Vehicle Corner Module With Adjustable Camber and Wheel Track
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current corner module apparatuses for vehicles lack the ability to independently adjust wheel alignment and suspension effectively, which affects driving stability and energy efficiency, especially in in-wheel motor vehicles where weight reduction and energy loss minimization are critical.
Innovation Solution
A corner module apparatus that integrates driving, braking, and suspension systems, featuring adjustable upper and lower arm modules with actuator-driven link units and nut screws to adjust camber angles and wheel track, allowing for independent control of each wheel's alignment and suspension, supported by a steering unit that adjusts steering angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If wheel alignment and suspension are integrated in the corner module apparatus, then driving stability and handling are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the driving unit, braking unit, upper arm module, lower arm module, and steering unit into a single corner module apparatus. This merging of multiple suspension and steering components into one integrated unit improves driving stability while managing device complexity through functional consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The corner module apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions including driving, braking, suspension, and steering control within a single integrated structure. The upper and lower arm modules simultaneously provide suspension support and wheel alignment adjustment, achieving multi-functionality that improves stability without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If actuator-driven link units are used to adjust camber angles and wheel track, then manufacturing precision and adaptability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The upper arm module includes an adjustable link unit with actuators that enable dynamic adjustment of the camber angle and wheel track. This dynamic adjustability allows precise wheel alignment control while adapting to different driving conditions, achieving manufacturing precision through active control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs actuators to change geometric parameters such as the camber angle and wheel track by adjusting the link unit configuration. This parameter change capability enables precise wheel alignment control, improving manufacturing precision through controlled variation of suspension geometry.
3Loss of energy
If independent control of each wheel's operation is implemented, then energy efficiency and handling are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The corner module apparatus is designed as an independent unit that can control each wheel individually through its own driving unit, braking unit, and steering unit. This segmentation allows each wheel to be controlled independently, optimizing energy efficiency and handling by adjusting each wheel's operation based on specific driving conditions without requiring complex centralized control of the entire vehicle.
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 driving stability and energy efficiency by allowing precise adjustment of wheel alignment and suspension, improving handling and reducing energy loss through independent control of each wheel's operation.
Implementation Method 1
a first lead screw, disposed on the first actuator to move forward and backward, configured to widen or narrow a gap between the first upper bracket and the second upper bracket in a moving direction thereof; and a first nut screw configured to convert a rotary motion of the first actuator into a rectilineal and reciprocating motion of the first lead screw
Data Source
AI summary
A corner module apparatus for a vehicle includes a driving unit configured to provide driving power to a wheel of the vehicle; a braking unit, coupled with the driving unit, configured to apply or release braking power; an upper arm module, connected to the driving unit, adjustable to vary a camber angle of the wheel; a lower arm module, connected to the driving unit, configured to absorb road surface impact while the vehicle moves; and a steering unit configured to support the upper arm module and the lower arm module, and adjust a steering angle of the wheel.