Driving system for multifunctional vehicle

Abstract

A utility vehicle has a chassis frame extending along a centerline axis, the chassis frame including a first side frame member and a second side frame member opposite each other about the centerline axis. A first drive mechanism is supported by the first frame member and a second drive mechanism is supported by the second frame member. The first gear set assembly is coupled to the first drive mechanism and the second gear set assembly is coupled to the second drive mechanism. A first axial flux electric motor is coupled to the first gear set and positioned between the first frame member and the first gear set, and a second axial flux electric motor is coupled to the second gear set and positioned between the second frame member and the second gear set. The first gear set and the second gear set are spaced apart from each other on opposite sides of the centerline axis.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. non-provisional application No. 18 / 365,544, filed August 4, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to the field of multi-purpose vehicles, and more particularly to drive systems for electric multi-purpose vehicles. Background Technology

[0004] Existing drive systems for multi-purpose vehicles may include two centrally located motors positioned adjacent to each other on the frame, with each motor configured to drive a set of wheels on opposite sides of the frame. Typically, a planetary gear set is used to achieve the desired gear reduction to drive the wheel sets. Furthermore, it is known to position the two motors adjacent to each other such that the output drive shafts of the planetary gear set are aligned along a common axis at the center of the frame to minimize the size of the drivetrain components, thereby maximizing the space available for the battery and controls. One disadvantage of this prior art arrangement is that, given the limited access space around the motors, the configuration of the motors and gears makes motor installation, maintenance, and replacement difficult. Moreover, considering these space constraints, such a system is not suitable for replacing the original motor with a higher-powered motor with increased external dimensions. Attached Figure Description

[0005] Figure 1A This is a top plan view of a multi-purpose vehicle according to some embodiments, the multi-purpose vehicle including two axial flux electric motors positioned between corresponding gear set assemblies and corresponding side frame members.

[0006] Figure 1B This is a top plan view of a multi-purpose vehicle according to some embodiments, the multi-purpose vehicle including two axial flux electric motors positioned between corresponding gear set assemblies and corresponding side frame members.

[0007] Figure 2A A gear assembly coupled to a motor is shown according to some embodiments.

[0008] Figure 2B A gear assembly coupled to a motor is shown according to some embodiments.

[0009] Figure 3A This is a top plan view of a multi-purpose vehicle according to some embodiments, the multi-purpose vehicle including two radial flux electric motors spaced apart by a gap.

[0010] Figure 3BThis is a top plan view of a multi-purpose vehicle according to some embodiments, the multi-purpose vehicle including two radial flux electric motors spaced apart by a gap.

[0011] The various embodiments described herein and their advantages are described in the following detailed description. It should be understood that, for the purpose of illustrating but not limiting the various embodiments described herein, the same reference numerals are used to identify the same elements shown in the drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0012] This document discloses an electric drivetrain system for a multi-purpose vehicle. The electric drivetrain system includes two axial flux electric motors, each configured to drive the front and rear wheels on one side of the multi-purpose vehicle. The axial flux electric motors are arranged on a vehicle chassis frame such that they are opposite but spaced apart from each other, thereby defining an access space between the opposing axial flux electric motors. In one or more first embodiments, each axial flux electric motor includes a drive shaft extending inward toward the opposing axial flux electric motor, wherein the drive shafts of the two axial flux electric motors can be aligned along a common axis. In this first embodiment, each inwardly extending drive shaft is coupled to a separate parallel shaft gear assembly, wherein each parallel shaft gear assembly can be positioned in the access space such that it is opposite but spaced apart from each other between the axial flux electric motors. In some embodiments, one or more batteries may be positioned in the access space between the opposing parallel shaft gear assemblies. Each parallel shaft gear assembly includes an output shaft extending in the direction opposite to the direction of the drive shaft of the axial flux electric motor to which it is coupled. In one or more embodiments, each output shaft of the parallel shaft gear set assembly is coupled to a chain drive mechanism, which in turn is coupled to the front and rear wheels on one side of the multi-purpose vehicle. The vehicle chassis frame extends along a centerline axis, with opposite sides on which the front and rear wheels are located. In some embodiments, the output shafts of the parallel shaft gear set assembly may extend in opposite directions along the same output shaft axis. In some embodiments, the output shafts of the parallel shaft gear set assembly may be equidistant between the front and rear wheels to which they are coupled. A braking assembly may be disposed along the output shaft coupled to the chain drive assembly. Similarly, a planetary gear set assembly may be disposed along the output shaft of the parallel shaft gear set assembly.

