Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain With Planetary Gears for Multi-Mode Launch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing single electric machine plug-in hybrid powertrain systems fail to achieve multiple torque transfer ratios and operation modes efficiently, often relying on traditional launch mechanisms like torque converters or frictional launch clutches, and lack comprehensive mechanical torque transfer ratios for both electric machines and internal combustion engines.
Innovation Solution
A power transfer system utilizing multiple planetary gear sets and selectively engageable clutches, allowing for a greater number of torque transfer ratios and operation modes, including generator assistant launch modes, motor assistant propulsion, and regenerative braking, without relying on traditional launch mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional launch mechanisms (torque converter or frictional launch clutch) are used, then vehicle launch is achieved, but system complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the traditional launch mechanism (torque converter or frictional launch clutch) from the powertrain system. Instead, it uses the electric machine in generator assistant mode to provide launch capability, thereby removing unnecessary components and reducing system complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The electric machine is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a motor for electric propulsion, a generator for regenerative braking and battery charging, and provides generator assistant launch capability. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate traditional launch mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple planetary gear sets and selectively engageable clutches are used, then more torque transfer ratios and operation modes are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power transfer system is segmented into multiple planetary gear sets, each capable of providing specific torque transfer ratios. By dividing the overall gear reduction function into separate stages, the system achieves multiple operation modes and torque transfer ratios while maintaining manageable complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses selectively engageable clutches to dynamically reconfigure the planetary gear sets, enabling smooth transitions between different operation modes and torque transfer ratios. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to adapt to different driving conditions without requiring a completely different mechanism for each mode.
3Use of energy by moving object
If generator assistant launch mode is implemented, then electrical energy consumption is eliminated, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electric machine in generator assistant mode uses the vehicle's kinetic energy to generate electrical power that assists the internal combustion engine during launch. The system automatically manages the energy flow and control parameters, eliminating the need for external electrical energy input while reducing overall energy consumption through intelligent energy recovery and utilization.
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 achieves all desired operational features with a simpler design, providing more torque transfer ratios and operation modes than existing systems, while eliminating the need for traditional launch mechanisms and optimizing energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The power transfer system consists of a first planetary gear set, a second planetary gear set, five clutches, and an output shaft
Implementation Method 2
five clutches selectively connect the sun gear of the first planetary gear set, the planetary gear carrier of the first planetary gear set, the ring gear of the first planetary gear set, the sun gear of the second planetary gear set, the planetary gear carrier of the second planetary gear set, and the ring gear of the second planetary gear set to each other and to ground
Data Source
AI summary
A plug-in hybrid powertrain for automotive vehicle is provided which has an internal combustion engine; an electric machine; multiple planetary gear sets, multiple selectively engageable clutch mechanisms and an output member. Selectively engaging those clutches will achieve multiple operation modes including multiple torque transfer ratio from electric machine to output member; multiple torque transfer ratio from internal combustion engine to output member; electric machine propulsion mode; internal combustion engine propulsion mode; generator assistant vehicle launch modes for forward and reverse in the internal combustion engine vehicle launch operations; motor assistant propulsion when in internal combustion engine vehicle propulsion operations; and engine cranking mode. The plug-in hybrid powertrain achieves more torque transfer ratios and operational mode with given number of planetary gear sets and clutches then any existing system.