In-wheel Motor Drain Plug Shielding via Lower Arm Mount
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing in-wheel motor configurations inadequately protect the drain plug from damage caused by flying stones, as it is only disposed inside the wheel, exposing it to potential impact.
Innovation Solution
The drain plug is positioned between the wheel surface and the lower arm mounting portion, reducing its exposed area and utilizing the lower arm mounting portion as a protective barrier, thereby shielding it from flying stones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the drain plug is disposed inside the wheel, then it is accessible for maintenance, but it is exposed to damage from flying stones
Solution Approach 1:
The drain plug is repositioned from a conventional location to a specific position between the wheel surface and the lower arm mounting portion, utilizing the three-dimensional space within the motor housing. This spatial reconfiguration reduces the exposed area of the drain plug to flying stones while maintaining accessibility through the wheel structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The lower arm mounting portion serves as an intermediary protective element between the flying stones and the drain plug. By positioning the drain plug behind this structural component, the lower arm mounting portion acts as a shield that intercepts or deflects flying stones, thereby protecting the drain plug from damage.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the drain plug is positioned to be protected by the lower arm mounting portion, then damage from flying stones is reduced, but the exposed area of the drain plug increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drain plug is positioned in a specific localized area between the wheel surface and the lower arm mounting portion, where it receives partial protection. This local positioning strategy creates a gradient of protection, with the drain plug being shielded from direct frontal impacts while maintaining a reduced exposed area compared to fully external positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
An in-wheel motor including: a motor disposed inside a wheel; and a case that accommodates the motor, characterized in that: a lower arm mounting portion to which the case and a lower arm are connected, is included; the lower arm mounting portion is disposed at a position facing a surface of the wheel; and the case includes a drain plug disposed at a position between the surface of the wheel and the lower arm mounting portion.