Torque Modulation via Nested Overrunning Clutch Gearsets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional starter generator systems for engines are limited by inadequate torque and speed modulation capabilities, complex and costly components, and lack of compactness and versatility, leading to reliability issues and inefficiencies in power transmission between motor generators and engines.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a first and second shaft, with first and second reduction gearsets supported on the shafts and connected via overrunning clutches, allowing selective engagement and disengagement to modulate torque and speed transmission between a motor generator and an engine, enabling efficient torque transmission during startup and power generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional starter generator systems use simple direct connection between motor generator and engine, then the system structure is simple, but the torque and speed modulation capability is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission system is segmented into multiple independent reduction gearsets (first and second reduction gearsets) with distinct functions. The first reduction gearset provides high torque multiplication for engine starting, while the second reduction gearset provides moderate torque multiplication and speed modulation for power generation mode. This segmentation allows each gearset to be optimized for specific operating conditions, achieving versatile torque and speed modulation without requiring a single complex variable mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the first and second reduction gearsets are integrated within a compact housing structure. The gearsets are positioned concentrically or adjacently sharing common mounting spaces, with the overrunning clutches nested within the geartrain components. This nesting achieves compactness and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining multiple transmission paths for different operating modes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional systems use complex components for torque modulation, then the torque and speed control capability is improved, but the system reliability decreases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The overrunning clutches are designed as self-actuating components that automatically engage and disengage based on the relative rotational speeds of the shafts, without requiring external control mechanisms. During engine starting, the motor generator shaft rotates faster than the engine shaft, causing the first overrunning clutch to engage automatically. During power generation, the engine shaft rotates faster, causing the second overrunning clutch to engage automatically. This self-service operation eliminates complex control systems, actuators, and sensors, thereby improving reliability while maintaining versatile torque and speed control capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional starter generator systems lack compact design, then mounting flexibility is reduced, but the component layout becomes simpler
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the first and second reduction gearsets are integrated within a compact housing structure. The gearsets are positioned concentrically or adjacently sharing common mounting spaces, with the overrunning clutches nested within the geartrain components. This nesting achieves compactness and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining multiple transmission paths for different operating modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The common housing structure accommodates both reduction gearsets and provides multiple mounting interfaces for different applications. The system can be configured for various engine types and power generation requirements by selectively engaging different gearsets, providing universal adaptability without requiring multiple dedicated systems for different applications.
4Productivity
If conventional systems do not optimize speed modulation, then the motor generator operating efficiency is reduced, but the system control complexity is lower
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission system is segmented into multiple independent reduction gearsets (first and second reduction gearsets) with distinct functions. The first reduction gearset provides high torque multiplication for engine starting, while the second reduction gearset provides moderate torque multiplication and speed modulation for power generation mode. This segmentation allows each gearset to be optimized for specific operating conditions, achieving versatile torque and speed modulation without requiring a single complex variable mechanism.
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 system provides robust, efficient, and compact torque and speed modulation, enhancing the reliability and service life of starter generator systems by allowing optimal torque and speed adjustments, reducing operational fatigue, and simplifying installation in constrained spaces.
Implementation Method 1
The first reduction gearset is disposed in selective engagement with the first shaft via a first overrunning clutch disposed therebetween. The second reduction gearset is disposed in selective engagement with the first shaft via a second overrunning clutch disposed therebetween.
Data Source
AI summary
A system is provided for transmitting torque with speed modulation between a motor generator and an engine. The system includes a first shaft, a second shaft, a first reduction gearset, and a second reduction gearset. The first shaft is configured to rotatably connect with the motor generator. The second shaft is configured to rotatably connect with the engine. The first reduction gearset is rotatably supported at least in part on the first shaft. The first reduction gearset is disposed in selective engagement with the first shaft via a first overrunning clutch disposed therebetween. The second reduction gearset is rotatably supported at least in part on the first shaft and at least in part on the second shaft. The second reduction gearset is disposed in selective engagement with the first shaft via a second overrunning clutch disposed therebetween.