Modular Utility Vehicle System Maneuverability Capacity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motorized vehicles lack the ability to seamlessly transition between high maneuverability and increased capacity for longer distances and faster travel, as they typically require separate vehicles for these functionalities.
Innovation Solution
A modular vehicle system comprising a first vehicle module with high maneuverability and a second vehicle module with greater wheel spacing, allowing the first module to be securely attached to the second for unified control and operation, enabling the benefits of both high maneuverability and extended travel capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single vehicle design is used, then manufacturing and operation are simple, but the vehicle cannot transition between high maneuverability and increased capacity for longer distances
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle is divided into separate modular components (first vehicle module with smaller wheels for maneuverability, second vehicle module with larger wheels for long-distance travel) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows the vehicle to transition between configurations by coupling or decoupling the modules, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle system incorporates dynamic reconfigurability through couplings that allow the modules to be connected or disconnected during operation. This dynamic adjustment enables the vehicle to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements, achieving versatility without permanent complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate vehicles are used for high maneuverability and long-distance travel, then each vehicle is optimized for its specific function, but the user must maintain and operate multiple vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple specialized vehicles into a single modular system. The first vehicle module (optimized for maneuverability) and second vehicle module (optimized for long-distance travel) are combined into one reconfigurable vehicle that can operate as either module independently or together, reducing the total number of vehicles needed while maintaining functional versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular vehicle system achieves multi-functionality by designing modules that can serve multiple purposes. The same control systems and power sources can control either module independently or both modules together, allowing one vehicle system to replace multiple specialized vehicles and achieve universal functionality.
3Speed
If the first vehicle module is attached to the second vehicle module, then the vehicle achieves extended travel capabilities, but the overall vehicle size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle system dynamically adjusts its weight and size by allowing the modules to be coupled or decoupled based on operational needs. When long-distance travel is required, the modules are coupled to achieve extended capability. When only maneuverability is needed, the first module can operate independently, reducing the overall weight and size of the vehicle system.
Data Source
AI summary
A utility vehicle having first and second vehicle modules and a method of operating a utility vehicle. The utility vehicle having a first vehicle module including a first vehicle body, a first plurality of wheels operatively connected with the first vehicle body, and a steering controller operatively connected for controlling at least one of the wheels among the first plurality of wheels. The second vehicle module including a second vehicle body and a second plurality of wheels operatively connected with the second vehicle body. The second vehicle body having a greater wheel spacing than that of the first vehicle body. Also, the second vehicle body being sized and configured to engage and carry the first vehicle body. The utility vehicle further having a control interface between the first vehicle module and the second vehicle module. The control interface enabling the steering controller of the first vehicle module to control at least one of the wheels among the second plurality of wheels of the second vehicle module.