Accessible Vehicle Battery Layout for Wheelchair Interior Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current passenger vehicles are not mass-produced to accommodate physically limited passengers, requiring aftermarket modifications such as ramps and wheelchair lifts to facilitate entry and seating for individuals with disabilities.
Innovation Solution
A powered vehicle design that includes a chassis with a power system where the high-voltage battery is relocated to the engine compartment, allowing for better weight distribution and additional space, along with an all-wheel drive unit and fuel tank positioned at the rear, to create a more accessible interior for physically limited passengers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the battery is relocated to the engine compartment, then additional space is created in the interior for physically limited passengers, but the power system layout becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The power system is segmented into separate functional components: the high-voltage battery is relocated to the engine compartment while the powertrain remains in the rear. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component's location, creating interior space while maintaining power system functionality through separate but coordinated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery mounting assembly incorporates vertical adjustment capability, allowing the battery to be positioned at different heights within the engine compartment. This dimensional flexibility enables space optimization in the interior while accommodating the battery in the engine bay without fixed positional constraints.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the battery mounting assembly allows vertical adjustment, then flexibility in power system configuration is improved, but the mounting structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The battery mounting assembly transitions from a static fixed-position mounting to a dynamic adjustable mounting system. The vertical adjustment mechanism allows the battery to be repositioned along the vertical axis, providing adaptability for different power system configurations while using a relatively simple rack-and-pinion or screw-mechanism-based adjustment system.
Data Source
AI summary
A powered vehicle includes a chassis having a front end and a rear end, and at least one front wheel and at least one rear wheel for supporting the chassis. The at least one front wheel defines a front axle and the at least one rear wheel defines a rear axle. A first portion of the vehicle defines an interior in which at least one seat is located. A second portion of the vehicle is located outside of the interior. The first and second portions are at least partially separated by a wall. A power system for propelling the vehicle is located in the second portion, where the power system includes a HV battery for producing electrical power to propel the vehicle. The battery is coupled to the chassis and located in the second portion.