[0013] In one or more second embodiments, two electric drive motors are provided, and these two electric drive motors are longitudinally spaced apart from each other along the centerline axis of the multi-purpose vehicle chassis frame. Each drive motor is configured to drive the front and rear wheels on one side of the multi-purpose vehicle. Each drive motor includes a drive shaft that extends outward and engages with a parallel shaft gear assembly disposed along the corresponding side of the multi-purpose vehicle frame. Each parallel shaft gear assembly includes an output shaft that is coupled to a chain drive mechanism, which in turn is coupled to the front and rear wheels. A braking assembly may be disposed along the output shaft coupled to the chain drive assembly. The parallel shaft gear assembly arranged as in this second embodiment allows for the desired gear reduction while minimizing the depth of the gearbox, thereby maximizing the available lateral space for the electric drive motors between the two sides of the vehicle chassis frame. Because the motors are longitudinally spaced apart from each other, the access space between the motors can be used for batteries.

[0014] Figure 1AThis is a top plan view of a multi-purpose vehicle 100, which has an electric drivetrain system 102 supported on a vehicle chassis frame 104 extending along a centerline axis 106. The vehicle chassis frame 104 includes opposing side frame members 104a, 104b. In one or more embodiments, each side frame member 104a, 104b includes at least front wheel assemblies 108a, 108b and rear wheel assemblies 110a, 110b, respectively. The electric drivetrain system 102 includes two axial flux electric motors 112, namely a first axial flux electric motor 112a and a second axial flux electric motor 112b. While not limited to specific electric motors in some embodiments, in other embodiments the axial flux electric motors 112a, 112b are alternating current electric motors. While not limited to a specific type of axial flux electric motor, in one embodiment, one or more axial flux electric motors 112a, 112b may have two stators with a single rotor disposed between the two stators, thus having a stator-rotor-stator arrangement. In other embodiments, one or more axial flux electric motors 112a, 112b may have two rotors with a single stator disposed between the two rotors, thus having a rotor-stator-rotor arrangement. In any case, the two axial flux electric motors 112a, 112b are carried by a vehicle chassis frame 104 so as to be opposite each other on opposite sides of a centerline axis 106, but wherein the first axial flux electric motor 112a and the second axial flux electric motor 112b are spaced apart on opposite sides of the centerline axis 106. Furthermore, each axial flux electric motor 112a, 112b includes a corresponding drive shaft 114a, 114b, which extends inward from each corresponding axial flux electric motor 112a, 112b toward the central axis 106. In some embodiments, the drive shafts 114a, 114b of the corresponding axial flux electric motors 112a, 112b extend toward each other along the same drive shaft axis 116, such that drive shafts 114a and 114b are coaxial.

[0015] The multi-purpose vehicle 100 also includes two parallel-shaft gear sets 118a and 118b, which are similarly positioned on opposite sides of the central axis 106. Each gear set 118a and 118b is respectively coupled to a separate axial flux electric motor 112a and 112b. Furthermore, each gear set 118a and 118b is positioned inside its corresponding axial flux electric motor 112a and 112b, such that each gear set 118a and 118b is positioned between its coupled axial flux electric motor 112a and 112b and the central axis 106. Each gear set 118a and 118b includes a corresponding output shaft 122a and 122b extending outward away from the central axis 106. In one or more embodiments, the output shafts 122a and 122b of the two gear sets 118a and 118b are aligned along the same output shaft axis 124.

