Integrated Selectable One-Way Clutch for Powertrain Axial Length Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing powertrain systems face challenges in minimizing axial length while maintaining efficient torque transmission and disconnection capabilities between the engine and torque converter, particularly in hybrid vehicle operating modes.

Innovation Solution

The powertrain incorporates a selectable one way clutch system with a torque converter housing that functions as either a notch or pocket plate, integrated with a strut and selector plate mechanism, allowing for selective torque transmission and disengagement between the crankshaft and torque converter, and includes a damper system to manage rotational vibrations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If a traditional multi-component disconnect system is used between engine and torque converter, then torque transmission and disconnection capabilities are maintained, but axial length increases and component count increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaxial lengthVSAvoidcomponent count

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the clutch housing with the torque converter housing into a single integrated component. This merging eliminates the need for separate clutch housings and reduces the number of axial layers, directly addressing the contradiction by reducing axial length while maintaining disconnect functionality through the integrated selectably engageable clutch mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The clutch housing is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the torque converter housing and the clutch mechanism housing, and provides both torque transmission and disconnection capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the overall component count and axial length while preserving all necessary operational modes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If the clutch housing is integrated with the torque converter housing, then axial length is reduced and component count is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomponent countVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

While the housing is integrated, the design segments the internal clutch mechanisms (struts, springs, plates) as separate assembleable components within the unified housing. This allows the housing itself to be manufactured as a single piece or pre-assembled unit, reducing external component count while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular internal component assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If a selectable one way clutch system is implemented, then engine disconnection capability is enabled for hybrid operating modes, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperating mode flexibilityVSAvoidclutch mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The clutch system employs selectable one-way clutches that can dynamically engage or disengage based on operating conditions. The struts and springs provide automatic engagement/disengagement based on torque direction and magnitude, enabling adaptive operation across different hybrid modes (electric-only, hybrid, engine-only) without requiring complex active control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The one-way clutch mechanism automatically engages or disengages based on the direction and magnitude of torque applied to the crankshaft, without requiring external control signals. The spring-loaded struts self-adjust to permit torque transmission in power mode while allowing freewheeling in regeneration mode, providing autonomous adaptability that reduces control system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 number of components, minimizes axial length, and enables efficient torque transmission in both directions while allowing for engine disconnection during specific operating modes, enhancing the powertrain's operational flexibility and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

The pump and the turbine cooperate to provide a fluid coupling therebetween for transmitting torque between the pump and the turbine

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFluid coupling:

Implementation Method 2

The damper system is operable to damp rotational vibration from the crankshaft

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVibration damping: Damping

Data Source

PatentUS10359104B2Integrated selectable one way clutch and torque converter engine disconnect

Publication Date: 2019.07.23 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC

AI summary

A powertrain includes an engine having a crankshaft. The engine is operable to rotate the crankshaft about a central axis. A torque converter includes a housing that is rotatable about the central axis. A selectable one way clutch system interconnects the housing of the torque converter and the crankshaft. The selectable one way clutch system includes a notch plate and a pocket plate. One of the notch plate and the pocket plate is defined by the housing of the torque converter, and the other of the notch plate and the pocket plate is connected to the crankshaft for continuous rotation with the crankshaft.