Fuel Cell Mounting Structure Using Drive Unit Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel cell system mounting structures are large and inefficient in space utilization, particularly due to the placement of the mount member rearward of the travel motor, leading to a bulky design.
Innovation Solution
A mounting structure that connects both ends of the fuel cell system's case unit to a drive unit via first and second mounts, with the electrical unit fixed to the case unit's outer surface, and a third mount connecting the electrical unit to the drive unit, allowing for compact integration and protection from external loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the mount member is disposed rearward of the travel motor, then the fuel cell system can be protected from external loads, but the mounting structure becomes large and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mounting function with the drive unit by integrating the mount members into the drive unit structure itself. The drive unit serves dual purposes: providing driving force and serving as the mounting structure to protect the fuel cell system from external loads. This eliminates the need for separate protective members disposed rearward of the travel motor, thereby reducing overall structure size while maintaining protection reliability.
2Reliability
If separate members are provided for fixing the fuel cell system outside the drive unit, then the fuel cell system can be securely fixed, but the mounting structure becomes complex and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The drive unit is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the driving force for the vehicle and serves as the mounting structure for securing the fuel cell system. The drive unit's structural components are utilized as mount members, eliminating the need for separate fixing members. This multi-functional design reduces both the complexity and number of components while maintaining secure fixing reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting structure for a fuel cell system includes a drive unit and a connecting structure. The connecting structure includes a first mount, a second mount, and a third mount. The first mount connects one end of the case unit in the stacking direction to the drive unit. The second mount connects the other end of the case unit in the stacking direction to the drive unit. The third mount connects the electrical unit to the drive unit.