Hybrid Powertrain Torque Transmission via Segmented Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hybrid powertrain systems face inefficiencies in torque and power transmission, particularly in combining the outputs of internal combustion engines and electrical machines to effectively provide motive torque to vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A powertrain system featuring an internal combustion engine with two torque output nodes connected to an electro-mechanical transmission, including first and second electrical machines operatively connected to planetary gear sets, allowing for variable compression ratios and selective actuation of rotational brake devices and clutch devices to achieve various gear ratios and modes, including direct drive, underdrive, overdrive, and continuously variable operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a conventional hybrid powertrain system combines internal combustion engine and electrical machines, then motive torque can be provided to the vehicle, but torque and power transmission efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The powertrain system segments the torque generation and transmission into distinct functional paths: a mechanical power path through the transmission device and an electrical power path through motor-generators. This segmentation allows each path to be optimized independently for its specific function, improving overall torque transmission efficiency while maintaining effective motive torque delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission device serves as an intermediary component that receives torque from both the internal combustion engine and electrical machines, combines them, and delivers the composite torque to the driveline. This intermediary structure enables efficient torque synthesis and optimization of the power combination process.
2Power
If multiple torque-generative devices are attached to a transmission device, then motive torque can be supplied to the driveline, but torque transmission efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different power paths and operating modes based on vehicle conditions. The control system optimizes the distribution of torque between the mechanical and electrical paths in real-time, ensuring high transmission efficiency while maintaining the required power output for various driving scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission device employs variable compression ratios in the internal combustion engine and adjustable gear ratios to optimize torque generation and transmission parameters. By dynamically changing these parameters, the system maintains high efficiency across different operating conditions while delivering the required motive torque.
3Use of energy by moving object
If an internal combustion engine with variable compression ratio is used, then fuel economy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The variable compression ratio mechanism serves multiple functions: it optimizes fuel economy by adapting compression ratios to different operating conditions, enables efficient torque generation across a wide range, and integrates with the hybrid powertrain control system to provide flexible power management. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering significant fuel economy improvements.
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
This configuration enhances fuel economy, reduces exhaust emissions, and enables efficient operation by supplementing or replacing engine torque with electrical motor-generators, capturing braking energy through regenerative braking, and offering a compact design with multiple operating modes.
Implementation Method 1
first and second planetary gear sets that are selectively operative to transmit torque to an output shaft
Implementation Method 2
an internal combustion engine having two torque output nodes operatively connected
Implementation Method 3
first and second electrical machines operatively connected to first and second planetary gear sets
Data Source
AI summary
A powertrain is provided, comprising: an internal combustion engine and an electro-mechanical transmission. The internal combustion engine has two torque output nodes operatively connected to two torque input nodes of the electro-mechanical transmission. The transmission comprises first and second electrical machines operatively connected to first and second planetary gear sets that are selectively operative to transmit torque to an output shaft. The two torque output nodes of the engine comprise an engine block comprising a cylinder with a pair of opposed pistons inserted therein, and each piston operatively connected to one of a first and a second crankshaft. The first and second crankshafts are operatively connected.