Torque Converter Cover Perforations for Hybrid Motor Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
In hybrid vehicle architectures without a lock-up clutch prior to the electric motor, effective cooling of the electric motor and torque converter clutch is challenging due to the lack of mechanical disconnection, which affects the efficiency and performance of the powertrain.
Innovation Solution
A torque converter cover with perforations or holes is designed to radially spray fluid from the torque converter to the electric motor, allowing for efficient cooling of both the motor and the clutch by automatically transmitting fluid, thereby enhancing cooling efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the electric motor is directly connected to the crankshaft without a lock-up clutch, then the hybrid architecture achieves mechanical connection for power transmission, but the electric motor becomes difficult to cool due to lack of mechanical disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The torque converter cover is segmented with multiple perforations distributed across its surface, creating multiple fluid ejection points that direct cooling fluid to different areas of the electric motor and torque converter clutch, enabling effective cooling while maintaining direct mechanical connection
Solution Approach 2:
The torque converter cover with perforations acts as an intermediary component that facilitates cooling fluid delivery to the electric motor and torque converter clutch, enabling heat dissipation without requiring mechanical disconnection or separate cooling system
2Temperature
If the torque converter cover includes multiple perforations for cooling, then cooling efficiency improves, but the structural integrity of the cover may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The perforations are strategically positioned in specific regions of the torque converter cover where they provide optimal cooling coverage to the electric motor and torque converter clutch, while the overall cover structure maintains sufficient strength through appropriate material selection and design
3Volume of moving object
If the hybrid vehicle uses a compact configuration without lock-up clutch, then the overall vehicle space is reduced, but the cooling system design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling function is merged into the torque converter cover structure itself through the incorporation of perforations, eliminating the need for separate cooling system components and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining compact vehicle configuration
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 solution enables effective cooling of the electric motor and torque converter clutch, improving the overall performance and efficiency of the hybrid powertrain by ensuring adequate fluid distribution, even in compact configurations.
Implementation Method 1
the holes are configured to radially spray fluid from the torque converter to a rotor of the electric motor
Implementation Method 2
spray fluid from the torque converter to a rotor of the electric motor, allowing for efficient cooling
Data Source
AI summary
A cover for a torque converter and an electric motor, comprising a cover surface that includes a first cluster of perforations that are located adjacent to a first end of a rotor of the motor, wherein the perforations are arranged to transfer fluid from the torque converter to a rotor of the electric motor.