Hybrid Module Rotating Component Pressurization for Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for sealing motor-vehicle drive train component housings require complex pressurization control and regulation, limiting their functionality without a compressed-air source.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid module in the motor-vehicle drive train uses a rotating component designed like a centrifugal pump impeller to create continuous positive pressure within the housing, eliminating the need for complex control or regulation by mechanically coupling it to the drive train, ensuring reliable sealing against water and dust ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a compressed-air source is used to pressurize the housing interior, then sealing against water and dust is achieved, but the device complexity increases due to required control and regulation systems
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the pressurization function from a separate compressed-air system and integrates it into the existing drive train through the rotating component. This eliminates the need for external compressed-air sources and their associated control systems, while maintaining the sealing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating component serves multiple functions: it is part of the drive train (transmitting power) and simultaneously acts as a pressurization device (creating positive pressure for sealing). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated sealing systems.
2Reliability
If a separate compressed-air system is installed for pressurization, then housing sealing is effective, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the pressurization system with the drive train by integrating the rotating component into the existing mechanical structure. This combination eliminates the need for separate compressed-air tanks, valves, and control mechanisms, significantly reducing system volume.
3Reliability
If compressed-air pressurization is used, then sealing performance is improved, but the ease of operation decreases due to required connection control
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating component automatically generates positive pressure through its rotation during normal drive train operation. No manual control, switching, or regulation is required - the system pressurizes itself as a natural consequence of its operation, greatly simplifying ease of operation.
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 solution provides continuous pressurization of the hybrid module housing, preventing water and dust ingress during vehicle operation without requiring complicated control or additional pressurization systems, ensuring reliable sealing even in off-road conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The rotating component is designed similar to an impeller of a centrifugal pump. Therefore, rotation of the component builds up a positive pressure in the radially outer region thereof in comparison to a radially inner region.
Data Source
AI summary
A component housing in a motor-vehicle drive train is sealed by pressurization of the housing interior. The component is a hybrid module (1) comprising at least one electric machine provided between the combustion engine (VM) and the gearing (G) of the motor-vehicle drive train. The pressurization is achieved by a rotating component (R, RA, M, F) of the hybrid module. The rotating component is designed in a manner similar to an impeller of a centrifugal pump. Therefore, rotation of the component builds up a positive pressure (P) on the radially outer region of the rotating component in the region of the housing (GE) in the interior of the hybrid module.