Torque Transfer Device for Hybrid Utility Vehicle Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utility vehicles often rely on a single motive source, limiting their operational flexibility and efficiency in terms of torque output, noise, and range, as they lack a dual motive drive system that can effectively combine and switch between different power sources for optimal performance.
Innovation Solution
A utility vehicle design featuring a torque transfer device that allows for four operational modes: using torque from an internal combustion engine only, an electric drive motor only, both in combination, or converting engine torque into electrical power, enabling flexible propulsion and power generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single motive source is used to drive the vehicle, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and operational flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The torque transfer device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can transfer torque from the engine to the rear axle, from the electric motor to the rear axle, and convert engine torque into electrical power for charging the battery. This multi-functional design allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate systems, thereby improving adaptability while controlling complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque transfer device incorporates a controllable coupling mechanism that can dynamically switch between different operational modes (engine-only, electric-only, hybrid, and charging modes). This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to adapt to varying operational requirements without requiring permanently engaged additional components, thus improving versatility while managing device complexity.
2Power
If only an internal combustion engine is used, then the vehicle achieves higher torque output and range, but noise levels increase and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The hybrid system enables periodic switching between engine-driven and electric motor-driven operation. The electric motor can be engaged during low-load or noise-sensitive periods, while the engine operates during high-power demands. This periodic alternation allows the vehicle to maintain high torque output capability while reducing overall noise exposure, as the electric motor provides quiet operation during applicable periods.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the electric motor is used for propulsion, then noise levels decrease, but the vehicle range and torque capability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the propulsion capabilities of both the electric motor and the internal combustion engine through the torque transfer device. The electric motor provides quiet, efficient operation for extended range, while the engine can be engaged to supplement torque output or extend range when needed. The torque transfer device intelligently combines the strengths of both power sources, allowing the vehicle to achieve both reduced noise operation and extended range capability that neither system could provide alone.
4Productivity
If a dual motive drive system is implemented, then operational flexibility and efficiency are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The torque transfer device is designed as a universal component that handles all torque transfer operations: from engine to axle, from electric motor to axle, and from engine to electric motor for charging. By consolidating these multiple functions into a single device with a controllable coupling mechanism, the system achieves high operational efficiency without proportionally increasing complexity, as one multi-functional component replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate systems.
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 design enhances operational flexibility, combining the higher torque and range capabilities of the engine with the quieter and higher-torque output of the electric motor, while also allowing for efficient electrical power generation and charging, thereby improving overall vehicle performance and usability.
Implementation Method 1
an electric drive motor that drives a second output shaft
Implementation Method 2
an internal combustion engine that drives a first output shaft
Implementation Method 3
a torque transfer device coupled to the first axle and the first and second output shafts
Data Source
AI summary
A utility vehicle having a first axle that is coupled to first and second wheels, an internal combustion engine that drives a first output shaft, an electric drive motor that drives a second output shaft, and a torque transfer device coupled to the first axle and the first and second output shafts. The torque transfer device is operable in a first mode to receive torque from the first output shaft only and output a motive force to the first axle, a second mode to receive torque from the second output shaft only and output the motive force, a third mode to receive torque from the first output shaft and the second output shaft simultaneously and output the motive force, and a fourth mode to receive torque from the first output shaft and output a drive force to the second output shaft cause the electrical drive motor to generate electrical power.