Mobility for Tomorrow with Schaeffler
The future of the automobile will be determined by increases in efficiency and progressive electrification of the drive train as well as changing patterns of mobility and associated continuous digitalisation.
As an internationally renowned supplier and development partner, Schaeffler understands these challenges and presented products and solutions for “Mobility for Tomorrow” at the 2015 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt.
The paradigm shift in automotive engineering is increasing both the complexity and demands on an holistic, systemic way of thinking. Schaeffler‘s systems expertise in this area covers every detail and is based on a comprehensive product portfolio that comprises precision components and systems for engine, transmission, chassis, and electric mobility applications.
These four themed areas were once again found at the Schaeffler booth, with the focus on efficiency, electrification, and performance. The main focus was the increasing worldwide demand on reducing CO2 emissions and fuel consumption.
The company‘s highlight at IAA was the “glass car”, a scale model peppered with approximately 40 Schaeffler products and technological developments. The model also had a digital display explaining all the relevant components in detail. The electromechanical camshaft phasing unit, the “E-Clutch” automated clutch and the electromechanical active roll control system were impressive demonstrations of Schaeffler‘s expertise as a supplier of actuators to the automotive market.
Power on Demand is a key term – electromechanical systems in the drive train and chassis contribute to reductions in consumption and emissions. At the same time, they facilitate the introduction of new automated functions such as de-clutching in manual transmissions.
Compared to hydraulic systems, electromechanical solutions use less energy and use power only when needed. The first electromechanical active roll control system from Schaeffler, which represents a new phase in chassis technology, demonstrated this.
This innovative system replaces the hydraulic roll stabilisers in current general use. It enhances the driving dynamics and is being put into volume production for the first time in a luxury limousine. With this system, Schaeffler is also helping to reduce fuel consumption and emissions and make vehicle assembly more straightforward.
At IAA, Schaeffler also announced the forthcoming start of volume production for the companies first electromechanical camshaft phasing system which adjusts the camshaft more quickly and accurately to the prevailing engine operating conditions.
This reduces consumption and harmful emissions while simultaneously increasing comfort during stop/start operation. At the same time, the automotive supplier is also making further improvements to the hydraulic phasers currently in extensive use in the market.
With an annual production of 15 million phasers, Schaeffler is one of the leading suppliers in this field. In developing electromechanical components for automobiles, Schaeffler draws on its system and software expertise as well as many years of experience in the application of precision engineering components for transmitting forces.
This system expertise has an important role to play in the future detailed development of electromechanical solutions for vehicle concepts as the degree of electrification increases. The P2 high-voltage hybrid module from Schaeffler is a new solution for electrification of the drive train which can be matched to a large number of drive concepts on a modular basis.
This module consists of an automated disconnect clutch and the electric machine. The disconnect clutch is operated by an electromechanical central clutch release system, which directly actuates the clutch and is completely integrated into the rotor of the electric machine.
An over-running clutch which, transmits the traction moments from the combustion engine to the transmission, is used in parallel to the disconnect clutch. The new generation P2 hybrid module from Schaeffler, with its high versatility and wide torque range of up to 800Nm, can be used in both medium and very high performance transmission concepts, and can make a considerable contribution to further reductions in consumption and emissions in plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Exciting developments: Schaeffler has incorporated a damper into the e-machine in the new hybrid module. In addition to the damper, the electric motor provides vibration damping at lower speeds only. This new hybrid module will be put into volume production for the first time at the beginning of 2017 in China. As the exclusive technology partner to the ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport Formula E Team, Schaeffler has completely redesigned the engine and transmission in the racing car‘s drive train.
The new car started season two of the FIA Formula E season in Beijing on October 17 with its own in-house drive train. Its two drivers,Daniel Abt (22) and Lucas di Grassi (31), have already caused a sensation more than once in season one and finished third in the team standings.