Integrated Torque Transfer Gear Pump for Leak-Safe Drivetrains
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drivetrain systems lack an efficient component that can simultaneously transfer torque and fluid, as conventional gear pumps and torque transfer mechanisms are typically designed for separate functions, leading to inefficiencies and potential fluid leakage.
Innovation Solution
A drivetrain component featuring a first gear on a shaft receiving torque from a power source, a second gear engaged with the first gear to transfer torque to another shaft, and a housing with an inlet and outlet that allows fluid to be transferred from the inlet to the outlet as the gears rotate, effectively combining torque transfer and fluid pumping functions within a single unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate gear pumps and torque transfer mechanisms are used, then each component can be optimized for its specific function, but the system complexity increases and potential fluid leakage occurs at multiple connection points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the torque transfer function and fluid pumping function into a single integrated gear assembly. The same gear teeth that transfer torque between shafts also pump fluid through the housing, eliminating the need for separate gear pumps and reducing potential leakage points while maintaining functional optimization
Solution Approach 2:
The gear assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: torque transfer from the first shaft to the second shaft, and fluid pumping from the inlet to the outlet. This multi-functional design reduces system complexity while maintaining the reliability benefits of dedicated components
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 enables efficient torque transfer while also pumping fluid, enhancing the operational efficiency of drivetrain systems and reducing fluid leakage by integrating both functions within a single component.
Implementation Method 1
Rotation of the first and second gears transfers fluid from the inlet to the outlet
Implementation Method 2
The second gear is engaged with the first gear transmitting torque from the first shaft to the second shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A drivetrain component including a first gear positioned on a first shaft configured to receive torque from a power source, a second gear positioned on a second shaft, and a housing partially surrounding the first and second gears. The second gear is engaged with the first gear transmitting torque from the first shaft to the second shaft. The second shaft is configured to transfer torque received from the first shaft to an additional drivetrain component. The housing includes an inlet and an outlet. Rotation of the first and second gears transfers fluid from the inlet to the outlet.