[0016] like Figure 1A As shown, each axial flux electric motor 112a, 112b is connected to a corresponding gear assembly 118a, 118b via a corresponding drive shaft 114a, 114b of each respective axial flux electric motor 112a, 112b. Therefore, the axial flux electric motor 112a with drive shaft 114a is connected to gear assembly 118a, and the axial flux electric motor 112b with drive shaft 114b is connected to gear assembly 118b. Gear assembly 118a further drives output shaft 122a, which rotates the wheel assemblies 108a, 110a of the multi-purpose vehicle 100, and gear assembly 118b further drives output shaft 122b, which rotates the wheel assemblies 108b, 110b of the multi-purpose vehicle 100. As shown in the figure, each of the output shafts 122a and 122b extends outward from its corresponding gear assembly 118a, 118b away from the centerline axis 106, such that the output shafts 122a and 122b extend in the opposite direction to the drive shafts 114a, 114b to which they are connected.

[0017] The front wheel assembly 108a includes a hub 109 on which a wheel 111 is mounted, and the rear wheel assembly 110a includes a hub 109 on which a wheel 111 is mounted. A corresponding drive mechanism 130a, 130b is provided along each side frame member 104a, 104b. Each drive mechanism 130a, 130b includes a corresponding first axle 132a, 132b and a corresponding second axle 134a, 134b, wherein the first axles 132a and 132b are respectively connected to the hub 109 of the front wheel assemblies 108a, 108b, and the second axles 134a and 134b are respectively connected to the hub 109 of the rear wheel assemblies 110a, 110b. In one or more embodiments, the front wheel sprockets 136a and 136b are respectively formed as part of axles 132a and 132b, or alternatively are respectively fixed or attached separately to axles 132a and 132b for driving the respective front wheel assemblies 108a and 108b. Similarly, the rear wheel sprockets 138a and 138b are respectively formed as part of axles 134a and 134b, or alternatively are respectively fixed or attached separately to axles 134a and 134b for driving the respective rear wheel assemblies 110a and 110b.

[0018] Although wheel assemblies 108a, 108b, 110a, 110b have been described as having wheels 111, in other embodiments, each wheel assembly may be a continuous track system having a continuous belt of pedals or track plates driven by two or more wheels or sprockets.

[0019] Each drive mechanism 130a, 130b further includes a first output sprocket 140 and a second output sprocket 142, which are mounted on corresponding output shafts 122a, 122b connected to the corresponding gear set assemblies 118a, 118b. The output sprockets 140, 142 may be integral parts of the corresponding output shafts 122a, 122b, or they may be individually attached to the corresponding output shafts 122a, 122b.

[0020] Finally, each drive mechanism 130a, 130b also includes a corresponding front chain 144a, 144b and a corresponding rear chain 146a, 146b. The front chains 144a, 144b engage the corresponding front wheel sprockets 136a, 136b and 140a, 140b, and transmit horsepower and torque to the corresponding front wheel assemblies 108a, 108b. The rear chains 146a, 146b engage the corresponding rear wheel sprockets 138a, 138b and 142a, 142b, and transmit horsepower and torque to the corresponding rear wheel assemblies 110a, 110b.

[0021] As used herein, a sprocket refers to any wheel with teeth, and a chain may include any ring formed by links as well as any smooth or toothed belt or other flexible ring mechanism.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, regulator assemblies 148a and 148b may be provided along output shafts 122a and 122b, respectively, extending from corresponding gear set assemblies 118a and 118b. In some embodiments, regulator assemblies 148a and 148b may be integrally formed with or alternatively coupled to output shafts 122a and 122b, respectively. In one or more embodiments, regulator assemblies 148a and 148b may be brakes as well known in the art, including electric brakes, hydraulic brakes, or mechanical brakes. In other embodiments, regulator assemblies 148a and 148b may be planetary gear sets.

[0023] As discussed above, each axial flux electric motor 112a, 112b is positioned between its corresponding gear assembly 118a, 118b and its corresponding side frame members 104a, 104b. By positioning the axial flux electric motors 112a, 112b in an outward position relative to the centerline axis 106, causing the corresponding drive shafts 114a, 114b of the axial flux electric motors to extend back towards the centerline axis 106, an access space 150 is formed between the axial flux electric motors 112a, 112b. The access space 150 allows for easier installation of the gear assembly 118a, 118b during the manufacture of the multi-purpose vehicle 100, and also allows for easier access to the gear assembly 118a, 118b for maintenance. Additionally, when installed, the gear assembly 118a, 118b are also spaced apart by a gap 152. Figure 1A As shown, gap 152 spans the centerline axis 106 of the multi-purpose vehicle 100. Because the multi-purpose vehicle 100 includes gap 152 between gear assembly assemblies 118a, 118b, the electric drivetrain system 102 of the multi-purpose vehicle 100 can be manufactured more easily. Gap 152 allows tools (e.g., drills, wrenches, etc.) or personnel to enter the interior of the multi-purpose vehicle 100 when installing or maintaining components of the electric drivetrain system 102 of the multi-purpose vehicle 100. For example, gear assembly assemblies 118a, 118b can be inserted into the access space 150 of the multi-purpose vehicle 100 without interfering with each other.

