Multi-Axis Scooter Coupler Joint for Dynamic Load Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor-assisted, manually powered vehicles face challenges in efficiently accommodating dynamic loads and mass distribution variations, leading to unresolved moments and increased manual effort, especially when navigating inclines or carrying cargo.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multi-axis pivoting coupler joints that connect the wheeled scooter deck to the vehicle's chassis, allowing for independent rotation around vertical and transverse axes, and a power-split differential system with a traction motor connected to both axle shafts, enabling adaptive propulsion assist and reducing manual effort through intelligent torque modulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid fixed connection is used between the scooter deck and chassis, then structural stability is improved, but the vehicle cannot accommodate dynamic load variations and mass distribution changes, leading to unresolved moments and increased manual effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the rigid fixed connection with a multi-axis pivoting coupler joint that allows dynamic motion. The coupler joint enables the scooter deck to rotate independently around a vertical axis (yaw) and a transverse axis (pitch), allowing the structure to adapt dynamically to varying loads, mass distribution changes, and terrain conditions while maintaining stability through controlled articulation
2Adaptability or versatility
If individually driven wheels or constant-velocity jointed half-shafts are used, then wheel independence is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the merging principle by combining multiple drivetrain functions into a single integrated differential system. The differential mechanism distributes torque to both wheels from a single motor, eliminating the need for individually driven wheels or constant-velocity joints while maintaining adaptive torque distribution. This simplifies the drivetrain architecture, reduces component count, and lowers cost while preserving the ability to handle varying wheel speed requirements
3Device complexity
If a single-axis coupler joint is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the vehicle cannot accommodate both yaw and pitch motions, limiting maneuverability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dimensionality change principle by transitioning from a single-axis coupler joint to a multi-axis coupler joint that operates in two rotational dimensions. The first bearing assembly allows rotation around a vertical axis (yaw) for steering, while the second bearing assembly allows rotation around a transverse axis (pitch) for terrain adaptation. This dual-axis capability significantly enhances maneuverability and adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity
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
This configuration allows for efficient load distribution, reduced manual effort, and enhanced maneuverability, enabling the vehicle to handle varying payloads and inclines while maintaining stability and control, making it suitable for diverse mobility solutions.
Implementation Method 1
The roller bearing assembly receives therethrough and coaxially rotates with one of the axle shafts
Implementation Method 2
the tapered bearing assembly rotatably mounts thereon the rider platform
Implementation Method 3
the electric traction motor is connected via a power-split differential to the axle shafts of two of the scooter's ground wheels
Data Source
AI summary
Presented are multi-axis pivoting coupler joints for motorized vehicles, methods for making/using such coupler joints, and electric scooters with multi-axis pivoting coupler joints enabling multimodal scooter operation. A pivoting coupler joint includes first and second bearing assemblies each with a respective housing, respective inner and outer races concentric with each other and located in their respective housing, and a respective set of rolling elements rollably interposed between their respective inner and outer races. The first inner race of the first bearing assembly receives therethrough and circumscribes an axle shaft of a vehicle wheel. The second inner race attaches to a wheeled rider deck of the vehicle. The first and second bearing housings are joined together and angularly offset from each other. For some applications, the first bearing assembly includes a pair of longitudinally spaced needle roller bearings, and the second bearing assembly includes a pair of longitudinally spaced tapered bearings.