Parallel Clutch Torque Decoupling for Hybrid Drivetrain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drivetrain coupling systems for hybrid vehicles with internal combustion engines and electric drive machines require large, expensive wet-running or multi-friction clutches to handle high torque, leading to space inefficiencies and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A drive machine coupling apparatus with two concentric coupling devices, one a dry-running multiplate clutch and the other a positively locking dog clutch, arranged in parallel to transmit torque independently, allowing for compact construction and efficient power transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a wet-running separating clutch or a clutch with a large number of friction pads is used to handle high torque, then the torque transmission capacity is improved, but the structural space requirement and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch assembly is segmented into multiple friction pads (first friction pad, second friction pad, third friction pad) distributed around the clutch hub, allowing torque to be transmitted through multiple smaller contact surfaces rather than requiring a single large clutch component. This segmentation enables high torque capacity while maintaining compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction pads are arranged in a nested configuration around the clutch hub, with multiple pads positioned at different radial locations. This nesting arrangement maximizes the use of available space, allowing multiple friction surfaces to be packed into a compact volume, thereby achieving high torque transmission capacity without increasing the overall clutch size.
2Power
If a wet-running separating clutch is used to handle high torque, then the torque transmission capacity is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses multiple simpler friction pads instead of a single complex wet-running clutch mechanism. These friction pads can be manufactured more economically using standard friction materials and can be replaced individually if needed, reducing overall manufacturing cost while maintaining high torque transmission capacity.
3Power
If a large number of friction pads are used to transmit high torque, then the torque transmission capacity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple friction pads are merged into a single integrated clutch assembly that operates as one coordinated unit. The pads are collectively actuated by a single actuator mechanism, and their combined friction surfaces work together to transmit torque. This merging approach achieves high torque capacity without proportionally increasing the complexity of control and actuation systems.
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 solution enables a compact, efficient, and cost-effective torque transmission system by allowing selective engagement of both clutches to achieve high torque transmission capacity with reduced structural space and drag torque, suitable for hybrid drivetrains.
Implementation Method 1
a first coupling device is arranged between said two shafts. Said first coupling device is designed in particular for the selective connection of the input shaft to the output shaft... said first coupling device is designed as a multiplate clutch
Implementation Method 2
a further coupling device is arranged between said shafts... said further coupling device is designed to selectively interrupt the torque transmission between the input shaft and the output shaft... further coupling device is formed as a dog clutch
Data Source
AI summary
A drive machine coupling device for a motor vehicle with a hybrid drive is provided. The device includes an input shaft designed to receive the drive power provided by a first drive machine, an output shaft designed to output the drive power, and a first coupling device arranged between the input shaft and the output shaft. By way of the first coupling device, a torque can selectively be transmitted from the input shaft to the output shaft. The coupling device can be directly coupled to the output shaft. An additional coupling device is arranged between the input shaft and the output shaft, and can be directly coupled to the output shaft, such that a torque can selectively be transmitted from the input shaft to the output shaft. The additional coupling device is arranged parallel to the first coupling device with respect to the torque transmission.