[0024] As in Figure 1BAs is best seen, in one or more embodiments, one or more batteries 154 may be installed in the gap 152 between the gear assembly 118a, 118b. The opposing gear assembly 118a, 118b are spaced apart from each other to form the gap 152, thereby providing sufficient space for installing the battery 154 along the centerline axis 106.

[0025] As described above, in one or more embodiments, output shafts 122a, 122b are aligned along output shaft axis 124. Furthermore, in some embodiments, output shaft axis 124 is arranged to be substantially equidistant between wheel axles 132a, 134a and also substantially equidistant between wheel axles 132b, 134b. Accordingly, aligning output shafts 122a, 122b allows for a more even weight distribution of the multi-purpose vehicle 100. A balanced weight distribution of the components of the multi-purpose vehicle 100 can facilitate a more even distribution of torque to wheel assemblies 108a, 108b, 110a, 110b. In this regard, in those embodiments where battery 154 is mounted in the gap 152 between opposing gear sets assemblies 118a, 118b, the position of battery 154 can also be specifically selected to achieve the desired weight distribution. In some embodiments, battery 154 can be deployed symmetrically about output shaft axis 124, thereby distributing the weight of battery 154 evenly about output shaft axis 124. In other embodiments, the battery 154 may be positioned in front of or behind the output shaft axis 124, depending on preference, to achieve a specific weight distribution. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the axial flux electric motors 112a, 112b and gear sets 118a, 118b are primarily positioned in front of the output shaft axis 124, and the battery 154 is positioned such that their total weight is primarily behind the output shaft axis 124.

[0026] Significantly, with each of the output shafts 122a and 122b positioned at the center of its respective side frame members 104a and 104b, the chains 144a, 146a, 144b, and 146b can be of the same length. This allows for easier assembly of the drive system, as any one of the four chains 144a, 146a, 144b, and 146b can be used in any of the four positions where the chains are to be placed.

[0027] The power output of an axial flux motor increases with the increase of its diameter. For example, as... Figure 1A As shown, each of the axial flux electric motors 112a and 112b has a diameter D1. Figure 1B The diagram shows axial flux electric motors 112a and 112b, each with a diameter D2. Diameter D2 is larger than diameter D1. Therefore, by… Figure 1BThe axial flux electric motors 112a and 112b shown in the diagram output power greater than that of the motors... Figure 1A The power output of the axial flux electric motors 112a and 112b shown is illustrated. Although the diameters of the axial flux electric motors 112a and 112b can be varied, the axial thickness of the motors can remain the same, thereby allowing the motors to be arranged as described above, while also allowing for flexible changes in the motor's power output. For example, Figure 1A The axial flux electric motors 112a and 112b have the same Figure 1B The axial flux electric motors 112a and 112b have the same axial thickness. Therefore, the power output of the motor can be increased by increasing the motor diameter without increasing the axial thickness of the motor or encroaching on the access space 150. This allows for the installation of a more powerful motor in the multi-purpose vehicle 100 without reducing the space provided by the clearance 152 between the gear set assemblies 118a and 118b.

