Vehicle Transmission Disconnect Device for Power Source Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle transmission disconnect systems, such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,050,882 B2, face challenges in providing efficient power distribution during different operating conditions, as they often require constant connection of an electric motor to the transmission, leading to hydraulic pressure issues and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle transmission with a disconnect device that mechanically couples and decouples a supplemental power source from the transmission using a hydraulically actuated splined sleeve, which automatically disengages when hydraulic pressure drops below a threshold, allowing for efficient and selective power distribution from either the motive or supplemental power source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the electric motor is constantly connected to the transmission input, then the transmission can receive supplemental power when needed, but the hydraulic systems in the transmission cannot provide needed hydraulic pressure when the engine is disconnected
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission system is segmented into two independent power input paths: one for the engine and one for the electric motor. The disconnect clutch selectively engages or disengages the engine from the transmission input, while the electric motor remains independently connectable. This segmentation allows the hydraulic system to remain connected to the engine for pressure generation while still enabling motor-only operation when the engine is disconnected.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission input interface is designed with multi-functionality to accept power from either the engine or the electric motor (or both simultaneously). The disconnect clutch mechanism provides universal adaptability by allowing seamless transition between different power sources without requiring permanent physical connections that would compromise hydraulic system operation.
2Productivity
If a disconnect mechanism is added to selectively couple and decouple the supplemental power source, then power distribution efficiency increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The disconnect clutch mechanism is merged with the existing transmission input structure, combining the power transfer function with the engagement/disengagement control in a single integrated component. This reduces overall system complexity by eliminating separate disconnect mechanisms while still providing selective power source coupling capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The disconnect clutch acts as an intermediary element between the engine and transmission input, providing controlled connection and disconnection. This mediator component enables efficient power distribution by selectively routing power from the appropriate source while maintaining a relatively simple structural implementation that integrates with existing transmission architecture.
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 reduces the power demands on the motive power source, decreases the size and weight of the transmission, and simplifies manufacturing by enabling dual-use functionality of existing hydraulic components, thereby increasing transmission efficiency and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic actuation system including a hydraulic actuator coupled to the splined sleeve. The hydraulic actuator is further configured to axially translate the splined sleeve in opposing directions to place the hydraulic actuator in an engaged configuration and a disengaged configuration
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for a vehicle transmission are provided herein. The vehicle transmission includes an input interface configured to mechanically couple to a motive power source. The vehicle transmission further includes a first disconnect device releasably mechanically coupling a first output to a first drive axle and a second disconnect device releasably mechanically coupling a second output to a second drive axle.