H-Shaped Torque Distribution Layout for Compact Multi-Axle Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heavy-duty special vehicles, such as fire-fighting, military, or rescue vehicles, face challenges in achieving a compact torque distribution system that provides a high operating range while maintaining versatility and useful space.
Innovation Solution
A torque distribution system with an 'H' shape configuration, incorporating electric machines and a differential system, allows for efficient torque distribution to all wheels independently, optimizing space usage and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If transmission elements are housed in a conventional configuration, then torque distribution functionality is achieved, but useful space in the vehicle is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the torque distribution system with the vehicle's existing transmission architecture by integrating differential systems and electric machines into the drivetrain. This consolidation allows torque distribution functionality to be achieved without adding separate, space-consuming transmission housings, thereby preserving useful vehicle space while maintaining system complexity for high operating range capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an 'H' shaped configuration for the torque distribution system, which optimizes spatial arrangement by utilizing the space between vehicle spars in a three-dimensional layout. This dimensional optimization allows the transmission elements to be positioned efficiently without compromising useful space in the vehicle's operational areas
2Volume of moving object
If transmission elements are housed in a compact configuration, then useful space is maintained, but torque distribution range is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The torque distribution system is segmented into multiple independent functional units including first and second differential systems, each capable of independent torque distribution to different wheel pairs. This segmentation allows each unit to be compact while the overall system provides extensive torque distribution range across all wheels, resolving the contradiction between compactness and versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal torque distribution architecture where electric machines can operate in multiple modes (motor and generator) and the differential systems can distribute torque to various wheel combinations. This multi-functionality ensures that a compact configuration does not sacrifice the ability to provide high operating range and adaptable torque distribution across different driving conditions
3Adaptability or versatility
If electric machines are added to provide torque, then operating range is improved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Electric machines are nested within the existing transmission housing structure, positioned to utilize available space between spars and within the drivetrain architecture. This nesting approach allows electric machines to be integrated without requiring additional external space, thereby maintaining compact vehicle dimensions while providing enhanced operating range through electric torque assistance
Data Source
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AI summary
A vehicle (1) of a special type comprising a chassis (2) movable on the ground via a plurality of wheels (8), the chassis comprising a pair of spars (3', 3") extending parallel to a longitudinal axis (A) of the vehicle (1), the vehicle (1) comprising an engine module (5) configured to provide torque to the plurality of wheels (8) and a distribution system (7) operationally connected between the engine module (5) and the plurality of wheels (8) to distribute the torque, the distribution system (7) comprising an axle (6) and a first and a second branch (7', 7''), the axle (6) comprising a pair of drive axles (27', 2711) operationally connected to an input shaft (13) driven by the engine module (5), the first and second branches (7', 7") each driven by a respective one of drive axles (27', 27"), and extending along respective axes (A', A") parallel to and spaced from the longitudinal axis (A) and each being placed adjacent to and internally with respect to a respective spar (3', 311).