Corner Module Architecture for Independent Wheel Control in EVs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicles with in-wheel motor systems face challenges in integrating braking, steering, and suspension systems effectively, leading to inefficiencies in power transmission and vehicle control.
Innovation Solution
A corner module apparatus that includes a drive unit, suspension arm, shock absorber, steering drive member, and steering transmission member, allowing independent control of wheel movements through a combination of actuators, joints, and links to manage driving, braking, and steering functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If in-wheel motor systems are used to reduce weight and eliminate intermediate power transmission devices, then weight reduction and energy loss reduction are achieved, but integration of braking, steering, and suspension systems becomes complex and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the vehicle's cornering system into separate functional modules: drive unit for power transmission, steering drive member for steering control, and suspension arm with shock absorber for suspension. Each module operates independently but coordinates through defined connection points, allowing complex functions to be managed through modular assembly rather than integrated monolithic design.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive unit serves multiple functions: it provides driving force through the motor, enables braking through regenerative braking capability, and integrates with the steering system through the connected steering drive member. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
2Weight of moving object
If intermediate power transmission devices such as reducers and differential gears are removed, then weight is reduced and energy loss is minimized, but steering and suspension control becomes less precise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical power transmission components (reducers, differential gears) with a direct in-wheel motor system. The motor directly drives the wheel through a simplified transmission path, eliminating complex mechanical gear systems while maintaining control precision through electronic control of the motor's rotational force.
Solution Approach 2:
The in-wheel motor allows for dynamic adjustment of rotational force and speed parameters directly at the wheel, enabling precise control of driving, braking, and steering functions without the need for fixed-ratio mechanical transmissions. This parameter control is achieved through electronic regulation of motor current and voltage.
3Ease of operation
If braking, steering, and suspension systems are configured integrally, then vehicle control is enhanced and independent wheel control is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated cornering system is segmented into distinct functional units: drive unit, steering drive member, and suspension arm assembly. Each unit has a specific function and can be independently controlled, allowing complex integrated control capabilities while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension arm serves as an intermediary component that connects and coordinates the drive unit, steering drive member, and shock absorber. It transmits forces and movements between these components, enabling them to work together as an integrated system while maintaining their individual functional independence.
Data Source
AI summary
A corner module apparatus includes a drive unit to provide a driving force to a wheel, a suspension arm to support the drive unit with respect to a vehicle body, a stretchable shock absorber connected at one side thereof to the drive unit, a steering drive member to support another side of the shock absorber with respect to the vehicle body and generate a steering force, and a steering transmission member provided between the steering drive member and the drive unit. The steering transmission member is capable of varying a steering angle of the wheel in conjunction with the steering force generated by the steering drive member.