Hybrid P2 Module Layout With Overlapping Motor and Torque Converter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hybrid powertrains face limitations in extending the mileage range of electric vehicles due to the constraints of battery technology, leading to inconvenience for drivers who need longer ranges.
Innovation Solution
A P2 module for hybrid powertrains is introduced, comprising a torque converter, an electric motor that axially overlaps the torque converter, and an electromagnetic clutch to connect and disconnect the engine with the torque converter, optimizing power transmission and reducing axial and radial package space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the electric motor is located radially outward of the torque converter, then the axial package size is reduced, but the radial space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the electric motor placement from a conventional axial arrangement to a radial arrangement, moving the motor from the axial dimension to the radial dimension. This dimensional change allows the motor to be positioned radially outward of the torque converter, reducing axial package size while utilizing radial space that would otherwise be underutilized in traditional layouts.
2Power
If the clutch is positioned between the damper system and the torque converter, then the power transmission efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch acts as an intermediary component positioned between the damper system and the torque converter. This intermediary element enables selective engagement and disengagement of the engine with the torque converter, improving power transmission efficiency by allowing the clutch to slip during torque fluctuations and protect the torque converter from shock loads while maintaining a relatively simple overall device architecture.
3Length of moving object
If the electric motor axially overlaps the torque converter, then the axial package size is minimized, but the manufacturing precision requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the electric motor is positioned to axially overlap with the torque converter, with the motor effectively nested around the torque converter in the radial direction while sharing the same axial space. This nesting configuration minimizes the overall axial package size by utilizing the radial space around the torque converter, thereby reducing the need for additional axial length while managing manufacturing precision through the concentric alignment of the nested components.
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
The P2 module enhances the mileage range of hybrid vehicles by efficiently managing power transmission between the engine and transmission, reducing the need for frequent recharging and minimizing the axial package size, thus improving the overall performance and convenience of hybrid powertrains.
Implementation Method 1
a torque converter defining a central axis; an electric motor connected to the torque converter
Implementation Method 2
an electromagnetic clutch to connect and disconnect the engine with the torque converter
Data Source
AI summary
A device for power transmission between an output of a drive engine and an input of a transmission. The device includes a torque converter, an electric motor at least partially axially overlapping the torque converter, a damper system having an input adapted to be driven by the output of the drive engine, and a clutch coupled between the damper system and the torque converter and configured to connect and disconnect the damper with the torque converter.