Modular Power Unit Layout for Lower-Center-of-Gravity Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicles with internal combustion engines face challenges in positioning the center of gravity optimally due to the arrangement of heavy components, which affects operability and space utilization.
Innovation Solution
The internal combustion engine and compressor are modularized and positioned between the front and rear wheels, with the compressor disposed below the seat, optimizing the center of gravity by placing both components near the vehicle's center and lowering it in the upper-lower direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If heavy components (internal combustion engine and compressor) are positioned to optimize center of gravity, then vehicle operability is improved, but space utilization becomes constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the compressor in the vertical dimension below the seat rather than only in the horizontal plane, utilizing the Z-axis space to achieve optimal center of gravity positioning without compromising horizontal space utilization in the passenger compartment
2Stability of the object's composition
If the compressor is positioned below the seat, then center of gravity is lowered and weight balance is improved, but access for maintenance becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The power unit is designed as a modular assembly where the compressor can be independently accessed and maintained by separating it from the main engine compartment, allowing service personnel to reach the compressor through the seat area without disassembling the entire vehicle structure
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple auxiliary machines are mounted on the internal combustion engine, then functionality is enhanced, but device complexity and component arrangement difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The compressor is integrated into the power unit module that is mounted on the internal combustion engine, combining multiple functions (engine power, compression, cooling) into a single modular assembly that simplifies overall system arrangement while maintaining enhanced functionality
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 reduces the vehicle's center of gravity, enhances space efficiency, improves weight balance, and allows for easier maintenance, while reducing component count and cost.
Implementation Method 1
a compressor (32) which is driven by rotational power generated in the internal combustion engine (20)
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a front wheel, a rear wheel, a power unit in which an internal combustion engine and a compressor are modularized, and a seat. The compressor is configured to operate on rotational power generated in the internal combustion engine. The power unit is disposed between the front wheel and the rear wheel in a front-rear direction of the vehicle, and is disposed to place the compressor below the seat.