EV Drive Unit Layout for Centered Inverter Mass and Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The weight distribution of power control units, particularly the inverter, in electric vehicles affects vehicle handling, necessitating optimal mounting positions to improve handling.
Innovation Solution
The electric vehicle is configured with front and rear integrated electromechanical units, where the first integrated electromechanical unit drives the front wheels and the second drives the rear wheels, with power control devices disposed strategically to concentrate mass near the center of gravity, enhancing vehicle responsiveness during turning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the power control device (inverter) is mounted on the upper surface of the transaxle case, then the device integration is simplified, but the weight distribution is unfavorable and vehicle handling deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The power control device is relocated from a horizontal mounting position (on the upper surface of the transaxle case) to a vertical mounting position (on the side surface of the battery housing). This dimensional change in mounting orientation allows the heavy inverter to be positioned lower in the vehicle, improving weight distribution and handling while maintaining integration efficiency.
2Area of stationary object
If the battery is disposed underneath the floor between front and rear wheels, then space utilization is improved, but the weight distribution and handling are affected
Solution Approach 1:
The power control device is mounted on the side surface of the battery housing at a location that optimizes local weight distribution. By positioning the heavy inverter on the battery housing rather than on the transaxle case, the system creates a favorable weight balance in the lateral direction while maintaining the battery's central longitudinal position for optimal handling.
3Ease of operation
If the inverter is positioned to improve weight distribution, then vehicle handling is improved, but the mounting space and integration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power control device is integrated with the battery housing structure, merging two previously separate mounting locations (battery and inverter) into a single integrated assembly. This combination simplifies the overall mounting structure while achieving optimal weight distribution, as the inverter is positioned on the battery housing rather than requiring a separate transaxle case mounting.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric vehicle includes a first integrated electromechanical unit including a first motor and a first power control device, and a second integrated electromechanical unit including a second motor and a second power control device. The first integrated electromechanical unit is configured to drive front wheels via first drive shafts. The second integrated electromechanical unit is configured to drive rear wheels via second drive shafts. A battery is disposed underneath a floor and between the front wheels and the rear wheels. The first integrated electromechanical unit is disposed forward of the battery. The second integrated electromechanical unit is disposed rearward of the battery. The first power control device is disposed rearward of the first motor. The second power control device is disposed forward of the second motor.