Hybrid Power Transfer Module With Torsional Damper Integration

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hybrid power transfer modules face challenges in minimizing the inertia moment applied to the one-way clutch type engine disconnect clutch, reducing component count and axial length, and efficiently supplying transmission fluid to the engine disconnect clutch and torsional damper.

Innovation Solution

The hybrid power transfer module integrates the functions of the rotor hub and torsional damper, positions a torsional damper with a drive plate and springs outside the torque converter, and includes oil passages for direct ATF supply to the engine clutch and torsional damper.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If the rotor hub and torque converter are directly connected with high inertia, then power transfer is efficient, but significant shock is applied to the engine disconnect clutch when torque is applied

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower transfer efficiencyVSAvoidshock to clutch

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A torsional damper is introduced between the engine disconnect clutch and the rotor hub to cushion the shock before it reaches the clutch. The damper includes springs that absorb and dampen the torque shocks, protecting the one-way clutch from excessive impact while maintaining power transfer capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The torsional damper acts as an intermediary component between the high-inertia rotor hub and the engine disconnect clutch. It mediates the interaction by filtering out harmful shock while allowing power transfer, thus resolving the contradiction between efficient power transfer and shock protection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If additional components such as driven plate and retaining plate are added for damper system configuration, then shock protection is improved, but the axial length and component count increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshock protectionVSAvoidaxial length

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The torsional damper is integrated with the rotor hub structure, merging two separate components into one unified assembly. This eliminates the need for additional retaining plates and reduces the overall axial length while maintaining the shock protection function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The rotor hub is designed to serve multiple functions: it supports the motor rotor, transmits power, and houses the torsional damper. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby reducing axial length and component count.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If four hydraulic fluid passages are used for control of CO and Cl clutches, then clutch operation control is achieved, but it becomes difficult to develop electrified systems using existing transmissions with 2-path or 3-path hydraulic fluid pressure route

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveclutch control capabilityVSAvoidcompatibility with existing transmissions

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The existing 2-path or 3-path hydraulic fluid passages in the transmission are made multi-functional to serve both the original clutch control needs and the new engine disconnect clutch. By routing ATF through the torque converter and utilizing existing passages, the system achieves four-clutch control capability without requiring four separate dedicated passages.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The torque converter and existing transmission hydraulic system serve themselves by providing ATF flow paths that automatically lubricate and control the engine disconnect clutch without requiring additional dedicated hydraulic infrastructure. The existing system adapts to serve the new component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 minimizes the inertia moment applied to the engine clutch, reduces the axial length of the module, and enhances the cooling and lubrication of the engine clutch and torsional damper, leading to improved integration and performance in hybrid vehicles.

Implementation Method 1

a torsional damper, which is arranged to contact the drive plate and includes a plurality of springs

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring deformation: Spring

Implementation Method 2

the torsional damper, which is arranged to contact the drive plate and includes a plurality of springs

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTorsional damping: Damping

Implementation Method 3

the hybrid power transfer module equipped with a fluid passage that can directly supply ATF to the engine clutch and the coupled torsional damper

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFluid flow through passages:

Data Source

PatentUS20250058619A1Hybrid power transfer module

Publication Date: 2025.02.20 VALEO KAPEC CO LTD

AI summary

A hybrid power transfer module is provided. The hybrid power transfer module including a drive shaft, a rotor hub, and an engine clutch, comprises a drive plate arranged on an outer circumference of the engine clutch; and a torsional damper, which is arranged to contact the drive plate and includes a plurality of springs; and the drive plate and the torsional damper are arranged within the rotor hub.