Torque Transfer Device Fluid Circuit with Pressure Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle driveline systems with torque transfer devices operated by fluid pressure have the drawback that the pump or compressor remains active continuously when the torque transfer device is engaged, leading to inefficiencies and unnecessary energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle driveline system incorporating a clutch, hydraulic ram, and valves that allow for controlled fluid communication to engage and disengage the torque transfer device, enabling the pump to be turned off once the desired pressure is achieved, thus reducing continuous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the pump or compressor remains in operation continuously when the torque transfer device is engaged, then the torque transfer device can maintain engagement, but energy consumption increases unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-charges the hydraulic reservoir to a predetermined pressure before torque transfer device engagement is needed. This preliminary action allows the device to engage using stored hydraulic pressure without requiring continuous pump operation, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining reliable engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump operates periodically rather than continuously - it runs to recharge the hydraulic reservoir when pressure drops below the predetermined threshold, and stops when the threshold is reached. This periodic operation maintains torque transfer device functionality while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous operation.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the pump is turned off after reaching predetermined pressure, then energy consumption is reduced, but the system must ensure pressure is maintained for torque transfer device operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a pressure sensor that continuously monitors hydraulic reservoir pressure and provides feedback to the control module. When pressure drops below the predetermined threshold, the sensor triggers the pump to recharge the reservoir. This feedback mechanism ensures pressure is maintained automatically without continuous pump operation, balancing energy savings with pressure requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic system is designed to maintain its own operating pressure through automatic pump recharging triggered by pressure threshold detection. The system serves itself by using the pressure sensor and control module to activate the pump only when needed, eliminating the need for continuous external control while maintaining adequate pressure for torque transfer device operation.
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 allows for efficient engagement and disengagement of the torque transfer device, reducing energy consumption and improving operational efficiency by allowing the pump to be turned off once the necessary pressure is reached, thereby addressing the inefficiencies of continuous pump operation.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic ram that is coupled to the friction clutch and has a piston chamber and a piston that is movable in the piston chamber between a first position, which is retracted relative to the first and second clutch plates, and a second position in which the piston is extended toward the first and second clutch plates
Implementation Method 2
The pump is configured to pump hydraulic fluid from the reservoir to the piston chamber via the first valve
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle driveline having a torque transfer device and a fluid circuit for operating the torque transfer device. The fluid circuit has a motor, a pump driven by the motor, an actuator, and a pair of valves. The valves are arranged in the fluid circuit to control fluid circulation within the fluid circuit and can be operated such that fluid pressure in the actuator can be maintained (i.e., to maintain engagement of the torque transfer device) without operating the pump.