Hybrid Transmission Layout for Compact High-Power Packaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current hybrid transmissions face challenges in achieving the most compact possible design and high power density, particularly along the main gear shaft, which affects their efficiency and installation space utilization.

Innovation Solution

The hybrid transmission design includes a dual clutch or disconnect clutch configuration with a differential input gear, an electric machine, and a transmission control device arranged in a compact structure, where the electric machine is positioned adjacent to the hydraulic transmission controller, and the power electronics system is integrated above the transmission control device, optimizing space usage and enabling high power density.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If the electric machine and power electronics system are arranged in a conventional layout, then the transmission structure is functional, but the axial length along the main gear shaft is excessive and power density is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaxial length along main gear shaftVSAvoidpower density
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a conventional linear arrangement to a three-dimensional spatial configuration where the power electronics system is positioned above the transmission control device in the vertical direction, while the electric machine is arranged adjacently in the longitudinal direction. This multi-dimensional layout optimizes space utilization and reduces axial length without compromising functional requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a nested arrangement where the power electronics system is positioned above and partially overlapping the transmission control device, creating a compact layered structure. The electric machine is then arranged adjacently to both components, forming a tightly integrated assembly that maximizes space efficiency and reduces overall axial footprint.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Area of stationary object

If components are integrated to save space, then installation space utilization improves, but structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation space utilizationVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent maintains functional segmentation by keeping the electric machine, power electronics system, and transmission control device as distinct modular components. Each module retains its independent functionality while being arranged in a compact configuration, allowing for easier manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance despite the integrated layout.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the spatial occupation of multiple components by positioning the power electronics system above the transmission control device with partial overlap in the longitudinal direction. This merging of spatial footprints reduces the overall installation area while maintaining the functional independence of each component through careful structural design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11926220B2Hybrid transmission for a vehicle
Publication Date: 2024.03.12 MERCEDES BENZ GROUP AG
  • US11926220B2 patent drawing
  • US11926220B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A hybrid transmission for a vehicle includes a transmission input shaft extending in a transverse direction, at least one countershaft arranged parallel to the transmission input shaft, a clutch device arranged coaxially with respect to the transmission input shaft and which has at least one clutch, and a differential having a differential input gear. A rotational axis of the differential input gear is arranged parallel to the transmission input shaft. The transmission also includes an electric machine having a rotor with a rotor rotational axis arranged parallel to the transmission input shaft and a transmission control device. As viewed in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the transverse direction, the differential input gear, the transmission input shaft, and a transmission controller including the transmission control device are arranged in succession in the sequence specified.