Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of hybrid vehicles and more particularly relates to a hybrid coupling mechanism in two-wheeler passenger vehicles.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The following description provides the information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] Two-wheeler passenger vehicles are a critical mode of transportation worldwide, requiring efficient and user-friendly mechanisms to ensure ease of use and convenience for riders. The introduction of hybrid vehicle technology, which combines the power and range of internal combustion engines (ICEs) with the efficiency of electric motors, marks a substantial advancement in automotive engineering. Usually, hybrid vehicles use a mix of these power sources to maximize fuel economy, lower emissions, and improve performance. Complex transmission mechanisms enable smooth switching or mixed operation of electric and ICE powertrains when electric motors and ICEs are integrated. However, the available hybrid car transmission systems have some drawbacks, especially regarding cost, design complexity, and adaptability to different use cases.
[0004] Further, the available hybrid vehicle transmission systems heavily rely on highly customized components for coupling and power transfer between the electric motor and the ICE. The customized components often require precise design modifications to the mating parts, which increases manufacturing complexity and costs. Additionally, available systems are prone to wear and tear due to vibrations and shock loads during operation, leading to reduced durability and higher maintenance requirements. Additionally, the lack of modularity in current transmission designs restricts their compatibility across different vehicle types, thereby limiting scalability and widespread adoption.
[0005] The operation in the existing hybrid vehicle transmissions typically involves planetary gear systems, continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), or dual-clutch mechanisms to manage the power flow between the electric motor and the ICE. Currently, planetary gear systems use a complex arrangement of gears and clutches to combine or split power sources, enabling the vehicle to operate in electric-only, and ICE-only. Although, these systems are efficient in managing power transitions, however, are mechanically intricate and challenging to maintain. The CVTs provide seamless gear ratio changes and improved efficiency, however, often struggle with torque handling and durability under high loads. The challenge lies in creating a mechanism that is both effective in function and compact in form.
[0006] Therefore, there is a need for a hybrid coupling mechanism that will address the limitations as mentioned above.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In accordance with an embodiment, a receptor coupling for a clutch bell assembly is disclosed. The assembly comprises an annular-shaped body adapted to be mounted over a shaft of a mating component. The annular-shaped body comprises a plurality of flanges extending radially outwards along the periphery of the annular-shaped body. The plurality of flanges define a plurality of grooved sections. Further, the annular-shaped body comprises at least a pair of mating portions positioned alternatively over the plurality of flanges. The pair of mating portions are adapted to be received by a plurality of slots of the mating component.
[0008] In some embodiments, the assembly further comprises a fastening mechanism. The fastening mechanism comprises a male connector having a plurality of connector pins extending longitudinally. The plurality of connector pins are adapted to be received within the plurality of grooved sections defined by the plurality of flanges. Further, the fastening mechanism comprises a rubber bush adapted to be disposed between the male connector and the annular-shaped body and is adapted to secure the annular-shaped body to the mating component and maintain concentric alignment. The rubber bush is adapted to mitigate vibration, absorb shock loads, and accommodate minor alignment deviations
[0009] In some embodiments, the annular-shaped body is adapted to transmit rotational motion and torque from the male connector connected to a primary prime mover to the mating component coupled to a secondary prime mover.
[0010] In some embodiments, the pair of mating portions over the plurality of flanges are symmetrically arranged around the circumference of the annular-shaped body to facilitate balanced torque transmission.
[0011] In some embodiments, the pair of mating portions are shaped as rectangular prisms with rounded edges to facilitate smooth insertion into the plurality of slots of the mating component.
[0012] In some embodiments, the rubber bush is a ring-shaped washer and is constructed from an elastomeric material such as rubber or polyurethane to dampen mechanical shocks and reduce wear.
[0013] In some embodiments, the mating component is a clutch bell within a continuously variable transmission (CVT) system of a two-wheeler, wherein a primary prime mover is an electric motor, and a secondary prime mover is an engine.
[0014] In some embodiments, the pair of mating portions engage the plurality of slots of the clutch bell to facilitate the transfer of rotational motion from the electric motor to the CVT system.
[0015] In accordance with another embodiment, a hybrid coupling mechanism for a clutch bell assembly is disclosed. The mechanism comprises a receptor coupling adapted to be mounted over a shaft of a mating component. The receptor coupling comprises a plurality of flanges extending radially outwards along the periphery of the receptor coupling. The plurality of flanges defines a plurality of grooved sections. The receptor coupling comprises at least a pair of mating portions positioned alternatively over the plurality of flanges. The pair of mating portions are adapted to be received by a plurality of slots of the mating component. Further, the mechanism comprises a fastening mechanism coupled to the receptor coupling. The fastening mechanism comprises a male connector having a plurality of connector pins extending longitudinally. The plurality of connector pins are adapted to be received within the plurality of grooved sections defined by the plurality of flanges. A rubber bush adapted to be disposed between the male connector and the receptor coupling and is adapted to secure the receptor coupling to the mating component and maintain concentric alignment.
