Electric Skid Steer Loader With Independent Wheel Torque Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional skid steer loaders face inefficiencies in traction control and ground damage due to fixed wheel drives, and lack of independent power management for hydraulic systems, leading to reduced maneuverability and battery life.
Innovation Solution
An electric skid steer loader with independent drive motors for each wheel, a pivoting battery panel for counterweight, and a forced-air cooling system, along with a central processor for individual wheel control and power management, enhancing traction and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed wheel drive system is used, then the structure is simple, but traction control is poor and ground damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the drive system into independent modules, with each wheel having its own motor and control system. This segmentation allows each wheel to be controlled independently for optimal traction while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of each wheel's motor independently, allowing real-time adjustment of torque and speed for each wheel based on terrain conditions. This dynamic control improves traction without requiring a complex mechanical drive system.
2Device complexity
If hydraulic systems are integrated with the main battery, then power management is simplified, but battery life is reduced due to excessive power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the hydraulic system's power source from the main battery by introducing a dedicated auxiliary battery. This segmentation allows independent power management for hydraulic operations, preventing excessive power consumption from draining the main battery and extending its life.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary battery acts as an intermediary between the hydraulic system and the main battery. It absorbs the high power demands of hydraulic operations, protecting the main battery from excessive consumption while simplifying overall power management through automatic charging from the main battery when available.
3Use of energy by moving object
If electric motors are used for wheel drive, then energy efficiency is improved, but heat generation requires complex cooling systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the cooling system to serve multiple functions: it cools the electric motors during operation and charges the auxiliary battery using regenerative braking energy. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate cooling and power generation systems, simplifying the overall design while maintaining energy efficiency.
4Ease of operation
If independent motor control for each wheel is implemented, then maneuverability is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into independent modules for each wheel, with each motor having its own controller. This segmentation enables sophisticated maneuverability control while keeping individual control units simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
Each wheel's motor and controller form a self-contained unit that can operate independently. This self-service capability allows complex maneuverability functions to be achieved through simple local control decisions rather than requiring a complex centralized control system.
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
Improves traction control, reduces ground damage, and extends battery life by optimizing power delivery to wheels and hydraulic systems, allowing for enhanced maneuverability and reduced slip in various environments.
Implementation Method 1
The rotor is coupled to an axle that rotates in the presence of an electromagnetic field. The stator generates the electromagnetic field when an electric current is passed through the stator.
Implementation Method 2
The fan forces air through the forced-air system. The ducts lead the forced-air to each electric motor.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric loader includes a chassis; a first electric wheel assembly coupled to the chassis, the first electric wheel assembly having a first wheel independently controllable by a first motor; a second electric wheel assembly coupled to the chassis, the second electric wheel assembly having a second wheel independently controllable by a second motor; and a third electric wheel assembly coupled to the chassis, the third electric wheel assembly having a third wheel independently controllable by the third motor.