EV Corner Module Layout for Integrated Steering and Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicles with in-wheel motor systems face challenges in integrating drive, braking, steering, and suspension systems effectively, leading to issues with ride comfort and durability.
Innovation Solution
A corner module apparatus that includes a hub, a main body, a first motor, a second motor, a drive member, and a steering member, with a drive shaft, connections, a steering body, and a torque link, along with a suspension arm and stabilizer bar, to provide integrated driving, steering, and suspension functions, while preventing electrical interference and ensuring durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If drive, braking, steering, and suspension systems are integrated into a corner module apparatus, then system efficiency and space utilization are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines drive motor, steering motor, hub, and suspension components into a single integrated corner module apparatus. The first motor is coupled to the hub via a drive shaft to provide driving force, while the second motor is coupled to the hub via a steering member to control steering angle. This merging of previously separate systems into one modular unit improves space utilization and system efficiency while managing complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The corner module apparatus is designed as a multi-functional unit where a single apparatus performs drive, braking, steering, and suspension functions. The hub serves as a central component that supports both the drive shaft for propulsion and the steering member for direction control, while also being part of the suspension system. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed in the vehicle.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple motors are disposed inside the main body, then drive and steering functions are integrated, but electrical interference may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an insulator as an intermediary component positioned between the first motor and the second motor within the main body. This insulator serves as a physical barrier that prevents electrical interference between the two motors while allowing both to function within the same housing. The insulator mediates the proximity of the motors, enabling integrated drive and steering functions without the harmful electrical interaction that would otherwise occur.
3Volume of moving object
If the first worm gear and first worm wheel are arranged with intersecting central axes, then compact transmission is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a worm gear mechanism where the first worm gear and first worm wheel are arranged with intersecting central axes rather than parallel axes. This three-dimensional arrangement allows for compact transmission space utilization by changing from a planar gear arrangement to a spatial one. The worm gear's ability to transmit motion between non-parallel shafts achieves compact packaging while the intersecting axes configuration optimizes the transmission geometry within the available space.
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 ride comfort and durability by effectively integrating drive, braking, and steering systems, reducing electrical interference, and improving suspension performance.
Implementation Method 1
a first motor disposed inside the main body... a drive member configured to connect to the first motor and the hub, and provide a driving force to the wheel
Implementation Method 2
a second motor disposed inside the main body and spaced apart from the first motor... a steering member configured to connect to the second motor and the hub, and adjust a steering angle of the wheel
Implementation Method 3
a first worm gear arranged inside the first steering body and connected to the second motor; a first worm wheel engaged with the first worm gear
Implementation Method 4
a torque link configured to connect to the first steering body and the hub, and transmit rotational force of the first steering body to the hub
Data Source
AI summary
A corner module apparatus includes a hub connected to a wheel, a main body spaced apart from the hub, a first motor disposed inside the main body, a second motor disposed inside the main body and spaced apart from the first motor, a drive member connected to the first motor and the hub, and providing a driving force to the wheel, and a steering member connected to the second motor and the hub, for adjusting a steering angle of the wheel.