Electric Drivetrain Torque Converter for Reverse Gear and Efficiency
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric and hybrid motor vehicle drivetrains are costly and complex due to the need for multiple gear ratios and reverse gear capabilities, which are not efficiently addressed by current technologies.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a torque converter in the electric drivetrain allows for continuous gear ratio variation without torque interruption, enabling both forward and reverse gear capabilities in a simplified and cost-effective manner by using a hydraulic coupling system between the electric machine and the speed reduction device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple gear ratios and reverse gear capabilities are integrated into the speed reduction device, then the drivetrain can adapt to different vehicle speeds and directions, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The torque converter is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides continuous variable ratio transmission through its hydraulic coupling mechanism, enables reverse gear operation through the reversible electric machine connection, and delivers torque multiplication during acceleration. This single component replaces what would traditionally require multiple discrete gear mechanisms, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining full adaptability for different vehicle speeds and directions
2Speed
If the electric machine is sized for high-speed rotation, then it can maintain compatibility with torque converter operations, but the machine size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The torque converter acts as a speed reduction mechanism between the high-speed electric machine and the lower-speed differential. By positioning the torque converter in this intermediate role, the electric machine can be optimized for high-speed operation with appropriate size, while the torque converter handles the speed and torque conversion to match the differential's requirements, thus avoiding the need for an oversized electric machine
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 reduces the size of the electric machine and the number of pinions, enhances torque transmission efficiency, and extends the service life of the drivetrain components while maintaining compatibility with high-speed rotation and reverse gear operations.
Implementation Method 1
the torque converter comprises a hydraulic coupling
Implementation Method 2
The function of the torque converter is to transmit the torque from the electric machine to the other components of the electric drivetrain, demultiplying said torque when reducing speed
Implementation Method 3
The torque converter comprises at least a primary element and a secondary element with blades which allow agitation of a fluid so as to give a mutual rotational drive
Implementation Method 4
A reactor arranged between the primary element and the secondary element allows reorientation of the moving oil flow in order to increase the torque at the level of the secondary element relative to the torque of the primary element
Implementation Method 5
A direct connection element, in particular a friction connection element, may be arranged between the primary element and the secondary element in order to couple these together with no mutual speed difference
Data Source
AI summary
An electric drivetrain including an electric machine and at least one output pinion intended to be connected to an axle differential, and at least one speed reduction device including a first gear train and a second gear train intended to drive the output pinion in rotation in a first rotational direction or a second rotational direction.