Vehicle Powertrain Layout for Larger Energy Storage Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional powertrain arrangements in vehicles restrict space for energy storage units and propeller shaft movement, limiting the operational range and flexibility of propulsion systems, especially when combining electrical machines and internal combustion engines.
Innovation Solution
The powertrain is rearranged with the propulsion unit positioned between the transmission and rear axle in a longitudinal direction, allowing for increased space for energy storage units and enabling the propeller shaft to move within allowable angles during normal driving and rear axle movements, thereby accommodating larger energy storage units and reducing joint angle constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the propulsion unit is arranged conventionally in the vehicle, then the powertrain components are properly connected, but the space for accommodating energy storage units is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion unit is inverted from its conventional position (behind the rear axle) to a new position between the transmission and the rear axle. This inversion rearranges the powertrain components to create space in the conventional propulsion unit location for energy storage units, while maintaining proper mechanical connections through the propeller shaft and drive shafts.
2Volume of moving object
If the propulsion unit is arranged between the transmission and rear axle, then space for energy storage units is created, but the propeller shaft length decreases to a critical length
Solution Approach 1:
The propeller shaft is designed with dynamic characteristics to accommodate the reduced length. The shaft is configured to handle the critical length constraint while still allowing for necessary angular movements during rear axle movements and normal driving conditions. This may involve optimizing the shaft's flexibility, support bearings, or universal joint configurations.
3Volume of moving object
If the propulsion unit is arranged between the transmission and rear axle, then space is created for energy storage units, but joint angles will exceed the maximum allowable angle
Solution Approach 1:
Universal joints or constant velocity joints are used as intermediaries between the propeller shaft and the drive shafts. These joints act as mediators that can accommodate the increased angular movements resulting from the propulsion unit's new position, allowing the shafts to connect while maintaining proper power transmission despite the altered geometry.
4Quantity of substance
If large energy storage units are installed in the vehicle, then the operational range is extended, but the space for other components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion unit is repositioned along the longitudinal dimension of the vehicle, specifically between the transmission and rear axle. This dimensional rearrangement creates space in the conventional propulsion unit location for energy storage units, while the powertrain components maintain their functional connections through the reconfigured shaft arrangements.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a powertrain for a vehicle. The powertrain comprising: at least one propulsion unit; a transmission connected to the at least one propulsion unit; a propeller shaft connected to the transmission, and at least one drive shaft of a rear axle, which at least one drive shaft is connected to the propeller shaft, so that the propeller shaft extends between the transmission and the at least one drive shaft. The at least one propulsion unit is arranged in a position between the transmission and the rear axle in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The invention also relates to a vehicle.