[0028] Although the axial flux motors 112a, 112b and gear sets 118a, 118b are shown opposite or mirror each other across the centerline axis 106 to define a gap 152 between them, it should be understood that in other embodiments, one axial flux motor (e.g., axial flux motor 112a) may be positioned in front of the output shaft axis 124, and one axial flux motor (e.g., axial flux motor 112b) may be positioned behind the output shaft axis 124, thereby maintaining access to the space 150 and thus allowing the gap 152 to be established between the gear sets 118a, 118b. It should be understood that in this case, the drive shafts 114a, 114b do not extend along the same axis, but in any case, each drive shaft 114a and 114b still extends inward toward the centerline axis 106.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, a brake 117 may be provided to control the rotation of the drive shaft 114. In some embodiments, the brake 117 is disposed along the drive shaft axis 116. In some embodiments, the brake 117 is mounted on a gearbox assembly 118 opposite to the axial flux electric motor 112. Thus, in Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the diagram, brake 117a is shown mounted on gearbox assembly 118a opposite to axial flux electric motor 112a, and brake 117b is shown mounted on gearbox inner assembly 118b opposite to axial flux electric motor 112b along drive shaft axis 116. While not limited to specific types of brakes, brake 117 may be an electromagnetic brake in one or more embodiments. In yet other embodiments, brake 117 may be a hydraulic brake.

[0030] Figure 2A and Figure 2B An exemplary configuration of gear assembly 118 is shown. Gear assembly 118 may represent one or both of gear assemblies 118a and 118b. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The gear assembly 118 shown is a parallel shaft gear assembly. In this respect, the drive shaft 114 (e.g., drive shafts 114a, 114b) of the axial flux electric motor 112 (e.g., axial flux electric motors 112a, 112b) is parallel to or substantially parallel to the output shaft 122 (e.g., output shafts 122a, 122b) and any intermediate shafts connected thereto. Figure 2A In this embodiment, gear assembly 118 includes an input gear 210 mounted on a drive shaft 114 and meshing with a first intermediate gear 220. The first intermediate gear 220 is mounted on a first intermediate drive shaft 225, on which a second intermediate gear 230 is also mounted, such that actuation of the axial flux electric motor 112 causes rotation of the second intermediate drive shaft 230. Meshing with the second intermediate gear 230 is an output gear 240 mounted on an output shaft 122 extending along the output shaft axis 124. Any one or more of gears 210, 220, 230, and 240 can be spur gears, or alternatively, any other type of gear, such as helical gears, planetary gears or gear sets, worm gears, bevel gears, etc. In one or more embodiments, the output gear 240 can be a planetary gear set. In one or more embodiments, gears 230 and 240 can have the same diameter, which is larger than the diameters of gears 210 and 220, as shown in the figure. Figure 2B Similar to Figure 2A However, it includes an additional intermediate drive shaft 244 on which additional intervening intermediate gears 246 and 248 are mounted, wherein the additional intermediate drive shaft 244 is parallel to shafts 114, 225, and 122. In one or more embodiments, the diameter of gear 248 may be larger than the diameter of gear 240, and the diameter of gear 230 may be larger than the diameter of gear 246, as shown. Despite the foregoing, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the gear diameters may be selected to achieve a desired transmission ratio for driving output shaft 122.

[0031] exist Figure 2B In this configuration, regulator assembly 148 (e.g., regulator assemblies 148a, 148b) may be positioned along output shaft 122. In one or more embodiments, regulator assembly 148 may be a brake, while in other embodiments, regulator assembly 148 may be a planetary gear set.

[0032] Although not strictly necessary, in some embodiments, such as in Figure 2Aand Figure 2B As shown, a brake 117 can be provided to control the rotation of the drive shaft 114. In some embodiments, the brake 117 is provided along the drive shaft axis 116. In some embodiments, the brake 117 is mounted on a gearbox assembly 118 opposite to the axial flux electric motor 112.

[0033] Instead refer to Figure 3A and Figure 3B Other embodiments of the multi-purpose vehicle 100 are shown, in which radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b are used to power the multi-purpose vehicle 100. While not limited to a specific electric motor in some embodiments, in other embodiments, the radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b are AC electric motors. Figure 3A As shown, radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b are arranged in an alternating configuration spaced apart along the centerline axis 106, thereby providing access space 150 and clearance 152 along the centerline axis 106. Radial flux electric motor 312a is positioned at the front end of the multi-purpose vehicle 100, and radial flux electric motor 312b is positioned at the rear end of the multi-purpose vehicle 100. Each radial flux electric motor 312a and 312b is coupled to a corresponding gear assembly 118a and 118b via a corresponding drive shaft 114a and 114b. (Refer to the above...) Figure 1A and Figure 1B As described, the access space 150 and the clearance 152 allow for easy assembly and maintenance of the electric drive system 102.

