Integrated Planetary Transmission for 2-Speed Torque Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing integrated differentials are not compact or cost-effective, and they do not efficiently utilize the electric machine characteristic map, leading to suboptimal powertrain efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A transmission design that incorporates a 2-speed transmission upstream of an integrated differential, utilizing a configuration of planetary gear sets with specific element connections to prevent sum torque and enable torque conversion and distribution, allowing for a compact, efficient, and cost-effective powertrain by integrating torque conversion and distribution functions into a single assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate assemblies are used for torque conversion and differential functions, then functional reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines torque conversion and differential functions into a single integrated transmission assembly. The planetary gear set simultaneously performs torque conversion and distributes torque to output shafts, eliminating the need for separate assemblies and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining functional reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The planetary gear set is designed to perform multiple functions: torque conversion through gear ratios and torque distribution to multiple output shafts. This multi-functional design reduces the number of components needed while ensuring reliable operation of both torque conversion and differential functions
2Loss of energy
If a 2-speed transmission is added upstream, then powertrain efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The 2-speed transmission is integrated with the planetary gear set in a unified assembly. By combining these functions, the patent reduces the number of separate components and connections needed, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving improved powertrain efficiency through optimized torque conversion across different speed ranges
3Ease of manufacture
If integrated differential design is simplified, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated differential is designed with modular planetary gear sets that can be manufactured as standardized units. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing processes and reduced costs while maintaining precise gear meshing through modular assembly techniques that accommodate tight tolerances
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 solution enables a compact and efficient powertrain with reduced complexity, lower costs, and improved efficiency by eliminating the need for separate assemblies, while allowing for better utilization of electric machine characteristics and reduced torque splitting losses.
Implementation Method 1
a first planetary gear set and a secondary planetary gear set connected to the first planetary gear set, wherein the planetary gear sets each comprise a plurality of elements
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission has an input shaft, first and second output shafts, and first and second planetary gear-set, connected together. The first output shaft is rotationally fixed to a first planetary gear-set second element, the second output shaft is rotationally fixed to a second planetary gear-set third element, a first planetary gear-set third element is rotationally fixed to a second planetary gear-set first element via a shaft, and a second planetary gear-set second element is secured to a rotationally fixed component. A first shift element blocks the third planetary gear-set by connecting third planetary gear-set elements in a rotationally fixed manner, a second shift element secures a third planetary gear-set first element to the rotationally fixed component, a third planetary gear-set second element is rotationally fixed to the first planetary gear-set first element via an intermediate shaft, and a third planetary gear-set third element is rotationally fixed to the input shaft.