Detachable Rear Range-Extender Modules for Flexible EV Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicles are limited by fixed range capabilities, leading to range anxiety and inefficiencies, as they rely solely on battery capacity without flexible range extension options that meet safety and practicality standards.
Innovation Solution
A modular vehicle architecture system that allows for detachable and interchangeable rear modules with different range-extending components, such as additional batteries or combustion engines, connected via a simple electrical interface, enabling on-demand range extension without hydraulic or fluid connections, and quick module swapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a larger battery is installed to increase vehicle range, then the range capability is improved, but the vehicle cost and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle battery system is divided into a main battery and a removable range extender module. This segmentation allows users to attach additional battery capacity only when needed for long trips, rather than carrying a large battery permanently. The range extender module can be detached and stored when not in use, reducing the vehicle's operating weight during daily commutes.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery configuration is made dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed. Users can change the battery setup by attaching or detaching the range extender module based on their specific travel needs. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the vehicle to adapt its range capability and weight characteristics to match the demands of different driving scenarios.
2Duration of action of moving object
If a range extender trailer is used to increase vehicle range, then the range capability is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The range extender module integrates the additional battery capacity and motor components into a single unified assembly that attaches directly to the vehicle's rear. This merging eliminates the need for a separate trailer unit, simplifying the overall system and reducing operational complexity. The integrated design allows the range extender to function as part of the vehicle rather than as an external attachment requiring separate handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable module serves multiple functions: it provides additional battery capacity for extended range, contains its own motor for propulsion, and integrates electrical connections for power transfer. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single universal component that simplifies operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a removable range extender module is attached to increase vehicle range, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into discrete, standardized components including electrical connectors, mechanical coupling points, and alignment features. This segmentation allows for modular assembly and disassembly while maintaining consistent interfaces that reduce complexity. Each component can be independently manufactured and tested, simplifying the overall system integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system replaces complex mechanical fastening mechanisms with an integrated electrical connector that simultaneously provides both electrical connection and mechanical attachment. This substitution reduces the number of separate components and fastening operations required, simplifying the overall attachment process while maintaining secure connection.
4Power
If hydraulic or fluid connections are used for module attachment, then the power transfer capability is improved, but the ease of manufacture and reliability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces hydraulic or fluid-based power transfer with direct electrical connections through the removable module. This substitution eliminates the need for fluid seals, hoses, and pressure management systems, thereby improving reliability by removing potential failure points associated with fluid connections while maintaining effective power transfer capability through electrical interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex fluid connection systems are extracted and removed from the design entirely. By taking out the hydraulic or fluid-based power transfer mechanism and replacing it with electrical connections, the system achieves improved reliability and easier manufacturing without sacrificing power transfer capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for modifying the range capability of an electric vehicle includes a vehicle body having a front axle and a rear module secured to the vehicle body. The rear module includes a rear axle and the rear module is detachable from the vehicle body and replaceable with another rear module. The rear modules may include different range extension capabilities. The rear modules may include a battery or a combustion engine that may supplement the standard battery and electric motor of the vehicle. A pair of laterally translatable pins of the rear module may be moveable into and out of engagement with the vehicle body. The rear module may also include vertically extending posts that engage with the vehicle body. The vehicle body may be raised to disengage the posts from the vehicle body.