Hybrid Powertrain Generator Integration for Torque and Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid-powertrains for motor vehicles face challenges in providing sufficient torque, especially when starting on slopes, due to the limited size of the electrical machine, leading to inefficiencies and the need for additional internal combustion engine support, and limited installation space constraints.
Innovation Solution
The hybrid-powertrain design includes an internal combustion engine, a generator, and an electrical machine connected via a transmission with separating clutches, allowing the generator to be integrated in the torque flow between the drive shaft and transmission, enabling efficient torque distribution and charging, and allowing the internal combustion engine to support or replace the electrical machine when necessary, while minimizing installation space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the electrical machine is made smaller to reduce installation space, then the installation space requirement is reduced, but the torque output becomes insufficient for starting on slopes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the generator and electrical machine on a common crankshaft, creating a compact integrated unit that reduces installation space while maintaining sufficient torque output through coordinated operation of both components
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical machine serves multiple functions: it acts as a starter motor for engine ignition, provides torque assistance during vehicle starting on slopes, and functions as a generator for energy recovery, thereby reducing the need for separate dedicated components
2Force
If the internal combustion engine is used more frequently to provide sufficient torque, then the torque requirement is met, but the fuel consumption and emissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system alternates between electric drive mode and internal combustion engine drive mode based on torque requirements, using the electrical machine for low-speed high-torque situations and the ICE for sustained operation, thereby optimizing fuel consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements energy recovery through the generator during braking and deceleration, converting kinetic energy that would otherwise be lost into electrical energy for storage, thereby reducing overall fuel consumption and emissions
3Ease of operation
If a torque converter is used to enable smooth starting with limited electrical machine torque, then the starting smoothness is improved, but the installation space and component complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The generator and electrical machine are merged onto a common crankshaft, eliminating the need for separate mounting spaces and reducing overall installation volume while providing coordinated torque assistance
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 enables smooth starting, efficient torque delivery, and reduced installation space requirements, allowing for purely electric driving and flexible torque management without the need for a torque converter, thus improving overall efficiency and compactness.
Implementation Method 1
a generator with a generator shaft for converting a torque into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
an electrical machine with a rotor shaft for delivering a torque
Data Source
AI summary
A hybrid powertrain includes an internal combustion engine, an electrical machine, a transmission, an output, a first separating clutch, and a generator. The internal combustion engine includes a drive shaft for transmitting a drive shaft torque and the electrical machine includes a rotor shaft for transmitting a rotor shaft torque. The transmission is for transmitting the drive shaft torque and the rotor shaft torque, the output is for receiving the drive shaft torque or the rotor shaft torque, and the first separating clutch is for connecting and disconnecting the drive shaft and the output. The generator is arranged in a first torque flow between the drive shaft and the transmission, and includes a generator shaft for converting the drive shaft torque or the rotor shaft torque into electrical energy.