Modular Drive Module With Hydraulic Clutch Torque Vectoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive modules with friction clutches lack an efficient mechanism for torque vectoring and improved power distribution to vehicle wheels, limiting their performance in providing optimal propulsion and control.
Innovation Solution
A modular drive module with a housing, input pinion, ring gear, clutch, and output shafts, featuring a clutch pack separator and apply pistons, which allows for torque vectoring by controlling fluid pressure to the clutch packs, enabling differential rotation speeds and torque distribution between output shafts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If friction clutches are used instead of geared differential mechanism, then torque vectoring capabilities are enabled, but power distribution efficiency and propulsion performance are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch assembly is divided into multiple independent clutch packs (first clutch pack with first and second clutch plates, second clutch pack with third and fourth clutch plates), each capable of independent torque control. This segmentation enables more precise and efficient torque vectoring while maintaining the ability to distribute power effectively between output shafts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs multiple apply pistons (first and second apply pistons) that can independently control the engagement and torque transmission of different clutch packs. This dynamic control mechanism allows for real-time adjustment of torque distribution, improving both torque vectoring capabilities and power distribution efficiency simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If friction clutches are used for torque vectoring, then differential rotation speeds are achievable, but control precision and operational efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Different clutch packs are positioned and configured to control different output shafts independently. The first clutch pack controls torque to the first output shaft while the second clutch pack controls torque to the second output shaft. This local control arrangement enables precise differential rotation speed control with improved operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch pack separator acts as an intermediary component that distributes control forces from the apply pistons to the respective clutch packs. This intermediary mechanism enhances control precision by ensuring uniform and accurate force distribution across multiple clutch assemblies, enabling precise differential rotation 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
Enhances torque vectoring capabilities, allowing for improved power distribution and control to vehicle wheels, enabling faster and more efficient propulsion while maintaining reliability and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic system having a pump, a reservoir, a distribution block, a first control valve and a second control valve
Implementation Method 2
a first friction clutch pack and a second friction clutch pack
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 pack 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 pack separator.