Integrated Starter-Generator with Solenoid Cam Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional work vehicle power systems require separate components for engine starting and electric power generation, leading to increased size, cost, and complexity due to the need for multiple devices and complex power transmission arrangements.
Innovation Solution
A combined engine starter and electric power generator device with an integral transmission, featuring a gear set and clutch system actuated by electromechanical solenoids, allowing for dual functionality in starting the engine and generating electric power with reduced component count and increased reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate components are used for engine starting and electric power generation, then each component can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system size, cost, and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the starter motor and alternator into a single integrated starter-generator assembly that shares common housing, mounting structure, and drive mechanism. The starter motor and alternator are positioned concentrically with shared structural support, reducing the number of separate components while maintaining the ability to perform both engine starting and electric power generation functions
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated starter-generator assembly serves dual purposes: acting as a starter motor to crank the engine and as an alternator to generate electrical power. The same assembly and mounting structure support both functions, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets and drive mechanisms for each component
2Ease of repair
If multiple separate components are used for starting and generation, then each component can be independently maintained, but the overall system occupies more space and has higher cost
Solution Approach 1:
The starter motor and alternator are housed in a common assembly with shared structural elements and mounting points. This consolidation reduces the overall space required in the engine compartment while maintaining access to both components for maintenance purposes
3Power
If complex power transmission arrangements are used to transfer power between engine and battery, then power transfer can be optimized for different operating modes, but the number of components and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power transmission paths for starter motor operation and alternator operation are integrated through shared structural components and mounting mechanisms. The same assembly structure facilitates power transfer in both directions (engine to alternator, battery to starter motor) without requiring separate transmission arrangements
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 integrated starter-generator device simplifies the power transmission system, reduces complexity, and enhances reliability by providing robust power transmission in both engine starting and electric power generation modes, while occupying less space and using fewer components.
Implementation Method 1
an actuation assembly including at least one electromechanical solenoid device configured to selectively shift the at least one clutch
Data Source
AI summary
A combination starter-generator device is provided for a work vehicle having an engine. The starter-generator device includes an electric machine and a gear set configured to receive rotational input from the electric machine and engine. The gear set is configured to operate in one of at least a first, second, or third gear ratio in a first power flow direction and at least a fourth gear ratio in a second power flow direction. The starter-generator device further includes at least one clutch selectively coupled to the gear set to effect the gear ratios and an actuation assembly including at least one electromechanical solenoid device configured to selectively shift the at least one clutch from a disengaged position in which the at least one clutch is decoupled from the gear set into an engaged position in which the at least one clutch is coupled to the gear set.