[0016] In this respect, before explaining at least one object of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of the set of rules and to the arrangements of the various models set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other objects and of being practiced and carried out in various ways, according to the needs of that industry. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0017] These together with other objects of the invention, along with the various features of novelty which characterize the invention, are pointed out with particularity in the disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and the specific objects attained by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated preferred embodiments of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The invention will be better understood and objects other than those set forth above will become apparent when consideration is given to the following detailed description thereof. Such description makes reference to the annexed drawings wherein:
[0019] Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of a hybrid coupling mechanism for a clutch bell assembly, in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0020] Figure 2 illustrates an isometric view of the hybrid coupling mechanism for the clutch bell assembly, in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0021] Figure 3 illustrates a side view of the hybrid coupling mechanism for the clutch bell assembly, in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0022] Figure 4 illustrates a side view of the hybrid coupling mechanism for the clutch bell assembly coupled with a primary prime mover, in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[0023] Figure 5 illustrates an isometric view of the hybrid coupling mechanism for the clutch bell assembly coupled with the primary prime mover, in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] Reference will now be made in detail to specific embodiments or features, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, corresponding, or similar reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or corresponding parts. Moreover, references to various elements described herein, are made collectively or individually when there may be more than one element of the same type. However, such references are merely exemplary in nature. It may be noted that any reference to elements in the singular may also be construed to relate to the plural and vice-versa without limiting the scope of the disclosure to the exact number or type of such elements unless set forth explicitly in the appended claims.
[0025] Some embodiments of this disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. The words “comprising,” “having,” “containing,” and “including,” and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open-ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items.
[0026] It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context dictates otherwise. Although any systems and methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the present disclosure, the preferred systems, and methods are now described.
[0027] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like numerals represent like elements throughout the several figures, and in which example embodiments are shown. Embodiments of the present disclosure may, however, be embodied in alternative forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The examples set forth herein are non-limiting examples and are merely examples among other possible examples.
[0028] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0029] The present disclosure provides a hybrid coupling mechanism for a clutch bell assembly to couple a primary prime mover to a secondary prime mover in a vehicle, e.g., a two-wheel drive. The present disclosure pertains to a receptor coupling specifically designed to enhance the efficiency and versatility of hybrid vehicle transmission systems. The receptor coupling is a disc-shaped component engineered to serve as a critical interface between an electric motor and an internal combustion engine (ICE) or other secondary prime movers. The receptor coupling facilitates the transfer of rotational motion and torque while eliminating the need for custom modifications to the mating component, such as a clutch bell or similar elements.
[0030] Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of a hybrid coupling mechanism for a clutch bell assembly 100, in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 illustrates an isometric view of the hybrid coupling mechanism for the clutch bell assembly 100, in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 illustrates a side view of the hybrid coupling mechanism for the clutch bell assembly 100, in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0031] Hereinafter, the clutch bell assembly 100 may be referred to as an assembly 100. The assembly 100 may be adapted to be mounted over a clutch bell 102 and to couple the primary prime mover, e.g., electric motor, to the secondary prime mover, e.g., the engine, for transmission of power to operate the vehicle. The transmission may be operation modes of the vehicle, such as, electric, fuel, hybrid or dual.
[0032] The assembly 100 may include a receptor coupling 104. The receptor coupling 104 may be referred to as a female coupling or a receiver. The receptor coupling 104 may include an annular-shaped body 106 adapted to be mounted over a shaft 108 of a mating component, i.e., the clutch bell 102. In an embodiment, the annular-shaped body 106 may be referred to a central ring having an inner diameter that is greater than the diameter of the shaft 108 of the clutch bell 102. In an embodiment, the clutch bell 102 may include a nut (not shown) that may be adapted to firmly couple the receptor coupling 104.
[0033] The annular-shaped body 106 may include a plurality of flanges 110 extending radially outwards along the periphery of the annular-shaped body 106. The plurality of flanges 110 may define a plurality of grooved sections 112. Further, the annular-shaped body 106 may include at least a pair of mating portions 114. The pair of mating portions 114 may be positioned alternatively over the plurality of flanges 110. The pair of mating portions 114 may be adapted to be received by a plurality of slots 116 of the clutch bell 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of flanges 110 may include at least three mating portions adapted to be received within the plurality of slots 116 of the clutch bell 102. In another exemplary embodiment, the plurality of flanges 110 may include at least four mating portions adapted to be received within the plurality of slots 116 of the clutch bell 102.