[0034] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3B In one embodiment, gear assembly 118a is positioned between radial flux electric motor 312a and side frame member 104a. Similarly, gear assembly 118b is positioned between radial flux electric motor 312b and side frame member 104b. By positioning gear assemblies 118a and 118b in these positions, the drive shafts 114a and 114b of the radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b extend away from the centerline axis 106 of the multi-purpose vehicle 100. Additionally, as... Figure 3AAs shown, the radial flux electric motor 312a is spaced apart from the side frame member 104b by a gap 320. Similarly, the radial flux electric motor 312b is spaced apart from the side frame member 104a by a gap 330. The gaps 320 and 330 extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the centerline axis 106 of the multi-purpose vehicle 100. The gaps 320 and 330 may have the same length or may have different lengths. If the radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b have different dimensions, the gaps 320 and 330 may have different lengths. Additionally, the radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b are spaced apart from each other by a gap 340 that spans along the centerline axis 106 of the multi-purpose vehicle 100. In this respect, the gap 340 spans in a direction substantially parallel to the centerline axis 106, such that the gaps 152 and 340 at least partially define the access space 150.

[0035] When installing or maintaining components of the electric drive system 102 of the multi-purpose vehicle 100, clearances 152, 320, 330, and 340 allow tools (e.g., drills, wrenches, etc.) or personnel to enter the interior of the multi-purpose vehicle 100. For example, gear sets assemblies 118a and 118b and radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b can be inserted into the multi-purpose vehicle 100 and connected to their respective side frame members 104a and 104b. Clearances 320 and 330 provide clearance space between gear sets assemblies 118a and 118b and side frame members 104a and 104b, respectively, to reduce the possibility of interference between components.

[0036] As mentioned above Figure 1B The discussion is in the case of Figure 3B In one or more embodiments shown, one or more batteries 154 can be installed in the access space 150 formed by the gaps 152, 340 between the gear set assemblies 118a, 118b. The opposing gear set assemblies 118a, 118b are spaced apart to form gap 152, and the opposing radial flux electric motors 312a, 312b are spaced apart to form gap 340, thereby providing sufficient space for installing the batteries 154 along the centerline axis 106.

[0037] As discussed above, in some embodiments, motors 312a and 312b may be radial flux electric motors. In other embodiments, motors 312a and 312b may be hydraulic motors. However, it should be understood that axial flux motors are not suitable because they typically require a larger diameter than radial flux motors. Figure 3A and Figure 3BThe embodiment of the vehicle shown is problematic because it is impossible to establish an access space 150 as defined by gaps 152 and 340. In any case, the power output of the radial flux electric motor increases with the increase of the length of the radial flux electric motor. For example, as Figure 3A As shown, each of the radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b has a length L1. Figure 3B Radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b, each with a length L2, are shown. Length L2 is greater than length L1. Therefore, by... Figure 3B The power ratio of the radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b shown is determined by... Figure 3A The radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b shown have high power output. Although the lengths of the radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b can be varied, the diameter (or width) of the motors can remain the same (as opposed to axial flux motors where power output increases with increasing diameter). Therefore, without increasing the diameter of the radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b, the power output of the radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b can be increased by increasing their length. This allows for the installation of a higher-power motor in the multi-purpose vehicle 100 without reducing the access space 150 defined by gaps 152 and 340. In some alternative embodiments, the widths of the individual radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b can also be varied.

[0038] like Figure 3B As shown, because radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b are more... Figure 3A The radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b are longer, so the gaps 320 and 330 are larger than those of the radial flux electric motors 312a and 312b. Figure 3A The gaps 320 and 330 are small. The gaps 320 and 330 allow for easy placement and / or replacement of motors of different sizes within the multi-purpose vehicle 100.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, a brake 117 may be provided to control the rotation of the drive shaft 114. In some embodiments, the brake 117 is mounted on the gearbox assembly 118 opposite to the radial flux electric motor 312. Thus, in Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the diagram, brake 117a is shown mounted on gearbox assembly 118a opposite to radial flux electric motor 312a, and brake 117b is shown mounted on gearbox assembly 118b opposite to radial flux electric motor 312b.

