On-Board Engine Generator Layout for Extended-Range Work Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric work vehicles face the challenge of limited cruising range due to the need for battery charging, which is often unavailable at work sites, necessitating relocation of the vehicle or battery to a charging location.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an engine power generator with a casing, power generation section, and engine to charge the battery on-board while traveling, allowing work to continue beyond the cruising distance without stopping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If the vehicle relies solely on battery power, then the vehicle structure remains simple, but the cruising distance is limited and the vehicle must be relocated for charging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the engine and power generation section into an integrated engine power generator unit that can be mounted on the vehicle body. This merging allows the vehicle to have both battery electric drive capability and engine-based power generation, enabling extended cruising distance while maintaining relatively simple vehicle structure through modular integration
Solution Approach 2:
The engine power generator serves multiple functions: it generates electricity to charge the battery during vehicle operation, can provide direct power to work devices, and enables the vehicle to operate beyond battery-only cruising range. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by providing extended duration of action without proportionally increasing structural complexity
2Reliability
If the engine power generator is integrated permanently into the body, then the power supply system is stable, but inspection and repair become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The engine power generator is designed as a separable module that can be independently removed from the vehicle body. The mounting structure allows the engine power generator to be detached and reattached, enabling easy inspection and repair while maintaining stable power supply when mounted. This segmentation resolves the contradiction between reliability and ease of repair
3Reliability
If a dedicated mounting structure is provided for the engine power generator, then the power generation system is securely mounted, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo bed is designed to serve dual purposes: it functions as both a storage space for cargo and as a mounting platform for the engine power generator. By utilizing the existing cargo bed structure for both functions, the patent avoids the need for dedicated mounting structures, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining secure mounting of the power generation system
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting function is merged with the cargo bed structure rather than being a separate component. The engine power generator is mounted directly on the cargo bed, combining the storage and power generation mounting functions into a single structural element, which reduces overall manufacturing cost while maintaining mounting security
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
Enables battery charging and power supply to work devices at the work site, facilitating continuous work and reducing the need for relocation, while also allowing easy inspection and maintenance of the engine power generator.
Implementation Method 1
a power generation section (22) in the casing (21); and an engine (23) in the casing (21) configured to drive the power generation section (22)
Data Source
AI summary
An electric work vehicle includes a body supported by a travel unit; an electric motor provided for the body and configured to drive the travel unit; and a battery provided for the body and configured to supply electric power to the electric motor. The vehicle further includes an engine power generator having: a casing; a power generation section in the casing; and an engine in the casing, configured to drive the power generation section.