Electric Work Vehicle Motor-Generator Charging in Remote Work Areas
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric work vehicles face challenges in charging their batteries, especially when the working area is distant from charging facilities, as traditional portable chargers are expensive and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
An electric work vehicle configuration that includes a motor generator, power transfer device, and controller allowing regenerative power generation from a drive source connected to the power output shaft, enabling battery charging at any location with an inexpensive setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a portable charger is prepared to charge the battery in the working area, then charging capability is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor generator serves dual functions: it acts as a motor to drive the vehicle and as a generator to charge the battery. When the vehicle moves, the motor generator converts mechanical energy from the drive source into electrical energy to recharge the battery, enabling the system to service itself without external charging equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The motor generator is designed to perform multiple functions: it operates as a motor during vehicle propulsion and as a generator during regenerative braking or when connected to a drive source for charging. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate portable chargers while providing charging capability at any location
2Adaptability or versatility
If the battery is moved to a charging facility, then charging is enabled, but operational convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables charging at any location by utilizing the motor generator's ability to convert mechanical energy from any drive source into electrical energy. The battery can be recharged in place without requiring movement to specialized charging facilities, as the vehicle's own motor generator performs the charging function
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of moving the battery to where charging infrastructure exists, the invention inverts the approach by enabling the battery to be charged wherever the vehicle operates. The motor generator reverses its normal motor function to generate electricity, turning the vehicle into its own charging station at any location
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
Enables battery charging at any location without the need for expensive portable chargers, ensuring efficient and cost-effective power replenishment by utilizing regenerative power from the motor generator.
Implementation Method 1
the controller causes the motor generator to generate regenerative power while the motor generator rotates due to receiving motive power from a drive source connected to the power output shaft
Data Source
AI summary
An electric work vehicle comprises: a battery configured to store electric power; a motor generator conductively connected to the battery; a power transfer device having a power output shaft configured to transfer motive power from the motor generator; and a controller configured to switch between a first mode and a second mode.