Hydrocarbon Generator Assist Platform for Electric Vehicle Range Extension
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The limited range of electric vehicles between recharging, which becomes problematic for interstate trips and can leave the vehicle stranded if the battery is depleted, necessitates an improvement to make electric vehicles more acceptable to the general public.
Innovation Solution
An assist apparatus for electric vehicles, featuring a platform secured to the vehicle with a hydrocarbon motor that generates electricity, which can be activated manually or automatically to charge the rechargeable batteries, providing a stream of electricity via a generator and electrical cable, and includes a secondary bumper for protection against impacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If electric vehicles use rechargeable batteries with limited range, then environmental friendliness and operating economy are improved, but travel range and reliability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between electric motor operation and hydrocarbon motor operation based on battery charge level. When battery charge drops below a threshold, the hydrocarbon motor automatically activates to generate electricity and recharge the battery, enabling continuous operation without being stranded.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the power source parameter from purely electric to a hybrid configuration. By incorporating a hydrocarbon motor that can operate independently or in conjunction with the electric motor, the system transforms the fixed parameter of battery-only operation into a flexible parameter that adapts to available energy resources.
2Loss of energy
If electric vehicles rely solely on rechargeable batteries, then environmental friendliness is improved, but adaptability to long-distance travel is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates multiple power sources with different characteristics - the electric motor for normal operation and the hydrocarbon motor for extended range. This multi-functional approach allows the vehicle to adapt to different travel scenarios, whether short commutes or long interstate trips, making the vehicle universally applicable to various driving needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydrocarbon motor serves as a preliminary action to recharge the battery when charge levels drop, preparing the vehicle for continued electric operation. This preventive measure ensures the vehicle maintains its environmentally friendly operation while having the capability to extend range when needed for long-distance travel.
3Reliability
If the battery becomes depleted, then the vehicle stops operating, but without alternative solutions the vehicle is left stranded with no recovery option
Solution Approach 1:
The hydrocarbon motor enables the vehicle to recharge its own battery without external assistance. When the battery becomes depleted, the driver can activate the hydrocarbon motor to generate electricity and recharge the battery, allowing the vehicle to continue operation independently without requiring a tow to the next charging station.
4Reliability
If a hydrocarbon motor is added to extend range, then travel range is improved, but device complexity and weight are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The power system is segmented into distinct functional modules - the electric motor for normal operation, the hydrocarbon motor for range extension, and the control system for managing transitions between them. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture by clearly defining the role of each subsystem.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system acts as an intermediary that manages the interaction between the electric motor and hydrocarbon motor. It monitors battery charge levels and automatically activates the hydrocarbon motor when needed, providing a seamless transition between power sources without requiring complex manual intervention from the driver.
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 extended travel without needing to stop at a charging station, allowing the vehicle to continue operating even when stranded, and is designed for rental agencies, enhancing the usability and acceptability of electric vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
a hydrocarbon motor that generates electricity
Implementation Method 2
The internal combustion engine powers a generator and provides electricity to re-charge the rechargeable battery
Data Source
AI summary
An assist apparatus for an electric vehicle which is powered by rechargeable batteries. To assist in the range of the electric vehicle, a platform is secured or towed by the vehicle. On the platform is a hydrocarbon internal combustion engine/motor that generates electricity. The hydrocarbon engine/motor is activated, either manually, via a handheld switch, or automatically by sensors in the electric vehicle, to charge the rechargeable batteries within the electric vehicle.