Axle Drive Mode Switching for Efficient Torque Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle drive systems lack efficiency in managing torque distribution between wheels on an axle, leading to suboptimal energy consumption and performance across varying operating conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method and drive system that dynamically select between primary and secondary driving modes based on energy efficiency, where one or both drive units are activated to optimize torque distribution and energy usage, utilizing a computing unit to determine the most energetically favorable mode based on kinematic parameters and stored characteristic maps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If both drive units are activated to drive the wheels on an axle, then the torque distribution and vehicle performance are improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between primary and secondary driving modes based on real-time operating conditions. The computing unit continuously evaluates kinematic parameters and selects the optimal driving mode (single or dual drive units) to adapt to varying vehicle requirements, thereby optimizing the balance between power output and energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by switching between different driving modes. The computing unit modifies the activation state of drive units based on evaluated operating conditions, transforming the system from a static configuration to a dynamic one that optimizes energy efficiency while maintaining required performance levels.
2Use of energy by moving object
If only one drive unit is activated to reduce energy consumption, then the energy efficiency is improved, but the torque distribution capability and vehicle performance are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic mode switching between primary (single drive unit) and secondary (dual drive units) configurations. The computing unit continuously monitors operating conditions and transitions between modes to ensure adequate torque distribution capability is maintained only when necessary, optimizing energy efficiency while preserving performance when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies partial action by activating only one drive unit when sufficient for the current operating conditions, and switches to full action (both drive units) when higher torque distribution capability is required. This selective activation strategy optimizes energy efficiency while maintaining adequate performance through conditional full-power operation.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the driving mode is selected based on real-time conditions, then the energy efficiency is optimized, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into distinct functional components: a computing unit that evaluates operating conditions, a decision module that selects driving modes, and execution mechanisms that activate appropriate drive units. This modular segmentation manages system complexity by dividing the control function into manageable, independent segments with clear interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-evaluation and self-selection of operating modes through the computing unit that automatically assesses kinematic parameters and determines the optimal driving mode without external intervention. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex external control systems while maintaining optimized energy efficiency.
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
This approach reduces energy consumption by selecting the most efficient driving mode for each operating range, minimizing electromagnetic losses and enhancing vehicle performance by optimizing torque distribution across wheels.
Implementation Method 1
The drive units may be dragged by the other wheel or may rotate in idle duty or in freewheeling. The deactivated drive unit may be dragged by the activated drive unit
Data Source
AI summary
A method for driving wheels of at least one axle of a vehicle may include dictating a setpoint for a torque to be provided by at least one drive unit for a given operating range, verifying a driving mode in which a better efficiency is achieved for the given operating range, and driving the wheels in the driving mode in which the better efficiency is achieved. The at least one drive unit may be selected from a first drive unit and a second drive unit. The first and second drive units may be associated with the at least one axle. The driving mode may be selected from a first driving mode and a second driving mode. The wheels in the first driving mode may be driven by the first drive unit. The wheels in the second driving mode may be driven by the first and second drive units.