Torque Converter One-Way Clutch Engine Disconnect
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle powertrains face inefficiencies due to engine slippage and energy losses during engine stop-start cycles and regenerative braking, which affect fuel economy and transmission performance.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a one-way clutch (OWC) within the torque converter housing, coupled with the torque converter clutch (TCC) and torsional damper assembly, allows for seamless engine disconnection and reconnection, reducing slippage and energy losses by automatically locking or unlocking based on torque direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a traditional torque converter is used without engine disconnect capability, then the structure is simple and cost-effective, but engine slippage and energy losses occur during stop-start cycles and regenerative braking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the engine disconnect function with the existing torque converter structure by integrating a one-way clutch mechanism within the torque converter housing. This merging approach allows the torque converter to provide both traditional fluid coupling functions and engine disconnect capability without requiring separate independent systems, thereby reducing energy losses while limiting structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 2:
The one-way clutch acts as an intermediary element within the torque converter that enables selective engagement and disengagement of the engine from the transmission. This mediator component allows the system to achieve engine disconnect functionality through a relatively simple mechanical addition rather than complex control systems, addressing the contradiction between energy efficiency and device complexity
2Loss of energy
If engine disconnect is implemented using separate independent systems, then engine slippage is reduced, but additional powertrain packaging space and cost are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements the one-way clutch mechanism nested within the existing torque converter housing and component structure. The disconnect mechanism is positioned between the impeller and turbine, utilizing the internal space of the torque converter rather than requiring external packaging. This nesting approach reduces engine motoring losses while avoiding additional powertrain packaging space requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The torque converter is designed to perform multiple functions: traditional fluid coupling for torque multiplication, lockup clutch operation for direct coupling, and engine disconnect via the one-way clutch mechanism. This multi-functionality allows a single component to address energy losses without requiring additional dedicated systems that would increase packaging volume
3Productivity
If a one-way clutch is integrated within the torque converter housing, then fuel economy is enhanced and transmission delays are minimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The one-way clutch mechanism is designed as a passive, self-actuating device that automatically engages and disengages based on torque direction without requiring external control systems or additional actuators. This self-service approach enhances fuel economy through reduced slippage while minimizing the increase in device complexity by eliminating the need for complex control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simple mechanical one-way clutch design that uses basic mechanical elements rather than complex electronic controls or expensive actuators. This approach improves fuel economy through effective engine disconnect while keeping the complexity increase minimal by using straightforward mechanical principles that are cost-effective and reliable
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 solution enhances fuel economy, minimizes transmission delays during engine restart, and maintains smooth drive quality with no additional powertrain packaging space or cost, effectively addressing engine motoring losses and improving overall efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a passive one-way clutch (OWC) that is coupled to both the damper assembly and the output shaft. The OWC automatically connects the turbine to the output shaft when positive torque is being transferred from the turbine to the output shaft
Implementation Method 2
a torsional damper assembly that is coupled to the TCC. The damper assembly is configured to dampen vibrations transmitted by the TCC
Implementation Method 3
A torque converter clutch (TCC) is disposed within the torque converter (TC) housing and coupled to the output shaft. The TCC is selectively actuable to lock the impeller to the output shaft
Implementation Method 4
A hydraulic pump modulates fluid pressure within the torque converter housing to govern the transfer of rotational energy from the impeller to the turbine
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a hydrokinetic torque converter (TC) with a TC housing. An impeller is disposed within the TC housing and connects to an engine output shaft. A turbine is disposed within the TC housing and connects to a transmission input shaft via a TC output shaft. A torque converter clutch (TCC), which is disposed within the TC housing and coupled to the TC output shaft, selectively locks the impeller to the TC output shaft. A damper, which is disposed within the TC housing and coupled to the TCC, dampens vibrations transmitted by the TCC. A disconnect device, which is disposed within the TC housing and coupled to the damper assembly and TC output shaft, connects the turbine to the TC output shaft or damper when positive torque is being transferred, and disconnects the turbine and TC output shaft or damper when negative torque is being transferred.