Modular Generator and Pump Drive Assembly for Utility Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive assemblies for vehicles, such as lawn and garden tractors, lack flexibility and efficiency in integrating electric generators and circulating pumps, leading to increased inventory costs and limited design options for manufacturers and users.
Innovation Solution
A combined electric generator and circulating pump system is designed in various configurations, including stacked, side-by-side, and separate assemblies, allowing for modular integration under a prime mover or to the side, with options for belt-driven or clutch-brake connections, enabling flexible design and reduced inventory.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If electric generators and circulating pumps are integrated in fixed configurations, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but design flexibility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The drive assembly is segmented into separate functional modules: an electric generator module and a circulating pump module. These modules can be positioned in different spatial configurations (side-by-side or stacked) and connected through standardized coupling mechanisms, allowing manufacturers to select different layouts based on specific application requirements while maintaining ease of assembly through modular design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple configuration options are provided for generator and pump arrangements, then design flexibility is improved, but device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanisms between the generator and pump modules are designed with universal characteristics, using standardized mounting interfaces and connection protocols that work across different configurations. This allows the same basic components to serve multiple functions in different spatial arrangements (side-by-side or stacked), reducing the need for configuration-specific parts and simplifying inventory management.
3Volume of moving object
If generator and pump are positioned in compact arrangements, then space utilization is improved, but accessibility for maintenance and assembly is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanisms incorporate dynamic positioning features that allow the generator and pump modules to be easily moved between compact installed positions and accessible maintenance positions. The standardized interfaces enable quick disconnection and repositioning, allowing technicians to access components for maintenance without permanent fixed mounting, thus balancing compact space utilization with operational accessibility.
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 configuration allows for tailored product offerings, reduced inventory costs, and enhanced flexibility in vehicle design, providing efficient power generation and cooling solutions while maintaining compactness and ease of installation.
Implementation Method 1
a combined electric generator and circulating pump system is designed... allowing for modular integration under a prime mover... providing efficient power generation
Implementation Method 2
one or more of these same (or other) apparatuses are cooled by the circulating pump
Data Source
AI summary
A compact generator and coolant pump assembly may be used on a vehicle having a fluid reservoir and a plurality of electrical components disposed on the vehicle. The generator includes a rotor and stator disposed in a housing and the rotor is driven by a rotatable input member to generate an electrical output for use by one or more components of the vehicle. The assembly also includes a circulating pump connected to a lower portion of a generator housing and driven by the rotatable input member. A clutch assembly driven by the rotatable input member and engaged to and driving a clutch output may be located adjacent to the upper housing of the generator.