Modular Automated Driving Platform With Detachable Upper Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated driving vehicles lack versatility and adaptability to various uses, as they are typically designed for specific functions and cannot easily switch between different roles such as passenger transport, cargo conveyance, or recreational use.
Innovation Solution
An automated driving vehicle with a plate-shaped traveling unit that can detachably attach various upper structures, including passenger compartments, luggage supports, and recreational units, equipped with a wide attachment region and a thin profile, allowing for the integration of multiple functions and the ability to carry or support other vehicles, enabling flexible use based on location and time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an automated driving vehicle is designed for a specific function, then it can perform that function reliably, but it cannot be used for other purposes
Solution Approach 1:
The automated driving vehicle is divided into a base unit and separate upper structures. The base unit contains the traveling unit with wheels and control systems, while upper structures include passenger compartments, cargo areas, or recreational modules. These modular components can be detached and reconfigured, allowing the vehicle to switch between different functions without redesigning the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed with universal interfaces and attachment mechanisms that can accommodate multiple types of upper structures. The traveling unit provides common functions (mobility, control, power) that support various applications, while the interchangeable upper structures provide specialized functions, enabling one vehicle platform to serve multiple purposes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a passenger compartment is fixed to the traveling unit, then the vehicle structure is stable, but the vehicle cannot switch between different uses
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the traveling unit and upper structures transitions from static to dynamic. Detachable connectors allow the system to change configuration based on needs. When connected, the interface provides stable support; when disconnected, the vehicle can be reconfigured for different uses, achieving both stability during operation and adaptability between operations.
3Strength
If the traveling unit has a large thickness, then it can provide structural strength, but it reduces the degree of freedom in height for upper structures
Solution Approach 1:
The traveling unit employs composite material construction to achieve high structural strength with reduced thickness. Advanced materials and optimized structural designs allow the base unit to maintain rigidity and load-bearing capacity while minimizing height, thereby providing sufficient clearance for upper structures and improving overall vehicle versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated driving vehicle includes: a traveling unit to which an upper structure can be attached and which does not have a passenger compartment; and a connector provided in the traveling unit and connected to the upper structure detachably attached to the traveling unit.