Hybrid Modular Traction System with Nested Electric Motor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern electric drive vehicles require compact and versatile traction systems that can integrate both internal combustion engines and electric motors, allowing for flexible power distribution and battery charging, while accommodating different axle types and torque demands.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid modular traction system comprising electric motors, a mechanical transmission system, and a differential, housed within a framework, which allows for both hybrid and electric operation modes by connecting the internal combustion engine and electric motors through a selector mechanism, enabling torque addition and efficient space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a traditional internal combustion engine drivetrain system is used, then the vehicle has simple mechanical power transmission, but the space available for electric traction assemblies and batteries is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the internal combustion engine drivetrain and electric traction assemblies into a single integrated modular system. The mechanical transmission system and electric motors share common components such as the torque converter, transmission case, and cooling system, allowing both power sources to coexist in the same vehicle space without requiring separate dedicated areas for each system.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular traction system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in pure internal combustion mode, pure electric mode, or hybrid mode where both power sources work together. The system can also charge batteries using the electric motor as a generator when driven by the internal combustion engine, providing versatility across different operating conditions and vehicle types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a hybrid modular traction system with multiple operating modes is implemented, then the system becomes highly versatile for different torque demands and vehicle types, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The traction system is divided into modular components including the internal combustion engine module, electric motor module, transmission module, and control module. Each module can be independently designed, tested, and maintained. The modular architecture allows different configurations to be assembled based on specific vehicle requirements, managing complexity through standardized interfaces and separate functional units.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates dynamic control capabilities that automatically select between different operating modes (internal combustion only, electric only, hybrid) based on real-time conditions such as torque demands, battery state of charge, and driving conditions. This dynamic adaptability allows the complex multi-mode system to operate efficiently without requiring manual intervention or overly complex mechanical switching mechanisms.
3Volume of moving object
If electric motors are integrated with mechanical transmission systems in a compact module, then space utilization improves, but the manufacturing and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electric motors are housed within the existing mechanical transmission system structure. The electric motor assemblies are nested inside the transmission case, utilizing the same spatial envelope that would traditionally be occupied only by mechanical components. This nesting approach allows the electric and mechanical systems to share the same volume without requiring additional external space, while standardized mounting interfaces facilitate assembly.
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 provides a versatile, space-efficient, and adaptable traction solution that can handle varying torque peaks and power demands, allowing for hybrid or electric operation, reducing wear and contamination, and enabling efficient use of space in commercial vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor (2), which basically produces a mechanical torque
Implementation Method 2
a mechanical transmission system (3), which is configured to transmit the mechanical torque produced by the electric motor (2) to a pair of axle shafts (4, 5)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
An electric traction module (1) for a vehicle comprising at least one electric motor (2), a first and a second output shaft (4, 5) and a transmission (3) configured to connect said at least one electric motor (2) to at least one of said first and second output shafts (4, 5), the electric traction module (1) further comprising a framework (8) configured to define an internal volume (9), which houses, on the inside, the electric motor (2), the transmission (3) and at least part of the first and second output shafts (4, 5).