Rotation Transmission Switching for EV Back-EMF and Shock Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

The drive unit for electric automobiles, as described in JP H09-226394 (A), faces issues when the electric motor is stopped, causing excessive reverse electromotive voltage and complicating the structure and control of the clutch, leading to an unpleasant driving experience due to potential shocks and complexity in torque transmission management.

Innovation Solution

A rotation transmission state switching device is introduced, comprising a clutch device and a restriction device, which includes a braking mechanism and engaging elements to control torque transmission between the electric motor and drive wheels, allowing for simplified configuration and reduced complexity by enabling or preventing rotation based on the motor's state.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If a clutch is provided between the electric motor and drive wheels to separate them when the motor is stopped, then the reverse electromotive voltage problem is solved, but the structure and control become complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereverse electromotive voltageVSAvoidclutch structure and control
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the clutch device and restriction device into a single integrated transmission state switching device. The clutch device (with engaging elements) and restriction device (braking mechanism) work together as one unified system to manage torque transmission, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms and reducing overall structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The transmission state switching device serves multiple functions: it acts as both a clutch (to disconnect torque transmission) and a restriction device (to control rotation), while also managing the reverse electromotive voltage issue. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Duration of action of stationary object

If the electric motor and drive wheels remain rotating during clutch switching, then continuous operation is maintained, but the switching control becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontinuous operationVSAvoidswitching control
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The restriction device automatically activates when the clutch engaging elements are engaged, using the existing rotational motion of the drive wheels to engage the braking mechanism. The system leverages the ongoing rotation to control the engagement process without requiring external actuators or complex control systems, simplifying the switching control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 provides a simplified structure for the rotation transmission state switching device, reducing manufacturing costs and enhancing the driving experience by effectively managing torque transmission and preventing unwanted shocks, thus improving the overall efficiency and comfort of electric vehicle operation.

Implementation Method 1

a braking device provided between a fixed portion and the first rotating member, and switching between a state in which rotation of the first rotating member with respect to the fixed portion is allowed and a state in which rotation of the first rotating member with respect to the fixed portion is prevented

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

When the electric motor is electrically energized to rotate an output shaft of the electric motor, rotation torque of the output shaft is increased by the speed-reduction mechanism

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11655862B2Rotation transmission state switching device
Publication Date: 2023.05.23 NSK LTD
  • US11655862B2 patent drawing
  • US11655862B2 patent drawing
  • US11655862B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The rotation transmission state switching device comprises a clutch device comprising a first rotating member having a first-rotating-member-side engaging portion, a second rotating member having a second-rotating-member-side engaging portion, a third rotating member having a third-rotating-member-side engaging portion; and an engaging element having an engaging-element-side first engaging portion engaging with the first-rotating-member-side engaging portion, an engaging-element-side second engaging portion engaging with the second-rotating-member-side engaging portion, and an engaging-element-side third engaging portion engaging with the third-rotating-member-side engaging portion; and a restriction device configured to switch between allowing and restricting rotation of the first rotating member, allowing or preventing torque transmission between the second rotating member and the third rotating member.