second motor is connected with the second sun gear, and the first ring gear and the second ring gear are individually connected with an output member. The drive unit is with a second clutch for connecting the first carrier selectively with the second sun gear. In the drive unit, a reverse stage fixing-mode to propel the vehicle backwardly while changes the output member speed in accordance with the engine speed.