Removable Generator Toolbox for Electric Vehicle Range Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrified vehicles have a limited electric-only driving range due to the limited capacity of their high voltage battery packs, leading to range anxiety for customers who desire additional electric range without sacrificing cargo space or relying on internal combustion engines.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a removable generator, disguised as a toolbox, within the cargo space of electrified vehicles, which can output power to either charge the battery pack or propel the vehicle, allowing for interchangeable power capacities and connection configurations to extend the electric range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a larger high voltage battery pack is installed to increase electric range, then the electric-only driving range is improved, but the cargo space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power source system is segmented into two separate components: a compact high voltage battery pack for electric-only driving and a removable generator for extended range. This segmentation allows the battery pack to remain small (preserving cargo space) while the generator provides additional range when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its power source configuration based on range needs. The generator can be removably installed in the cargo space when extended range is required, and removed when full cargo capacity is needed, making the system flexible rather than fixed.
2Duration of action of moving object
If a generator is permanently integrated into the vehicle to extend range, then the electric range is improved, but the device complexity and cargo space flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The generator system is designed as a separate, self-contained unit with its own enclosure, mounting features, and electrical connections. This segmentation simplifies integration to a simple plug-and-play operation rather than requiring complex permanent integration into the vehicle's powertrain.
Solution Approach 2:
The generator unit serves multiple functions: it can be installed to provide extended electric range, removed to maximize cargo space, and potentially interchanged with different generator units having different power capacities to match different driving needs.
3Duration of action of moving object
If the generator is designed with high power capacity to maximize range extension, then the electric range is improved, but the generator size and cargo space occupancy are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows changing the power capacity parameter by interchangeably installing different generator units. A customer can select a generator with power capacity matched to their specific needs, rather than being forced to install an oversized generator that would occupy excessive cargo space.
Solution Approach 2:
The generator configuration is dynamic and adjustable. Customers can interchange generator units based on their evolving range requirements, allowing the system to adapt to changing needs without being locked into a fixed, potentially oversized configuration.
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 solution effectively increases the electric range of electrified vehicles by providing additional power when needed, reducing range anxiety and allowing customers to choose from different generator capacities without compromising cargo space, while maintaining the electric-only propulsion mode.
Implementation Method 1
a generator removably positioned within the cargo space and adapted to selectively output power for either charging the battery pack or propelling the drive wheel
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure details electrified vehicles that are equipped with removable generators for increasing the electric range of the vehicles. An exemplary electrified vehicle includes a cargo space, such as a truck bed, and a generator removably positioned within the cargo space. The generator is adapted to selectively supply power for either charging a battery pack of the electrified vehicle or for propelling one or more vehicle drive wheels. In some embodiments, the generator is shaped like, and therefore disguised as, a toolbox.