Electromechanical and electrohydraulic systems are being used more and more frequently in drive trains and chassis for functions which were previously performed purely mechanically or hydraulically. The benefits are clear: Mechatronic components not only contribute to reducing consumption and emissions but also facilitate the introduction of new functions and can contribute to considerably high dynamics. The automotive supplier Schaeffler is presenting three particularly innovative systems at the International Motor Show (IAA): The electromechanical camshaft phasing unit, the automatic “E-Clutch” for manual transmissions, and an electromechanical active roll control.
Significant Benefits in Efficiency
Mechatronic “power-on-demand” solutions use less energy compared to classical hydraulic systems. “Electromechanical systems only use power when they need it,” explains Uwe Wagner, Senior Vice President R&D Automotive at Schaeffler. “Using power only when it is needed leads to a noticeable reduction in fuel consumption.” By using mechatronic actuators in double clutch transmissions for example, it should be possible to make up to 90 per cent energy savings compared to a hydraulically operated control system. The “power-on-demand” principle works differently to hydraulic solutions which have a pressure control valve to control functionality. Not only are there losses to the control function but the hydraulic pump also has to provide the required operating pressure at all times which represents a permanent energy drain.
There are many other advantages to the electromechanical systems developed by Schaeffler in addition to the efficiency gains. “With electromechanical solutions, the individual components can be designed on a modular basis using actuator technology which makes them easier to integrate and saves space at the same time,” explains Wagner. “This makes it easier to incorporate new technologies such as Schaeffler‘s hybrid module into different vehicle concepts.”
Electromechanical Systems for Future Mobility
Schaeffler is now introducing such a system with the automatic “E-Clutch“. In this system, either an additional actuator is incorporated into the pressure line or the hydraulic connection between the pedal and the clutch release system is replaced completely, as in the “clutch-by-wire” option. Amongst other things, both variants allow the vehicle to sail which makes an effective contribution to reducing fuel consumption: If the driver removes his foot from the gas pedal while driving, the motor disengages and either switches off completely or continues running at idle which leads to two to six per cent improvements in consumption.
The first electromechanical camshaft phasing unit from Schaeffler to be put into volume production is a further opportunity to replace hydraulic systems. By using electromechanics, it is possible to phase the camshaft at speeds up to 600 crank angle degrees per second: Hydraulic systems operate up to two to ten times more slowly. This reduces consumption and emissions whilst simultaneously increasing comfort during stop/start operation.
Electromechanics can also lead to greater efficiency when used in the chassis: Such as the first electromechanical active roll control system in the world presented by Schaeffler in which the standard hydraulic antiroll stabilizers currently in use are replaced by electrically driven swivel motors. This not only reduces fuel consumption but also provides greater system dynamics and more accurate steering behavior.
Expertise in Precision Components
Throughout the development of electromechanical vehicle components, Schaeffler has benefited not only from its own systems and software expertise but also from its long experience in incorporating precision components to transmit forces which the company has accumulated over many decades in the industrial arena – for example with ball screw drives and planetary screw drives. This system expertise, down to the last detail, has an important role to play in the future development of electromechanical solutions for vehicle concepts as the degree of electrification increases.