Hybrid Module Clutch Release Device Captive Retaining Ring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current motor vehicle transmission assemblies with a gearbox face challenges in handling and integration of hybrid modules, particularly in securing the clutch release device and ensuring proper alignment and operation of the reversible rotating electrical machine.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid module for a motor vehicle transmission assembly that includes a support with an internal veil separating the electric machine and the clutch, featuring a retaining ring to secure the clutch release device, which becomes captive before mounting, and a concentric hydraulic release mechanism with a body held by a retaining ring and a sleeve system for axial alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the clutch release device is mounted separately during assembly, then the hybrid module can be assembled in stages, but the alignment and positioning of the release device becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining ring is pre-assembled on the intermediate shaft before the clutch release device is mounted. This preliminary action ensures that when the release device is installed, it automatically aligns with the sleeve and shaft, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures during final assembly and significantly reducing assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining ring is positioned inside the sleeve structure, creating a nested arrangement where the ring is captured within the sleeve's internal geometry. This nesting ensures proper positioning and alignment of the clutch release device relative to the intermediate shaft and sleeve, facilitating easier assembly while maintaining precise alignment.
2Reliability
If the retaining ring is added as a separate component, then the clutch release device can be secured, but the number of parts increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining ring is integrated with the intermediate shaft assembly, forming a combined structure where the ring is pre-positioned on the shaft. This merging reduces the number of separate components that need to be handled during assembly, as the retaining ring becomes part of the shaft assembly rather than a standalone part to be installed separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining ring acts as an intermediary element that connects the clutch release device to the intermediate shaft through the sleeve structure. It provides a simple mechanical interface that secures the release device without requiring complex fastening mechanisms, thereby maintaining reliability while minimizing assembly complexity.
3Reliability
If the retaining ring penetrates into the sleeve, then the clutch release device is captured and secured, but the structural complexity of the sleeve increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve structure is segmented into functional zones: the main body providing structural support, and the internal region containing the retaining ring for securing the release device. This segmentation allows the sleeve to perform multiple functions with a relatively simple overall structure, maintaining reliability while minimizing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining ring is nested within the sleeve structure, with the ring penetrating into the sleeve's internal space. This nested arrangement allows the retaining ring to secure the clutch release device effectively while the sleeve maintains its primary structural function, achieving reliability without significant increase in structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The hybrid module (2) for a transmission assembly (1) for a motor vehicle with a gearbox (53) which comprises a clutch (9), a clutch-disengagement device (3), a reversible rotary electric machine (4) provided with a rotor (5) provided with a central opening, an intermediate shaft (6) between the clutch and the rotor (5) of the electric machine (4), said shaft (6) bearing the clutch-disengagement device (3) at the front and penetrating the central opening of the rotor (5), is characterized in that it comprises a support (10) provided with an internal web (27) separating the electric machine (4) from the clutch (9), and in that the web (27) at the internal end thereof has an axial sleeve (28) entering the rotor (5) of the machine (4) and through which the intermediate shaft (6) passes, and in that the clutch-disengagement device comprises a body held in place by a retaining ring (37) of the clutch-disengagement device (3) entering the sleeve (28) and provided with at least one lug for fixing to the web (27).