Hybrid Vehicle Powertrain with Selective Motor Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing powertrain designs for hybrid vehicles often compromise on driving efficiency and fuel efficiency due to the size and arrangement of engines and motors, as well as the complexity of mechanical connections, which affects the overall performance and drivability.
Innovation Solution
A powertrain design that minimizes mechanical connections in series hybrid mode and distributes driving force to two motors in electric vehicle mode, utilizing a selective connection system with clutches and external gear sets to optimize power transmission and reduce motor capacity, allowing for improved fuel efficiency and power performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the mechanical connection structure between engine and motor is simplified, then fuel efficiency is improved, but power transmission capability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The powertrain is segmented into distinct functional modules: engine, first motor, second motor, and differential, with selective connection paths. This allows the system to optimize for fuel efficiency by disengaging the engine in electric-only mode, while maintaining full power transmission capability when all components are engaged together.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically reconfigures the mechanical connection structure through clutches that can engage or disengage connections between components based on operating conditions. This dynamic adjustment enables the system to switch between fuel-efficient configurations (engine disengaged) and high-power configurations (all components connected).
2Weight of moving object
If motor capacity is reduced, then vehicle weight and cost are reduced, but driving performance may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the output of the first motor and second motor at the differential, allowing both motors to contribute simultaneously to wheel drive. This combined power delivery from multiple smaller motors achieves the driving performance of a single larger motor while reducing individual motor capacity and overall system weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The first motor serves multiple functions: it can generate electrical power when mechanically connected to the engine, and it can directly drive the wheels when connected to the second motor. This multi-functionality allows smaller, lighter motors to replace larger single-function motors while maintaining or improving overall system efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a selective connection system with multiple clutches is implemented, then operational flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Clutches serve as intermediary components that mediate the connection between powertrain elements. Each clutch controls a specific connection path (engine to first motor, first motor to second motor), providing operational flexibility through simple on/off control rather than complex continuous adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a powertrain for a hybrid vehicle including a first motor provided to be selectively connected to an engine, a second motor provided to be selectively connected to the first motor, and an output shaft provided to transfer the rotational force of the second motor to drive wheels of the vehicle.