In-Wheel Motor Link Structure for Damper Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
The suspension device for in-wheel motor drive devices faces interference issues between the in-wheel motor drive device and the hydraulic damper, as well as between the road wheel and the damper, particularly at increased turning angles, due to the axial dimension constraints and positioning of the hydraulic damper relative to the rotational axis of the wheel.
Innovation Solution
A link structure is introduced that includes a damper bracket extending in the vehicle transverse direction with a first joint placed in the hollow area of the road wheel, rotatably linking the transversely outer end of the damper bracket to the in-wheel motor drive device, allowing the damper to be positioned more inwardly and avoiding interference by aligning the joint with the kingpin or its vicinity, enabling smooth turning of the in-wheel motor drive device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the axial dimension of the road wheel is increased to house the in-wheel motor drive device, then the motor device can be accommodated without interference, but the kingpin is kept off from the axial center, hindering the turning of the wheel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from axial placement to radial placement of the in-wheel motor drive device within the road wheel's hollow area. By positioning the motor device radially outward from the rotational axis and using a radial link structure, the design accommodates the motor without increasing axial dimension, keeping the kingpin at the axial center for proper turning capability.
2Ease of operation
If the axial dimension of the road wheel is shortened to maintain proper kingpin positioning, then turning is enabled, but the in-wheel motor drive device interferes with the hydraulic damper
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a link structure that segments the connection between the in-wheel motor drive device and the hydraulic damper. The link acts as an intermediary component, allowing the motor device to be positioned radially outward while maintaining connection to the damper, thereby preventing interference with the damper's vertical movement path.
Solution Approach 2:
The link structure serves as an intermediary between the in-wheel motor drive device and the hydraulic damper. This mediator component enables the motor device to be positioned in the radial direction while still providing the necessary suspension connection, eliminating direct interference between the motor device and damper.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the in-wheel motor drive device is positioned radially outward, then interference with the damper is avoided, but a link structure is required to connect the motor device to the damper bracket
Solution Approach 1:
The link structure performs multiple functions: it connects the in-wheel motor drive device to the damper bracket, allows radial positioning of the motor device, and accommodates the turning motion of the wheel. By designing the link with universal joints at both ends, it provides multi-functional capability that justifies its inclusion while avoiding the need for multiple separate components.
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 prevents hindrance to the in-wheel motor drive device's turning and reduces interference between the damper and road wheel, ensuring the in-wheel motor drive device can rotate freely without obstructing the damper, regardless of the turning angle, thus enhancing the design and ride quality of the suspension system.
Implementation Method 1
a damper having a lower end coupled to a transversely inner end of the damper bracket and an upper end attached to a vehicle body member and absorbing bound and rebound of the in-wheel motor drive device
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
In the link structure linking an in-wheel motor drive device (11) placed in a hollow area of a road wheel (W) of a turnable wheel to a damper (31), a damper bracket (32) extends in the vehicle traverse direction and at least a transversely outer end (321) of the damper (31) is placed in the hollow area of the road wheel (W). A first joint (18) is placed in the hollow area of the road wheel, and rotatably links the transversely outer end (321) of the damper bracket (32) to the in-wheel motor drive device (11). The damper (31) has a lower end (311) coupled to a transversely inner end (322) of the damper bracket (32).