Compact P2 Hybrid Module With Integrated Clutch Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hybrid vehicles face limitations in mileage range due to battery technology, necessitating the choice between extended recharging or owning a second vehicle, while P2 configurations offer versatility but require significant modifications to existing powertrains.
Innovation Solution
A P2 module with a torque converter, electric motor, connect/disconnect clutch, and electro-magnetic controllable clutch for power transmission, allowing seamless integration with existing combustion engines, reducing package size, and enabling various operational modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional P2 configuration is used with hydraulic disconnect clutch mounted radially inside electric motor, then the combustion engine can be disconnected from transmission, but the package size becomes large and space is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the disconnect clutch and electromagnetic clutch into a single integrated unit, eliminating the need for separate radial mounting of the hydraulic disconnect clutch inside the electric motor. This merging reduces overall package size while maintaining the ability to disconnect the combustion engine from the transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated clutch assembly serves multiple functions: it provides both the disconnect capability (separating engine from transmission) and electromagnetic control functionality within a single compact unit, replacing the need for separate components and reducing wasted space.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing combustion engine powertrains are modified to incorporate hybrid technology, then versatility is achieved, but significant modifications are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent presents the hybrid powertrain as a modular P2 module that can be integrated into existing combustion engine powertrains. The module includes the electric motor, integrated clutch assembly, and torque converter as discrete components that can be added without significantly modifying the existing engine or transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated clutch assembly acts as an intermediary between the combustion engine and the transmission, providing both mechanical disconnect capability and electromagnetic control. This intermediary component enables hybrid functionality without requiring direct modification of the existing engine or transmission systems.
3Duration of action of moving object
If battery technology is advanced to extend EV range, then mileage range improves, but current limitations prevent this
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic hybrid powertrain system that can switch between combustion engine operation and electric motor operation based on driving conditions and battery state of charge. This dynamic operation allows the vehicle to extend its effective range beyond what battery technology alone could provide, while maintaining the benefits of electric propulsion.
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 driveline efficiency and reduces package size, providing flexible power transmission options and extended vehicle range without substantial modifications to existing powertrains.
Implementation Method 1
an electro-magnetic controllable clutch coupled between the connect/disconnect clutch and the torque converter and having a locked up configuration and a freewheeling configuration. In the locked up configuration the electro-magnetic controllable clutch is configured to transfer torque from engine to the torque converter.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for power transmission within a hybrid motor vehicle and a method of operating the device. The device is a P2 module and includes a torque converter, an electric motor, a connect/disconnect clutch and an electro-magnetic controllable clutch. The torque converter is configured to be coupled to an input member of the transmission. The electric motor includes a rotor that is fixedly connected to the input of the torque converter. The connect/disconnect clutch has an input member configured to be coupled to the output of the engine and has first and second clutch members moveable between a disengaged and engaged positons. The second clutch member is also fixedly connected to the torque converter. The electro-magnetic controllable clutch is coupled between the connect/disconnect clutch and the torque converter and has a locked up configuration and a freewheeling configuration.