In-Wheel Driving Module Layout for Limitless Steering Angle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing driving modules for vehicles, such as the Protean 360+ and Schaeffler Corner Module, face limitations in durability and steering angle due to their design, with the Protean 360+ having poor durability and limited kinematic steering angle, and the Schaeffler Corner Module having a limited steering angle due to body link sites.
Innovation Solution
A driving module with a power supply structure and a steering system that includes an in-wheel motor, an electro-mechanical brake, a suspension system with a support shaft, and a steering system with a first and second steering member, allowing for limitless steering angles and full-flat mobility by minimizing packaging space and improving durability through multiple piece mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a 1-piece body mount structure is used for the steering system, then the steering angle can reach 90° or higher, but the durability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The steering system is divided into multiple separate mounting points (first body mounting point and second body mounting points) instead of using a single 1-piece body mount structure. This segmentation allows the upper suspension to be mounted separately, improving durability while maintaining the ability to achieve 90° or higher steering angles through the first steering member connected to these mounting points.
2Productivity
If body lower connection parts such as chassis lower arm and tie rod are omitted, then the turning radius is reduced, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the lower suspension and the body is segmented into multiple independent connection points (first lower connection point and second lower connection points) rather than using traditional integrated components like chassis lower arms and tie rods. This allows the system to achieve reduced turning radius while managing structural complexity through modular connection design.
Solution Approach 2:
The first steering member serves multiple functions: it connects the lower suspension to the body at the first body mounting point, provides structural support, and enables steering motion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby reducing overall structural complexity despite the innovative connection architecture.
3Reliability
If a power supply structure with multiple piece mounting is used, then the durability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply structure is divided into multiple separate mounting points and connection elements distributed throughout the steering system. This segmentation improves durability by distributing mechanical and electrical loads across multiple connection points, while the modular nature of the segmentation keeps device complexity manageable through standardized connection interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A driving module for vehicle and a power supply structure are configured to include a driving system and a braking system provided with an in-wheel motor and an EMB-based brake inside a rim of a tire, a suspension system in which a suspension support shaft serves as a rotational central axis of the rim, and a steering system provided on an upper portion of the suspension system, in which the steering system includes a first steering member provided between the suspension system and a body, and a second steering member which is positioned at an inner side of the first steering member and of which lower portion is linked with the suspension system.