Vehicle PMD Module Coupling Structure With Mechanical Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power mobility device (PMD) module coupling structures for vehicles face challenges with energy efficiency and secure coupling, particularly with magnetic coupling systems that require continuous power and are prone to excessive energy consumption based on the weight of the PMD module.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical coupling structure is introduced, featuring a lift assembly with coupling arms and a magnetic unit, which provides a double fixing mechanism. The lift assembly includes a cylinder for vertical movement, a rack unit with a guide groove and lift bar, and an elastic member for secure deployment and coupling with the PMD module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a magnetic coupling structure is used to couple the PMD module to the vehicle, then the coupling can be achieved without mechanical contact, but continuous power supply is required and energy consumption increases rapidly with the weight of the PMD module
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into two independent parts: a magnetic coupling unit for initial attraction and alignment, and a mechanical coupling unit for secure structural connection. This segmentation allows the magnetic component to handle only the attraction function without needing to support the full weight, significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical coupling structure acts as an intermediary that transfers the load-bearing function from the magnetic coupling system to a passive mechanical structure. The magnetic unit only needs to provide attraction force for alignment, while the mechanical arms and latches provide the structural support, eliminating the need for continuous high-power magnetic fields.
2Reliability
If a mechanical coupling structure is used to provide secure fixing, then structural integrity is improved, but the complexity of the coupling mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling unit and mechanical coupling unit are merged into a single integrated assembly where the magnetic arms also serve as the mechanical coupling arms. This merging allows the structure to provide both magnetic attraction and mechanical support through the same components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling structure incorporates movable components such as deployable arms and latch mechanisms that can transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic design allows the complex mechanical structure to simplify into a compact form during non-coupled states while providing robust fixing when engaged, balancing reliability with operational simplicity.
3Reliability
If the lift assembly is designed with multiple components for secure coupling, then coupling reliability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic arms serve multiple functions: they provide magnetic attraction for initial coupling, act as mechanical support structures, and incorporate latch mechanisms for secure locking. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying manufacturing and assembly while maintaining high coupling reliability through the combined functions.
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 mechanical coupling structure achieves robust and efficient coupling between the PMD module and the vehicle, enhancing structural integrity and reducing energy consumption by eliminating the need for continuous power to magnetic couplings.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic unit configured to perform magnetic coupling
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment power mobility device (PMD) module coupling structure for a vehicle includes a coupling assembly disposed on a PMD module and a lift assembly disposed on a vehicle body facing an upper end of the PMD module so as to correspond to the coupling assembly, wherein a part of the lift assembly is insertable into the coupling assembly to mutually fix the PMD module and the lift assembly to each other.