Modular Vehicle Upper Units With Jointed Power Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle configurations lack an efficient method to load and convey multiple upper units with storage capacity for people or objects, limiting conveyance and energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle design featuring an under unit with a drive mechanism and a loading unit that allows multiple upper units to be loaded, with each unit equipped with a joint for adjacent connection, enabling collective conveyance and power interchanging via connectors and batteries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple upper units are loaded on a single under unit, then conveyance efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for joints and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle system is divided into independent upper units that can be separately loaded and unloaded from the under unit. Each upper unit is a self-contained module with its own housing and joint mechanisms, allowing the system to convey multiple units simultaneously while maintaining individual unit simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple upper units are combined on a single under unit to form an integrated conveyance system. The joints merge the upper units with each other and with the under unit, creating a unified structure that improves overall conveyance efficiency while sharing common drive mechanisms
2Loss of energy
If upper units are connected via joints for adjacent loading, then energy efficiency is improved through power sharing, but the joint mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The joints serve multiple functions simultaneously: they mechanically connect adjacent upper units, provide electrical connections for power sharing through integrated connectors, and enable controlled coupling and decoupling. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and improves energy efficiency through power sharing between units
Solution Approach 2:
The joint acts as an intermediary element between upper units, facilitating both mechanical support and electrical power transfer. This intermediary structure enables efficient power sharing while maintaining modular unit design, reducing the need for complex direct integration between units
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle loads at least one of a plurality of upper units having space to store a person or an object on an under unit including a drive mechanism that rotates wheels in the vehicle. The vehicle includes an under unit including a drive mechanism that rotates wheels and the at least one of the plurality of upper units loaded on the under unit. The under unit includes a loading unit, on which the at least one of the plurality of upper units as described above can be loaded. Each of the plurality of upper units includes a joint that joins to a different upper unit that is adjacently loaded.