[0040] While certain embodiments of this disclosure have been shown and described in the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of the broadly disclosed concepts and not intended to limit them, and that embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, as various other modifications will be made by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A utility vehicle comprising: a vehicle chassis frame extending along a centerline axis, the vehicle chassis frame having first and second side frame members opposite one another about the centerline axis; a first drive mechanism supported by the first side frame member and coupled to first front and rear wheel assemblies disposed along the first side frame member; and a second drive mechanism supported by the second side frame member and coupled to first front and rear wheel assemblies disposed along the second side frame member; a first gearset assembly including an output shaft coupled to the first drive mechanism; a second gearset assembly including an output shaft coupled to the second drive mechanism; a first axial flux electric motor coupled to the first gearset assembly and positioned between the first side frame member and the first gearset assembly; and a second axial flux electric motor coupled to the second gearset assembly and positioned between the second side frame member and the second gearset assembly, wherein the first and second gearset assemblies are spaced apart from one another on opposite sides of the centerline axis. The first axial flux electric motor has a drive shaft extending inwardly toward the centerline axis, and wherein the second axial flux electric motor has a drive shaft extending inwardly toward the centerline axis. The drive shaft of the first axial flux electric motor is coaxial with the drive shaft of the second axial flux electric motor.

2. The multi-functional vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the first and second drive mechanisms includes:

3. The utility vehicle of claim 2, wherein, a first axle coupled to a front wheel assembly; 4. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein, a second axle coupled to a rear wheel assembly; a front sprocket disposed on the first axle; a rear sprocket disposed on the second axle; a first output sprocket disposed on the output shaft of the respective first and second gearset assemblies; a second output sprocket disposed on the output shaft of the respective first and second gearset assemblies; a front chain engaging the front sprocket and the first output sprocket; and a rear chain engaging the rear sprocket and the second output sprocket. The first and second gearset assemblies are each parallel-axle gearset assemblies.

6. The utility vehicle of claim 1, further comprising a brake disposed along the output shaft of one of the first and second gearset assemblies.

5. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein, The first gearset assembly includes: an input gear mounted on the drive shaft of the first axial flux electric motor; 7. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein, a first intermediate gear mounted on an intermediate drive shaft and in meshing engagement with the input gear; a second intermediate gear mounted on the intermediate drive shaft; and an output gear mounted on the output shaft and in meshing engagement with the second intermediate gear. ​ ​ 8. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein, The first and second gearset assemblies are spaced apart defining a gap therebetween, the utility vehicle further comprising at least one battery disposed in the gap formed between the first and second gearset assemblies.

9. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein, The first axial flux electric motor is an alternating current electric motor, and wherein the second axial flux electric motor is an alternating current electric motor.

10. A utility vehicle comprising: a vehicle chassis frame extending along a centerline axis, the vehicle chassis frame having first and second side frame members opposite one another about the centerline axis; first and second front wheel assemblies disposed along the first side frame member; first and second rear wheel assemblies disposed along the second side frame member; a first gearset assembly supported by the first side frame member, the first gearset assembly including an output shaft; a first drive mechanism supported by the first side frame member, the first drive mechanism including: a first axle coupled to the first front wheel assembly; a second axle coupled to the first rear wheel assembly; a front sprocket disposed on the first axle of the first drive mechanism; a rear sprocket disposed on the second axle of the first drive mechanism; a first output sprocket disposed on the output shaft of the first gearset assembly; and a second output sprocket disposed on the output shaft of the first gearset assembly; a second gearset assembly supported by the second side frame member, the second gearset assembly including an output shaft; a second drive mechanism supported by the second side frame member, the second drive mechanism including: a first axle coupled to the second front wheel assembly; a second axle coupled to the second rear wheel assembly; a front sprocket disposed on the first axle of the second drive mechanism; a rear sprocket disposed on the second axle of the second drive mechanism; a first output sprocket disposed on the output shaft of the second gearset assembly; and a second output sprocket disposed on the output shaft of the second gearset assembly; a first axial flux electric motor positioned between the first side frame member and the first gearset assembly, the first axial flux electric motor having a drive shaft extending toward the centerline axis and coupled to the first gearset assembly; and a second axial flux electric motor positioned between the second side frame member and the second gearset assembly, the second axial flux electric motor having a drive shaft extending toward the centerline axis and coupled to the second gearset assembly, wherein the first and second gearset assemblies are spaced apart from one another on opposite sides of the centerline axis to define a gap therebetween.

