Modular Transmission Side Cover with Integral Fluid Paths
Solution Overview
Problem
Current automatic transmission designs require disassembly of housing covers to access service components, making routine maintenance difficult, time-consuming, and costly, and are bulky due to transmission fluid conduits, limiting vehicle design and placement options.
Innovation Solution
A modular transmission side cover assembly with integral molded fluid paths provides direct access to service components like filters without removing the housing cover, reducing size and complexity by integrating fluid conduits within the side cover.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If transmission housing covers are used to enclose components, then protection and enclosure are provided, but accessibility to service components is reduced requiring disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission housing is divided into separate modular sections: a stationary housing and a movable side cover assembly that can be independently accessed. This segmentation allows service components to be accessible through the movable cover without disassembling the entire housing structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The side cover assembly is designed with movable characteristics, allowing it to be easily positioned and accessed. The cover can be moved to provide direct access to service components while maintaining protection when in its closed position.
2Volume of moving object
If transmission fluid conduits are provided as distinct elements, then fluid routing is achieved, but transmission size increases becoming bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission fluid conduits are merged with the side cover assembly structure itself rather than being separate elements. The side cover is formed with integrated fluid passages that route transmission fluid between components, eliminating the need for external conduits and reducing overall transmission size.
Solution Approach 2:
The side cover assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural enclosure, enables accessibility to service components through its movable design, and routes transmission fluid through its integrated passages. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
3Productivity
If service components are enclosed within housing, then protection is provided, but maintenance time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is segmented into accessible modules where service components are located in the movable side cover assembly. This allows maintenance personnel to access filters and other serviceable components by simply moving the cover rather than disassembling the entire housing, significantly reducing service time.
Solution Approach 2:
The side cover assembly is pre-configured with service components in easily accessible positions within the movable structure. This preliminary arrangement of components facilitates quick maintenance operations without requiring complex disassembly procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission side cover assembly includes a transmission side cover carrying completely there on one or more filters and/or a cooler. Fluid flow channels are formed integrally in the material of the cover and provide fluid flow communication paths to the filters and/or cooler carried by the cover. The filters and/or cooler carried by the cover are accessible externally of the cover, for servicing thereof without removing the cover.