Hybrid Scooter Transmission Layout With Independent Torque Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hybrid propulsion systems for two or three-wheeled vehicles are complex, leading to high design and construction costs and limited production versatility, with the electric machine often not operating in optimal conditions due to integration with the thermal engine's transmission.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of two independent transmission assemblies, one for the thermal engine and another for the electric machine, allowing for separate torque transmission to the drive wheel, enabling more versatile production and optimized operation of both power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the electric machine is integrated with the thermal engine's transmission system, then the hybrid propulsion system can be implemented, but the device complexity increases and production versatility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission system is divided into two independent assemblies: a first transmission assembly for the thermal engine and a second transmission assembly for the electric machine. This segmentation allows each assembly to be designed, manufactured, and assembled separately, increasing production versatility while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electric machine's transmission assembly is extracted as a separate entity from the thermal engine's transmission system. The second transmission assembly is physically disconnected from the first, allowing independent optimization and manufacturing of each subsystem.
2Ease of operation
If the electric machine is integrated with the thermal engine's transmission, then hybrid propulsion is achieved, but the electric machine does not operate in optimal conditions
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the transmission systems into independent assemblies, the electric machine's transmission can be specifically optimized for electric motor characteristics without compromise from thermal engine requirements. Each assembly can have gear ratios and design parameters tailored to its specific power source.
Solution Approach 2:
Each transmission assembly is designed with local quality specific to its power source - the first transmission assembly is optimized for thermal engine characteristics while the second is optimized for electric machine characteristics, allowing both to operate in their respective optimal conditions.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single integrated transmission system is used, then the structure is simpler, but assembly complexity increases and production flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission system is segmented into independent assemblies that can be manufactured separately using standardized processes. This segmentation simplifies assembly procedures while enabling flexible production configurations, including the option to produce thermal-only or electric-only versions using the same first transmission assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The first transmission assembly is designed as a universal component that can serve both thermal engine models and hybrid models. This multi-functionality allows a single assembly design to be used across multiple product variants, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining production flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A saddle-ride motorcycle comprises a drive wheel and a hybrid-type propulsion unit. The propulsion unit comprises a thermal combustion engine which includes a drive shaft, a first transmission assembly mechanically connecting the drive shaft to the drive wheel and an electric machine which can be operated independently of/in combination with the thermal combustion engine. The propulsion unit further comprises a second transmission assembly mechanically connecting a rotor of the electric machine to the drive wheel and separated from the first transmission assembly. The motorcycle also comprises a support bracket shaped to rotatably support the drive wheel and having the electric machine mounted thereon. The rotation axis of the rotor of the electric machine is parallel with respect to a rotation axis of the drive wheel. Furthermore, the rotation axis of the rotor is placed in an offset position with respect to the rotation axis of the drive wheel.