Hybrid Electric Work Machine with Detachable Rear Section

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing work machines, such as articulated haulers, face limitations in operational flexibility and traction on uneven and slippery terrain, particularly when carrying heavy loads in off-road conditions.

Innovation Solution

A hybrid electric work machine design is introduced, where the rear section is detachably connected to the front section and equipped with an electric drive system powered by the front section's power source, allowing self-propulsion and remote control, with electric motors providing infinitely variable torque distribution for improved traction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the rear section is detachably connected to the front section with an electric drive system, then operational flexibility and self-propulsion capability are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational flexibilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The work machine is divided into separable front and rear sections that can be detached and reconnected. The rear section contains an independent electric drive system with motors for each ground engaging member, allowing it to function independently when detached while maintaining integration when connected to the front section.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The electric drive system in the rear section serves multiple functions: it provides self-propulsion when the rear section is detached, and contributes to combined propulsion when attached to the front section. The power source in the front section can power both sections simultaneously, creating a versatile hybrid electric system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If electric motors provide infinitely variable torque distribution to ground engaging members, then traction on slippery terrain is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraction capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each ground engaging member in the rear section is equipped with its own electric motor, allowing independent torque control for each wheel or track. This localized drive capability enables optimized torque distribution to individual ground engaging members based on local terrain conditions, improving traction on slippery surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The electric drive system provides dynamically adjustable torque distribution to the ground engaging members. The control system can continuously vary the torque applied to each motor based on real-time conditions, enabling optimal traction control rather than fixed mechanical differential limitations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the rear section can be maneuvered independently in detached state, then operational flexibility is improved, but control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational flexibilityVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rear section is equipped with an independent electric drive system that enables it to maneuver itself when detached from the front section. This self-propulsion capability allows the rear section to position itself without requiring external assistance, reducing the need for additional control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

A wireless communication system serves as an intermediary between the operator and the detached rear section, enabling remote control of the electric drive system. This allows the rear section to be maneuvered independently while maintaining operator control through wireless commands rather than requiring complex mechanical control linkages.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This design enhances operational flexibility and traction on challenging terrain by enabling the rear section to be maneuvered independently, supporting front wheel drive in slippery conditions and improving overall off-road performance.

Implementation Method 1

the electric machine is operatively connected to the mechanical power generating means for converting the mechanical power to electric power

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the electric drive system comprises at least one electric motor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS8899362B2Work machine
Publication Date: 2014.12.02 VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AB
  • US8899362B2 patent drawing
  • US8899362B2 patent drawing
  • US8899362B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A work machine includes a front section with a front frame, a first set of ground engaging members and a power source for propelling the work machine, a rear section with a rear frame, a second set of ground engaging members and a load-carrying container. The rear section includes an electric drive system adapted for driving at least one ground engaging member of the second set. The rear section is detachably connected to the front section. The power source of the front section is adapted to power the electric drive system in the rear section in an attached state of the front and rear sections. The electric drive system is adapted for driving the at least one ground engaging member of the second set for self-propelling of the rear section in a detached state.