Segmented Switched Reluctance Motor for Compact Powertrains
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Solution Overview
Problem
In traditional front wheel drive vehicles, the limited transverse space between the internal combustion engine and transmission makes it impossible to integrate a conventional electric motor without increasing the powertrain's length, complicating the design and weight distribution.
Innovation Solution
A segmented switched reluctance motor is integrated into the transmission housing, with stator pole segments and a rotor configured to act as a flywheel, powered by an inverter to rotate the rotor and drive the engine, allowing for electrification without lengthening the powertrain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional electric motor is integrated between the internal combustion engine and transmission, then the powertrain can be electrified, but the overall length of the powertrain increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stator is divided into multiple independent stator pole segments that are mounted on the transmission housing, allowing the motor to be integrated into the existing transmission space without requiring a separate conventional motor housing, thereby maintaining the powertrain's axial length
Solution Approach 2:
The electric motor components (stator pole segments, rotor, windings) are merged with the existing transmission housing and components, eliminating the need for a separate motor housing and reducing overall powertrain length while achieving electrification
2Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional electric motor is added to the powertrain, then electrification is achieved, but the vehicle weight increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The electric motor components are merged with existing transmission components, eliminating duplicate structures and reducing overall weight while achieving electrification capability
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission housing serves dual functions as both a transmission component housing and a motor stator mounting structure, reducing the need for additional components and lowering overall vehicle weight
3Area of stationary object
If the electric motor is located remotely from other powertrain components, then space constraints are addressed, but the exhaust system design becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The electric motor is merged with the transmission housing and positioned adjacent to the exhaust manifold, allowing the exhaust system to be routed through or around the motor components rather than requiring separate remote routing, thereby simplifying exhaust system design
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
Enables efficient electrification of the powertrain in space-constrained applications by maintaining the powertrain's axial length, reducing weight, and simplifying the exhaust system design.
Implementation Method 1
An inverter is included which is in electrical communication with the stator winding of the stator pole segment. The inverter is configured to electrically energize the winding of the stator pole segment to cause rotation of the rotor.
Implementation Method 2
The rotor is supported for rotation within the transmission housing and has a weight and dimension to act as a flywheel.
Implementation Method 3
Segmented switched reluctance motor
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a transmission system having a transmission subsystem, a transmission housing for housing the transmission subsystem, and a rotor operably associated with the transmission subsystem. The rotor has a weight and dimension to act as a flywheel. At least one stator pole segment is housed within the transmission housing and has at least one stator winding thereon positioned in proximity to a surface of the rotor. An inverter communicates with the stator winding and electrically energizes the winding to cause rotation of the rotor.