In-Wheel Drive Module With Integrated Steering and Shock Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Independent drive modules for electric vehicles often require additional suspension devices, increasing weight and cost due to the presence of intermediate components like reducers and differential gears, which are omitted in in-wheel motor vehicles to reduce weight and energy loss.
Innovation Solution
An integrated independent drive module comprising an in-wheel motor, a support arm, a shock absorber module with a fluid-filled cylinder and sliding rod, and a steering motor, which absorbs shock and steers the wheel, eliminating the need for separate shock absorbers and reducing weight and cost by integrating steering and shock absorption functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate suspension device is added to the steering device, then shock absorption function is improved, but weight and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the steering device and suspension device into a single integrated independent drive module. The support arm structure serves both steering and shock absorption functions, eliminating the need for separate suspension components while maintaining both functions' effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The support arm is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs steering support, shock absorption, and structural connection functions. This universal component replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate devices, reducing overall system weight and complexity.
2Reliability
If intermediate components like reducers and differential gears are included, then power transmission reliability is improved, but weight and energy loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes intermediate power transmission components such as reducers and differential gears from the system. The in-wheel motor directly transmits power to the wheel hub, eliminating unnecessary intermediate components while maintaining power transmission reliability through direct coupling.
3Loss of energy
If intermediate components are omitted for weight reduction, then energy loss is reduced, but device complexity increases due to integration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the steering mechanism and suspension system into the independent drive module housing and support structure. This integration approach reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for separate mounting systems and control mechanisms, while the removal of intermediate components minimizes energy loss.
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 configuration reduces the weight and cost of the vehicle by integrating steering and shock absorption, enhances vehicle quietness, and allows for adjustable toe-camber settings, improving cornering performance and cabin space utilization.
Implementation Method 1
a shock absorber module including a first end connected to the in-wheel motor and a second end connected to the vehicle body, the shock absorber being configured to absorb shock between the in-wheel motor and the vehicle body
Implementation Method 2
a steering motor connected to the second end of the shock absorber module to transmit rotational force for the steering to the shock absorber module
Data Source
AI summary
An independent drive module includes: an in-wheel motor configured to provide driving force to a wheel of a vehicle; a support arm including a first end connected to a vehicle body and a second end connected to the in-wheel motor, to support the in-wheel motor; a shock absorber module including a first end connected to the in-wheel motor and a second end connected to the vehicle body, the shock absorber being configured to absorb shock between the in-wheel motor and the vehicle body and swivel the in-wheel motor during turning of the vehicle so as to perform both shock absorption and steering; and a steering motor connected to the second end of the shock absorber module to transmit rotational force for the steering to the shock absorber module.