Hybrid Module Annular Rotor Torque Transmission

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hybrid modules for vehicles lack an efficient and integrated solution for torque transmission and clutch engagement between combustion engines and multi-speed transmissions, leading to inefficiencies and potential mechanical stress.

Innovation Solution

A hybrid module comprising an annular stator, first and second annular rotors, and bearings, with a hub for driving engagement with the transmission input shaft, and a clutch pack for frictional connection to the crankshaft, utilizing annular magnets and tubular protrusions for enhanced mechanical engagement and stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a hybrid module integrates both electric motor and combustion engine components, then torque transmission efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque transmission efficiencyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the electric motor stator and combustion engine crankshaft into a single integrated housing structure. The stator is fixed to the housing which is arranged for fixing to the combustion engine, creating a unified assembly that reduces the number of separate components while maintaining both electric and mechanical torque transmission pathways

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The hub structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a bearing support for the rotors, provides driving engagement with the transmission input shaft, and serves as a mounting structure for the clutch pack. This multi-functionality reduces the overall component count while improving torque transmission efficiency

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

2Power

If annular rotors with magnets are used for electric motor function, then power transmission capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower transmission capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses annular magnets positioned specifically in the rotors where magnetic fields are needed for electromagnetic interaction with the stator. This localized application of magnetic components provides the necessary power transmission capability only where required, rather than throughout the entire assembly

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The hub and first annular rotor are formed from a same piece of material, creating an integrated composite structure. This reduces manufacturing steps by eliminating separate assembly operations while maintaining the functional properties of both the hub and rotor components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Stability of the object's composition

If multiple bearings are installed between rotors and stator, then mechanical stability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical stabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bearings are pre-positioned within the hub structure during manufacturing, rather than being installed separately during assembly. This preliminary placement ensures proper alignment and reduces the complexity of the assembly process while maintaining the mechanical stability provided by multiple bearings

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

The hybrid module provides improved torque transmission efficiency and mechanical stability by integrating annular rotors, bearings, and a clutch pack, reducing mechanical stress and enhancing the connection between the combustion engine and multi-speed transmission.

Implementation Method 1

The first annular rotor or the second annular rotor includes an annular magnet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The first bearing is installed between the first annular rotor or the second annular rotor, and the annular stator

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 3

The piston plate is for compressing the at least one first clutch plate and the at least one second clutch plate to frictionally connect the clutch carrier and the drive plate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS10737567B2Hybrid module
Publication Date: 2020.08.11 SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES AG & CO KG
  • US10737567B2 patent drawing
  • US10737567B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A hybrid module includes a housing, an annular stator, first and second annular rotors, and a first bearing. The housing is arranged for fixing to a combustion engine and a multi-speed transmission of a vehicle. The annular stator is fixed to the housing. The first annular rotor is disposed on a first axial side of the stator. The second annular rotor is disposed on a second axial side of the stator, opposite the first axial side. The first bearing is installed between the first annular rotor or the second annular rotor, and the annular stator. In an example embodiment, the first annular rotor or the second annular rotor includes an annular magnet. In an example embodiment, the first annular rotor is fixed to the second annular rotor.