Shape-Adaptive EV Motor Layout for Cabin Space and Aerodynamics
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Electric motors and propulsion elements in electric vehicles intrude into the cabin volume, compromising occupant comfort and aerodynamic efficiency, and existing technologies for compact packaging involve inefficient materials and designs.
Innovation Solution
An adaptable electric motor design featuring a stator unit with coupled winding elements and a rotor unit with shuttles that can change shape to circumvent the cabin, coupled to a truss system for torque transmission, allowing adjustable cabin volume and propulsion flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional electric motors and propulsion elements are used, then propulsion function is achieved, but cabin volume is reduced and aerodynamic efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the electric motor's shape changeable through movable shuttles within the rotor unit. The motor can dynamically adjust its external geometry between extended and retracted configurations, allowing it to occupy less space during normal operation and reduce aerodynamic drag, while expanding to provide necessary propulsion function when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes dimensionality change by transitioning the motor's shape along the longitudinal dimension of the vehicle. The motor extends lengthwise along the vehicle's longitudinal axis, utilizing the available space in this dimension rather than occupying vertical or lateral space that would intrude into the cabin volume.
2Volume of moving object
If electric motors are made compact to increase cabin volume, then propulsion performance may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic shape-changing capability allows the motor to maintain compact dimensions for most of the time, preserving cabin volume, while being able to extend to full propulsion capacity when power is required. The movable shuttles can be positioned to optimize the motor's electromagnetic structure for maximum power output during acceleration or high-load conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor employs a nested structure where the shuttles are contained within the rotor unit. These shuttles can move in and out of the rotor, allowing the motor to compact its active components when full power is not needed, while maintaining the capability to deploy complete propulsion elements when required.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed-shape motors are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability to different vehicle configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The motor is divided into modular segments including the stator unit, rotor unit, and multiple movable shuttles. Each component can be manufactured separately using standardized processes, then assembled together. The segmented design allows for easier manufacturing while enabling flexible configuration through the arrangement and positioning of individual shuttle elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor design creates a universal propulsion unit that can adapt to different vehicle configurations and performance requirements. The same basic motor structure with movable shuttles can be configured for various power levels, vehicle types, and spatial constraints, making it versatile across different applications while maintaining a common manufacturing platform.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances cabin space, improves aerodynamic efficiency, reduces weight and cooling losses, and supports flexible propulsion solutions by altering the motor's size and shape based on vehicle needs.
Implementation Method 1
a stator unit comprising a plurality of winding elements coupled together as a chain... a rotor unit comprising one or more shuttles coupled to the plurality of winding elements
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An electric motor can comprise a stator unit comprising a plurality of concentrated or distributed winding elements coupled together as a chain. The electric motor can further comprise a rotor unit comprising one or more shuttles coupled to the plurality of concentrated or distributed winding elements in an arrangement that can impart to the electric motor, a shape that can circumvent a cabin of an electric vehicle comprising the electric motor.