Hybrid Power Split Mechanism Spline Connection Assembly

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing power transmitting apparatus for hybrid vehicles with a transmission gear mechanism is complex and reduces productivity due to increased components and assembly steps, making the assembly process cumbersome.

Innovation Solution

A power transmitting apparatus with a differential-based power split mechanism and a transmission gear mechanism arranged on the same rotation axis, where the output member of the transmission gear mechanism and the input member of the power split mechanism are connected via a spline or serration, allowing for easier assembly and power transmission by enabling relative movement along the rotation axis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If a transmission gear mechanism is added to change engine rotation speed, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity and assembly difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidapparatus complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the transmission gear mechanism and power split mechanism into a single integrated assembly where both mechanisms share common components such as the carrier, sun gear, and ring gear. This merging reduces the overall number of separate components and simplifies the apparatus structure while maintaining the ability to change engine rotation speed for improved energy efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The transmission gear mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a transmission mechanism to change engine rotation speed, and its components (carrier, sun gear, ring gear) also serve as functional elements of the power split mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity by eliminating redundant components.

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

2Use of energy by moving object

If a transmission gear mechanism is added to change engine rotation speed, then energy efficiency is improved, but assembly time and productivity decrease

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidassembly productivity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating the transmission gear mechanism and power split mechanism into a single assembly unit with shared components, the patent reduces the number of separate assembly operations required. The mechanisms can be assembled together in fewer steps, improving productivity while maintaining the energy efficiency benefits of the transmission gear mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of manufacture

If the transmission gear mechanism and power split mechanism are integrated on the same rotation axis, then assembly is simplified, but the arrangement requires precise alignment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly easeVSAvoidalignment precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The integration of both mechanisms on the same rotation axis with shared components creates a unified assembly where alignment features can be standardized. Common mounting surfaces and interconnected gear elements provide inherent alignment references, making the assembly process easier while maintaining precise alignment through design features rather than requiring post-assembly adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 simplifies the assembly process and improves productivity by allowing the power split mechanism and transmission gear mechanism to be easily connected, reducing the complexity and time required for assembling the apparatus.

Implementation Method 1

The second output member and the first input member are connected to each other by a spline or a serration

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpline connection: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS9944164B2Power transmitting apparatus for hybrid vehicle
Publication Date: 2018.04.17 TOYOTA JIDOSHA KK
  • US9944164B2 patent drawing
  • US9944164B2 patent drawing
  • US9944164B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power transmitting apparatus includes a transmission gear mechanism and a power split mechanism including a first rotation element connected to a first input member, a second rotation element connected to a rotary machine, and a third rotation element connected to the drive shaft via a first output member. The transmission gear mechanism is configured to transmit a torque to the first input member and the first rotation element via a second output member. The transmission gear mechanism and the power split mechanism are arranged on the same rotation axis as an output shaft of an engine. The transmission gear mechanism and the power split mechanism are arranged in the order of the transmission gear mechanism and the power split mechanism from the side closer to the engine. The second output member and the first input member are connected to each other by a spline or a serration.