11. The utility vehicle of claim 10, wherein, the drive shaft of the first axial flux electric motor is coaxial with the drive shaft of the second axial flux electric motor.

12. The utility vehicle of claim 10, wherein, The first gearset assembly and the second gearset assembly are each parallel shaft gearset assemblies.

13. The utility vehicle of claim 12, wherein: The first gearset assembly includes: an input gear mounted on a drive shaft of the first axial flux electric motor; an output gear mounted on an output shaft of the first gearset assembly; a first intermediate gear mounted on an intermediate drive shaft and meshed with the input gear of the drive shaft of the first axial flux electric motor; and a second intermediate gear mounted on the intermediate drive shaft and meshed with the output gear mounted on the output shaft of the first gearset assembly; and The second gearset assembly includes: an input gear mounted on a drive shaft of the second axial flux electric motor; an output gear mounted on an output shaft of the second gearset assembly; a first intermediate gear mounted on an intermediate drive shaft and meshed with the input gear of the drive shaft of the second axial flux electric motor; and a second intermediate gear mounted on the intermediate drive shaft and meshed with the output gear mounted on the output shaft of the second gearset assembly.

14. The utility vehicle of claim 10, further comprising a brake disposed along an output shaft or an input shaft of one of the first gearset assembly and the second gearset assembly.

15. The utility vehicle of claim 10, wherein, The first gearset assembly and the second gearset assembly are spaced apart from each other on opposite sides of the centerline axis to define an access space between the first gearset assembly and the second gearset assembly.

16. The utility vehicle of claim 15, further comprising at least two batteries disposed in the access space between the first gearset assembly and the second gearset assembly.

17. The utility vehicle of claim 16, wherein, The output shaft of the first axial flux electric motor and the output shaft of the second axial flux electric motor extend along an output shaft axis, and wherein the first axial flux electric motor and the second axial flux electric motor are positioned on one side of the output shaft axis and the batteries are primarily positioned on the other side of the output shaft axis.

18. A utility vehicle, comprising: a vehicle chassis frame extending along a centerline axis, the vehicle chassis frame having first and second side frame members opposite each other about the centerline axis; a first drive mechanism supported by the first side frame member and coupled to a wheel assembly disposed along the first side frame member; and a second drive mechanism supported by the second side frame member and coupled to a wheel assembly disposed along the second side frame member; a first gearset assembly including an output shaft extending along an output shaft axis, the output shaft of the first gearset assembly coupled to the first drive mechanism, the first gearset assembly spaced apart from the centerline axis, wherein the first gearset assembly is a parallel shaft gearset assembly; a second gearset assembly including an output shaft extending along an output shaft axis, the output shaft of the second gearset assembly coupled to the second drive mechanism, the second gearset assembly spaced apart from the centerline axis, wherein the second gearset assembly is a parallel shaft gearset assembly. a second gearset assembly including an output shaft extending along the output shaft axis, the output shaft of the second gearset assembly being coupled to the second drive mechanism, the second gearset assembly being spaced apart from the centerline axis and opposite the first gearset assembly to define a first gap between the first gearset assembly and the second gearset assembly, wherein the second gearset assembly is a parallel shaft gearset assembly; a first radial flux electric motor coupled to the first gearset assembly on a first side of the output shaft axis, the first radial flux electric motor extending across the centerline axis toward a second side frame member; a second radial flux electric motor coupled to the second gearset assembly on a second side of the output shaft axis, the second radial flux electric motor extending across the centerline axis toward the first side frame member, the first radial flux electric motor and the second radial flux electric motor being spaced apart from one another about the output shaft axis to define a second gap between the first radial flux electric motor and the second radial flux electric motor; and at least one battery disposed in the gap between the first radial flux electric motor and the second radial flux electric motor.

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