Electric Vehicle Throttle Control Apparatus with Tactile Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electric vehicles lack a reliable mechanism to adjust throttle signals effectively, which can lead to inefficient speed control and lack of intuitive control similar to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, especially at low RPM and low speeds.

Innovation Solution

A control apparatus comprising a rider input mechanism and a control device that adjusts throttle signals by using a linear potentiometer and snap action switch to modify the throttle signal based on rider input, providing tactile feedback and responsive control, similar to traditional clutch lever mechanisms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional throttle control is used in electric vehicles, then speed control is achieved through electronic signals, but intuitive control similar to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveintuitive controlVSAvoidcontrol mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the copying principle by replicating the mechanical feel and operation characteristics of traditional internal combustion engine throttle controls in the electric vehicle system. The rider input mechanism is designed to provide tactile feedback and operational characteristics that mirror conventional throttle bodies, allowing riders to intuitively control the electric vehicle using familiar muscle memory and control patterns from traditional motorcycles

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the purely electronic throttle control system with a hybrid system that incorporates mechanical elements. The rider input mechanism includes mechanical components that provide physical feedback to the rider, substituting the cold electronic signals with a warm mechanical interface that maintains the connection between rider input and vehicle response that exists in traditional internal combustion engine vehicles

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If standard throttle control is used, then full power is available, but control at low RPM and low speeds is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol at low speedsVSAvoidspeed control

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the throttle control system adaptive and variable rather than static. The control device dynamically adjusts the relationship between rider input and motor power delivery based on operating conditions. At low RPM and low speeds, the system provides enhanced control sensitivity and tactile feedback, while at high speeds it maintains full power capability, creating a dynamic control characteristic that optimizes reliability across the entire operating range

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operational parameters of the throttle control system based on vehicle operating conditions. The control device modifies the mapping between rider input position and motor power output, adjusting parameters such as control sensitivity, feedback force, and power delivery characteristics. This allows the system to provide precise control at low RPM and low speeds while maintaining full power availability at high speeds, resolving the contradiction between control precision and power capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 intuitive and responsive speed control of electric vehicles, allowing riders to disengage the throttle similar to traditional motorcycles, maintaining full power at high speeds while providing control at low RPM and low speeds, enhancing the riding experience.

Implementation Method 1

using a linear potentiometer and snap action switch to modify the throttle signal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPotentiometer resistance variation: Electrical Resistance

Implementation Method 2

using a linear potentiometer and snap action switch to modify the throttle signal, providing tactile feedback and responsive control

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical switching: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS8333258B2Method and apparatus for adjusting throttle control signals in electric vehicles

Publication Date: 2012.12.18 CUMMINS BATTERY SYSTEMS NORTH AMERICA LLC

AI summary

A control apparatus is provided for use in an electric vehicle having a throttle input device. The throttle input device is operable by a rider for generating a throttle signal for controlling the speed of the electric vehicle. The control apparatus, which adjusts the throttle signal, includes a rider input mechanism and a control device. The rider input mechanism can be manipulated by the rider to provide a given input. The control device is coupled to the rider input mechanism and to the output of the throttle input device. The control device adjusts the throttle signal based on the given input provided by the rider input mechanism.