[0034] Further, the assembly 100 may include a fastening mechanism 118. The fastening mechanism 118 may be adapted to be coupled to the receptor coupling 104 when mounted over the shaft 108 to facilitate transmission between the primary prime mover and the secondary prime mover. The fastening mechanism 118 may include a male connector 120 having a plurality of connector pins 122 extending longitudinally. The plurality of connector pins 122 of the male connector 120 and the pair of mating portions 114 of the annular-shaped body 106 may be protruded in a same direction, i.e. facing towards the clutch bell 102.
[0035] The plurality of connector pins 122 may be adapted to be received within the plurality of grooved sections 112 defined by the plurality of flanges 110. Further, the fastening mechanism 118 may include a rubber bush 124 that may be adapted to be disposed between the male connector 120 and the annular-shaped body 106. The rubber bush 124 may be adapted to secure the annular-shaped body 106 to the clutch bell 102 and maintain concentric alignment. The rubber bush 124 may be covered over an outer circumference of the annular-shaped body 106.
[0036] In an exemplary embodiment, the rubber bush 124 may be adapted to mitigate vibration, absorb shock loads, and accommodate minor alignment deviations. In an embodiment, the rubber bush 124 may be a ring-shaped washer and may be constructed from an elastomeric material such as rubber or polyurethane to dampen mechanical shocks and reduce wear.
[0037] In an embodiment, the pair of mating portions 114 over the plurality of flanges 110 may be symmetrically arranged around the circumference of the annular-shaped body 106 to facilitate balanced torque transmission. In an embodiment, the pair of mating portions 114 may be shaped as rectangular prisms with rounded edges to facilitate smooth insertion into the plurality of slots 116 of the clutch bell 102.
[0038] Further, the male connector 120 may be coupled to the primary prime mover, e.g., the electric motor through another shaft 126. The another shaft 126 may have a key-shaped portion 128 that may be adapted to be coupled with central slot 130 of the male connector 120. The central slot 130 may be an opening or a hole with multiple stepped grooved sections 130a, for example, at least three. The key-shaped portion 128 of the another shaft 126 may have a similar configuration. The key-shaped portion 128 may have multiple protruded portions 128a extending radially. In an exemplary embodiment, the multiple protruded portions 128a of the key-shaped portion 128 may be adapted to be received within the multiple stepped grooved sections 130a of the central slot 130, to facilitate firm connection between the primary and secondary prime movers.
[0039] Figure 4 illustrates a side view of the hybrid coupling mechanism for the clutch bell assembly 100 coupled with a primary prime mover 402, in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 illustrates an isometric view of the hybrid coupling mechanism for the clutch bell assembly 100 coupled with the primary prime mover 402, in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0040] In an embodiment, the annular-shaped body 106 may be adapted to transmit rotational motion and torque from the male connector 120 connected to the primary prime mover to the clutch bell 102 coupled to the secondary prime mover. In an exemplary embodiment, the pair of mating portions 114 may be adapted to engage the plurality of slots 116 of the clutch bell 102 to facilitate the transfer of rotational motion from the electric motor to the CVT system.
[0041] In an embodiment, the mating component is the clutch bell 102 within a continuously variable transmission (CVT) system of a two-wheeler. In an exemplary embodiment, the primary prime mover 402 may be an electric motor, and the secondary prime mover may be an engine or the ICE.
[0042] In an embodiment, during operation, the rotational motion and torque from the primary prime mover 402, i.e., the electric motor may be transmitted to the receptor coupling 104. The pair of mating portions 114 engaged with the plurality of slots 116 on the clutch bell, may facilitate the transfer of power to the ICE or another secondary prime mover. The inclusion of the shock-absorbing bush, i.e., the rubber bush 124 may ensure smooth transfer, even under conditions of misalignment or variable load.
[0043] In an embodiment, the receptor coupling 104 may feature a central hole that aligns precisely with the shaft 108 of the clutch bell 102 to ensure concentricity and secure attachment. In an embodiment, the material selection for the receptor coupling 104 may be steel, aluminium, or similar alloys, which may ensure durability under high operational stress and resistance to wear over prolonged usage.
[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, the rubber bush 124 may be constructed from elastomeric materials like rubber or polyurethane, serves multiple purposes. The rubber bush 124 may mitigates vibrations, absorbs shock loads during operation, and accommodates minor alignment deviations between the electric motor and the ICE. The rubber bush 124 may enhance the smoothness of operation and significantly extends the lifespan of the transmission system by reducing wear.
[0045] In an embodiment, the receptor coupling’s 104 compatibility with the clutch bell 102 may eliminate the need for redesigning or modifying the clutch bell 102. Such elimination may thereby reduce production costs and ensure widespread applicability across different vehicle models.
[0046] The benefits and advantages which may be provided by the present invention have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. These benefits and advantages, and any elements or limitations that may cause them to occur or to become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features of any or all of the embodiments.
[0047] While the present invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it should be understood that the embodiments are illustrative and that the scope of the invention is not limited to these embodiments. Many variations, modifications, additions, and improvements to the embodiments described above are possible. It is contemplated that these variations, modifications, additions, and improvements fall within the scope of the invention.
, Claims:We Claim:
1. A receptor coupling (104) for a clutch bell assembly (100), comprising:
an annular-shaped body (106) adapted to be mounted over a shaft (108) of a mating component (102), wherein the annular-shaped body (106) comprises:
a plurality of flanges (110) extending radially outwards along the periphery of the annular-shaped body (106), the plurality of flanges (110) defining a plurality of grooved sections (112); and
at least a pair of mating portions (114) positioned alternatively over the plurality of flanges (110), the pair of mating portions (114) are adapted to be received by a plurality of slots (116) of the mating component (102).

