EV Mechatronic Unit Layout for Front Collision Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrified vehicles do not adequately protect critical components such as the motor, inverter, and auxiliaries like the electric compressor from impacts during frontal collisions.
Innovation Solution
The mechatronic unit and auxiliaries are positioned between the front wheels, within the wheel diameter, to absorb impact forces, and the integrated thermal unit is installed above the mechatronic unit, optimizing component placement to minimize collision damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the mechatronic unit and auxiliaries are installed in the conventional position (not within wheel diameter), then the layout is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the components are vulnerable to impact during frontal collisions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the mechatronic unit and auxiliaries within the wheel diameter in the lateral dimension, utilizing the space between front wheels as a protective zone. This dimensional repositioning allows the front wheels to act as impact barriers, protecting critical components from frontal collisions while maintaining a compact layout
2Reliability
If the front wheels are positioned to maximize impact absorption, then the protection of mechatronic unit and auxiliaries is improved, but the vehicle width and overall dimensions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The front wheels serve dual functions: providing propulsion and steering while simultaneously acting as impact absorption barriers. By positioning the mechatronic unit within the wheel diameter, the wheels' lateral extent becomes a protective feature, eliminating the need for additional impact absorption structures that would increase vehicle width
Data Source
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AI summary
An electrified vehicle (30) includes a mechatronic unit (300) incorporating a motor (350) that is a motive power source for driving front wheels (31) and an electric power control device (310) that supplies electricity of a battery (33) to the motor (350). The electrified vehicle (30) includes an integrated thermal unit (400) that is an auxiliary. The mechatronic unit (300) and the integrated thermal unit (400) are installed between the front wheel (31) on a vehicle right side and the front wheel (31) on a vehicle left side, inside a wheel diameter of the front wheel (31) as seen in a vehicle side view.