Hybrid Transmission Unit With Offset Motor Generator Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power systems lack the ability to efficiently retrofit a second driving source, such as a motor, to a first driving source, like an engine, for hybridization, leading to limitations in power system versatility and maintainability.
Innovation Solution
A transmission unit with a coupling element and a motor generator as the second driving source, offset from the coupling element, which includes a transmission mechanism to accelerate and transmit driving force, and a flat-shaped transmission case to accommodate the rotor housing and motor generator, allowing for compact and efficient power transmission without increasing the axial width.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the second driving source is disposed coaxially with the first driving source, then the power transmission path is simplified, but the axial width of the transmission unit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensional change by offsetting the second driving source from the axial line of the first driving source. Instead of arranging components along the axial direction (one dimension), the invention positions the motor generator in a radial offset position, utilizing two-dimensional space arrangement. This allows the power transmission path to bend at right angles, transmitting power from the offset position through a transmission mechanism to the driven device, thereby maintaining compact axial width while preserving power transmission functionality.
2Weight of moving object
If the motor generator size is reduced to decrease weight, then the system weight decreases, but the power generation capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by introducing a transmission mechanism with gear trains that provide mechanical advantage. The transmission mechanism includes a first gear train and a second gear train that can change the torque and speed parameters. When the motor generator operates in power generation mode, the transmission mechanism multiplies the generated torque, allowing a smaller, lighter motor generator to produce sufficient power for the driven device. This enables weight reduction while maintaining power generation capability through parameter transformation.
3Power
If the transmission mechanism is added to connect the offset second driving source, then the power transmission capability is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing the transmission mechanism to serve multiple purposes. The same gear trains and transmission components are used whether the motor generator is operating in motor mode or generator mode. The transmission mechanism not only transmits power from the offset position but also provides torque multiplication during power generation, enables bidirectional power flow, and maintains mechanical coupling between components. This universal design reduces the need for separate mechanisms for different operating modes, thereby limiting the increase in overall complexity.
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 reduces the size and weight of the motor generator, enhances maintainability, and enables efficient hybridization by allowing the motor generator to assist the engine while maintaining compactness and reducing axial width, thereby improving power generation and system efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a second driving source configured to generate driving force separately from the driving source, wherein the second driving source is a motor generator
Implementation Method 2
a transmission mechanism configured to accelerate driving force of the output shaft and transmit the accelerated driving force to the second output shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A clutch unit (20) includes a coupling element (23) configured to, in a power transmission enabled manner, couple an output shaft (13) of an engine (10) and an input shaft (16) of a hydraulic pump (15) driven by driving force of the engine (10), and a motor generator (18) configured to generate driving force separately from the engine (10), in which the motor generator (18) is disposed to avoid the coupling element (23) as viewed from an axial direction of the output shaft (13).