Motor Control System for Multi-Track Cycle with Segmented Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrically assisted cycles face regulatory limitations, particularly in Europe, where the maximum continuous mechanical motor assistance power is restricted to 250W, and using multiple motors risks being classified as circumventing these limits, making it challenging to design compliant velomobiles with electronic transmission that can handle steep grades and require electric assistance.
Innovation Solution
A motor control system for a multi-track cycle with two drive motors, where one motor is powered by pedaling and the other by a battery, using a two-terminal electronic component to control current flow, ensuring the system complies with EU regulations by limiting assistance power to 250W and allowing regeneration and adjustable braking, while enabling reverse propulsion without violating EN 15194 standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple drive motors are used to provide sufficient power for steep grades, then propulsion capability is improved, but regulatory compliance deteriorates due to exceeding the 250W continuous mechanical motor assistance power limit
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion system is segmented into two separate drive motors: a first drive motor powered by the battery and a second drive motor powered by the generator. This segmentation allows the battery-powered motor to be limited to 250W continuous power (compliant with regulations), while the generator-powered motor can provide additional power during steep grades without violating regulations, since the generator is human-powered assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
A control system acts as an intermediary between the two drive motors, the battery, and the generator. The control system monitors power consumption from the battery, ensures the first drive motor does not exceed 250W continuous power, and coordinates operation of the second drive motor to provide supplemental power while maintaining overall regulatory compliance.
2Reliability
If a two-terminal electronic component is used to control current flow from the battery to the second drive motor, then regulatory compliance is improved by limiting battery assistance to 250W, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The two-terminal electronic component is integrated into the control system that also manages the generator, first drive motor, and second drive motor. This multi-functional control system handles multiple tasks: monitoring battery power output to ensure 250W compliance, controlling the first drive motor, managing generator output, and coordinating the second drive motor, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the added component.
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
The system allows for compliant operation with EU regulations, enabling efficient propulsion on steep grades and extended range through regeneration, while maintaining safety and functionality, including reverse gear capabilities within the legal limits.
Implementation Method 1
a pedal generator
Implementation Method 2
a first drive motor and a second drive motor mechanically coupled to a respective wheel
Implementation Method 3
the two-terminal electronic component is configured for transferring current primarily in one direction, said direction being from the second drive motor to the electric assistance battery
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
It is described a motor control system (1) for a multi-track cycle, the motor control system (1) comprising: - a pedal generator (3); - a first drive motor (4a) and a second drive motor (4b) mechanically coupled to a respective wheel (8a, 8b); - an electric assistance battery (5) for powering the first drive motor (4a); - an electronic transmission (7) connecting the pedal generator (3) to the second drive motor (4b), wherein the second drive motor (4b) is connected to the electric assistance battery (5) via a two- terminal electronic component (61), wherein the two-terminal electronic component (61) is configured for transferring current primarily in one direction, said direction being from the second drive motor (4b) to the electric assistance battery (5).