Solenoid Valve Assembly for Transmission Fluid Level Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heavy duty transmissions with separate sumps for hydraulic fluid face challenges in controlling fluid levels, particularly when tilted, leading to parasitic power losses and inadequate fluid circulation.
Innovation Solution
A system with a solenoid valve assembly that controls hydraulic fluid levels between two sumps by using a valve movable between two positions, with differently positioned inlet ports to manage fluid flow between the sumps, allowing for selective fluid level adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydraulic fluid level is increased in separate sumps, then sufficient fluid circulation is maintained when tilted, but parasitic power losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission is divided into separate portions (front and rear) with separate sumps for hydraulic fluid. Each sump can be independently controlled to maintain optimal fluid levels, allowing sufficient circulation when tilted while minimizing parasitic power losses in each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
A valve assembly with a moveable valve is installed in each sump to dynamically control the fluid level. The valve can be positioned at different heights to adjust the fluid level based on operating conditions, enabling the system to adapt between maintaining circulation (when tilted) and reducing power losses (when level).
2Loss of energy
If hydraulic fluid level is decreased to reduce parasitic power losses, then energy efficiency improves, but fluid circulation becomes inadequate when tilted
Solution Approach 1:
The moveable valve in the valve assembly allows dynamic adjustment of the fluid level. When the transmission is tilted, the valve position can be adjusted to maintain sufficient fluid circulation, and when level is a concern, the valve can be positioned lower to reduce parasitic power losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the fluid level parameter dynamically by adjusting the valve position in the valve assembly. This allows optimization of the fluid level based on operating conditions, balancing between reducing parasitic power losses and maintaining adequate circulation when tilted.
3Device complexity
If a single sump is used for hydraulic fluid storage, then system complexity is reduced, but fluid level control when tilted becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission is segmented into separate portions with separate sumps, allowing independent fluid level control in each segment. This segmentation enables proper fluid circulation when tilted while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular 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
The system effectively manages hydraulic fluid levels, reducing parasitic power losses and ensuring sufficient fluid circulation, thereby enhancing transmission efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The level of the hydraulic fluid within the first sump is controlled by the height of the openings of the first and second inlet ports and the position of the valve
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling the level of hydraulic fluid between a first and second sump in a transmission includes a valve assembly located within the first sump. The valve assembly includes a valve that is moveable between two positions. The valve assembly includes first and second inlet ports that communicate with the first sump and an outlet port that communicates with the second sump. The second inlet port has an opening that is located higher than an opening to the first inlet port. Hydraulic fluid within the first sump communicates through the first inlet port to the outlet port when the valve is in the first position, and hydraulic fluid within the first sump communicates through the second inlet port to the outlet port when the valve is in the second position.