Vehicle Corner Module With Active Camber Control for Stable Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electric vehicle corner modules lack an integrated solution for efficiently managing driving, braking, steering, and suspension functions, particularly in optimizing wheel camber angles for improved vehicle stability and performance during cornering and braking.
Innovation Solution
A corner module apparatus that includes a drive power generator, suspension system, steering system, and camber adjustment mechanism, utilizing a camber driver with a motor and decelerator to adjust wheel camber angles dynamically, supported by a link system and camber wheel mechanism to enhance stability and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a motor is directly installed inside a wheel (in-wheel motor configuration), then power transfer efficiency is improved and weight is reduced, but control over wheel camber angle is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The corner module apparatus segments the wheel assembly into functionally independent components: the in-wheel motor for power delivery, the suspension system for mechanical support, and the camber adjustment mechanism for angle control. This segmentation allows each subsystem to perform its specific function optimally without interfering with others, resolving the contradiction between power transfer efficiency and camber control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The corner module apparatus integrates multiple functions into a single modular unit that combines power generation, suspension, steering, and camber adjustment capabilities. This multi-functional integration allows the system to maintain both the energy efficiency of in-wheel motors and the adaptability of active camber control within a unified structure
2Stability of the object's composition
If wheel camber angle is dynamically adjusted during cornering and braking, then vehicle stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camber adjustment mechanism is merged with the existing suspension system components, utilizing the arms and linkages already present in the suspension architecture. By combining camber adjustment functionality with suspension components rather than adding entirely separate mechanisms, the system achieves active camber control while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static camber angle configuration to dynamic adjustment capability, allowing the camber angle to change in real-time based on vehicle operating conditions such as cornering and braking. This dynamic adaptability improves vehicle stability while the automated control system manages the complexity of adjustment operations
3Reliability
If an integrated corner module apparatus is implemented, then cornering and braking performance is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated corner module apparatus is segmented into standardized sub-assemblies (motor unit, suspension unit, steering unit, camber adjustment unit) that can be manufactured independently using conventional processes and then assembled. This segmentation approach maintains manufacturing simplicity while achieving the performance benefits of integration
Solution Approach 2:
The corner module apparatus is designed as a universal platform that can be applied to various vehicle types and configurations. By creating a multi-functional module that handles power delivery, suspension, steering, and camber control in a standardized architecture, the system enhances performance while simplifying the manufacturing process through reuse of proven components and assembly procedures
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
The solution provides improved vehicle stability and control by dynamically adjusting wheel camber angles, enhancing cornering and braking performance through integrated management of driving, braking, and steering functions.
Implementation Method 1
a thread gear that is rotated together with the thread rod formed on an outer circumferential surface of the thread rod, and the first converter may include a first conversion gear that protrudes from the camber wheel body and is coupled to the thread gear by being engaged therewith
Implementation Method 2
The thread gear may be formed in the shape of a worm gear, and the first conversion gear may be formed in the shape of a worm wheel
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a corner module apparatus for a vehicle. The corner module includes a drive power generator that provides drive power to a wheel, a suspension, connected to the drive power generator, including a first arm and a second arm that are spaced a distance apart from each other, a steering system that supports the suspension, to be rotated relative to a vehicle body, and adjusts a steering angle of the wheel a camber driver, fixed at a setting angle to the steering system, that generates a drive power and a link system configured to be supplied with the drive power from the camber driver, to reciprocate the first arm or the second arm, and to adjust a camber angle of the wheel