Electric ATV Tri-Core Layout for Stable Weight Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of arranging the Tri-core system (battery pack, electric motor, and Motor Control Unit) in electric all-terrain vehicles to optimize space utilization, stability, and performance within a limited frame, while minimizing the weight and volume of the battery pack, is not adequately addressed by existing technologies.
Innovation Solution
A compact and integrated layout of the Tri-core system is achieved by positioning the Motor Control Unit between the battery pack and the electric motor, with a flexible drive train arrangement that includes an offset drive train, optimizing the distribution of components along the vehicle's longitudinal axis and utilizing space efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional bicycle design is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the vehicle is unsuitable for off-road use and lacks all-terrain capability
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle integrates multiple functions into a single platform: it operates as a bicycle on paved surfaces and as an all-terrain vehicle on off-road surfaces. The seat assembly serves dual purposes as both a rider seat and a storage compartment, while the cargo bed functions for both cargo transport and as a structural platform for mounting additional equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage compartment is nested within the seat assembly structure, with the compartment located beneath the seat cushion. The cargo bed is integrated into the rear frame structure, nesting the storage function within the vehicle's structural framework rather than adding separate external components.
2Quantity of substance
If cargo storage capacity is increased, then the vehicle becomes more useful for practical applications, but the vehicle's maneuverability and handling become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into multiple segments: a cargo bed at the rear, a storage compartment within the seat assembly, and side racks along the frame. This segmentation distributes the cargo load across different locations rather than concentrating it in one area, improving balance and handling while providing flexible storage options for different cargo types.
Solution Approach 2:
Storage capacity is increased by utilizing vertical space through side racks that extend upward from the frame, and by nesting the storage compartment within the seat assembly's three-dimensional structure. This approach adds storage volume without proportionally increasing the vehicle's horizontal footprint or overall size.
3Reliability
If the vehicle is designed for off-road use with enhanced durability, then the vehicle can handle rough terrain, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame receives localized reinforcement at specific high-stress areas such as the head tube, seat tube, and cargo bed mounting points, rather than uniformly thickening the entire frame. This selective reinforcement provides the necessary durability for off-road use while minimizing additional material usage and manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle utilizes a hybrid construction combining steel frame components for structural strength and durability with aluminum or lighter materials for components where weight reduction is beneficial. This composite approach optimizes the balance between durability and weight without requiring the entire vehicle to be constructed from heavy, expensive materials.
4Power
If electric propulsion is added to enable pedal-assist functionality, then the vehicle's power and capability are enhanced, but the vehicle's simplicity and ease of maintenance are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electric propulsion system replaces or supplements the purely mechanical pedal-drive system with an electric motor that provides assistive power. The motor is integrated into the drivetrain, working in conjunction with the existing chain and gear mechanisms rather than requiring a completely separate propulsion system.
Solution Approach 2:
The electric motor serves multiple functions: providing pedal-assist power for easier pedaling, enabling the vehicle to tackle steep inclines, and potentially serving as a backup power source if the mechanical drivetrain fails. The battery system also provides power for any electronic components such as lights or displays.
Data Source
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AI summary
An electric all-terrain vehicle (100) includes a set of wheels (13), a drive system (13), a battery pack (17), and a Motor Control Unit (15). The battery pack (17), the electric motor assembly (141) and the Motor Control Unit (15) are distributed substantially along a front-rear direction of the electric all-terrain vehicle (100). A projection of the Motor Control Unit (15), a projection of the battery pack (17), and a projection of the electric motor assembly (141) all on a plane perpendicular to an up-down direction of the vehicle cooperatively define a Tri-core system projection area (S1). A maximum length occupied by the Tri-core system projection area along a front-rear direction is defined as a Tri-core longitudinal length (H1). A distance between a first wheel axle centerline (L1) and a second wheel axle centerline (L2) is defined as a wheelbase distance (H2). A ratio of the wheelbase distance (H2) to the Tri-core longitudinal length (H1) is in the range from 0.7 to 2.5. The positions of the Tri-core system are reasonably arranged and the relevant components are highly integrated, the center of gravity of the entire vehicle are reasonably allocated, thereby making the overall performance of the vehicle more superior.