Modular EV Chassis Battery Module for Power and Rigidity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electric vehicles face challenges in providing sufficient battery power for their components and long-distance driving due to the limitations of existing battery technologies.

Innovation Solution

A modular chassis system for electric vehicles, comprising a first module with a front axle, a second module with a container enclosing multiple battery assemblies connected to a power distribution unit, and a third module with a rear axle, allowing the battery assemblies to power components in the first and third modules via the power distribution unit, which can be integrated into existing chassis without redesign.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple separate power distribution units are used in different modules, then each module can operate independently, but the overall system weight and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule independenceVSAvoidchassis weight
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent consolidates power distribution functionality into a single centralized power distribution unit located in the battery module, eliminating the need for separate power distribution units in the front and rear modules. This merging of functions reduces overall system weight and cost while maintaining reliable power supply to all vehicle components through the centralized unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Use of energy by moving object

If battery power capacity is increased to support long-distance driving and multiple components, then vehicle range and component power availability improve, but the battery system becomes more complex and heavier

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower capacityVSAvoidbattery system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The battery module is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support as part of the chassis, houses the power distribution unit, and contains the battery assemblies. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve high power capacity for long-distance driving and multiple components without proportionally increasing system complexity, as the same structural element performs multiple roles.

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

3Ease of manufacture

If existing chassis designs are retained without redesign, then development cost and time are reduced, but integration of new battery systems becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvechassis integration easeVSAvoidbattery system integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The vehicle chassis is divided into modular sections including a front module, a central battery module, and a rear module. The battery module is designed as a self-contained unit with standardized interfaces that can be integrated into existing chassis designs without requiring complete redesign. This segmentation allows the new battery system to be adapted to existing platforms while maintaining manufacturing efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20240424919A1Modular chassis for an electric vehicle
Publication Date: 2024.12.26 COULOMB SOLUTIONS INC
  • US20240424919A1 patent drawing
  • US20240424919A1 patent drawing
  • US20240424919A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A vehicle chassis system may comprise a first module comprising a front axle of a vehicle. The vehicle chassis system may comprise a second module comprising a container that encloses a plurality of battery assemblies. The vehicle chassis system may comprise a third module comprising a rear axle of the vehicle. The second module may be configured to be connected to and interposed between the first module and the third module. The chassis constructed with the second module provides torsional rigidity to the chassis.