Hydraulic Torque Converter Lock-Up Clutch for Work Machine Fuel Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heavy-duty work machines, such as TLBs, face reduced fuel efficiency when using hydraulic torque converters due to the lack of a lock-up clutch system, which is typically found in lighter-duty applications.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a lock-up clutch in a hydraulic torque converter that can be controlled by a system responsive to operational parameters, allowing for automatic engagement during transport modes to conserve fuel while maintaining high torque output during work cycles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a hydraulic torque converter is used to multiply torque output during work cycles, then torque output is improved, but fuel efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two operational modes: torque multiplication mode (using the torque converter) and direct drive mode (using the lock-up clutch). The control system monitors operating conditions and automatically engages the lock-up clutch during transport modes to eliminate the torque converter's energy loss, while maintaining torque multiplication capability during work cycles when high torque is needed.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a lock-up clutch is added to improve fuel efficiency during transport mode, then fuel economy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock-up clutch is integrated into the existing torque converter assembly, allowing a single component to serve dual functions: torque multiplication during work cycles and direct drive during transport modes. The control system leverages existing sensors and actuators in the powertrain to manage the clutch engagement, minimizing additional complexity while achieving fuel efficiency improvements.
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 increased fuel economy during transport modes while maintaining the ability to multiply torque output during work cycles, improving overall efficiency and reducing fuel consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a clutch operable upon the receipt of a control signal to lock up the hydraulic torque convertor
Implementation Method 2
a hydraulic torque convertor and a clutch operable upon the receipt of a control signal to lock up the hydraulic torque convertor
Data Source
AI summary
A loader backhoe work machine in which a power unit is coupled to a power train through a torque convertor. The torque convertor incorporates a lock up clutch to enable more efficient operation of the work machine in a transport mode while retaining the torque multiplication feature during the loading and/or backhoe operations. The control system for the lock up clutch senses selected engine and system operating parameters to engage the lock up clutch only when those sensors indicate a transport operating condition.