Hybrid Powertrain Electric Motor Integration Axial Length
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid powertrains face challenges in axial length, housing size, clutch actuation, cooling, and integration when adding an electric motor to conventional powertrains, particularly in adapting torque converters and planetary gear assemblies.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid powertrain design featuring an engine, electric motor module, and a transmission with interconnected planetary gear sets and selectively engageable torque transmitting mechanisms, including a launch clutch and hydraulic pump, to manage torque and speed ratios while integrating an electric motor with existing components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If an electric motor is added to a conventional powertrain to supplement torque for launches, then vehicle launch performance is improved, but axial length and housing size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electric motor is merged with the existing transmission assembly by integrating it with the input shaft and planetary gear sets. The motor housing is combined with the transmission housing, and the motor shaft is directly coupled to the transmission input shaft, creating a compact hybrid powertrain assembly that delivers electric torque supplementation without increasing axial length
Solution Approach 2:
The electric motor is nested within the existing transmission structure. The motor is positioned within the available space inside the transmission housing, with its components arranged to fit within the existing dimensional envelope. The motor shaft, stator, and rotor are configured to occupy space already allocated for transmission components, allowing torque supplementation without external expansion
2Adaptability or versatility
If an electric motor is integrated into the transmission, then torque management capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electric motor serves multiple functions within the hybrid powertrain: it provides launch torque supplementation, acts as a starter motor for the internal combustion engine, and functions as a generator during regenerative braking. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system architecture despite the advanced torque management capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The control system acts as an intermediary that manages the complex interactions between the electric motor and internal combustion engine. It coordinates torque distribution, manages clutch actuation timing, and balances the operational demands of both power sources, thereby handling integration complexity through intelligent control rather than mechanical complexity
3Loss of energy
If the torque converter is removed to reduce complexity, then fuel economy is improved, but clutch actuation and cooling challenges increase
Solution Approach 1:
The launch clutch is pre-positioned and pre-configured within the transmission assembly, with its actuation mechanism and cooling passages prepared in advance. The clutch is designed with built-in cooling channels that receive coolant through existing transmission cooling circuits, and its actuation is integrated with the transmission control system, eliminating the need for separate cooling and actuation systems that would increase complexity
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 enables efficient torque management and integration of an electric motor within the existing powertrain, addressing constraints on axial length, housing size, and clutch actuation, while providing improved fuel economy and performance.
Implementation Method 1
A hydraulic pump is continuously interconnected with the first member of the second planetary gear set
Implementation Method 2
The flywheel includes a damper
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes.