One-Way Clutch Decoupling for Electric Motor Hydraulic Pumps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicles face challenges in conserving battery power when using hydraulic pumps for propulsion, as the hydraulic pump continues to consume energy even when not in use, leading to inefficient energy usage.
Innovation Solution
The hydraulic pump is decoupled from the electric motor using a one-way clutch, allowing the vehicle to operate in two modes: one where the hydraulic pump is engaged and another where it is decoupled, conserving energy by idling the pump when not needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the hydraulic pump is continuously coupled to the electric motor, then the hydraulic pump can be immediately activated when needed, but energy is wasted when the pump operates unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between coupled and decoupled states based on operational needs. The one-way clutch enables the hydraulic pump to be dynamically engaged when hydraulic power is required and disengaged when not needed, optimizing the balance between readiness and energy conservation.
Solution Approach 2:
The one-way clutch acts as an intermediary mechanism between the electric motor and hydraulic pump. It allows torque transmission when the pump needs to operate while permitting the pump to decouple and idle when not needed, mediating between the motor's rotational energy and the pump's hydraulic output.
2Loss of energy
If the hydraulic pump is decoupled from the electric motor, then energy consumption is reduced, but the response time to activate the pump increases
Solution Approach 1:
The one-way clutch enables rapid re-engagement of the hydraulic pump when needed. The dynamic nature of the clutch allows the system to quickly transition from decoupled to coupled state, minimizing activation time while maintaining energy savings during idle periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The one-way clutch automatically engages or disengages based on the operational state without requiring active control. When the hydraulic system requires power, the clutch self-activates to couple the pump to the motor, reducing response time through automatic rather than manual engagement.
3Loss of energy
If the one-way clutch is used to decouple the hydraulic pump, then energy efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The one-way clutch is a simple, passive mechanical component that provides the decoupling function without requiring complex control systems, sensors, or actuators. This inexpensive mechanical solution achieves energy efficiency through its straightforward design rather than through complex active control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The one-way clutch replaces complex electrical or hydraulic control systems with a simple mechanical solution. Instead of using motors, valves, or electronic controls to engage and disengage the pump, the system uses a passive mechanical clutch that automatically performs the coupling and decoupling functions.
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 approach enhances energy efficiency by reducing unnecessary energy consumption in the hydraulic pump, allowing the vehicle to operate efficiently in various traction conditions while extending battery life.
Implementation Method 1
a one-way clutch operably coupling the electric motor to the hydraulic pump
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle may operate in a first mode in which rear traction members of the vehicle are driven forwardly by an electric motor and a hydraulic pump is powered and may alternatively operate in a second mode in which the rear traction members are driven forwardly by the electric motor while the electric motor is operably decoupled from the hydraulic pump. A controller determines a state of an implement attached to the vehicle, a present or forthcoming turning state of the vehicle, a geo-referenced location of the vehicle, a slip of the vehicle, and/or a camera captured image of terrain. The controller outputs a recommendation for either the first mode or the second mode based upon the determination or automatically switches between the first mode and the second mode based on the determination.