Single-Wheel Drive Torque Control for Slip-Stable Cornering

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing motor vehicles with independent wheel drive systems are complex, prone to failure due to numerous components, and struggle to maintain optimal traction and stability by preventing wheel slippage during various driving conditions.

Innovation Solution

A method and system using a control unit with an evaluation unit to monitor actual vehicle data, compare it with predefined maximum values, and adjust torque or braking interventions on individual wheels to maintain optimal traction and stability, proactively addressing potential slippage and wheel lock conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a complex powertrain design with multiple components and assemblies is used to achieve independent wheel drive, then traction control capability is improved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem reliabilityVSAvoidpowertrain complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the functions of multiple separate drive units into a single integrated drive unit that can independently control torque to both wheels. This merging approach reduces the number of components and assemblies while maintaining the capability for independent wheel drive, thereby reducing device complexity and improving reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single drive unit is designed with multi-functionality, capable of providing torque to either or both wheels as needed. This universal design eliminates the need for separate drive units for each wheel while preserving traction control capabilities across various driving conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional differential mechanisms are used to allow different rotational speeds of wheels, then adaptability to cornering is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecornering adaptabilityVSAvoiddifferential mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical differential mechanisms with an electronically controlled system. The control unit monitors wheel speeds and torque requirements, then the single drive unit adjusts torque distribution electronically to accommodate different rotational speeds during cornering, eliminating complex mechanical differentials.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts torque distribution to each wheel based on real-time driving conditions, including cornering scenarios. The control unit continuously monitors wheel speeds and modifies torque output from the single drive unit to maintain optimal traction and handling without requiring fixed mechanical differential arrangements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If active torque adjustment and braking interventions are implemented to prevent wheel slippage, then traction control is improved, but use of energy increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraction controlVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit continuously monitors wheel speed, torque application, and slip conditions, using this feedback to make real-time adjustments to torque output. This closed-loop control system prevents excessive slippage by detecting early signs of wheel spin and adjusting torque accordingly, improving traction control while minimizing unnecessary energy consumption compared to continuous high-torque application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system applies torque adjustments and braking interventions only when and to the extent necessary to prevent slippage. Rather than continuously applying maximum torque or braking, the control unit modulates torque application to maintain optimal traction with minimal energy expenditure, intervening partially rather than excessively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentEP4188761B1Method of drive control of a vehicle with single wheel drive, drive control unit, powertrain and vehicle
Publication Date: 2026.02.18 PIECH IP AG
  • EP4188761B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4188761B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4188761B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to two methods for the drive control of a motor vehicle with individual wheel drive on two vehicle wheels and with a first sensor by means of a closed-loop control unit, the closed-loop control unit having an evaluation unit and an open-loop control unit. The invention also relates to a drive control device and a drive train of such a motor vehicle and the motor vehicle itself.