Dual-Mode Drive Unit for Transport and Off-Peak Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional transport means changing systems face inefficiencies due to the need for a large number of drive devices to be kept on standby during off-peak periods, as they are primarily designed for passenger or cargo transport and not utilized effectively for maintenance, clearing, or monitoring activities during these times.
Innovation Solution
A drive device configured for autonomous operation in both passenger/cargo transport and work activities, featuring a dual mode system with a sensor system and tool modules for various tasks, allowing it to switch between transport and work modes dynamically, and utilizing AI for autonomous control and IoT for service settlement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If drive devices are designed exclusively for passenger or cargo transport, then transport function is optimized, but device utilization during off-peak periods deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The drive device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a transport vehicle during peak periods and as a mobile work unit during off-peak periods. The device can autonomously perform various work activities including maintenance, clearing, and monitoring tasks, thereby eliminating the need for dedicated standby vehicles and maximizing utilization throughout all operational hours.
2Reliability
If a large number of drive devices are kept on standby during off-peak periods, then transport capacity is maintained, but resource waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive device continues to perform useful actions during off-peak periods by autonomously executing work activities such as maintenance, clearing, and monitoring. This continuous utilization eliminates idle standby time and ensures that the device contributes to system operations throughout all hours, not just during peak transport demand.
3Productivity
If drive devices are dedicated to transport functions, then transport efficiency is improved, but system flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The drive device dynamically switches between transport mode and work mode based on real-time operational requirements. During peak periods, it operates as a transport vehicle with optimized efficiency, while during off-peak periods, it transitions to autonomous work activities. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to respond flexibly to varying demands without sacrificing transport efficiency when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A drive device for a transport means changing system, comprising: a drive train configured for use on the road; an interface configured for coupling to a passenger cabin and/or cargo cabin; comprising a work device which performs work activities, in particular maintenance, clearing, servicing and/or monitoring activities which are independent of transportation, wherein the drive device has a first operating mode in which it is coupled to at least one passenger cabin and/or cargo cabin and is configured to carry out autonomous transportation of passengers and/or cargo, and wherein the drive device has a second operating mode in which it is decoupled from a passenger cabin and/or cargo cabin and is configured for autonomous mobile performance of the work activities by the work device or by a coupled tool module. The present invention further relates to a corresponding use of a drive device and a corresponding transport means changing system.