2. The receptor coupling (104) as claimed in claim 1, comprising:
a fastening mechanism (118) having:
a male connector (120) having a plurality of connector pins (122) extending longitudinally, the plurality of connector pins (122) are adapted to be received within the plurality of grooved sections (112) defined by the plurality of flanges (110); and
a rubber bush (124) adapted to be disposed between the male connector (120) and the annular-shaped body (106) and is adapted to secure the annular-shaped body (106) to the mating component (102) and maintain concentric alignment.

3. The receptor coupling (104) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the rubber bush (124) is adapted to mitigate vibration, absorb shock loads, and accommodate minor alignment deviations.

4. The receptor coupling (104) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the annular-shaped body (106) is adapted to transmit rotational motion and torque from the male connector (120) connected to a primary prime mover to the mating component (102) coupled to a secondary prime mover.

5. The receptor coupling (104) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pair of mating portions (114) over the plurality of flanges (110) are symmetrically arranged around the circumference of the annular-shaped body (106) to facilitate balanced torque transmission.

6. The receptor coupling (104) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pair of mating portions (114) are shaped as rectangular prisms with rounded edges to facilitate smooth insertion into the plurality of slots (116) of the mating component (102).

7. The receptor coupling (104) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rubber bush (124) is a ring-shaped washer and is constructed from an elastomeric material such as rubber or polyurethane to dampen mechanical shocks and reduce wear.

8. The receptor coupling (104) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mating component (102) is a clutch bell within a continuously variable transmission (CVT) system of a two-wheeler, wherein a primary prime mover is an electric motor, and a secondary prime mover is an engine.

9. The receptor coupling (104) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the pair of mating portions (114) engage the plurality of slots (116) of the clutch bell to facilitate the transfer of rotational motion from the electric motor to the CVT system.

10. A hybrid coupling mechanism for a clutch bell assembly (100), comprising:
a receptor coupling (104) adapted to be mounted over a shaft (108) of a mating component (102), wherein the receptor coupling (104) comprises:
a plurality of flanges (110) extending radially outwards along the periphery of the receptor coupling (104), the plurality of flanges (110) defining a plurality of grooved sections (112); and
at least a pair of mating portions (114) positioned alternatively over the plurality of flanges (110), the pair of mating portions (114) are adapted to be received by a plurality of slots (116) of the mating component (102);
a fastening mechanism (118) coupled to the receptor coupling (104), the fastening mechanism (118) comprising:
a male connector (120) having a plurality of connector pins (122) extending longitudinally, the plurality of connector pins (122) are adapted to be received within the plurality of grooved sections (112) defined by the plurality of flanges (110); and
a rubber bush (124) adapted to be disposed between the male connector (120) and the receptor coupling (104) and is adapted to secure the receptor coupling (104) to the mating component (102) and maintain concentric alignment.