Multi-Speed Transmission Torque Transfer Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in vehicle electrification is the need for a transmission with multiple gear trains that accommodates torque transfer from electric motors, while facing reduced packaging space, which requires a compact multi-speed transmission design.
Innovation Solution
A multi-speed transmission system driven by two parallel electric motors, featuring an input shaft with multiple gears and clutches, including a double drum assembly for torque multiplication and reduced speed differential, allowing for a smaller gear size and reduced packaging size, along with a double clutch arrangement for increased efficiency and longevity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a transmission with multiple gear trains is used to accommodate torque transfer from electric motors, then the torque transfer capability is improved, but the packaging size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple gear trains into a compact multi-speed transmission system where gears from different gear trains are integrated onto shared shafts. The input shaft contains gears from both the first and second gear trains, and the clutch shafts serve multiple functions by engaging with gears from either gear train, thereby merging spatial occupation and reducing overall packaging volume while maintaining multiple gear train functionality for torque transfer
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where gears are positioned in overlapping or adjacent configurations along the shafts. The first and second gears on the input shaft are arranged to engage with different clutch shafts in a compact sequence, and the clutch shafts are positioned to minimize spacing requirements, creating a nested-like compact structure that accommodates multiple gear trains within reduced packaging space
2Volume of moving object
If a compact multi-speed transmission design is used to reduce packaging size, then the packaging size is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the clutch shafts to serve multiple functions: they can engage with gears from the first gear train or the second gear train depending on the selected speed. The first clutch shaft can engage with the first gear for first speed or with the second gear for second speed, and similarly for the second clutch shaft. This multi-functionality allows a single clutch shaft design to handle multiple gear train operations, reducing the need for separate dedicated components for each gear train and thereby reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic clutch engagement system where the clutches can selectively connect or disconnect different gear paths based on operating conditions. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the transmission to adapt between different gear train configurations without requiring permanent or fixed mechanical linkages, simplifying the overall structure by using controllable engagement elements rather than complex permanent mechanical couplings
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and a method are provided for a transmission system. In one example, a multi-speed transmission includes an input shaft driven by two parallel electric motors, the input shaft comprising a first gear and a second gear, a first clutch shaft comprising a first clutch engaged with the first gear, a second clutch shaft comprising a second clutch engaged with the second gear, a fourth clutch shaft comprising a fourth clutch engaged with the second clutch, the fourth clutch shaft further comprising a fourth clutch shaft first gear engaged with a first clutch shaft gear arranged on the first clutch shaft, and a third clutch arranged on the input shaft, the third clutch engaged with a second clutch shaft gear.