Hybrid Utility Vehicle Powertrain Layout for Silent Torque Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hybrid utility vehicles lack efficient drive modes that balance power generation and consumption, leading to suboptimal performance in noise reduction, energy efficiency, and torque distribution across different terrains and conditions.
Innovation Solution
A parallel hybrid power train system that includes an engine, transmission, traction motor, and battery configuration, enabling four drive modes: Full-Performance, Silent-Drive, Charge-and-Drive, and Charge-at-Rest, allowing for adaptive power distribution and energy management between the engine and battery packs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the engine operates continuously to provide power, then the vehicle maintains adequate power supply, but noise levels increase and energy efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between engine operation and electric motor operation based on driving conditions. The engine operates only when needed for high power demands, while the electric motor handles low-speed and low-power conditions, reducing noise and improving efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The electric motor acts as an intermediary between the engine and the drivetrain. It can operate independently at low speeds, eliminating engine noise, and can also work in conjunction with the engine at high speeds to optimize overall system efficiency.
2Power
If the engine operates continuously to provide power, then the vehicle maintains adequate power supply, but energy efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts power source selection based on driving conditions. The engine operates only when high power is needed, while the electric motor handles low-speed conditions where it is more efficient, optimizing overall energy usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by switching between different power sources based on speed and power demand. At low speeds, the electric motor operates efficiently, while at high speeds, the engine takes over, ensuring optimal energy efficiency across the entire operating range.
3Device complexity
If a single drive system is used, then the vehicle structure is simple, but adaptability to different terrains and conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle employs a dual-powertrain system where the engine and electric motor can operate independently or in combination. This multi-functional capability allows the vehicle to adapt to various terrains and driving conditions, from low-speed electric-only operation to high-speed engine-powered operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different drive modes (engine-only, electric-only, and hybrid) based on terrain and driving conditions, providing optimal performance across diverse environments without requiring multiple specialized drive systems.
4Loss of energy
If the traction motor operates in generator mode to charge batteries, then energy recovery is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The traction motor serves dual functions: as a motor during acceleration and low-speed operation, and as a generator during deceleration to recharge the battery. This self-service capability allows the vehicle to recover energy that would otherwise be lost, improving overall efficiency without requiring a separate regenerative braking system.
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 enhances energy efficiency, reduces noise, and improves torque distribution, enabling the vehicle to operate effectively in various environments and conditions by optimizing power usage across different drive modes.
Implementation Method 1
a battery positioned below the operator and passenger seats and configured to power the traction motor
Implementation Method 2
a traction motor being driving coupled to the prop shaft and positioned laterally intermediate the operator seat and the passenger seat
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A first aspect is directed to a hybrid power train for a vehicle, comprising: an engine (514), a transmission (516) coupled to the engine, a front drive coupled to the transmission through a prop shaft (520, 540); a rear drive (518) coupled to the transmission; a traction motor (522) being drivingly coupled to the front drive through the prop shaft and being drivingly coupled to the transmission through the prop shaft, and the traction motor being spaced apart from the prop shaft; and a battery (540) to operate the traction motor. According to another aspect, the traction motor is disposed intermediate left and right seats.