Hybrid Propulsion Coupling Layout for Independent Torque Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hybrid endothermic/electric propulsion systems face limitations in efficiency, complexity, and cost, with reduced torque delivery and inability to uncouple electric machines from internal combustion engines, restricting their versatility and application.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid propulsion system comprising a first electric propulsion unit coupled to a transmission shaft and a second hybrid unit with an internal combustion engine and electric machine, allowing selective coupling and uncoupling via a coupling member and transmission device with multiple gearsets and selector members, enabling independent torque management and reduced component size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the electric machine is connected directly to the internal combustion engine (P1 design), then the system structure is simplified, but the deliverable torque is reduced and the electric machine cannot be uncoupled from the internal combustion engine
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion system is divided into two independent propulsion units: a first propulsion unit with an electric machine directly connected to the transmission shaft, and a second propulsion unit with an internal combustion engine connected to the transmission shaft through a clutch. This segmentation allows each unit to operate independently and be uncoupled when necessary, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and uncoupling capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the electric machine is connected downstream of a clutch (P2 design), then the electric machine can be uncoupled from the internal combustion engine, but the deliverable torque is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the electric machine from the clutch mechanism by placing the electric machine in the first propulsion unit directly connected to the transmission shaft, while the clutch is placed in the second propulsion unit connecting the internal combustion engine to the transmission shaft. This segmentation allows the electric machine to deliver full torque without being downstream of the clutch, while still enabling uncoupling of the internal combustion engine.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple clutches and uncoupling members are added to enable independent operation of propulsion units, then the versatility and uncoupling capability are improved, but the construction complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into two independent propulsion units, each with its own drive train connection to the transmission shaft. This segmentation enables independent operation of each unit without requiring multiple clutches and uncoupling members, as each unit can be independently engaged or disengaged from the transmission shaft through its own clutch mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission shaft serves as a universal connection point for both propulsion units, allowing either unit to independently transmit power to the wheels. This multi-functionality of the transmission shaft reduces the need for additional coupling mechanisms and simplifies the overall system structure while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
An endothermic/electric hybrid propulsion system for a vehicle comprises a first propulsion unit (2), of the electrical type, provided with at least a first electric machine (EM1) coupled to a transmission shaft (5), a second propulsion unit (3), of the hybrid type, provided with an output shaft (9) and comprising at least one internal combustion engine (ICE) and at least one second electric machine (EM2) which can be selectively coupled together to provide torque to the output shaft (9) in an independent or combined manner and a coupling member (4) operatively interposed between the output shaft (9) of the second propulsion unit (3) and the transmission shaft (5) of the first propulsion unit (2).