Single Speed Direct Drive Electric Drivetrain Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric drivetrain systems require significant architectural modifications to replace mechanical drivetrain systems due to increased space requirements, as they typically include a multispeed transmission and larger electrical components, making them less adaptable.
Innovation Solution
A series electric drivetrain system with a single speed ratio direct drive, utilizing a switched reluctance motor and power electronics, is positioned between the engine and gear reduction to match the space claim of a mechanical drivetrain system, eliminating the need for a multispeed transmission and allowing for direct replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a multispeed transmission is used in an electric drivetrain system, then run out speed performance is improved, but space claim increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical multispeed transmission system with an electric motor controller system that uses electronic control to achieve multiple speed ratios. The motor controller adjusts motor parameters (such as winding connections, pole pairs, or switching patterns) to provide different effective gear ratios, eliminating the need for physical transmission gears and reducing space claim while maintaining run out speed performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the electric motor through power electronic control to achieve variable speed ratios. By modifying electrical parameters (voltage, current, frequency, switching patterns) rather than mechanical parameters (gear ratios), the system achieves multiple speed levels without requiring a physically large multispeed transmission, thus resolving the contradiction between speed performance and space occupation.
2Use of energy by moving object
If electrical components are added to replace mechanical drivetrain components, then adaptability is reduced, but electrical energy conversion capability is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the electric drivetrain system with universal interfaces and modular architecture that can adapt to different machine applications. The electric motor and controller system serves multiple functions (propulsion, energy recovery, speed control) and can be configured for various power requirements, making the system versatile across different machine types while maintaining excellent electrical energy conversion capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic control system that can adapt operating parameters in real-time based on load conditions, speed requirements, and energy availability. The motor controller dynamically adjusts electrical parameters to optimize performance across different operating scenarios, providing both excellent energy conversion and adaptability to varying machine requirements.
3Speed
If a multispeed transmission is combined with electric motor and generator, then speed control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical multispeed transmission system with an electronically controlled motor system. Instead of multiple physical transmissions with associated mechanical linkages, the system uses power electronic controllers to achieve speed variation, significantly reducing device complexity while maintaining or improving speed control capability through electronic regulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves multiple speed ratios by changing electrical parameters (such as inverter switching patterns, motor winding configurations, or controller algorithms) rather than mechanical parameters. This parameter-based approach simplifies the physical structure by eliminating complex mechanical transmission components while providing flexible and precise speed control through electronic parameter adjustment.
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
This configuration enables the electric drivetrain system to match the performance of mechanical systems while occupying a comparable space, reducing the need for architectural modifications and maintaining run out speed and stall torque performance.
Implementation Method 1
an electric generator to convert the mechanical energy received from the engine into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
a motor to receive the electrical energy and to produce a rotational output
Data Source
AI summary
A machine having a series electric drivetrain system includes an engine to provide mechanical energy to an electric generator, the electric generator able to convert the mechanical energy received from the engine into electrical energy, the electric generator including an input shaft extending through the electric generator, a rotor to rotate on the input shaft, and the input shaft is able to rotate an input gear, an idler gear, a pump drive gear, and a rotor gear, a motor to receive the electrical energy and to produce a rotational output, a single speed ratio direct drive to transfer the rotational output of the motor to a torque output to deliver to a drive shaft, and power electronics to control the electrical energy between the electric generator and the motor and to regulate the rotational output of the motor.


