Parallel Hybrid Utility Powertrain for Multi-Mode Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hybrid vehicles lack efficient powertrain systems that allow for multiple drive modes, including silent operation, full performance, and battery charging capabilities, while optimizing energy usage and reducing emissions.
Innovation Solution
A parallel hybrid powertrain system incorporating an engine, electric motor/generator, and transmission, which enables various drive modes such as silent, charge-at-rest, and full performance modes, allowing the engine and motor/generator to operate independently or together to optimize power distribution and charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a hybrid vehicle uses both an electric motor and an internal combustion engine, then power output and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines an electric motor and an internal combustion engine into a single hybrid powertrain system that operates in multiple modes (electric-only, hybrid, engine-only). The electric motor is coupled to the transmission input shaft, and the engine is coupled to the same transmission through a clutch, allowing both power sources to merge their output through a common transmission system, thereby achieving high power output while managing complexity through integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission system is designed to handle multiple operating modes universally - it can transmit power from the electric motor alone, from the engine alone, or from both simultaneously. The transmission serves as a universal power distribution mechanism that adapts to different drive modes (electric-only mode, hybrid mode, engine-only mode), making the powertrain versatile without requiring separate dedicated systems for each mode
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the vehicle operates in silent mode using only the electric motor, then emissions are reduced, but available power is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The powertrain system dynamically switches between operating modes based on power demands. The control system monitors vehicle conditions and automatically transitions from electric-only mode (silent mode with zero emissions) to hybrid or engine-only modes when high power is required. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to maintain low emissions during normal operation while providing full power capability when needed, resolving the contradiction between emissions reduction and power availability
3Use of energy by moving object
If the engine operates to charge the battery through the motor/generator, then energy efficiency is improved, but operating flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic alternation between different operating modes - during normal driving, the electric motor provides power; when the battery needs charging, the engine operates in generator mode to recharge the battery; when high power is needed, both engine and motor work together. This periodic switching between modes maintains energy efficiency through regenerative braking and engine charging cycles while preserving operating flexibility through the ability to immediately switch to full power mode when required
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 system provides enhanced energy efficiency, reduced emissions, and flexible operation across different terrains and conditions, supporting multiple drive modes and battery charging strategies.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor/generator (60) coupled to a transmission (32) to provide input power to the transmission
Implementation Method 2
the engine driven motor/generator (60) to charge the batteries (70)
Data Source
AI summary
A hybrid vehicle may be a series hybrid or a parallel hybrid vehicle. One embodiment of a parallel hybrid vehicle includes an engine, a transmission coupled to the engine, a front drive coupled to the transmission through a prop shaft, a rear drive coupled to the transmission, a traction motor drivingly coupled to the prop shaft, and a battery to operate the traction motor.