Swingable AMT Engine Mount for Scooter Vibration and Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Two-wheeled vehicles with continuously variable transmission (CVT) face issues such as reduced fuel efficiency due to belt slippage and hysteresis loss, and the hassle of manual clutch operation and gear shifting, while geared scooters offer better fuel economy but are less preferred due to these operational challenges.
Innovation Solution
The integration of an Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) engine, which is mounted swingably to the scooter frame, acts as a load-carrying member, and is equipped with a clutch actuator and shift actuator controlled by an electronic control unit, providing improved ground clearance, reduced vibration, and enhanced serviceability, while eliminating the need for a primary clutch and optimizing fuel efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If CVT is used in motor scooters, then convenience of ride is improved, but fuel efficiency deteriorates due to belt slippage and hysteresis loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the transmission system into discrete gear stages (first gear, second gear, third gear, etc.) rather than using continuous variable transmission. The AMT system provides stepped gear ratios through synchronized gear engagement, eliminating the continuous belt slippage inherent in CVT while maintaining automated operation. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by achieving both fuel efficiency through proper gear ratios and convenience through automated shifting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical belt-driven CVT system with an AMT system that uses a centrifugal clutch and synchronized gear meshing. Instead of relying on friction-based belt transmission, the system uses positive mechanical engagement through gears and a centrifugal clutch that automatically engages and disengages based on rotational speed, eliminating hysteresis loss while maintaining automated operation.
2Loss of energy
If manual clutch operation and gear shifting are provided in geared scooters, then fuel economy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to operational hassles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service transmission system where the centrifugal clutch automatically engages and disengages based on engine speed, and the gear shifting mechanism automatically selects appropriate gear ratios. The system monitors operational conditions and performs clutch engagement/disengagement and gear changes without rider intervention, providing both fuel economy through proper gear selection and ease of operation through complete automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the transmission system by using a centrifugal clutch that automatically adjusts engagement based on rotational speed thresholds. The system monitors engine RPM and automatically shifts between gears and clutch engagement states, transforming the manual operation requirement into an automated parameter-based control system that delivers both fuel efficiency and operational convenience.
3Temperature
If forced cooling system is employed, then cooling efficiency is improved, but fuel economy deteriorates due to power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a self-service cooling system where the engine-driven fan provides cooling only when the engine is running and generates sufficient power. The fan is directly coupled to the engine crankshaft, automatically rotating with engine operation and providing cooling without requiring separate power input. This eliminates the need for forced cooling systems that would consume additional power, resolving the contradiction between cooling efficiency and fuel economy.
4Extent of automation
If primary clutch is used in AMT engine, then automated operation is achieved, but fuel efficiency deteriorates due to continuous slipping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the primary clutch from the transmission system, replacing it with a centrifugal clutch that engages and disengages based on rotational speed. By removing the traditional primary clutch that would require continuous slipping for automated engagement, the system achieves automated operation through centrifugal force-based engagement that minimizes energy loss during clutch operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an automatic manual transmission equipped engine having an electronically controlled clutch actuator and gear actuator and is swing ably disposed in the vicinity of the floor board; and a carrier member mounted to the frame at one end and mounted to rear wheel at the other end. The said automatic manual transmission equipped engine is mounted rigidly to the carrier member.