Torque Transfer Device for Parallel Hybrid Utility Vehicle Drivetrain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utility vehicles with single primary movers lack efficient dual-directional propulsion and torque distribution capabilities, limiting their operational flexibility and efficiency in both electric and internal combustion engine modes.
Innovation Solution
A utility vehicle system incorporating a torque transfer device that allows the internal combustion engine to drive a transmission output shaft in one direction, while an electric motor drives the front axle in both directions, and the torque transfer device selectively drives the rear axle in both directions, enabling forward, reverse, and neutral modes, with a vehicle control module managing the operation of both engines and motors for optimal torque distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single primary mover (electric motor or internal combustion engine) is used in utility vehicles, then the vehicle structure is simple, but the operational flexibility and dual-directional propulsion capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines an internal combustion engine drivetrain and an electric motor drivetrain into a single utility vehicle, allowing both power sources to operate separately or in parallel. This merging enables dual-directional propulsion capability and enhanced operational flexibility while maintaining a relatively integrated structure through shared components like the torque transfer device and differential assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque transfer device is designed to universally handle torque transmission from both the internal combustion engine and electric motor to the differential assembly. It can selectively engage either power source and transmit torque in both forward and reverse directions, making it a multi-functional component that adapts to different operating modes (engine-only, motor-only, or parallel operation).
2Speed
If an internal combustion engine drives the transmission output shaft in one direction only, then the engine structure is simple, but the vehicle cannot achieve efficient reverse propulsion
Solution Approach 1:
The torque transfer device incorporates dynamic engagement mechanisms including one-way clutches and brake assemblies that can actively switch between different torque transmission paths. This allows the system to adaptively select the appropriate power source and transmission direction based on whether forward or reverse motion is required, enabling efficient bidirectional propulsion without complex mechanical reversers.
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
Enables efficient dual-directional propulsion and enhanced operational flexibility by allowing the vehicle to utilize the strengths of both electric motors and internal combustion engines, improving torque output, reducing noise, and extending range and speed capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
An electric motor drives a first axle in a first direction and a second direction at different times
Implementation Method 2
An internal combustion engine drives a transmission output shaft in one direction
Data Source
AI summary
A utility vehicle includes a first axle, a second axle, an electric motor, an internal combustion engine, and a torque transfer device. The first axle is coupled to first and second wheels. The second axle is coupled to third and fourth wheels. The electric motor drives the first axle in a first direction and a second direction at different times. The internal combustion engine drives a transmission output shaft in one direction. The torque transfer device selectively drives the second axle in the first direction in response to rotation of the transmission output shaft in the one direction. The torque transfer device also selectively drives the second axle in the second direction in response to rotation of the transmission output shaft in the one direction.