Modular Drive Casing for Detachable Electric Unit Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechatronically-integrated electric power conversion devices lack versatility and efficiency in attaching and detaching electric units for function expansion, leading to increased production costs and potential size constraints.
Innovation Solution
A drive apparatus with a casing that includes a fixation portion and connection portion, allowing for detachable attachment of an electric unit, which can be easily connected to an electric power control unit, enhancing versatility and reducing production costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an electric unit for function expansion is attached to the casing, then the versatility of the drive apparatus is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The casing is designed with a standardized fixation portion and connection portion that can accommodate different types of electric units for function expansion. This universal interface allows the same casing structure to support multiple functions (e.g., different electric units) without requiring separate designs for each function, thereby improving versatility while controlling complexity through standardization.
2Ease of operation
If the electric unit is attached in a detachable manner, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into distinct fixation portion (mechanical attachment) and connection portion (electrical connection). This segmentation allows the electric unit to be easily attached and detached in steps, improving ease of operation. The separate fixation and connection mechanisms ensure that both mechanical and electrical connections are reliably established when attached, addressing reliability concerns through structured separation of functions.
3Ease of manufacture
If a fixation portion and connection portion are provided on the casing, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation portion and connection portion are integrated into a single casing structure rather than being separate components. This merging reduces the total number of parts and simplifies the manufacturing process, as the casing is produced as one piece with built-in attachment and connection features. The integrated design improves ease of manufacture while minimizing the increase in device complexity through functional integration.
Data Source
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AI summary
A drive apparatus (10F) is provided, including: an electric motor (40); a gear (50) that is mechanically connected to the electric motor (40); an electric power control unit (30) that is electrically connected to the electric motor (40); and a casing (20) that houses the electric motor (40), the gear (50), and the electric power control unit (30). The casing (20) includes a fixation portion (22) to which an electric unit (60) for function expansion is attached in a detachable manner and a connection portion (26) by which the electric unit (60) fixed to the fixation portion (22) is electrically connected to the electric power control unit (30).