Tandem Drive Device Common Housing Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tandem drive devices for adjustable vehicle parts, such as sliding roofs, are complex in construction and require extensive cable harnesses and multiple plug connectors, leading to increased costs and installation space.
Innovation Solution
A tandem drive device with two drive systems and a common housing containing a first gear mechanism, a second gear mechanism, and a control circuit, eliminating the need for separate power and signal connections between the systems, thereby simplifying the structure and reducing the number of connectors and installation space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If separate control circuit housing is provided between two drive systems, then control functionality is achieved, but device complexity and installation space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control circuit housing with one of the drive system housings to form an integrated unit. Instead of providing a separate control circuit housing between the two drive systems, the control circuit is accommodated within the housing of the first or second drive system, thereby merging multiple functional components into a single housing structure.
2Reliability
If extensive cable harnesses and multiple plug connectors are used to connect drive systems, then power and signal transmission is achieved, but device complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control circuit into the housing of one of the drive systems, which eliminates the need for extensive cable harnesses and multiple plug connectors. By integrating the control circuit directly into the drive system housing, power and signal transmission is achieved through direct electrical connections within the housing, thereby reducing the complexity of the connection system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two separate drive systems with separate control circuits are used, then independent control of multiple vehicle parts is achieved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control circuit with one of the drive systems to form an integrated unit, thereby reducing the number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This merging approach maintains the independent control capability of multiple vehicle parts while simplifying the manufacturing process by reducing the number of separate assemblies required.
Data Source
AI summary
A tandem drive device for at least one adjustable vehicle part, in particular for a sliding roof system, preferably comprising at least two sliding roof elements such as, for example, a glass roof and a roller shutter, wherein the tandem drive device includes at least a first drive system having a first gear mechanism and a first drive motor, and a second drive system having a second gear mechanism and a second drive motor, as well as a common control circuit for the first drive motor and the second drive motor, wherein the first gear mechanism and the second gear mechanism as well as the control circuit are accommodated in a common housing.