Sliding Coupling Device for Hybrid Powertrain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid powertrains for vehicles often require complex systems like clutches and transmissions to transfer power from electric motors and internal combustion engines to the wheels, which can be inefficient and cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A system featuring a coupling device that slides between positions to couple and uncouple the engine and armature, allowing for power transfer without the need for clutches or transmissions, utilizing a processor and magnetic devices to manage the power transfer and rotation speeds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If clutches and transmissions are used to transfer power from electric motors and internal combustion engines to wheels, then power transfer capability is achieved, but system complexity and inefficiency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes clutches and transmissions from the powertrain system, extracting these complex components that caused inefficiency. The direct coupling of the electric motor to the wheel assembly eliminates the need for intermediate power transfer mechanisms, thereby reducing system complexity and improving power transfer efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the electric motor directly with the wheel assembly, creating an integrated unit. This consolidation eliminates the separate clutch and transmission components, achieving both simplified system architecture and improved power delivery efficiency through direct mechanical coupling.
2Ease of operation
If clutches and transmissions are used to transfer power, then power transfer is enabled, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By removing clutches and transmissions, the patent eliminates the operational complexity associated with these components. The direct drive configuration simplifies operation by eliminating the need to manage multiple engagement states and transmission shifts, making the powertrain easier to operate.
Solution Approach 2:
The integration of the motor with the wheel assembly creates a unified power delivery system that simplifies operation. The merged configuration eliminates the need for separate clutch control and transmission shifting operations, resulting in a simpler and more straightforward powertrain operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a support arm. The system includes an engine supported by the support arm. The system includes an armature supported by the support arm. The system includes a coupling device disposed around the armature and slidable between a first position in which the coupling device couples the engine to the armature, and a second position in which the coupling device is uncoupled from the engine.