Modular Drive Module Torque Vectoring Clutch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive modules with friction clutches for torque vectoring capabilities lack an efficient mechanism to distribute torque effectively between vehicle wheels, limiting their performance in terms of speed and torque distribution.
Innovation Solution
A modular disconnecting drive module with a housing, input pinion, ring gear, ring gear bearing, clutch, and output shafts, featuring a clutch pack separator and apply pistons to manage torque distribution between wheels, allowing for independent control of torque and speed through hydraulic supply and control valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a friction clutch mechanism is used instead of a geared differential for torque distribution, then torque vectoring capabilities are enabled, but the efficiency and adaptability of torque distribution between wheels is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism is segmented into multiple independent friction clutch packs (first clutch pack, second clutch pack, third clutch pack, fourth clutch pack), each capable of independent torque modulation. This segmentation allows precise control over torque distribution to each wheel, significantly improving torque vectoring capability and adaptability while maintaining efficient power transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch packs are designed with movable clutch plates that can dynamically adjust their engagement state through hydraulic actuation. The first and second clutch outputs can independently vary torque transmission ratios in real-time, enabling adaptive torque distribution that responds to changing driving conditions, thereby resolving the contradiction between versatility and efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a friction clutch mechanism is used for torque distribution, then torque vectoring is achieved, but the speed and torque distribution control precision is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Hydraulic actuation systems are integrated with each clutch pack, using precisely controlled hydraulic pressure to modulate the engagement state of friction surfaces. This hydraulic control mechanism enables fine-adjustment of torque distribution with high precision, allowing independent control of torque and speed ratios for each wheel while maintaining torque vectoring functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch packs utilize variable friction engagement parameters through hydraulic pressure control, allowing continuous adjustment of torque transmission characteristics. By changing the engagement pressure and contact area of clutch plates, the system achieves precise control over torque and speed distribution, resolving the limitation in control precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple clutch packs with independent control are implemented, then torque vectoring performance is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple clutch packs share a common hydraulic control system and similar structural design, allowing a single control architecture to manage all clutch packs. This universal design approach enables enhanced torque vectoring performance through multiple independently controllable clutch packs while minimizing the increase in overall system complexity through component standardization and integrated control.
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
Enables improved torque vectoring capabilities by allowing differential torque and speed distribution between output shafts, enhancing the drive module's efficiency and adaptability to various driving conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The ring gear bearing is mounted to the ring gear and the housing. The ring gear bearing supports the ring gear for rotation relative to the housing about the output axis.
Implementation Method 2
The first clutch pack having first and second clutch plates that are interleaved together. The second clutch pack has third and fourth clutch plates that are interleaved together.
Data Source
AI summary
A drive module having a housing, an input pinion, a ring gear driven by the input pinion, a ring gear bearing supporting the ring gear for rotation relative to the housing, a pair of output shafts and a clutch that selectively transmits rotary power between the ring gear and the output shafts. The clutch includes a clutch input, which is rotatably coupled to the ring gear, a clutch plate separator that is rotatably coupled to the clutch input, a pair of clutch outputs, which are each coupled to a respective one of the output shafts, a pair of clutch packs, which transmit rotary power between the clutch input and a respective one of the clutch outputs, and a pair of apply pistons. The apply pistons are housed in the clutch plate separator.