Motor Control Connector Layout for Faster Drive Unit Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive devices with integrated motors and control units face challenges in assembly efficiency due to the integration of torque sensors and connectors, making it difficult to perform inspections and connections efficiently.
Innovation Solution
The drive device incorporates a motor with two sets of motor windings and a control unit, featuring separate openings for main and sub connectors, allowing for improved assembly by enabling separate connections to the vehicle power source and communication network, respectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the control unit integrates the motor and control components, then the device compactness is improved, but the assembly efficiency deteriorates due to difficulty in performing inspections and connections
Solution Approach 1:
The connector unit is divided into separate opening groups: a first opening group for main connectors (power source and communication network) and a second opening group for sub connectors (separate members). This segmentation allows different connectors to be connected independently and simultaneously, improving assembly efficiency while maintaining the integrated structure.
2Device complexity
If multiple connectors are integrated in one opening, then the device structure is simplified, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connector unit provides spatially separated opening groups: the first opening group accommodates main connectors for power source and communication network connections, while the second opening group accommodates sub connectors for separate member connections. This segmentation enables parallel assembly operations, reducing assembly time without complicating the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the axial direction of the motor to arrange different connector openings at different positions. The first and second opening groups are positioned differently in the axial direction, allowing multiple connectors to be accessed and connected simultaneously from different directions, thereby reducing assembly time.
3Productivity
If separate openings are provided for main and sub connectors, then the assembly efficiency is improved, but the connector unit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector unit is designed with segmented opening groups positioned in different axial locations. The first opening group for main connectors and the second opening group for sub connectors are spatially separated, enabling independent access and connection operations. This segmentation improves assembly efficiency by allowing simultaneous connections without requiring complex disassembly or reconfiguration.
Data Source
AI summary
A drive device includes a motor with two sets of motor windings and a control unit. The control unit has a board on which an electronic component related to energization control of the motor windings are mounted, a connector unit, and a cover member that covers control components including the board, and is provided on one side in a axial direction of the motor. The connector unit has two main connectors and at least one sub connector used for connection with an outside, and these openings are provided so as to face a side opposite to the motor. The main connectors are connected with a power supply and a communication network. The sub connector has an opening separate from that of the main connector and is connected to a separate member.