Internal Drive Wheel With Shock Energy Regeneration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing internal drive wheels face inefficiencies due to increased drag from friction-based mechanisms and lack of effective shock absorption and regenerative energy harvesting.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates an energy-efficient internal drive wheel with a shock absorption mechanism that allows for the attachment of a load platform and includes a regenerative system to convert shock forces into electricity, utilizing a motor-driven rubber roller and gear arrangements for efficient rim driving, along with a pivotally mounted load connect and shock absorber to manage weight distribution and compression.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If a rubber type friction roller is used to drive the inner rim of the wheel, then the wheel can be driven internally by a motor, but the friction created by the groove/protrusion increases drag and reduces energy efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoiddrag
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the friction-based rubber roller drive mechanism with a magnetic drive system. The motor generates a rotating magnetic field that directly interacts with the rim, eliminating the need for physical contact and friction. This substitution of mechanical friction with magnetic coupling resolves the contradiction by achieving drive force without drag.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the motor and the rim. Instead of direct mechanical contact through a rubber roller, the magnetic field serves as the mediator to transmit rotational force. This intermediary approach eliminates the harmful friction while maintaining the drive function, thereby improving energy efficiency and reducing drag.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If a traditional wheel structure is used, then the wheel can support loads, but it lacks effective shock absorption capability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshock absorptionVSAvoidwheel structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the shock absorption function with the wheel structure by integrating a shock absorber mechanism directly into the wheel assembly. The shock absorber is coupled to the load connect, allowing the wheel to absorb shocks while maintaining its load-bearing capability. This merging approach provides effective shock absorption without significantly increasing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The wheel structure is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides load support, enables internal driving, and incorporates shock absorption. By making the wheel multi-functional, the patent achieves reliable shock absorption capability while avoiding the need for separate dedicated shock absorption systems, thus managing device complexity effectively.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If a load platform is to be attached to the wheel, then the wheel can carry loads, but the attachment mechanism increases device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload platform attachmentVSAvoidwheel structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wheel cover is designed with a universal attachment mechanism that allows the load platform to be mounted through it. This attachment system serves multiple purposes: it provides load carrying capability, maintains wheel structural integrity, and allows for easy installation and removal. By making the attachment mechanism multi-functional, the patent achieves adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity.

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

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 solution enhances energy efficiency, reduces drag, provides effective shock absorption, and enables the regeneration of energy from shock forces, improving the overall performance of internal drive wheels in applications like unicycles and two-wheeled vehicles.

Implementation Method 1

utilize a motor-driven rubber roller that drives the inner rim of the wheel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

includes a regenerative system to convert shock forces into electricity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20240051640A1Internal drive wheel and related devices
Publication Date: 2024.02.15 CHEN SHANE
  • US20240051640A1 patent drawing
  • US20240051640A1 patent drawing
  • US20240051640A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A wheel having rim support structure that affords access to a load connection structure within the wheel. The load connection structure may be configured for movement in response of a force. A rotatable mount bracket is provided on the rim support structure and guides movement of the load connection structure. Various embodiments are disclosed including internal drive and non-internal drive, roller and gear based driving, access on one or both sides of the wheel device, and other features and embodiments.